bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Efficacy of Submucosal Injection of Chymotrypsin, Oral Serratiopeptidase or Oral Dexamethasone in Reducing Postoperative Complications Following Impacted Lower Third Molar Surgery: A Prospective, Randomized, Double-Blind, Controlled Clinical Trial
Authors: Al-Moraissi Essam Ahmed , Al-Zendani Elham Aziz , Al-Selwi Abeer Mohammed
Published: December 2020

Aim The study aimed to compare between chymotrypsin, oral serratiopeptidase, and oral dexamethasone following impacted mandibular third molars surgery in respect of postoperative complications.

Materials and method: A randomized, double-blind clinical trial was conducted on 60 patients who were candidates for impacted mandibular third molars surgery and randomly allocated into the following 3 groups: submucosal chymotrypsin (5 mg), oral serratiopeptidase (10 mg), and oral dexamethasone (8 mg) (each group = 20). The outcome variables were postoperative pain (via visual analog scale), facial swelling (via tape method) and maximal mouth opening immediately after 2nd, 3rd, and 5th postoperative days.

Results: A total of 60 patients underwent randomization and allocation concealment and were included in the current study. All of the subjects tolerated the medicines with no untoward side or adverse effects. There was no statistically significant difference between the three groups in respect of postoperative pain intensity, facial swelling and maximal mouth opening at the immediate first hour, 2nd, 3rd, and 5th postoperative days (P < 0.05).

Conclusion: The present randomized clinical trial concluded that preemptive sub-mucosal injection of chymotrypsin yields a comparable effectiveness in decreasing postoperative sequelae following impacted mandibular third molars surgery when compared to oral serratiopeptidase or dexamethasone. This is the first Randomized Clinical Trail that assessed efficacy and safety of sub-mucosal injection of chymotrypsin after impacted mandibular third molars surgery. This trial is registered at clinicaltrials.in.th, number (TCTR20200828006).
Savannah Phenological Dynamics Reveal Spatio-Temporal Landscape Heterogeneity in Karamoja Sub-region, Uganda
Authors: Egeru Anthony , Magaya John Paul , Kuule Derick Ansyijar , Siya Aggrey , Gidudu Anthony , Barasa Bernard , Namaalwa Jjumba Justine
Published: December 2020

Phenological properties are critical in understanding global environmental change patterns. This study analyzed phenological dynamics in a savannah dominated semi-arid environment of Uganda. We used moderate-resolution imaging spectroradiometer normalized difference vegetation index (MODIS NDVI) imagery. TIMESAT program was used to analyse the imagery to determine key phenological metrics; onset of greenness (OGT), onset of greenness value, end of greenness time (EGT), end of greenness value, maximum NDVI, time of maximum NDVI, duration of greenup (DOG) and range of normalized difference vegetation index (RNDVI). Results showed that thicket and shrubs had the earliest OGT on day 85 ± 14, EGT on day 244 ± 32 and a DOG of 158 ± 25 days. Woodland had the highest NDVI value for maximum NDVI, OGT, EGT, and RNDVI. In the bushland, OGT occurs on average around day 90 ± 11, EGT on day 255 ± 33 with a DOG of 163 ± 36 days. The grassland showed that OGT occurs on day 96 ± 13, EGT on day 252 ± 36 with a total DOG of 156 ± 33 days. Early photosynthesis activity was observed in central to eastern Karamoja in the districts of Moroto and Kotido. There was a positive relationship between rainfall and NDVI across all vegetation cover types as well as between phenological parameters and season dynamics. Vegetation senescence in the sub-region occurs around August to mid-September (day 244–253). The varied phenophases observed in the sub-region reveal an inherent landscape heterogeneity that is beneficial to extensive pastoral livestock production. Continuous monitoring of savannah phenological patterns in the sub-region is required to decipher landscape ecosystem processes and functioning.
The Effect of Pre-milking Stimulation on Teat Morphological Parameters and Milk Traits in the Italian Water Buffalo
Authors: Costa Angela , De Marchi Massimo , Visentin Giulio , Campagna Maria Concetta , Borghese Antonio , Boselli Carlo
Published: December 2020

Water buffaloes (Bubalus bubalis) are very sensitive to environmental stimulus before and during milking, and this explains why disrupted milk ejections due to blood oxytocin level instability are frequent in this species. According to the literature, the manual stimulation (MS) of teats before milking promotes oxytocin release and allows milk ejection to start within 2–3 min. However, the pre-milking stimulation of teats is not always part of the milking routine in Italian buffalo farms; moreover, buffaloes with unstable milk let-down are sometimes treated with exogenous oxytocin (OX). Different types of pre-milking stimulation can impact differently on the mammary gland epithelium and structures and, therefore, on milk yield. In this study, we observed the changes in teat morphological traits before and after the application of three types of stimuli, i.e., no manual stimulation (NS), MS, and OX, in buffaloes reared in an Italian dairy farm. In particular, measurements were available for 23 and 21 buffaloes for front and rear teats, respectively. Subsequently, the effect of the pre-milking stimulation type was estimated on teat morphological characteristics and on milk traits recorded after the application of stimuli. The results showed that the teat canal length was shorter (P < 0.05) after stimulation in the case of MS and OX compared to NS. Cistern diameter was overall greater for MS and lower for OX. On the contrary, teat wall thickness was greater and lower for OX and MS, respectively. Milk yield and quality (fat, protein, and somatic cell score) were similar across the three types of pre-milking stimulation. In perspective, the impact of these types of pre-milking stimulation should be evaluated on a large scale, and the focus might be put on mammary gland epithelium integrity, mastitis incidence, and other udder health indicators in milk, e.g., electrical conductivity, differential somatic cell count, lactose content, and sodium and chloride concentration.
The Effect of Pet Insurance on Presurgical Euthanasia of Dogs With Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus: A Novel Approach to Quantifying Economic Euthanasia in Veterinary Emergency Medicine
Authors: Boller Manuel , Nemanic Tereza S. , Anthonisz Jarryd D. , Awad Magdoline , Selinger Joshua , Boller Elise M. , Stevenson Mark A.
Published: December 2020

Euthanasia of companion animals in veterinary emergency medicine is a common cause of death. Euthanasia is economic when it is the consequence of the pet owner's inability to afford essential treatment while a viable medical alternative to euthanasia exists. Gastric dilatation-volvulus (GDV) is an acute life-threatening emergency condition of dogs; if left untreated, rapid death is highly likely. Surgical treatment leads to survival of around 80-90% of dogs; however, such treatment is costly. Therefore, pre-surgical euthanasia may be largely economically motivated. Having pet insurance, a financial instrument to reduce the burden of unforeseen veterinary medical costs on pet owners, would be expected to abolish the risk for pre-surgical economic euthanasia. We therefore aimed to determine whether pet insurance attenuates the risk of pre-surgical economic euthanasia in dogs with GDV. Non-referred dogs (n = 260) with GDV and known insurance status seen at 24 emergency clinics over a 2-year period were included. Relevant data (e.g., insurance status, age, comorbidities, outcome) were retrospectively extracted from a pet insurer's claim records (insured animals) or from electronic medical records of participating hospitals (non-insured animals). Forty-one percent of dogs (106 of 260 dogs) did not survive to hospital discharge; 82 (77%) of non-survivors died before surgery, all through euthanasia. The pre-surgical euthanasia rate was 10% in insured and 37% in non-insured dogs (p < 0.001). When adjusted for the effect of age, deposit size, comorbidities, and blood lactate concentration, the absence of insurance increased the odds of pre-surgical euthanasia by a factor of 7.4 (95% CI 2.0 to 37; p = 0.002). Of dogs undergoing surgery, 86% survived to hospital discharge. Overall, 80% of insured animals and 53% of non-insured animals survived to hospital discharge (p < 0.001). Thus, insurance was associated with a marked decrease in risk of pre-surgical euthanasia indicating that the cause of pre-surgical euthanasia of dogs with GDV is predominantly economic in nature. The rate of pre-surgical euthanasia in dogs with GDV may emerge as a suitable marker to quantify economic decision making of pet owners and to measure the impact of financial interventions aimed at mitigating economic duress associated with cost of veterinary emergency care.
Assessing the Climate Impact of Formation Flights
Authors: Dahlmann Katrin , Matthes Sigrun , Yamashita Hiroshi , Unterstrasser Simon , Grewe Volker , Marks Tobias
Published: December 2020

An operational measure that is inspired by migrant birds aiming toward the mitigation of aviation climate impact is to fly in aerodynamic formation. When this operational measure is adapted to commercial aircraft it saves fuel and is, therefore, expected to reduce the climate impact of aviation. Besides the total emission amount, this mitigation option also changes the location of emissions, impacting the non-CO2 climate effects arising from NOx and H2O emissions and contrails. Here, we assess these non-CO2 climate impacts with a climate response model to assure a benefit for climate not only due to CO2 emission reductions, but also due to reduced non-CO2 effects. Therefore, the climate response model AirClim is used, which includes CO2 effects and also the impact of water vapor and contrail induced cloudiness as well as the impact of nitrogen dioxide emissions on the ozone and methane concentration. For this purpose, AirClim has been adopted to account for saturation effects occurring for formation flight. The results of the case studies show that the implementation of formation flights in the 50 most popular airports for the year 2017 display an average decrease of fuel consumption by 5%. The climate impact, in terms of average near surface temperature change, is estimated to be reduced in average by 24%, with values of individual formations between 13% and 33%.
Sugarcane Plant Growth and Physiological Responses to Soil Salinity during Tillering and Stalk Elongation
Authors: Zhao Duli , Zhu Kai , Momotaz Aliya , Gao Xinxin
Published: December 2020

A pot study was conducted to investigate influences of salinity on sugarcane (Saccharum spp.) plant growth, leaf photosynthesis, and other physiological traits during tillering and stalk elongation. Treatments included two commercial sugarcane cultivars (Canal Point (CP) 96-1252 and CP 00-1101) and an Erianthus with five different soil salt concentrations (0 [Control], 38, 75, 150, and 300 mM of NaCl added). Growth (tillers, plant height, and nodes) and physiological (leaf net photosynthetic rate [Pn], stomatal conductance [gs], intercellular CO2 concentration, and leaf water soluble sugar concentrations) characters were determined during the experiment. Responses of sugarcane growth, photosynthesis, and photoassimilate translocation to salinity depended on soil salt concentration. Plant height was the most sensitive while the number of nodes was the most tolerant to soil salinity among the three growth traits measured. CP 96-1252 differed from CP 00-1101 significantly in response of shoot:root ratio to high salt concentration. Leaf Pn of plants treated with the 38 mM salt did not differ from that of the control plant, but plants treated with the 75, 150, and 300 mM salt had 12.7, 18.7, and 35.3% lower leaf Pn, respectively, than the control. The low leaf Pn due to salinity was associated with not only the decrease in gs, but also the non-stomatal factors. Results of leaf sugar composition and concentrations revealed that high salt concentration also depressed photoassimilate translocation from leaves to other plant tissues. These findings are important for better understanding of some physiological mechanisms of salinity influence on sugarcane growth and yields.
Metamitron and Shade Effects on Leaf Physiology and Thinning Efficacy of Malus × domestica Borkh
Authors: Rosa Nídia , Àvila Glória , Carbó Joaquim , Verjans Wim , Pais Isabel Pereira , da Silva Anabela Bernardes , Martins Luísa Louro , Mourato Miguel Pedro , Carvalho Luísa Cristina , Scotti-Campos Paula , Bonany Joan , Asín Luís , Ramalho José Cochicho , Oliveira Cristina Moniz
Published: December 2020

Thinning strategies, namely shade or photosynthetic inhibitors, rely on the reduction of carbon supply to the fruit below the demand, causing fruit abscission. In order to clarify the subject, seven field trials were carried out in Lleida, Girona, and Sint-Truiden (2017 + 2018), using orchards of ‘Golden’ and ‘Gala’ apple trees. At the stage of 9–14-mm fruit diameter, four treatments were implemented: (A) CTR-control, trees under natural environmental conditions; (B) SN-shaded trees, trees above which shading nets reducing 50% of irradiance were installed 24 h after metamitron application date—without application of metamitron—and removed after five days; (C) MET-trees sprayed with 247.5 ppm of metamitron; (D) MET + SN-trees submitted to the combined exposure to metamitron application and shading nets. Low radiation significantly increased metamitron absorption (36–53% in the three locations in 2018) and reduced its degradation. Net photosynthesis and stomatal conductance were strongly reduced in all treatments, with minimum values 2 days after spraying (DAS) and incomplete recovery 10 DAS in MET + SN. All treatments resulted in leaf sucrose and sorbitol decreases, leading to a negative carbon balance. SN and MET + SN promoted the highest thinning efficacy, increasing fruit weight and size, with MET + SN causing over-thinning in some trials. Leaf antioxidant enzymes showed moderate changes in activity increases under MET or MET + SN, accompanied by a rise of glutathione content and a reduction in ascorbate, however without lipid peroxidation. This work shows that environmental conditions, such as cloudy days, must be carefully considered upon metamitron application, since the low irradiance enhances metamitron efficacy and may cause over-thinning.
Performance and Potentiality of Camelina (Camelina sativa L. Crantz) Genotypes in Response to Sowing Date under Mediterranean Environment
Authors: Angelini Luciana G. , Abou Chehade Lara , Foschi Lara , Tavarini Silvia
Published: December 2020

Given the growing interest for camelina, as a multipurpose oilseed crop, seven cultivars and two sowing times were compared to characterize camelina’s production potential in the rainfed agroecosystems of Central Italy. A split-plot design, with sowing date as main plot (autumn and spring) and cultivar (V1, V2, V3, V4, V5, V6, and CELINE) as subplot, was adopted over two growing seasons (2017–2019). Phenology, yield and yield components, protein and oil content, and fatty acid profile were evaluated. Going from autumn to spring sowing, a significant reduction was observed in the number of days (139 vs. 54 days) and GDD (642 vs. 466 °C d) from emergence to beginning of flowering, with more consistent variations among cultivars. V1 and V2 were the earlier ones both in spring and autumn sowing. Autumn sowing increased seed yield (+18.0%), TSW (+4.1%), number of siliques per plant (+47.2%), contents of α-linolenic, eicosenoic, erucic and eicosadienoic acids, and polyunsaturated to saturated fatty acid ratio. Regarding genotype, V3 showed the best seed and oil yield in autumn, whereas V1 and CELINE were the best performing in spring. Finally, TSW and number of siliques per plant were the key yield components for camelina. Results identify, in relation to sowing date, the most suitable cultivars for the tested environment, in terms of earliness and quanti-qualitative traits.
Analysis of Animal Well-Being When Supplementing Drinking Water with Tramadol or Metamizole during Chronic Pancreatitis
Authors: Tang Guanglin , Nierath Wiebke-Felicitas , Palme Rupert , Vollmar Brigitte , Zechner Dietmar
Published: December 2020

Pain management during in vivo experiments is an animal welfare concern and is in many countries also legally required. In this study, we evaluated C57Bl/6J mice when 3 g/L metamizole or 1 g/L tramadol was provided via drinking water, before and during cerulein-induced chronic pancreatitis. Supplementation of drinking water with metamizole or tramadol did not significantly reduce the amount of consumed water. In order to evaluate the wellbeing of mice, a distress score, burrowing activity, nesting behavior, and body weight was assessed. Before induction of pancreatitis, neither tramadol nor metamizole influenced these readout parameters. Chronic pancreatitis caused a significantly increased distress score, decreased burrowing activity and a reduction in body weight. Mice drinking tramadol-supplemented water experienced less loss in body weight and consumed more water than mice drinking metamizole, at a few time-points during chronic pancreatitis. Pancreatic atrophy, a characteristic feature of chronic pancreatitis was not differentially influenced by either analgesic. In conclusion, both analgesics can be used during 33 days of chronic pancreatitis, but tramadol seems to be moderately advantageous when compared to metamizole.
An Exploration of the Value of Elective Health Checks in UK Zoo-Housed Gibbons
Authors: Kershaw Tawny , Hall Emily J. , Dobbs Phillipa , Liptovszky Matyas , Strong Victoria
Published: December 2020

Elective health checks form an important part of the preventative healthcare of many zoo-housed animals. These procedures are not without risk or financial expenditure, meaning careful cost–benefit analysis is required when determining the frequency and intensity with which they are implemented. This study evaluated the value of elective health checks (n = 74) carried out on 33 gibbons at a single UK zoological collection from 2011 to 2018. Data were categorised by health check type, animal age, clinical findings and outcome. Univariable binary logistic regression and multivariable modelling were used to identify factors associated with the likelihood of actionable (clinically significant) outcomes. In total, 51.35% of all elective health checks resulted in an actionable outcome. Elderly heath checks had 13.64 times greater odds of an actionable outcome and 34 times greater odds of a significant radiographic finding, when compared to routine (non-elderly) health checks. Our findings suggest that 75% wild longevity is a suitable threshold for identifying elderly captive gibbons and increasing health check frequency. Whilst further work is needed to ascertain whether these findings can be extrapolated to other collections and/or species, this study demonstrates how the analysis of clinical data can aid in the implementation of an effective and evidence-based preventative healthcare plan.
Beloved Whiskers: Management Type, Care Practices and Connections to Welfare in Domestic Cats
Authors: Machado Daiana de Souza , Gonçalves Luana da Silva , Vicentini Rogério Ribeiro , Ceballos Maria Camila , Sant’Anna Aline Cristina
Published: December 2020

The quality of cat care practices depends in part on the type of management applied, which either positively or negatively impacts cat welfare. This study investigated whether the type of cat management (indoor vs. outdoor) was related to other cat care practices adopted by cat owners, associated with the quality of human-cat relationships and cat welfare. An online survey was distributed via social networks. Descriptive statistics, categorical Principal Component Analysis, Fisher’s Exact test and Chi-square test in contingency table were applied. A total of 16,302 cat owners returned the survey. Most Brazilian owners reported indoor management of their cats; this was related to owners living in apartments, more frequent use of cat care practices, and more interactions with their pets. Outdoor management was related to cats living in houses or farms, sleeping outdoors or around the neighborhood, and owners had fewer interaction with their pets. In conclusion, owners practicing indoor management seemed to be closer to their cats than owners reporting outdoor management. However, obesity and owner-reported behavioral problems were associated with indoor management.
No Worm Is an Island; The Influence of Commensal Gut Microbiota on Cyathostomin Infections
Authors: Walshe Nicola , Mulcahy Grace , Hodgkinson Jane , Peachey Laura
Published: December 2020

The importance of the gut microbiome for host health has been the subject of intense research over the last decade. In particular, there is overwhelming evidence for the influence of resident microbiota on gut mucosal and systemic immunity; with significant implications for the outcome of gastrointestinal (GI) infections, such as parasitic helminths. The horse is a species that relies heavily on its gut microbiota for GI and overall health, and disturbances in this complex ecosystem are often associated with life-threatening disease. In turn, nearly all horses harbour parasitic helminths from a young age, the most prevalent of which are the small strongyles, or cyathostomins. Research describing the relationship between gut microbiota and cyathostomin infection is in its infancy, however, to date there is evidence of meaningful interactions between these two groups of organisms which not only influence the outcome of cyathostomin infection but have long term consequences for equine host health. Here, we describe these interactions alongside supportive evidence from other species and suggest novel theories and avenues for research which have the potential to revolutionize our approach to cyathostomin prevention and control in the future.
Dietary Fatty Acids Change Circulating Fatty Acids, Microbial Putrefactive Postbiotics and Betaine Status in the Cat
Authors: Jewell Dennis E. , Jackson Matthew I.
Published: December 2020

There is a normal variation of polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) in the foods consumed both by the domestic cat and wild felines. This variation may lead to specific changes in metabolites and circulating fatty acids that influence health and response to disease. Therefore, in order to evaluate the response to these changes in dietary PUFA three foods were formulated: a complete and balanced control food (COF) with no enhanced source of added PUFA (ARA = 0.08%, EPA & DHA = 0.01%), Test food 1 (E&DF) like the COF with added eicosapentaenoic acid EPA and docosahexaenoic acid DHA (E&D = 0.36%)) from menhaden fish oil, and Test Food 2 (ARAF) like the COF with added arachidonic acid (ARA = 0.16%) from liver. All test foods had similar protein concentrations and similar vitamin and mineral concentrations while the PUFA supplemented foods had slightly higher fat concentrations. Cats (n = 36) were fed a pre-trial food for 28 days and then assigned to a group fed either the control, E&DF or ARAF for 56 days (12 cats per group). Blood samples were drawn and serum analyzed for fatty acids, albumin, urea, creatinine, cholesterol and triglycerides at the beginning of the study and after consuming the test foods for 28 and 56 days. Plasma was similarly analyzed for metabolomics. Increasing dietary E&D resulted in reduced cholesterol, betaine, dimethyl glycine, sarcosine and 4-ethylphenylsulfate. Increasing dietary ARA resulted in reduced betaine, dimethyl glycine and sarcosine and an increased concentration of indoleacetate, indolepropionate and indoleacetylglutamine. These data suggest a benefit of dietary single carbon metabolism support for cats supplemented with ARA or E&D. Moreover, the reduction in circulating cholesterol and triglycerides through dietary E&D supplementation could benefit cats with hyperlipidemia. Further research into the interrelationship between dietary PUFA and the gut microbe will benefit from the data showing that ARA increased specific positive postbiotics (i.e., indoleacetate, indolepropionate) while E&D supplementation showed the benefit of reducing some postbiotics which have been associated with reduced health (4-ethylphenylsulfate, 3-methyl catechol sulfate and 4-vinylphenol sulfate).
Relation of Subclinical Ketosis of Dairy Cows with Locomotion Behaviour and Ambient Temperature
Authors: Antanaitis Ramūnas , Juozaitienė Vida , Televičius Mindaugas , Malašauskienė Dovilė , Urbutis Mingaudas , Baumgartner Walter
Published: December 2020

Rumination time, chewing time and drinking time are indicators that can be assessed in case of cow disease. In this research, two groups of cows were formed: cows with subclinical ketosis (SCK; n = 10) and healthy cows (HG; n = 10). Behaviour such as walking activity, feeding time with head position up, feeding time with head position down, change of activity and average, minimal and maximal ambient temperature of cows were recorded by the RumiWatch noseband system (RWS; RumiWatch System, Itin+Hoch GmbH, Liestal, Switzerland). The RWS comprises a noseband halter with a built-in pressure sensor and a liquid-filled pressure tube. Data from each studied cow were recorded for 420 h. According to the results of our study, it was determined that cows diagnosed with subclinical ketosis showed a tendency to change their activity more frequently. Our data indicates that minimal and maximal ambient temperatures are related with SCK.
Host-Parasite Interaction in Sarcoptes scabiei Infestation in Porcine Model with a Preliminary Note on Its Genetic Lineage from India
Authors: De Arun Kumar , Sawhney Sneha , Mondal Samiran , Ponraj Perumal , Ravi Sanjay Kumar , Sarkar Gopal , Banik Santanu , Malakar Dhruba , Muniswamy Kangayan , Kumar Ashish , Tripathi Arvind Kumar , Bera Asit Kumar , Bhattacharya Debasis
Published: December 2020

The burrowing mite Sarcoptes scabiei causes scabies in humans or mange in animals. It infests a wide range of mammalian species including livestock, companion animals, wild animals, and humans. Differential diagnosis of Sarcoptes varieties is key for epidemiological studies and for formulation of an eradication program. Host-parasite interaction at the systemic level is very important to understand the pathogenicity of the mite. This communication deals with the preliminary report on the genetic characterization of S. scabiei from India. Moreover, the effect of S. scabiei infestation on host physiology with special emphasis on serum biochemical parameters, lipid profile, oxidant/antioxidant balance, stress parameters, and immune responses were evaluated in a porcine model. Cytochrome C oxidase 1 and voltage-sensitive sodium channel based phylogenetic study could distinguish human and animals isolates but could not distinguish host or geographical specific isolates belonging to animal origin. An absence of host-specific cluster among animal isolates argues against the hypothesis of delineating S. scabiei as per host origin. Elevated levels of markers of liver function such as albumin, AST, ALT, ALP, and LDH in infested animals indicated impaired liver function in infested animals. S. scabiei infestation induced atherogenic dyslipidemia indicated by elevated levels of total cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol and triglycerides, and a decreased level of high-density lipoprotein cholesterol. Oxidative stress in infested animals was indicated by a high level of nitric oxide and serum MDA as oxidative stress markers and low antioxidant capacity. S. scabiei triggered stress response and elevated levels of serum cortisol and heat shock proteins were recorded in infested animals. S. scabiei infestation increased the serum concentration of immunoglobulins and was associated with up-regulation of IL-2, IFN-γ, IL-1β, and IL-4 indicating both Th1 and Th2 response. The results of the study will be helpful for a better understanding of host-parasite interaction at the systemic level in crusted scabies in pigs.
Sire Effects on Post-Weaning Growth of Beef-Cross-Dairy Cattle: A Case Study in New Zealand
Authors: Martín Natalia , Schreurs Nicola , Morris Stephen , López-Villalobos Nicolás , McDade Julie , Hickson Rebecca
Published: December 2020

Little is known about the growth performance of beef sires used over dairy cows in New Zealand. This experiment aimed to evaluate the growth of Angus and Hereford sires via progeny testing of beef-cross-dairy offspring born to dairy cows and grown on hill country pasture. Live weights at 131, 200, 400, 600 and 800 days were analysed from a dataset of 5208 records from 1101 progeny of 73 sires. The means of the progeny group means for live weight were 118.6 kg at 131 days, 159.1 kg at 200 days, 284.2 kg at 400 days, 427.0 kg at 600 days and 503.6 kg at 800 days, and the overall daily growth rate was 0.58 kg/day from 131 to 800 days. The sire affected (p < 0.05) the live weight of their progeny at all ages. Differences in live weights between the lightest and heaviest progeny group means increased from 19 kg at 131 days to 90 kg at 800 days. Even though growth of calves was likely restricted to 200 days, live weight at 200 days explained 51–56% of the variation in live weights at 400 and 600 days (p < 0.05). Thus, the use of beef sires selected for growth has the potential to increase the live weight of cattle born on dairy farms for meat production.
Ultrasound-Guided Hook-Wire Localization for Surgical Excision of Non-Palpable Superficial Inguinal Lymph Nodes in Dogs: A Pilot Study
Authors: Pierini Alessio , Marchetti Veronica , Rossanese Matteo , Finotello Riccardo , Cattai Andrea , Pisani Guido
Published: December 2020

The evaluation of loco-regional lymph nodes (LN) plays an important prognostic role and assists the clinical decision making in canine cancer patients. Excision of non-palpable LN can be challenging. The aim of the study was to evaluate surgical time, successful excision rate and surgical complications associated with the use of an ultrasound-guided hook-wire (UGHW) LN localization method for non-palpable superficial inguinal LN (SILN) in dogs. Dogs that presented for excision of non-palpable SILN, performed with the aid of an UGHW placement, were enrolled. Information including signalment, SILN width, UGHW placement and surgical procedure time, hook-wire position, successful excision and intra- and post-operative complications were reviewed. Seventeen dogs were enrolled. Median LN width was 3 mm (range 2–11). Median time of preoperative UGHW placement and surgical LN excision was 8 min and 15 min, respectively. Successful SILN excision was achieved in all cases. Two minor intra-operative (hook migration and wire fragmentation) and one minor post-operative complications (seroma) were observed. No major intraoperative or post-operative complications occurred. The UGHW LN localization method is safe and effective and may allow a high rate of successful SILN excisions in dogs. This method has the potential to facilitate LN excision for other superficial LN locations.
Traditional Usage of Wild Fauna among the Local Inhabitants of Ladakh, Trans-Himalayan Region
Authors: Haq Shiekh Marifatul , Calixto Eduardo Soares , Yaqoob Umer , Ahmed Riyaz , Mahmoud Ahmed Hossam , Bussmann Rainer W. , Mohammed Osama B. , Ahmad Khalid , Abbasi Arshad Mehmood
Published: December 2020

Zootherapy is accepted all around the globe not only in ancient cultures but different animal derived medicines are also part of the practice in the modern health care systems. The present study assessed the traditional ethnozoological usage of wild animals by local inhabitants in Ladakh region, India, and the reference data for scientific approaches for protection of faunal diversity in trans-Himalayas. The ethnozoological documentation of the animals in Ladakh was carried out through semistructured and close-ended questionnaire surveys and interviews. Multivariate ecological community analysis was used to elucidate the relationship between ethnozoological usage and animal species. Our results showed three animal usage clusters with 32% similarity. Moreover, the similarity in animal usage between digging tools, trophy, handle of tools, decoration, and matting, showed less than 32% of similarity. The highest priority of local people was for food followed by decoration and medicinal usage. The most frequently used animal parts were meat followed by fur and horn. Medicinal uses of 48% of the reported species, i.e., Alectoris chukar (chukar), Cuon alpinus (Asiatic wild dog), Lepus oiostolus (hares), Marmota himalayana (marmots), Ovis aries vignei (Ladakh urial), Pantholops hodgsonii (Tibetan antelope), Procapra picticaudata (Tibetan gazelle), Pseudois nayaur (blue sheep), Tetraogallus himalayensis (Himalayan snow), Tetraogallus tibetanus (Tibetan snow cock), and Lutra lutra (common otter) were reported for the first time from this region. Our study provides innovative information regarding the ethnozoological knowledge in the Ladakh region and reference data for policymakers, researchers, land managers, common public, and the other stakeholders to develop logical and scientific approaches for sustainable use of faunal diversity in hotspot regions like trans-Himalayas and other similar biodiversity-rich sites.
Polymorphism of Selected Regions of Ovar-MHC and the Health Status of the Ovine Mammary Gland
Authors: Świderek Wiesław Piotr , Gruszczyńska Joanna , Winnicka Anna
Published: December 2020

Udder diseases (mastitis) are a serious cause of economic losses in sheep breeding as they have a negative impact on lamb rearing and the quality of dairy products. Thus far, progress in treatment and prevention of these diseases has been insufficient—giving ground for searching possibilities of using natural immunity to combat mastitis. This study aims to assess the relationship between the microsatellite polymorphism of selected Ovar-MHC genes and the health status of the mammary gland of sheep. The research is carried out on sheep of the Polish Heath and Polish Lowland breeds. In ovine milk, the SCC and the percentage of the lymphocyte subpopulation are assessed. Based on genomic DNA, molecular analysis of the Ovar-MHC gene fragments (OLADRB1, OLADRB2, OMHC1) polymorphism is performed. Significant differences are found in SCC level and the percentage of lymphocytes (CD4, CD8, CD19) in the milk depending on the alleles of the Ovar-MHC genes. Alleles of 488 bp (DRB1) and 284 bp (DRB2) are found more frequently in sheep, which milk contained <200 × 103/mL SCC, while in carriers of the 508 bp (DRB1) and 272 bp (DRB2) alleles, SCC level in milk is significantly higher (>200 × 103/mL). The obtained results justify the need for further research to better understand the genetic basis of mastitis, and to search for effective molecular markers that can be used in breeding practice.
Social Behaviour of Horses in Response to Vocalisations of Predators
Authors: Janczarek Iwona , Wiśniewska Anna , Chruszczewski Michael H. , Tkaczyk Ewelina , Górecka-Bruzda Aleksandra
Published: December 2020

We tested the hypothesis that social defensive responses to the vocalisation of a predator still exist in horses. The recordings of a grey wolf, an Arabian leopard and a golden jackal were played to 20 Konik polski and Arabian mares. Durations of grazing, standing still, standing alert and the number of steps in walk and trot/canter were measured. In one-minute scans, the distances of the focal horse from the reference horse (DIST-RH) and from the nearest loudspeaker (DIST-LS) were approximated. The vocalisation of a leopard aroused the Arabians more than the Koniks (less grazing, stand-still and walk, more stand-alert and trotting/cantering). Koniks showed more relaxed behaviours to the leopard vocalisation (more grazing, stand-still and walk), but high alertness to the wolf playback (stand-alert, trotting/cantering). Spatial formation of the herd of Koniks showed tight grouping (lower DIST-RH) and maintaining distance from the potential threat (DIST-LS) in response to the wolf howling, while the Arabians approached the loudspeakers in linear herd formation when the leopard growls were played. Adult horses responded to potential predation by changing spatial group formations. This ability to apply a social strategy may be one of the explanations for the least number of horses among all hunted farm animal species.
Using Dairy Value Chains to Identify Production Constraints and Biosecurity Risks
Authors: Singh Jaswinder , Singh Balbir B. , Tiwari Harish Kumar , Josan Harmandeep Singh , Jaswal Nidhi , Kaur Manmeet , Kostoulas Polychronis , Khatkar Mehar Singh , Aulakh Rabinder Singh , Gill Jatinder Paul Singh , Dhand Navneet K.
Published: December 2020

The dairy industry plays an important role in the economy and food security of India. A study of the dairy value chains was conducted in Punjab, India, to identify production constraints and biosecurity risks. Focus group discussions and key informant interviews were conducted during 2018–2019 with a total of 119 participants comprising veterinarians (41), paraveterinarians (15), veterinary academics (12), dairy farmers (46) and key informants (5). Input and output value chains were created, and potential risk nodes were identified that could facilitate the transmission of pathogens between animals, farms and villages. The majority of the participants were male (93%), middle-aged (68%) or worked in rural areas (75%). Most of the farmers self-cultivated their green fodder (82%), used the wheat straw from their own fields (60%) but purchased commercial feed (63%). Artificial insemination was used by 85% of farmers for cattle, but only 68% for buffaloes. Most of the farmers (76%) reported getting their animals vaccinated against foot-and-mouth disease and hemorrhagic septicemia. Animals were sold and purchased without any health certification and testing in most cases. Adoption of biosecurity measures by farmers and the use of personal protective equipment by veterinary personnel were very low. We recommend conducting epidemiological studies to further characterize the identified risk nodes, training of veterinary practitioners and farmers to ensure adequate biosecurity practices and the appropriate use of personal protective equipment.
Prevention of Fine Dust-Induced Vascular Senescence by Humulus lupulus Extract and Its Major Bioactive Compounds
Authors: Shiwakoti Saugat , Adhikari Deepak , Lee Jeong Pyo , Kang Ki-Woon , Lee Ik-Soo , Kim Hyun Jung , Oak Min-Ho
Published: December 2020

Both short- and long-term exposure to fine dust (FD) from air pollution has been linked to various cardiovascular diseases (CVDs). Endothelial cell (EC) senescence is an important risk factor for CVDs, and recent evidence suggests that FD-induced premature EC senescence increases oxidative stress levels. Hop plant (Humulus lupulus) is a very rich source of polyphenols known to have nutritional and therapeutic properties, including antioxidant behavior. The aims of this study were to evaluate whether Humulus lupulus extract prevents FD-induced vascular senescence and dysfunction and, if so, to characterize the underlying mechanisms and active components. Porcine coronary arteries and endothelial cells were treated with FD in the presence or absence of hop extract (HOP), and the senescence-associated-beta galactosidase (SA-β-gal) activity, cell-cycle progression, expression of senescence markers, oxidative stress level, and vascular function were evaluated. Results indicated that HOP inhibited FD-induced SA-β-gal activity, cell-cycle arrest, and oxidative stress, suggesting that HOP prevents premature induction of senescence by FD. HOP also ameliorated FD-induced vascular dysfunction. Additionally, xanthohumol (XN) and isoxanthohumol (IX) were found to produce the protective effects of HOP. Treatment with HOP and its primary active components XN and IX downregulated the expression of p22phox, p53, and angiotensin type 1 receptor, which all are known FD-induced redox-sensitive EC senescence inducers. Taken together, HOP and its active components protect against FD-induced endothelial senescence most likely via antioxidant activity and may be a potential therapeutic agent for preventing and/or treating air-pollution-associated CVDs.
Metabolic Dysregulation and Neurovascular Dysfunction in Diabetic Retinopathy
Authors: Yumnamcha Thangal , Guerra Michael , Singh Lalit Pukhrambam , Ibrahim Ahmed S.
Published: December 2020

Diabetic retinopathy is a major cause of ocular complications in patients with type 1 and type 2 diabetes in developed countries. Due to the continued increase in the number of people with obesity and diabetes in the United States of America and globally, the incidence of diabetic retinopathy is expected to increase significantly in the coming years. Diabetic retinopathy is widely accepted as a combination of neurodegenerative and microvascular changes; however, which change occurs first is not yet understood. Although the pathogenesis of diabetic retinopathy is very complex, regulated by numerous signaling pathways and cellular processes, maintaining glucose homeostasis is still an essential component for normal physiological functioning of retinal cells. The maintenance of glucose homeostasis is finely regulated by coordinated interplay between glycolysis, Krebs cycle, and oxidative phosphorylation. Glycolysis is the most conserved metabolic pathway in biology and is tightly regulated to maintain a steady-state concentration of glycolytic intermediates; this regulation is called scheduled or regulated glycolysis. However, an abnormal increase in glycolytic flux generates large amounts of intermediate metabolites that can be shunted into different damaging pathways including the polyol pathway, hexosamine pathway, diacylglycerol-dependent activation of the protein kinase C pathway, and Amadori/advanced glycation end products (AGEs) pathway. In addition, disrupting the balance between glycolysis and oxidative phosphorylation leads to other biochemical and molecular changes observed in diabetic retinopathy including endoplasmic reticulum-mitochondria miscommunication and mitophagy dysregulation. This review will focus on how dysregulation of glycolysis contributes to diabetic retinopathy.
Near UV-Vis and NMR Spectroscopic Methods for Rapid Screening of Antioxidant Molecules in Extra-Virgin Olive Oil
Authors: Vicario Giulia , Francini Alessandra , Cifelli Mario , Domenici Valentina , Sebastiani Luca
Published: December 2020

Several spectroscopic techniques have been optimized to check extra-virgin olive oil quality and authenticity, as well as to detect eventual adulterations. These methods are usually complementary and can give information about different olive oil chemical components with bioactive and antioxidant properties. In the present work, a well-characterized set of extra-virgin olive oil (cultivar Frantoio) samples from a specific area of Tuscany (Italy) were investigated by combining near UV-Vis absorption spectroscopy, 1H and 13C nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) to identify and quantify different chemical components, such as pigments, secoiridoids and squalene, related to the nutritional and quality properties of olive oils. Moreover, the pigmentation index of olives, organoleptic and sensory properties, total phenolic compound contents and the lipidic fractions of olive oils were investigated. The results obtained are, finally, compared and discussed in order to correlate several properties of both olives and olive oils with specific features of the cultivation area.
Application of Hydroxytyrosol in the Functional Foods Field: From Ingredient to Dietary Supplements
Authors: Silva Andreia F. R. , Resende Daniela , Monteiro Mariana , Coimbra Manuel A. , Silva Artur M. S. , Cardoso Susana M.
Published: December 2020

Hydroxytyrosol (HT) is an amphipathic functional phenol found in the olive tree, both in its leaves and fruits, in free or bound forms, as well as in olive oil and by-products of olive oil manufacture. The European Food Safety Authority recommends regular consumption of HT due to its several beneficial effects on human health, which are closely associated to its antioxidant activity. These reasons make HT an excellent candidate for application as a functional ingredient in the design of novel food products. Patents already exist for methodologies of extraction, purification, and application of HT in supplements and food products. The present review discusses the impact of HT incorporation on food properties and its effects on consumers, based on relevant data related to the use of HT as a functional ingredient, both as a pure compound or in the form of HT-rich extracts, in various food products, namely in edible oils, beverages, bakery products, as well animal-based foods such as meat, fishery and dairy products.
Modeling, Simulation, and Cruise Characteristics of Wingtip-Jointed Composite Aircraft
Authors: Liu Dongxu , Xie Changchuan , Hong Guanxin , An Chao
Published: December 2020

In this paper, multibody dynamic modeling and a simulation method for the wingtip-jointing process of a new-concept composite aircraft system are investigated. When the wingtips of two aircraft are jointed, the resultant wingtip-jointed aircraft is regarded as variable-geometry multiple rigid bodies, and a seven-degree-of-freedom non-linear dynamic model is established by mathematical derivation. The slip-meshing method is adopted to analyze the unsteady aerodynamic influence. We also present specific aerodynamic database acquisition methods under the quasi-steady assumption. Based on this, the simulation results indicate that the longitudinal and lateral movements are highly jointed and complex. A new composite aircraft system is investigated, in order to meet the balance requirement. With the lift–drag ratio (K) considered, the piecewise cubic Hermite interpolation (PCHIP) method, with a sufficient sample size, was utilized to help the cruise strategy optimization analysis under fixed altitude and speed conditions. Meanwhile, distribution of cruise characteristics with different sampling values of composite flight characteristic parameters were also analyzed. The research results can be used as a reference for new-concept composite aircraft model establishment, simulation, and multibody dynamic characteristic investigation.
Design Methodology of the Class-E Power Amplifier with Finite Feed Inductance—A Tutorial Approach
Authors: Casallas Ingrid , Paez-Rueda Carlos-Ivan , Perilla Gabriel , Pérez Manuel , Fajardo Arturo
Published: December 2020

The Class-E with finite feed inductance is a high-efficiency power amplifier that generally uses complex, long, and iterative design procedures. In this paper, we detail a design methodology that is based on an analytical model of this amplifier. This methodology explores the power amplifier design by the use of a symbolic mathematical tool, which was developed in the software Maple™. This approach helps to understand the Class-E circuit topology and it offers a fast and easy design procedure without having to examine, in-depth, the model analytical equations.
Development and Application of Motor-Equipped Reaction Torque Sensor with Adjustable Measurement Range and Sensitivity
Authors: Suh Jungwook , Lee Joonwoo , Lee Dong-Eun
Published: December 2020

Various high-performance force/torque sensors have been developed for the purpose of advancing automation systems. However, the demand for simple torque measurement of rotating shafts continues to exist, and expensive multi-axis sensors need not be wasted here. In this paper we propose a simple motor-equipped single-axis reaction torque sensor to measure the applied torque continuously using a load cell. The proposed sensor has long lever and base linkages, and the adjustable moment arm consequently enables adjusting measurement range and sensitivity by repositioning the assembled load cell on the two linkages. This paper shows the design of the proposed torque sensor, and it is evaluated by experiments for various applied torque and lever length. Moreover, the sensor is applied to an existing example: a commercial balanced-arm lamp with and without its balancing spring. The proposed torque sensor can continuously and successfully measure the applied torque, and it will be utilized in various industries and laboratories without much money.