bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evolution of Rice Cultivar Performance Across China: A Multi-Dimensional Study on Yield and Agronomic Characteristics over Three Decades
Authors: Hang Song , Wang Qi , Wang Yuan , Xiang Haitao
Published: November 2024

Rice (Oryza sativa L.) is a staple food crop for over half of the world’s population, with China being the largest producer. However, the growth rate of rice yield per hectare has slowed in recent years, emphasizing the need for in-depth studies on the evolution of rice cultivar performance. This study presents a comprehensive analysis of the yield and key agronomic traits of rice cultivars across China over three decades, utilizing data from 11,811 cultivar trials conducted between 1990 and 2023. We assessed the spatial distribution and temporal evolution of rice cultivar performance, exploring regional differences and the interplay between agronomic traits and environmental factors. Our results reveal significant variations in growth duration, plant height, grains per panicle, thousand-grain weight, effective panicle number, and seed setting rate across different regions. Temporal trends showed diverse patterns of improvement, with some regions experiencing rapid advancements (up to 1.42% annual yield increase in Jiangxi Province of Central China) and others nearing yield plateaus (0.16% in Jilin Province and 0.45% in Heilongjiang Province of Northeast China). Correlation analysis between agronomic traits and grain yield highlighted the complex relationships and potential for further genetic gains through targeted breeding. This study underscores the importance of region-specific breeding strategies to optimize rice production in the face of environmental challenges and yield ceilings. The insights gained provide a scientific basis for future rice cultivar development and regional agricultural policies aimed at enhancing sustainability and efficiency in China’s diverse rice-growing regions.
State-of-the-Art Techniques for Fruit Maturity Detection
Authors: Ma Jie , Li Minjie , Fan Wanpeng , Liu Jizhan
Published: November 2024

For decades, fruit maturity assessment in the field was challenging for producers, researchers, and food supply agencies. Knowing the maturity stage of the fruit is significant for precision production, harvest, and postharvest management. A prerequisite is to detect and classify fruit of different maturities from the background environment. Recently, deep learning technology has become a widely used method for intelligent fruit detection, due to it having higher accuracy, reliability, and a faster processing speed compared with traditional image-processing methods. At the same time, spectral imaging approaches can predict the maturity stage by acquiring and analyzing the spectral data of fruit samples. These maturity detection methods pay more attention to the species, such as apple, cherry, strawberry, and mango, achieving the mean average precision value of 98.7% in apple fruit. This review provides an overview of the most recent methodologies developed for in-field fruit maturity estimation. The basic principle and representative research output associated with the advantages and disadvantages of these techniques were systematically investigated and analyzed. Challenges, such as environmental factors (illumination condition, occlusion, overlap, etc.), shortage of fruit datasets, calculation, and hardware costs, were discussed. The future research directions in terms of applications and techniques are summarized and demonstrated.
Exserohilum rostratum-Mediated Synthesis of Silver Nanoparticles: A Case Study on Their Bioherbicidal Activity Against Leptochloa chinensis (L.) Nees
Authors: Gulfraz Ashrit , Yuan Yuquan , Bu Qing , Shafiq Muhammad , Huang Zhiqiu , Li Mingwei , Dong Zhaoxia , An Jing , Chen Yong
Published: November 2024

The interdisciplinary progress in nanotechnology has yielded environmentally friendly and cost-effective strategies to enhance bioherbicidal efficacy. This study presents the biosynthesis of silver nanoparticles (M-AgNPs) using the fungus Exserohilum rostratum, specifically targeting the Leptochloa chinensis weed in paddy fields. The M-AgNPs were characterized with an aqueous solution size of 107.9 nm and a zeta potential of −24.0 ± 0.20 mV, and their properties were analyzed by UV-Vis spectrophotometry, transmission electron microscopy (TEM), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), and Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). The application of M-AgNP suspension at different concentrations of 70 µg∙mL−1, 80 µg∙mL−1, and 100 µg∙mL−1 to L. chinensis at the 3–4 leaf stage resulted in significant herbicidal effects. These nanoparticles induced oxidative stress and significantly reduced the activities of peroxidase, catalase, and superoxide dismutase in the weed seedlings. Meanwhile, M-AgNP treatments significantly increased the activity of cell wall-degrading enzymes, including polygalacturonase and cellulase, in L. chinensis leaves and caused organelle damage in plant leaf cells. Safety assessments showed no significant impact on rice growth after treatment with M-AgNP3 (100 µg∙mL−1) suspension. Our results suggest that M-AgNPs represent a sustainable and eco-friendly approach to weed control that is compatible with rice cultivation, thus supporting the adoption of green agricultural practices.
Rapid Identification of Tropical Important Mealybugs Based on a Multiplex PCR Assay
Authors: Xi Yu , Yan Wenqian , Liu Kaiyang , Cai Bo , Wu Shaoying
Published: November 2024

The mealybug can severely threaten agricultural and horticultural crops and has a widespread distribution in tropical regions, particularly in high-risk invasion areas such as Hainan, which is an important trade port with superior geographical conditions. Traditional morphological methods can no longer meet the requirements for the rapid and precise identification of different insect stages or debris. DNA barcoding has been used to establish efficient molecular identification tools. In this study, a multiplex polymerase chain reaction (mPCR) assay based on the cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (COI) gene was successfully constructed for the rapid identification of mealybugs. The 5′ end COI gene fragments of 12 mealybug species were amplified and sequenced. Furthermore, an mPCR assay was established to identify three common mealybug species in Hainan, namely Dysmicoccus neobrevipes, Maconellicoccus hirsutus, and Paracoccus marginatus. Condition optimization, sensitivity detection, and field sample testing results prove that the assay can identify the three target species through a single PCR amplification. A sample DNA concentration of as low as 0.1–1 ng/μL can be detected. Additionally, the assay in conjunction with barcode sequencing can identify mealybugs collected in the field, clarifying the distribution and host plants of 12 mealybug species commonly found in Hainan. Thus, the rapid identification of important mealybug species is realized. The establishment of this technology provides an economical and efficient molecular tool for the quarantine and monitoring of mealybugs in Hainan and other regions, which are essential for the detection, monitoring, and early warning of invasive organisms.
Identification of qTGW2, a Minor-Effect QTL Controlling Grain Weight in Rice
Authors: Zhang Hui , Huang De-Run , Fan Ye-Yang , Zhang Zhen-Hua , Zhu Yu-Jun
Published: November 2024

Grain weight and grain shape are key traits affecting grain yield and quality in rice. In this research, a quantitative trait locus (QTL), qTGW2, that controls 1000-grain weight (TGW), grain length (GL), and grain width (GW) in rice, was fine-mapped within an 84.7 kb region on chromosome 2 using three sets of near isogenic lines (NILs) originated from the indica rice cross, Teqing (TQ)/IRBB52. In the NIL populations, the TGW, GL, and GW of the IRBB52 homozygous lines increased by 0.22 g, 0.020 mm, and 0.009 mm compared with the TQ homozygous lines. Four annotated genes showed nucleotide polymorphisms between the two parental lines in the qTGW2 region. Only one annotated gene, LOC_Os02g57660, exhibited significant expression differences between NILTQ and NILIRBB52 in the young panicles performed by RNA sequencing and the quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction. These results indicated that LOC_Os02g57660, which encodes phosphatidylinositol-4-phosphate 5-kinase (PIP5K), was the candidate gene of qTGW2. Then, one insertion-deletion (InDel) was found in the LOC_Os02g57660 coding region. The haplotype analysis was performed based on the phenotypic data of 4720 rice accessions from RiceVarMap V2.0. Two haplotypes, Hap1 (TQ-type) and Hap2 (IRBB52-type), were classified according to one InDel. Significant differences in grain weight traits were identified between Hap1 and Hap2. Hap2 has greater GL and RLW but lower GW, thus exhibiting potential to simultaneously improve grain yield and quality.
Effect of Saline Irrigation Water on Alfalfa Growth and Development in Saline–Alkali Soils
Authors: Bai Guiyue , He Feng , Shan Guilian , Wang Yu , Tong Zongyong , Cao Yali , Yuan Qifeng
Published: November 2024

Saline irrigation water can enhance agricultural production in water-scarce regions. Alfalfa (Medicago sativa L.) is a moderately saline-tolerant legume forage grass, and growing alfalfa in saline–alkali areas under irrigated conditions has high economic and ecological benefits. However, the effects of saline water irrigation on sodium chloride (NaCl)-dominated saline–alkali soils for alfalfa growth and development remain unclear. We evaluated the change in salinity of saline–alkali soils and monitored leaf photosynthetic and respiratory indicators, biomass allocation, and ion content of different organs of alfalfa plants under five treatments: irrigation with freshwater (S0); irrigation with saline water of ECiw = 4 mS cm−1 (S1), ECiw = 8 mS cm−1 (S2), and ECiw = 12 mS cm−1 (S3); and drought treatment (H). The results showed that there were no significant differences in leaf relative conductivity, belowground biomass, and yield in the S1 treatment compared with those of the S0 treatment; the biomass was significantly decreased by 21.42% and 31.83% under S2 and S3 treatments, but both were higher than the H treatment. Soil salinity increased with the increase in water salinity, and the difference in total soil salinity was not significant between the S0 and S1 treatments, while the total soil salinity of the S2 and S3 treatments was significantly higher than that of the S0 treatment. In conclusion, irrigation with NaCl saline water of ECiw = 4 mS cm−1 does not significantly affect alfalfa growth and physiology. This study provides theoretical support for the safe use of saline water for irrigation in sodium chloride-dominated saline–alkali soils.
Solar Energy Applications in Protected Agriculture: A Technical and Bibliometric Review of Greenhouse Systems and Solar Technologies
Authors: Espitia John Javier , Velázquez Fabián Andrés , Rodriguez Jader , Gomez Luisa , Baeza Esteban , Aguilar-Rodríguez Cruz Ernesto , Flores-Velazquez Jorge , Villagran Edwin
Published: November 2024

This study addresses solar energy applications in protected agriculture, focusing on greenhouses and related technologies. A bibliometric and technical analysis is developed, covering research published between 1976 and 2024, to identify the main trends and challenges in the use of solar energy in controlled environments. The methodology was based on the PRISMA approach, using the Scopus database to retrieve relevant documents. From an initial total of 221 documents, 216 were selected after a filtering and debugging process, ensuring the relevance of the final set. In the analytical phase, the results showed a moderate growth of 3.68% in the annual publication rate, highlighting the impact of research on solar energy’s application to air conditioning and energy efficiency in greenhouses. Most of the studies reviewed feature hybrid systems that combine solar energy with other resources, and we highlight both advances in climate control through artificial intelligence and the implementation of photovoltaic and thermal technologies to improve the energy efficiency of agricultural systems. The results also underline the importance of tomato cultivation in the selected studies, reflecting its global economic impact. The conclusions highlight the need for the further integration of energy storage and desalination technologies, especially in arid regions with high solar irradiation, to ensure the sustainability of greenhouses. It is proposed that future research should address the wider implementation of hybrid systems and advanced climate control technologies, optimizing both the use of energy resources and the performance of crops under cover. In addition, it is recommended that international collaboration be strengthened to address technical and climatic challenges in protected agriculture and to expand the adoption of innovative solutions in different geographical contexts.
Faunistic Study of Auchenorrhyncha in Olive Orchards in Greece, Including First Records of Species
Authors: Thanou Zoi , Stamouli Myrto , Magklara Anastasia , Theodorou David , Stamatakou Georgia , Konidis Georgios , Koufopoulou Panagiota , Lyberopoulos Christos , Tribonia Sofia , Vetsos Petros , Katribouzas Andreas , Kalaitzaki Argyro , Papadoulis Georgios , Tsagkarakis Antonios
Published: November 2024

The study of Auchenorrhyncha species composition in Greek olive orchards is crucial due to the potential threat of Xylella fastidiosa invading the region. Recent studies have begun exploring agricultural landscapes, particularly olive and citrus orchards. From 2016 to 2022, biodiversity surveys were conducted in thirteen olive orchards across three regions of Greece: Peloponnese, Sterea Ellada, and the Northeast Aegean. Malaise traps were installed in each orchard and monitored monthly, supplemented by sweep net sampling in two orchards to capture less mobile species and assess their association with host plants. A total of 14,771 specimens were collected, representing 125 species predominantly feeding on weeds. The dominant species were the Typhlocybinae Hebata decipiens and Zyginidia pullula, while Euscelis lineolata was the most common Deltocephalinae. Aphrophoridae, including Philaenus spumarius and Neophilaenus campestris, were more effectively collected with sweep nets, primarily from Avena sterilis L. This study offers a detailed overview of the Auchenorrhyncha fauna in Greek olive orchards, providing essential insights for developing strategies to prevent the invasion of Xylella fastidiosa.
Synergistic Control of Bacterial Fruit Blotch Using Bacillus velezensis ZY1 and Chemical Bactericides
Authors: Wei Haoyu , Han Sheng , Mijiti Maihemuti , Zhao Tingchang , Guan Wei , Yang Yuwen
Published: November 2024

Bacterial fruit blotch (BFB) is a devastating disease caused by Acidovorax citrulli, severely impacting the watermelon and melon industries and leading to significant economic losses. Currently, researchers have not identified any commercial melon varieties with high resistance to BFB, and farmers primarily rely on chemical agents for prevention and control. However, the extensive use of these agents contributes to increased drug resistance among pathogenic bacteria, making it essential to develop environmentally friendly control methods. To explore the feasibility of combining the Bacillus velezensis ZY1 strain with chemical agents for BFB management, we assessed the efficacy of 10 bactericides and the ZY1 strain against Acidovorax citrulli. The results show that Prothioconazole, Zhongsheng Tetramycin Solution, Streptomycin Sesquisulfate, Tetramycin, Zhongshengmycin, and ZY1 exhibited significant inhibitory effects on the growth of Acidovorax citrulli. We determined the biocompatibility of the bactericides with the ZY1 strain using the plate confrontation method and the flat counting method. Zhongsheng Tetramycin Solution, Zhongshengmycin, and Kasugamycin exhibited good compatibility with the ZY1 strain. Additionally, we established the optimal compounding ratio of the bactericide and ZY1 using the Horsfall method. Among these, Zhongshengmycin demonstrated the best performance when combining its efficacy against Acidovorax citrulli with its biocompatibility with the ZY1 strain. The combination of Zhongshengmycin and ZY1 at a volume ratio of 5:5 significantly inhibited Acidovorax citrulli, exhibiting a clear synergistic effect with a synergy index (IR) value of 1.542. Field tests conducted over 21 days in Beijing greenhouses, Hainan Field facility greenhouses, and Xinjiang showed that the control efficacy of the Zhongshengmycin and ZY1 combination (89.23%) significantly surpassed that of the single agent Zhongshengmycin (80.35%) and the biocontrol bacterium ZY1 (72.12%). Notably, the application rate of Zhongshengmycin in the mixture was only half that of the single agent, resulting in a significant reduction in chemical usage. The combination of Bacillus velezensis ZY1 and Zhongshengmycin not only decreases chemical usage but also significantly enhances control efficacy compared to using Zhongshengmycin alone.
Integrative Analysis of Metabolome and Transcriptome Profiles to Evaluate the Response Mechanisms of Carex adrienii to Shade Conditions
Authors: Guo Tao , Wang Shumin , Tian Zhong , Chen Shuang , Li Xuemei , Zou Shihui , Tan Zhijian , Wang Jiao , Wang Sheng , Ai Lijiao , Sui Shunzhao
Published: November 2024

Carex is a type of herbaceous plant with high application value, playing an important role in the urban periphery. Due to its unique morphology and ecological characteristics, Carex is widely used in various fields, such as landscaping, ecological restoration and soil and water conservation, which help to maintain the balance of the ecosystem. In order to explore the potential molecular mechanisms of shade tolerance in Carex, transcriptome and metabolome sequencing were performed on the leaves of the shade = tolerant species Carex adrienii E. G. Camus. under 80% shade and no shade conditions. Compared to control group (CK), the total chlorophyll, chlorophyll a, chlorophyll b and total carotenoid content in the C. adrienii leaves of the shading treatment were significantly upregulated. The antioxidant enzyme activity of the leaves, including superoxide dismutase (SOD), peroxidase (POD), and catalase (CAT), were also remarkably upregulated in the shading treatment groups. In addition, the net photosynthesis rate (Pn), stomatal conductance (Gs) and transpiration rate (Tr) of the leaves were reduced, and the intercellular CO2 concentration (Ci) of the leaves was increased under shade. The transcriptome identified 5056 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) and the metabolome identified 889 differential accumulated metabolites (DAMs) in three treated samples. The integrated transcriptomic and metabolomic analyses results showed that the DEGs and DAMs were enriched in photosynthesis, plant hormone signal transduction and flavonoid biosynthesis synthesis pathways. The ABA content of the C. adrienii leaves was significantly increased under shade. Therefore, the shading conditions led to changes in chlorophyll and abscisic acid (ABA), as well as the accumulation of flavonoids in C. adrienii, both of which were achieved by regulating genes involved in photosynthesis, plant hormone signal transduction and flavonoid biosynthesis molecular networks. Our results provide new knowledge for the molecular response and metabolic regulatory mechanisms of C. adrienii to shade stress, and valuable genetic resources for C. adrienii shade tolerance molecular breeding.
Effect of Maize (Zea mays) and Soybean (Glycine max) Cropping Systems on Weed Infestation and Resource Use Efficiency
Authors: Ali Aamir , Ahmed Shoaib , Laghari Ghulam Mustafa , Laghari Abdul Hafeez , Soomro Aijaz Ahmed , Jabeen Nida
Published: November 2024

Agriculture has consistently improved to meet the needs of a growing global population; however, traditional monoculture farming, while highly productive, is facing challenges such as weed infestation and inefficient resource utilization. Herbicides effectively control weeds. However, their widespread use in weed management has the potential to contaminate soil and water, endangering the ecosystem by damaging non-target plant and animal species. Therefore, the main objective of this study was to evaluate the impact of different maize and soybean cropping systems on weed infestation and resource utilization. The experiment was a randomized complete block design with three replications consisting of three cropping systems: sole maize (SM), sole soybean (SS), and maize–soybean strip intercropping (MSI). In this study, the main difference between SM, SS, and MSI was the planting density, which was 60,000 (SM), 100,000 (SS), and 160,000 (maize–soybean in MSI). We observed that a higher total leaf area index in MSI resulted in increased soil cover, which reduced the solar radiations for weeds and suppressed the weed growth by 17% and 11% as compared to SS and SM, respectively. Whereas the radiation use efficiency for companion crops in MSI was increased by 39% and 42% compared to SS and SM, respectively. Moreover, the increased soil cover by total leaf area index in MSI also increased the efficiency of water use. Furthermore, our results indicated that reduced weed-crop competition increased the resource use in MSI, which resulted in increased crop yield and land equivalent ratio (LER 1.6). Eventually, this resulted in reduced inputs and increased land productivity. Therefore, we suggest that MSI should be adopted in resource-limiting conditions with higher weed infestation as it can simultaneously promote ecological balance and improve agricultural output, thereby reducing the environmental effects of traditional cropping systems.
Alcoholic Fermentation Activators: Bee Pollen Extracts as a New Alternative
Authors: Pérez-González Juan Manuel , Igartuburu José Manuel , Palacios Víctor , Sancho-Galán Pau , Jiménez-Cantizano Ana , Amores-Arrocha Antonio
Published: November 2024

Searching for natural alternatives to synthetic fermentation activators has led to the study of bee pollen as a natural alcoholic fermentation activator. This study evaluated the potential of different bee pollen extracts (0.25 g/L) as activators in a Palomino Fino grape must. By analysing the composition of each extract, it was possible to identify the specific bee pollen fractions with the highest efficacy for activating alcoholic fermentation. Four extracts were obtained through sequential extraction using various organic solvents of increasing polarity (hexane, acetone, ethanol, and water), and their compositions were characterised. The effect of each extract was evaluated by monitoring the viable yeast populations and fermentation kinetics throughout the alcoholic fermentation process, along with the physicochemical and colour characterisation of the white wines obtained. The bee pollen fraction extracted with hexane, which was rich in long-chain fatty acids, significantly increased the maximum yeast populations and improved the fermentation kinetics. However, the extracts rich in polyphenolic compounds exhibited slower fermentation rates. Based on the obtained results, the lipid fraction of bee pollen extracted with hexane may be responsible for its ability to activate alcoholic fermentation.
Life–History Traits of Eremias pleskei Nikolsky, 1905 from Northeastern Anatolia
Authors: Candan Kamil , Caynak Elif Yıldırım , Gül Serkan , Kumlutaş Yusuf , Ilgaz Çetin , Dursun Cantekin
Published: November 2024

In this study, the life–history traits of Eremias pleskei are presented for the first time. A total of 27 samples (17 ♂♂ and 10 ♀♀) from Iğdır Province, Türkiye, were aged using skeletochronology. Student’s t-test was performed to compare mean differences in the variables between sexes. The relationships between age and snout–vent length (SVL) were determined through correlation. Growth patterns were estimated based on the von Bertalanffy equation. Lastly, survival rate and adult life expectancy were calculated for each sex. The mean SVL was 52.93 ± 1.28 mm in males and 46.23 ± 1.55 in females. The mean age was 4.88 ± 0.43 years and 3.20 ± 0.29 years for males and females, respectively. Correlation analysis revealed that age and SVL were highly correlated in males (r = 0.49) and females (r = 0.75). The growth coefficient (K) was found to be 0.28 ± 0.18 in females and 0.62 ± 0.25 in males. The survival rate was 57.14% in females and 75.38% in males. The adult life expectancy was calculated at 2.83 years and 4.56 years in females and males, respectively. To sum up, males were larger than females, indicating male-biased sexual size dimorphism (SDI: −0.144). In addition, males had a greater mean age and longevity (max male age: 8 yr; max female age: 5 yr).
Francisella tularensis in Wild Lagomorphs in Southern Spain’s Mediterranean Ecosystems
Authors: Castro-Scholten Sabrina , García-Bocanegra Ignacio , Rejón-Segura Salvador , Cano-Terriza David , Jiménez-Martín Débora , Rouco Carlos , Camacho-Sillero Leonor , Arenas Antonio , Caballero-Gómez Javier
Published: November 2024

Francisella tularensis is a vector-borne zoonotic bacterium that causes tularemia, a disease of great importance for animal and public health. Although wild lagomorphs are considered one of the major reservoirs of this bacterium, information about the circulation of F. tularensis in European wild rabbit (Oryctolagus cuniculus) and Iberian hare (Lepus granatensis) populations in Europe is still very limited. In Spain, F. tularensis is present in northern central regions, with recurrent outbreaks occurring annually. However, southern Spain has been neglected in terms of monitoring and research. Thus, the aim of this study was to investigate the occurrence of F. tularensis in wild lagomorphs in the Mediterranean ecosystems of southern Spain through using molecular techniques. Spleen samples from 774 European wild rabbits and 178 Iberian hares were collected on 135 hunting grounds between the 2017/2018 and 2022/2023 hunting seasons. A primer set targeting the 16S rRNA gene was used for the detection of F. tularensis DNA. None of the 952 (0.0%; 95%CI: 0.0–0.4) wild lagomorphs sampled showed presence of F. tularensis DNA. Our finding indicates the absence or very low circulation of the bacterium in wild rabbit and Iberian hare populations in the Mediterranean ecosystems of southern Spain, denoting a limited risk of transmission of this pathogen from wild lagomorphs to other sympatric species, including human beings, in this Iberian region.
Dietary 25-Hydroxycholecalciferol Supplementation from Day 85 of Gestation to Farrowing Enhances Performance, Antioxidant Capacity, and Immunoglobulins of Sows and Newborn Piglets
Authors: Long Shenfei , Mahfuz Shad , Piao Xiangshu
Published: November 2024

In this study, the aim was to evaluate the effects of dietary 25-hydroxycholecalciferol supplementation from day 85 of gestation on performance, antioxidant capacity, and immunoglobulin level of sows and newborn piglets. On day 85 of gestation, forty Landrace × Yorkshire gestating sows (average body weight of 241 ± 6.8 kg; average parity of 3.47 ± 0.6) were allotted into two treatments (20 replicates per treatment) based on parity, body weight, and back fat thickness. From day 85 of gestation to farrowing, sows were fed a normal vitamin D3 diet as control (containing 50 μg/kg vitamin D3; CON), or a 25-hydroxycholecalciferol-supplemented diet (containing 50 μg/kg 25-hydroxycholecalciferol). Compared with CON, dietary 25-hydroxycholecalciferol supplementation increased (p < 0.05) protein and fat content in colostrum and the average birth body weight of newborn piglets. Sows fed 25-hydroxycholecalciferol showed increased (p < 0.05) apparent total tract digestibility of crude protein compared with CON. Diets supplemented with 25-hydroxycholecalciferol also increased (p < 0.05) the content of superoxide dismutase (SOD), and tended to increase (p = 0.06) the total antioxidant capacity content and reduce (p = 0.09) the malondialdehyde (MDA) level in colostrum. An increase (p < 0.05) in the content of SOD and a reduction (p < 0.05) in the content of MDA in the serum of newborn piglets was also observed in the 25-hydroxycholecalciferol treatment compared with CON. Dietary 25-hydroxycholecalciferol supplementation also enhanced (p < 0.05) the immunoglobulin G content and reduced (p < 0.05) the concentration of tumor nuclear factor-α in the serum of sows, as well as reducing (p < 0.05) the content of immunoglobulin G and immunoglobulin A in the serum of newborn piglets compared with CON. Supplementation of 25-hydroxycholecalciferol in sow diets increased (p < 0.05) the content of alkaline phosphatase in the serum and colostrum of sows, the concentration of insulin and crosslap in serum of sows, and the serum calcium content of newborn piglets compared with CON. In conclusion, dietary 25-hydroxycholecalciferol supplementation from day 85 of gestation could enhance performance, antioxidant capacity, and immunoglobulin in sows and newborn piglets.
Dynamic Changes in Intestinal Microorganisms and Hematological Indices in Giraffes of Different Ages, and the Effect of Diarrhea on Intestinal Microbiota
Authors: Yu Baisheng , Li Hangfan , Chen Qiong , Yang Chuang , Guo Yongqing , Sun Baoli
Published: November 2024

This study employed high-throughput sequencing to explore bacterial diversity and hematological variations across different age groups of giraffes, as well as the impact of diarrhea on their intestinal microbiota. Additionally, the correlation between intestinal flora and hematological indices was examined for the first time. Firmicutes, Bacteroides, and Proteobacteria were the predominant bacterial groups in the giraffe’s intestinal flora. The α-diversity analysis indicated significant variations in microbial diversity among giraffes of varying ages (p < 0.05). Furthermore, giraffes suffering from diarrhea exhibited significant alterations in the abundance of Proteobacteria and Actinobacteriota at the phylum level (p < 0.05). At the genus level, Rikenellaceae_RC9_gut_group, Monoglobus, and Prevotellaceae_UCG-004 had significant differences compared to healthy counterparts (p < 0.05). Hematological parameters such as lymphocyte count (Lym), red blood cell count (RBC), mean corpuscular volume (MCV), mean corpuscular hemoglobin (MCH), mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration (MCHC), platelet count (PLT), and plateletcrit (PCT) varied significantly across different age groups (p < 0.05). A substantial correlation was observed between the intestinal microbiome composition and hematological parameters (p < 0.05). In conclusion, this study highlights significant differences in both the intestinal microbiome composition and hematological indices among giraffes of different ages. Diarrhea was found to significantly alter the abundance and composition of the intestinal microbial community. These insights provide a valuable theoretical foundation for the microbiological and hematological aspects of giraffe health management and breeding practices.
Effect of Anacardium occidentale Leaf Powder on Growth Performance, Diarrhea Incidence, Blood Biochemistry, and Intestinal Traits in Weaned Piglets
Authors: Aroche Roisbel , Gao Ge , Li Yanpin , Zhang Yonggang , Rodríguez Román , Martínez Yordan , Li Xilong
Published: November 2024

To evaluate the phytobiotic effect of Anacardium occidentale leaf powder (AOLP) on growth performance, diarrhea incidence, blood biochemistry, and intestinal traits, seventy-two weaned piglets were randomly distributed into four groups (six replicates/group and three pigs/replicate) for 28 days, receiving a control diet (T0) or being supplemented with 5 (T1), 10 (T2), or 15 (T3) g/kg of AOLP. The diets did not affect the growth performance (p > 0.05); however, the AOLP groups had a decreased diarrhea incidence and malondialdehyde concentration (p < 0.05; 28 days). However, the AOLP groups had increased immunoglobulins (G and M) and villus heights (p < 0.05) in the duodenum. Likewise, T3 improved the number of goblet cells in the villi and the whole intestine (p < 0.01), the Mucin2 area in the jejunum and ileum (p < 0.05), occludin gene expression in the jejunum (p < 0.01), and acetic and valeric acid production (p < 0.05). Microbial diversity at the genus level was not different (p > 0.05); however, T3 increased the abundance of the Lactobacillus genus. These findings suggest that dietary supplementation with AOLP improved intestinal health by increasing antioxidant, immune, anti-inflammatory, and antidiarrheal activity in the weaned piglets.
Development and Validation of RAA-CRISPR/Cas12a-Based Assay for Detecting Porcine Rotavirus
Authors: Huang Siyu , Du Longhuan , Liu Song , Yang Qingcheng , Lei Changwei , Wang Hongning , Yang Liu , Yang Xin
Published: November 2024

Piglet diarrhea poses significant economic losses to the pig industry, posing a worldwide challenge that urgently needs to be addressed in pig breeding practices. Porcine rotavirus (PoRV) is an important viral diarrhea pathogen in piglets, with a high incidence rate and a tendency to cause growth retardation. To enhance the sensitivity and specificity of PoRV detection, we sequenced the NSP3 gene of G5 and G9 genotypes of rotavirus A (RVA), enabling simultaneous detection of the two serotypes. Subsequently, we developed a rapid PoRV detection method using a combination of recombinase-aided amplification (RAA) and CRISPR/Cas12a. In this method, Cas12a binds to RAA amplification products, guided by CRISPR-derived RNA (crRNA), which activates its cleavage activity and releases fluorescence by cutting FAM-BHQ-labeled single-stranded DNA (ssDNA). In the optimized reaction system, the recombinant plasmid PoRV can achieve a highly sensitive reaction within 30 min at 37 °C, with a detection limit as low as 2.43 copies/μL, which is ten times higher in sensitivity compared to the qPCR method. Results from specificity testing indicate that no cross-reactivity was observed between the RAA-CRISPR/Cas12a analysis of PoRV and other viral pathogens, including PoRV G3, PoRV G4, porcine epidemic diarrhea virus (PEDV), porcine epidemic diarrhea (PDCoV), and porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus (PRRSV). In the clinical sample detection using the RAA-CRISPR/Cas12a method and qPCR, Cohen’s Kappa value reached as high as 0.952. Furthermore, this approach eliminates the need for large-scale instrumentation, offering a visual result under an ultraviolet lamp through fluorescence signal output.
Evaluation of Serum YKL-40 in Canine Multicentric Lymphoma: Clinical and Diagnostic Implications
Authors: Kuo Chien-Chun , Lee Jih-Jong , Wang Shang-Lin , Xia Yuan-Yuan , Liao Albert Taiching
Published: November 2024

YKL-40, a secretory glycoprotein, is known as a prognostic biomarker in human cancers, but its role in canine multicentric lymphoma is not well understood. This study aimed to investigate serum YKL-40 levels in thirty dogs with multicentric lymphoma to determine their prognostic value, association with patient characteristics, and potential to predict chemotherapy response. Serum samples were collected before, during, and after chemotherapy, and YKL-40 level was measured using ELISA. The results showed that the pretreatment serum YKL-40 levels were significantly higher in dogs with multicentric lymphoma (394.0 pg/mL, n = 30) than in healthy controls (218.6 pg/mL, n = 11) (p = 0.012). While a cutoff value of 445.1 pg/mL was observed, further studies are needed to clarify its diagnostic utility. Dogs with clinical stage V had the highest YKL-40 levels (p = 0.027), potentially reflecting disease severity. Furthermore, YKL-40 levels decreased after chemotherapy (p = 0.030). However, YKL-40 levels showed no significant association with progression-free survival (PFS) (HR = 0.93, p = 0.830) or overall survival (OS) (HR = 0.99, p = 0.267). In conclusion, serum YKL-40 levels may potentially detect the disease severity, but its prognostic role remains uncertain. Further studies are required to evaluate serum YKL-40 levels as a potential indicator of treatment response or disease recurrence.
Comparison of Nucleosome Landscapes Between Porcine Embryonic Fibroblasts and GV Oocytes
Authors: Zhao Minjun , Zhao Shunran , Pang Zhaoqi , Jia Chunhui , Tao Chenyu
Published: November 2024

(1) Background: Nucleosomes represent the essential structural units of chromatin and serve as key regulators of cell function and gene expression. Oocytes in the germinal vesicle (GV) stage will later undergo meiosis and become haploid cells ready for fertilization, while somatic cells undergo mitosis after DNA replication. (2) Purpose: To furnish theoretical insights and data that support the process of cell reprogramming after nuclear transplantation. (3) Methods: We compared the nucleosome occupancy, distribution, and transcription of genes between two types of cells: fully grown GV oocytes from big follicles (BF) and somatic cells (porcine embryonic fibroblast, PEF). (4) Results: The nucleosome occupancy in the promoter of BF was 4.85%, which was significantly higher than that of 3.3% in PEF (p < 0.05), and the nucleosome distribution showed a noticeable increase surrounding transcriptional start sites (TSSs) in BF. Next, we reanalyzed the currently published transcriptome of fully grown GV oocytes and PEF, and a total of 51 genes in BF and 80 genes in PEF were identified as being uniquely expressed. The nucleosome distribution around gene TSSs correlated with expression levels in somatic cells, yet the results in BF differed from those in PEF. (5) Conclusion: This study uncovers the dynamic nature and significance of nucleosome positioning and chromatin organization across various cell types, providing a basis for nuclear transplantation.
Transcriptome Profiling Unveils the Mechanisms of Inflammation, Apoptosis, and Fibrosis in the Liver of Juvenile Largemouth Bass Micropterus salmoides Fed High-Starch Diets
Authors: Liu Xifeng , Liu Hongkang , Wang Kangwei , Qin Chuanjie , He Yuanfa , Luo Li , Lin Shimei , Chen Yongjun
Published: November 2024

The aim of this study was to explain the mechanism underlying the liver injury of juvenile largemouth bass Micropterus salmoides in response to high-starch diet intake. Three diets were formulated with different starch levels, being abbreviated as treatment LS (low starch, 8.13% starch), MS (medium starch, 14.1% starch), and HS (high starch, 20.1% starch), respectively. Fish were fed with their respective diets to apparent satiation for 56 days. The results showed that growth retardation of the HS fish was associated with the reduction in feed intake rather than feed utilization. Histological evaluation of the livers showed that vacuolization was the most prevalent characteristic in the MS fish, while ballooning degeneration, apoptosis, fibrosis, and inflammation were observed in the HS fish. Transcriptome profiling suggested that liver inflammation was mediated by Tlr signal transduction, which activated the Pi3k/Akt/Nfκb signaling axis to promote the release of proinflammatory factors including Il-8 and Ip-10. Hepatocyte apoptosis was mediated by the extrinsic pathway through death receptors including Fas and Tnfr, which coordinately activated the Fadd/caspase-8 death signaling axis. An autonomous inhibition program was identified to counteract the apoptosis signal, and the PI3K/Akt signaling pathway might play an important role in this process through regulating the expression of iap and diablo. Liver fibrosis was mediated through the Tgf-β and Hh signaling pathways. Upon secretion, Tgf-β1/3 bound to TgfβrI/II complex on the liver cell membrane, which induced the phosphorylation of downstream Smad2/3. When Hh interacted with the membrane receptor Ptc, Smo was activated to initiate signaling, driving the activation of Gli. The activation of both Smad2/3 and Gli promoted their nuclear translocation thereby regulating the transcription of target genes, which resulted in the activation and proliferation of HSCs. The activated HSCs constantly expressed colla1 and ctgf, which facilitated substantial accumulation of ECM. It should be noted that the molecular mechanism of liver injury in this study was speculated from the transcriptome data thus further experimental verification is warranted for this speculation.
The Sixth Mass Extinction and Amphibian Species Sustainability Through Reproduction and Advanced Biotechnologies, Biobanking of Germplasm and Somatic Cells, and Conservation Breeding Programs (RBCs)
Authors: Browne Robert K. , Luo Qinghua , Wang Pei , Mansour Nabil , Kaurova Svetlana A. , Gakhova Edith N. , Shishova Natalia V. , Uteshev Victor K. , Kramarova Ludmila I. , Venu Govindappa , Bagaturov Mikhail F. , Vaissi Somaye , Heshmatzad Pouria , Janzen Peter , Swegen Aleona , Strand Julie , McGinnity Dale
Published: November 2024

Primary themes in intergenerational justice are a healthy environment, the perpetuation of Earth’s biodiversity, and the sustainable management of the biosphere. However, the current rate of species declines globally, ecosystem collapses driven by accelerating and catastrophic global heating, and a plethora of other threats preclude the ability of habitat protection alone to prevent a cascade of amphibian and other species mass extinctions. Reproduction and advanced biotechnologies, biobanking of germplasm and somatic cells, and conservation breeding programs (RBCs) offer a transformative change in biodiversity management. This change can economically and reliably perpetuate species irrespective of environmental targets and extend to satisfy humanity’s future needs as the biosphere expands into space. Currently applied RBCs include the hormonal stimulation of reproduction, the collection and refrigerated storage of sperm and oocytes, sperm cryopreservation, in vitro fertilization, and biobanking of germplasm and somatic cells. The benefits of advanced biotechnologies in development, such as assisted evolution and cloning for species adaptation or restoration, have yet to be fully realized. We broaden our discussion to include genetic management, political and cultural engagement, and future applications, including the extension of the biosphere through humanity’s interplanetary and interstellar colonization. The development and application of RBCs raise intriguing ethical, theological, and philosophical issues. We address these themes with amphibian models to introduce the Multidisciplinary Digital Publishing Institute Special Issue, The Sixth Mass Extinction and Species Sustainability through Reproduction Biotechnologies, Biobanking, and Conservation Breeding Programs.
Simultaneous, Non-Contact and Motion-Based Monitoring of Respiratory Rate in Sheep Under Experimental Condition Using Visible and Near-Infrared Videos
Authors: Bonafini Beatriz Leandro , Breuer Lukas , Ernst Lisa , Tolba René , Oliveira Lucas Ferrari de , Abreu de Souza Mauren , Czaplik Michael , Pereira Carina Barbosa
Published: November 2024

The validation of methods for understanding the effects of many diseases and treatments requires the use of animal models in translational research. In this context, sheep have been employed extensively in scientific studies. However, the imposition of experimental conditions upon these animals may result in the experience of discomfort, pain, and stress. The ethical debates surrounding the use of animals in research have resulted in the adoption of Directive 2010/63/EU. The present study proposes a non-contact method for monitoring the respiration rate of sheep based on video processing. The Detecron2 model was trained to segment the sheep’s body, abdominal, and facial regions in the video frames. A motion-tracking algorithm was developed to assess abdominal movement associated with the sheep’s respiratory cycle. The method was applied to videos of Rhön sheep under experimental and housing conditions, utilising two types of cameras to assess the effectiveness of the proposed approach. The mean average error (MAE) obtained was 0.79 breaths/minute for the visible and 1.83 breaths/minute for the near-infrared (NIR) method. This study demonstrates the feasibility of video technology for simultaneous and non-invasive respiration monitoring, being a crucial parameter for assessing the health deterioration of multiple laboratory animals.
Stray Cat Colonies Lacking Health Surveillance and Management Pose Infection Pressure for Aelurostrongylus abstrusus on Sympatric Domestic and Wild Felids
Authors: Gassó Diana , López-Olvera Jorge Ramón , Mentaberre Gregorio
Published: November 2024

The prevalence of respiratory nematodes in domestic animals has increased in Europe in recent decades. Aelurostrongylus abstrusus is the most common parasitic nematode of the respiratory tract in felids, and an increase in its prevalence has been suggested in different European countries including Spain, with values ranging from 0% to 30%. The Baermann technique was used to detect metastrongyloid larvae in 93 faecal samples from cats living in colonies (n = 29), cats living in shelters (n = 30), and owned cats (n = 34). Eleven cats (11.2%) were infected by A. abstrusus, the only species detected. The prevalence in colony cats (34.5%, 10/29) was significantly higher than the 3.3% (1/30) prevalence in shelter cats. Conversely, A. abstrusus was not found in any of the owned cats. The results can be representative of other areas in the Mediterranean basin, indicating the need to improve feline management and knowledge about the distribution and abundance of this parasite through geographically wider studies in Spain. This study emphasizes the importance of deworming domestic cats, especially those from street and rural environments or with outdoor lifestyles. The results also urge the need for population and health control of street cat colonies. Incorporating a deworming protocol in the current trapping–neutering–release campaigns for cat population control will be essential.
Mucosal Exosome Proteomics of Hybrid Grouper Epinephelus fuscoguttatus♀ × E. lanceolatus♂ Infected by Pseudomonas plecoglossicida
Authors: Yang Dong , Ma Xiaowan , Zhong Shengping , Guo Jiasen , Cheng Dewei , Chen Xuyang , Huang Teng , Huang Lixing , Qiao Ying , Pengsakul Theerakamol
Published: November 2024

Pseudomonas plecoglossicida infection, which causes visceral white spot disease, is a significant and economically devastating disease in aquaculture. In this study, we investigated the impact of bacterial infection on the protein composition of exosomes derived from the surface mucus of the hybrid grouper Epinephelus fuscoguttatus♀ × E. lanceolatus♂. Two hundred healthy fish were randomly separated into challenge and control groups. Fish from the challenge group received 103 CFU/g of the bacterial pathogen P. plecoglossicida via intraperitoneal injection, while sterile PBS was used as a negative control. After injection, the mucus was collected and the exosomes were extracted for proteomic analysis. The results of proteomic analysis revealed that P. plecoglossicida infection significantly increased the levels of innate immune proteins, including lysosomal and peroxisomal proteins, within the exosomes. Furthermore, the CAD protein was found to play a pivotal role in the protein interaction networks involved in the response to P. plecoglossicida infection. Intriguingly, we also observed a significant increase in the levels of metal-binding proteins within the exosomes, providing important evidence of nutritional immunity on the surfaces of the fish hosts. Notably, several proteins, such as plasma kallikrein, Annexin A5, eukaryotic translation initiation factor 3 subunit M, and S-methyl-5-thioadenosine phosphorylase, exhibited a remarkable increase in abundance in exosomes after infection. These proteins show promising potential as noninvasive biomarkers for the diagnosis of visceral white spot disease. The study contributes to the understanding of the host response to P. plecoglossicida infection and may aid policymakers in implementing appropriate intervention measures for effective risk management of this devastating disease.