bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Chicory Taproot Production: Effects of Biostimulants under Partial or Full Controlled Environmental Conditions
Authors: Paglialunga Gabriele , Proietti Simona , Cardarelli Mariateresa , Moscatello Stefano , Colla Giuseppe , Battistelli Alberto
Published: November 2022

Two trials were conducted on chicory (Cichorium intybus L.) grown under greenhouse and growth chamber conditions with the aim to evaluate the potential of three biostimulants (seaweed extract (SWE), animal-derived protein hydrolysate (APH), and vegetal-derived protein hydrolysate (VPH) on improving quali-quantitative traits of taproot, in short and out-of-season production cycles. In the greenhouse trial, VPH biostimulant promoted the inulin yield on a per-hectare basis with respect to the untreated control and APH. Taproot fresh weights, dry weights, and diameter in VPH-treated plants increased in comparison with APH-treated ones. SWE-treated plants showed intermediate values of the root production parameters and the inulin yield, with no statistical difference with VPH, APH, and control. In the growth room trial, SWE, VPH, and control showed no significant differences in growth, root yield, and quality. The results demonstrated that VPH can be useful for improving root production and inulin yield of chicory under partial controlled conditions such as in a greenhouse, whereas no benefits of biostimulant applications on crop yield and quality traits were recorded in growth chambers under full control of micro-climate conditions.
Sugarcane Ratoon Yield and Soil Phosphorus Availability in Response to Enhanced Efficiency Phosphate Fertilizer
Authors: Oliveira Clayton Luís Baravelli de , Cassimiro Juliana Bonfim , Lira Maikon Vinicius da Silva , Boni Ariele da Silva , Donato Natália de Lima , Reis Roberto dos Anjos , Heinrichs Reges
Published: November 2022

The low availability of phosphorus in most Brazilian soils causes a heavy dependence of agricultural production on phosphate fertilizers, which are generally agronomically inefficient in tropical soils. Breeding for increased longevity of sugarcane ratoons is extremely important, but understanding how the efficiency of phosphate fertilization can be improved is equally necessary. The objective of this research was to evaluate the effects of phosphate fertilizers with and without polymer coating on the productivity and nutritional status of sugarcane ratoons and phosphorus availability in the soil. The experiment was carried out on a commercial sugarcane field on a dystrophic Ultisol over two growing seasons in a randomized complete block design with four replications. Two phosphorus sources (monoammonium phosphate (MAP) and MAP + Policote) were tested at four rates (20, 40, 60 and 80 kg P2O5 ha−1) in addition to the control (no P fertilization). The Policote-coated phosphate fertilizer induced higher stalk and TRS yields in the first experimental year, while the same effect was not observed in the second year. Nevertheless, with the reapplication of the treatments in the second study year, the mean stalk yield was high in response to the application of 20 kg P2O5 ha−1 of coated fertilizer and very different from that of the higher rates of the same fertilizer, which yielded 88 Mg ha−1, i.e., 8 Mg ha−1 more than the mean of the other rates.
Antioxidants, Antimicrobial, and Anticancer Activities of Purified Chitinase of Talaromyces funiculosus Strain CBS 129594 Biosynthesized Using Crustacean Bio-Wastes
Authors: El-Beltagi Hossam S. , El-Mahdy Omima M. , Mohamed Heba I. , El-Ansary Abeer E.
Published: November 2022

Talaromyces funiculosus strain CBS 129594 was optimized to promote chitinase activity under solid state fermentation using crustacean bio-wastes. The aim of the study was to use purified chitinase as antioxidant, antimicrobial, and anticancer activities. The results showed that the maximum enzyme yield (2.98 ± 0.2 U/g substrate) was obtained at 1:2 crab shell chitin with the inoculation size (2.5 × 106v/v) after seven days of incubation, pH 6.5, using 0.20% of soybean meal, malt extract, and yeast extract and 100% cane and beet molasses as supplementation. The enzyme was purified with an overall yield of 7.22 purification fold with a specific activity of 9.32 ± 0.3 U/mg protein. The molecular mass of the purified chitinase was 45 kDa. The highest chitinase activity was detected at pH 6.5 and 40 °C. The purified chitinase was activated by Ca2+, Cu2+, Na+, Mn2+, and Mg2+. On the other hand, the enzyme activity was inhibited in the presence of Hg2+, Ag2+, and Li+ at 10 mM, while Zn2+ and Co2+ caused no effect compared to media without any metals. The scavenging of 2.2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) radicals and 2.2-pheny-l-1-bis (3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid) (ABTS) increased with increasing the concentrations of the purified chitinase enzyme (100, 200, 300, and 400 µg/mL) which ranged from 48.7% to 57.8% and 8.87% to 63.73%, respectively. The IC50 value of DPPH radicals and ABTS of purified chitinase produced by T. funiculosus strain CBS 129594 was 199 and 306 μg/mL concentration, respectively. The purified chitinase inhibited the growth of Gram-negative bacteria (Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Escherichia coli), Gram-positive bacteria (Bacillus subtilis, Staphylococcus aureus), and fungi (Aspergillus niger, Candida albicans). The highest concentrations of purified chitinase (1000 µg/mL) caused the higher toxicity of cancer cell line MCF7 (97%), HCT116 (88.2%), and HepG2 (97.1%). In conclusion, we can conclude that chitinase can be produced from marine waste and can be used as an antioxidant, antibacterial activity, cancer therapy, and ecofriendly biocontrol agent.
A Method of Invasive Alien Plant Identification Based on Hyperspectral Images
Authors: Qiao Xi , Liu Xianghuan , Wang Fukuan , Sun Zhongyu , Yang Long , Pu Xuejiao , Huang Yiqi , Liu Shuangyin , Qian Wanqiang
Published: November 2022

Invasive alien plants (IAPs) are considered to be one of the greatest threats to global biodiversity and ecosystems. Timely and accurate detection technology is needed to identify these invasive plants, helping to mitigate the damage to farmland, fruit trees and woodland. Hyperspectral technology has the potential to identify similar species. However, the challenge remains to simultaneously identify multiple invasive alien plants with similar colors based on image data. The spectral images were collected by a hyperspectral camera with a spectral range of 450–998 nm, and the raw spectra were extracted by Cubert software. First derivative (FD), Savitzky-Golay (SG) smoothing and standard normal variate (SNV) were used to preprocess the raw spectral data, respectively. Then, on the basis of preprocessing, principal component analysis (PCA) and ant colony optimization (ACO) were used for feature dimensionality reduction, and the reduced features were used as input variables for later modeling. Finally, a combination of both dimensionality reduction and non-dimensionality reduction is used for identification using support vector machines (SVM) and random forests (RF). In order to determine the optimal recognition model, a total of 18 combinations of different preprocessing methods, dimensionality reduction methods and classifiers were tested. The results showed that a combination of SG smoothing and SVM achieved a total accuracy (A) of 89.36%, an average accuracy (AA) of 89.39% and an average precision (AP) of 89.54% with a test time of 0.2639 s. In contrast, the combination of SG smoothing, the ACO, and SVM resulted in weaker performance in terms of A (86.76%), AA (86.99%) and AP (87.22%), but with less test time (0.0567 s). The SG-SVM and SG-ACO-SVM models should be selected considering accuracy and time cost, respectively, for recognition of the seven IAPs and background in the wild.
Hop (Humulus lupulus L.) Specialized Metabolites: Extraction, Purification, Characterization in Different Plant Parts and In Vitro Evaluation of Anti-Oomycete Activities against Phytophthora infestans
Authors: Jacquin Justine , Moureu Sophie , Deweer Caroline , Hakem Asma , Paguet Anne-Sophie , Bonneau Natacha , Bordage Simon , Dermont Charles , Sahpaz Sevser , Muchembled Jérôme , Rivière Céline
Published: November 2022

Botanicals represent a promising source of metabolites in the search for new biofungicides. In this context, this study aimed at evaluating the in vitro anti-oomycete activity of hop (Humulus lupulus L.) extracts and metabolites against Phytophthora infestans, an oomycete causing late blight disease in Solanaceae. Crude hydro-ethanolic extracts and dichloromethane sub-extracts of different parts (cones, leaves, stems and rhizomes) were characterized by UHPLC-UV–MS and some cone specialized metabolites were purified by CPC and preparative HPLC. A commercial hop cone essential oil was also analyzed by GC–MS. All extracts succeeded in inhibiting mycelial growth and spore germination with morphological alteration of the mycelium. Extracts of leaves showed a significant anti-oomycete activity compared to the extracts of cones, stems, and rhizomes. Moreover, no difference was noticed between the crude hydro-ethanolic extract and the dichloromethane sub-extract activity, except for leaves, with the apolar sub-extract being more active than the crude one. The extracts of cones succeeded in inhibiting more P. infestans than the essential oil, which appeared to be the less active evaluated modality. Some purified prenylated phenolic compounds also inhibited P. infestans although copper sulfate, a mineral fungicide control, was still more active. This study highlights the potential use of hop by-products as biofungicides to manage P. infestans.
Increasing Yield and Economic Value of Upland Rice Using Inorganic Fertilizer and Poultry Manure in Dryland
Authors: Sutardi  , Pertiwi Miranti Dian , Praptana Raden Heru , Anda Markus , Purwaningsih Heni , Triastono Joko , Kristamtini  , Susanto Untung , Widyayanti Setyorini , Kabarsih Mahargono , Sahara Dewi , Malik Afrizal , Oelviani Renie , Arianti Forita Dyah , Harsanti Elisabeth Srihayu , Wihardjaka Anicetus , Cempaka Intan Gilang , Riyanto Damasus , Widodo Sugeng
Published: November 2022

Rice production in the karst dryland is still low, due to soil characteristics that lack nutrient availability. Meanwhile, upland rice has received less attention, and it has not been used to its full potential. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of various combinations of inorganic fertilizers, poultry manure, and upland rice varieties on the production and economic value of karst dryland in Gunungkidul, Yogyakarta. This experiment was arranged in a factorial design, with inorganic fertilizers, poultry manure, and upland rice varieties set in a randomized block design with three replications. The first factor was a combination of inorganic and organic fertilizer rates: 72 N kg ha−1 + 26 P2O5 kg ha−1 + 25 K2O ha−1 + 3 t ha−1 organic, 92 N kg ha−1 + 36 P2O5 kg ha−1 + 30 K2O kg ha−1 + 2 t ha−1 organic, 112 N kg ha−1 + 46 P2O5 kg ha−1 + 35 K2O kg ha−1 + 1 t ha−1 organic. The second factor is the upland varieties of Inpago 8, Inpago 10, and Inpago 12 and lowland variety Inpari 42 Agritan GSR, as checked. Based on the study, we concluded that the combination of 92 N kg ha−1 + 36 P2O5 kg ha−1 + 30 K2O kg ha−1 + 2 t ha−1 poultry manure fertilizers with Inpago 8 resulted in an IDR profit of 23,586,000 ha−1, and it is the most recommendable fertilizer and variety combination to be developed in the karst dryland, in consideration of land fertility and sustainability.
Rice Leaf Chlorophyll Content Estimation Using UAV-Based Spectral Images in Different Regions
Authors: Ban Songtao , Liu Weizhen , Tian Minglu , Wang Qi , Yuan Tao , Chang Qingrui , Li Linyi
Published: November 2022

Estimation of crop biophysical and biochemical characteristics is the key element for crop growth monitoring with remote sensing. With the application of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAV) as a remote sensing platform worldwide, it has become important to develop general estimation models, which can interpret remote sensing data of crops by different sensors and in different agroclimatic regions into comprehensible agronomy parameters. Leaf chlorophyll content (LCC), which can be measured as a soil plant analysis development (SPAD) value using a SPAD-502 Chlorophyll Meter, is one of the important parameters that are closely related to plant production. This study compared the estimation of rice (Oryza sativa L.) LCC in two different regions (Ningxia and Shanghai) using UAV-based spectral images. For Ningxia, images of rice plots with different nitrogen and biochar application rates were acquired by a 125-band hyperspectral camera from 2016 to 2017, and a total of 180 samples of rice LCC were recorded. For Shanghai, images of rice plots with different nitrogen application rates, straw returning, and crop rotation systems were acquired by a 5-band multispectral camera from 2017 to 2018, and a total of 228 samples of rice LCC were recorded. The spectral features of LCC in each study area were analyzed and the results showed that the rice LCC in both regions had significant correlations with the reflectance at the green, red, and red-edge bands and 8 vegetation indices such as the normalized difference vegetation index (NDVI). The estimation models of LCC were built using the partial least squares regression (PLSR), support vector regression (SVR), and artificial neural network (ANN) methods. The PLSR models tended to be more stable and accurate than the SVR and ANN models when applied in different regions with R2 values higher than 0.7 through different validations. The results demonstrated that the rice canopy LCC in different regions, cultivars, and different types of sensor-based data shared similar spectral features and could be estimated by general models. The general models can be implied to a wider geographic extent to accurately quantify rice LCC, which is helpful for growth assessment and production forecasts.
RTM Inversion through Predictive Equations for Multi-Crop LAI Retrieval Using Sentinel-2 Images
Authors: Croci Michele , Impollonia Giorgio , Marcone Andrea , Antonucci Giulia , Letterio Tommaso , Colauzzi Michele , Vignudelli Marco , Ventura Francesca , Anconelli Stefano , Amaducci Stefano
Published: November 2022

Near-real-time, high-spatial-resolution leaf area index (LAI) maps would enable producers to monitor crop health and growth status, improving agricultural practices such as fertiliser and water management. LAI retrieval methods are numerous and can be divided into statistical and physically based methods. While statistical methods are generally subject to high site-specificity but possess high ease of implementation and use, physically based methods are more transferable, albeit more complex to use in operational settings. In addition, statistical methods need a large amount of data for calibration and subsequent validation, and this is only seldom feasible. Techniques based on predictive equations (PEphysical) represent a viable alternative, allowing the partial combination of statistical and physical methods merits while minimising their shortcomings. In this paper, predictive equation-based techniques were compared with four other methods: two radiative transfer model (RTM) inversion methods, one based on neural network (NNET) and one based on a look-up table (LUT), and two empirical methods (one using empirical models based on vegetation indices and in situ data and one based on empirical models found in the scientific literature). The methods were chosen based on common use. To evaluate the performance of the studied methods, the coefficient of determination (R2), root mean square error (RMSE), and normalised root mean square error (nRMSE, %) between the estimates and in situ LAI measurements were reported. The best PEphysical results, achieved by the OSAVI index (RMSE = 0.84 m2 m−2), provided better performance for LAI recovery than the NNET-based RTM inversions (0.86 m2 m−2) or the estimates made by LUT (0.94 m2 m−2). Furthermore, the best PEphysical produced accuracies comparable to the best empirical model (RMSE = 0.71 m2 m−2), calibrated through in situ data, and similar to the best literature model (RMSE = 0.76 m2 m−2). These results indicated that PEphysical can be used to recover LAI with transferability comparable to literature models.
Identification of Genomic Loci Controlling Grain Macro and Micronutrient Variation in a Wild Barley (Hordeum vulgare spp. spontaneum) Diversity Panel
Authors: Abendroth Jillian A. , Sallam Ahmad H. , Steffenson Brian J. , Vinje Marcus A. , Mahalingam Ramamurthy , Walling Jason G.
Published: November 2022

Nutrient deficiencies in humans are problematic on a global scale but are more prevalent in regions where high-quality and nutrient-dense foods are scarce. Developing nutrient-rich crops that thrive in these regions of the world would help alleviate the disparity. We leveraged the wild barley (Hordeum vulgare spp. spontaneum) Diversity Collection (WBDC) (N = 232) to characterize the variation in seed macronutrient (P, K, Ca, and Mg) and micronutrient (B, Cu, Fe, Mn, and Zn) contents found in this subspecies and to reveal chromosomal regions associated with these traits. Most micro- and macronutrients displayed variation in the WBDC and, except for boron and phosphorous, had a modest level of heritability (>0.5). Variation due to environment was significant (p < 0.001) for each element, except iron, and genotype was significant for all the tested nutrients, except boron. Thirty-seven marker–trait associations (MTAs) were detected for three (K, Ca, and Mg) of the four macro- and four (Cu, Fe, Mn, and Zn) of the five micronutrients. Several compelling candidate genes harbored within MTAs were also identified, including ABC transporters, NAC transcription factors, and bZIP transcription factors.
Sentinel Lymph Node Mapping and Biopsy in Cats with Solid Malignancies: An Explorative Study
Authors: Chiti Lavinia Elena , Gariboldi Elisa Maria , Stefanello Damiano , De Zani Donatella , Grieco Valeria , Nolff Mirja Christine
Published: November 2022

There is increasing evidence on the utility of sentinel lymph node (SLN) biopsy (SLNB) for the staging of dogs with various malignancies; however, comparable information is missing in cats. This multi-institutional study aims at reporting the feasibility and detection rate of SLNB guided by lymphoscintigraphy and the blue dye or near-infrared fluorescent lymphography (NIRF-L) in cats with solid tumors. In total, 12 cats presented with 14 solid malignancies that underwent curative-intent surgical excision of the primary tumor and SLNB were retrospectively enrolled. The mapping technique used, location and number of SLN, correspondence with the regional lymph node (RLN), and histological status of the SLN were retrieved. The detection rate and complications of SLNB were also recorded. NIRF-L was performed in 64.3% of tumors and lymphoscintigraphy in 35.7%. The detection rate was 100% for both techniques. The SLN did not correspond (fully or partially) to the RLN in 71.4% of cases, with multiple SLN being excised in 9/14 tumors. No complications related to SLNB were recorded. At histopathology, metastases were identified in 41.7% of cats, all with mast cell tumors (MCT). SLNB guided by NIRF-L or lymphoscintigraphy is feasible and safe in cats with solid tumors and should be suggested for correct tumor staging in cats, especially with MCT.
The Quail Game Farming Sector in Spain
Authors: Caravaca Francisco P. , Camacho-Pinto Tania , González-Redondo Pedro
Published: November 2022

Quail (Coturnix genus) game farms were characterised in Spain using variables related to their age, geographical distribution, farmed species, structure, size, and commercialisation, using a survey conducted on 21 farms in 2018. It was found that 38.1% of the sample represented complete-cycle farms, and 61.9%, which have no breeding flocks, undertook only the finishing phase of quail raising. The average size of the breeding flock, with regard to complete-cycle farms, was 1096 males and 3735 females, with a female/male ratio of 3.6, and 75% of these farms carried out self-replacement of breeding quails. The most farmed species was European quail (Coturnix coturnix), followed by Japanese quail (Coturnix japonica), and hybrids of both species. In addition to quail, all farms produced other gamebird species such as pheasant (Phasianus colchicus) and red-legged partridge (Alectoris rufa). The rearing phase, which began when the chicks were one-day-old, lasted 35.3 days on average (range: 25–49 days), with an average stocking density of 47.2 birds/m2 in the brooder house. The finishing phase, which was carried out in flying pens at a stocking density of 9.5 birds/m2, ended when the quails’ average age was 60.5 days. All farms sold quails for release in hunting reserves (EUR 1.54 per bird) and for dog training (EUR 1.65 per bird) for almost 10 months of the year; only 62% sold quails for shooting after being thrown with an adapted clay-pigeon shooting machine (EUR 1.49 per bird). Transporting quails to their destination (95.2% of the farms) and releasing the birds in the client’s hunting preserve (52.4% of the farms) were services offered by the farms, among others. The main advertising and promotional strategies undertaken by the quail game farms to gain a share of the market included maintaining a business website (85.7% of the farms) and attending game and agricultural fairs (47.6% of the farms). In conclusion, this alternative poultry sector has been consolidated in Spain, five decades since the establishment of the first game farms, and it satisfies a relevant part of the demand for quail hunting.
Malocclusions and Dental Diseases in Privately Owned Horses in the Mazovia Region of Poland
Authors: Górski Kamil , Stefanik Elżbieta , Turek Bernard , Bereznowski Andrzej , Czopowicz Michał , Polkowska Izabela , Domino Małgorzata
Published: November 2022

Dental disorders, a term encompassing both malocclusion and dental disease, constitute a serious health problem in horses worldwide. As horse populations differ among countries and regions, a geographically specific characterization of the occurrence of various dental disorders may be helpful for local equine practitioners. This study investigated the prevalence and frequency distribution of selected malocclusions and dental diseases in horses housed in the Mazovia region of Poland, with attention paid to variations among age, gender, and breed categories. Routine dental examinations were conducted on 206 privately owned horses (n = 206). Disorders were recorded using a dental chart and classified as either malocclusions or dental diseases. Out of all examined horses, 95% demonstrated at least one dental disorder, with a roughly equal distribution of these disorders among incisor teeth (31%) and cheek teeth (31% each for premolars and molars). More specifically, there were disorders noted in 14 incisors, 3 canines, 2 wolf teeth, and 15 cheek teeth. Across all age, gender, and breed groups, malocclusions of incisor, premolar, and molar teeth occurred with a higher prevalence than did dental diseases. Curvatures and calculus were the most commonly reported pathologies in incisor teeth, whereas sharp enamel points and caries predominated in cheek teeth.
Queen Caging and Oxalic Acid Treatment: Combined Effect on Vitellogenin Content and Enzyme Activities in the First Post-Treatment Workers and Drones, Apis mellifera L.
Authors: Sagona Simona , Coppola Francesca , Nanetti Antonio , Cardaio Ilaria , Tafi Elena , Palego Lionella , Betti Laura , Giannaccini Gino , Felicioli Antonio
Published: November 2022

Varroa destructor is a mite causing serious damage to western honey bees. Managed colonies require artificial varroa control, which may be best obtained by combining mechanical and chemical methods. This study explored the possible effects of the combination of queen caging and oxalic acid treatment on the immune system (glucose oxidase, phenoloxidase, and vitellogenin) and antioxidant enzymes (superoxide dismutase, catalase, and glutathione S transferase) of first post-treatment generation drones and workers (newly emerged, nurses, and foragers). The combination of queen caging and oxalic acid treatment caused a decrease in glucose oxidase activity only in drones. This could cause issues of cuticular sclerotization, making a drone prone to bite injuries, dehydration, and pathogens. No differences in phenoloxidase activity were recorded in both post-treatment drones and workers generation. Among worker bees, the treatment determined a lower vitellogenin content in newly emerged bees while the result was higher in nurse bees. However, the treatment did not significantly affect the antioxidant enzymes activity in either drones or workers. The results obtained in this investigation suggest that the combined anti-varroa treatments had no negative effects on oxidative stress in the first post-treatment generation bees, while effects did occur on the immune system. Further investigations on the potential effects of glucose oxidase decrease in drones and vitellogenin content variation in workers are desirable.
Journeys, Journey Conditions, and Welfare Assessment of Broken (Handled) Horses on Arrival at Italian Slaughterhouses
Authors: Felici Martina , Nanni Costa Leonardo , Zappaterra Martina , Bozzo Giancarlo , Di Pinto Pietro , Minero Michela , Padalino Barbara
Published: November 2022

During horse transportation, the journey conditions are considered a welfare risk. This study aimed to document journeys, journey conditions, and welfare status of handled horses on arrival at two different slaughterhouses in Northern and Southern Italy, to find possible associations between journey conditions and welfare problems. The welfare status of 613 draft-breed and light-breed horses from 32 different journeys was evaluated on arrival at the slaughterhouses with a standardized protocol, using animal-based (ABMs) and environmental-based (EBMs) measures. The drivers’ skills and vehicle characteristics were found to be mostly compliant with EC 1/2005. The horses traveled in single bays, 90° to the direction of travel for an average journey duration of 26.5 ± 14 h. On arrival at the slaughterhouses, the horses were unloaded by handlers, via halter and rope. The prevalence of reluctance to unload, injuries, nasal, and lacrimal discharge was 22.2%, 24.6%, 11.6%, and 10%, respectively. Journey duration, unloading duration, vehicle changes, long stops, handlers/drivers’ skills, temperature, season, and horse individual characteristics were associated with horses’ welfare and health status (all p < 0.05). Our study confirms the hypothesis that appropriate journey conditions are of crucial importance to safeguard the welfare of broken/handled horses transported over long distances for slaughter.
Influence of Expander Conditioning Prior to Pelleting on Pellet Quality, Broiler Digestibility and Performance at Constant Amino Acids Composition while Decreasing AMEN
Authors: Ebbing Marco Antônio , Yacoubi Nadia , Naranjo Victor , Sitzmann Werner , Gierus Martin
Published: November 2022

Physical pellet quality and AMEN concentration are strongly related to each other in broiler feeding. A study was conducted to evaluate the relationship between dietary AMEN concentration and feed processing on pellet quality, nutrient digestibility, broiler performance, serum markers, and yield of commercial cuts. Six diets were formulated. The first diet had the recommended AMEN concentration, each further diet was calculated with 40 kcal/kg less, from 0 to −200 kcal/kg, resulting in six levels for each feed phase: starter (1–14 d), grower (15–28 d), and finisher (29–35 d). These diets were processed with and without expander conditioning prior to pelleting, using an average corn particle size of 1.6 mm, ground with a roller mill. A total of 1008 one-day-old male Ross 308 broiler chickens were placed in a 6 × 2 (6 energy levels and 2 conditionings) factorial trial with six boxes as replications, with three in each broiler performance trial period. Excreta were collected 2 days before the end of each feed phase for apparent total tract digestibility measurement. On day 36, four broilers from each replication (pen) were weighed and then euthanized for blood collection, following which the gastrointestinal organs were weighed, and the ileal and gizzard contents were collected. On day 37, all remaining broilers were slaughtered after fasting to measure commercial cuts and abdominal fat. The results show that the pellet durability index (PDI) was most affected by energy reducing and expander conditioning prior to pelleting, and it was better when diets had energy reduced by 40 to 200 kcal/kg (p > 0.001), as when expander conditioning was used. Digestibility of nutrients was slightly affected by treatments, as was the broiler performance; however, feed efficiency was improved in broiler-fed diets without AMEN reduction and when an expander was used, with p = 0.050 and p = 0.031, respectively. No effects were observed on the weight of gastrointestinal tract organs and serum markers, except for liver (p = 0.037) and α-amylase (p = 0.047). The lowest liver weight and lowest serum protein, cholesterol, triglyceride, gamma-glutamyl, and lipase concentrations were obtained when diets were formulated without energy reduction (Ross-0). There was no effect on commercial cuts relative to live weight at slaughter. The energy reduction was well reflected in the proportion of abdominal fat, which decreased when AMEN was reduced (p = 0.001). The present study shows it is possible to use diets with up to 200 kcal/kg reduction in AMEN without losses in performance, and the use of expander conditioning prior to pelleting promotes higher pellet quality and broiler feed efficiency.
Research on the Gut Microbiota of Hainan Black Goat
Authors: Zhi Wenbo , Tang Kai , Yang Jinsong , Yang Tianshu , Chen Rong , Huang Jiaming , Tan Haisheng , Zhao Jianguo , Sheng Zhanwu
Published: November 2022

The intestine of animals is a complex micro-ecosystem containing a large number of microbiomes, which is essential for the host’s health development. The Hainan black goat with good resistance and adaptability is a unique species in Hainan, China. These unique physiological characteristics are inseparable from their intestinal microbiota. In this study, high-throughput sequencing was used to investigate bacterial communities in different segments of the intestinal tract of Hainan black goat. The results showed that the indices of Chao1 and ACE in the cecum and colon were significantly greater than those in the ileum (p = 0.007, 0.018). According to PCoA, the intestinal flora composition of the cecum and colon is almost equivalent. In contexts of the phylum, Firmicutes, Bacteroidota, and Pseudomonadota were the dominant phyla in the gut of the Hainan black goat. While in context of the genus, the dominant groups in the gut of black goats mainly include Ruminococcaceae_UCG-005, Bacteroides, Paeniclostridium, Christensenellaceae_R-7_group, Rikenellaceae_RC9_gut_group, and Eubacterium coprostanoligenes _group, Prevotella_1, they have different proportions in different intestinal segments. The gut microbiota of Hainan black goat is mainly Firmicutes, Bacteroidota, and Pseudomonadota. Influenced by the intestinal location where they colonize, the large intestine has a more complex intestinal flora than the small intestine. In contrast, there are only minor differences between the caecum and the colon in the large intestine.
The Effect of Diets Containing High-Moisture Corn or Triticale Grain on Animal Performance and the Fatty Acid Composition of Lamb Muscles
Authors: Purwin Cezary , Opyd Paulina Maria , Baranowska Maja , Borsuk-Stanulewicz Marta
Published: November 2022

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of diets with different inclusion levels of high-moisture corn (HMC) and triticale grain (TG) on nutrient digestibility and utilization, the growth performance of lambs, and the fatty acid profile of the leg muscle. The experiment was performed on 24 young rams, divided into four groups based on grain type and inclusion rate (50% or 75% DM). The higher inclusion rate of cereal grain and a lower concentration of crude fiber (CF) in the feed ration decreased CF digestibility by 26% and 35% in diets containing HMC and TG, respectively. Diets containing HMC increased crude fat digestibility relative to animals receiving TG. Final body weight and average daily gain were highest in lambs fed a diet containing 50% HMC. Grain type had no effect on nitrogen (N) retention or the proportions of SFA and UFA in lamb meat. Diets containing HMC decreased total cholesterol levels in the leg muscle. HMC can be a valuable component of diets for growing lambs when included at up to 50% of the ration. An increase in the dietary inclusion rate of cereal grain to 75% can be recommended only in the case of TG.
Primary Photosensitization by Chamaecrista serpens in Santa Inês Sheep
Authors: Mendonça Múcio F. F. , Caymmi Lais G. , Silva Antônio W. O. , Biscarde Carmo E. A. , Silva Ricardo D. G. , Leal Paula V. , Pimentel Luciano A. , Riet-Correa Franklin , Peixoto Tiago C.
Published: November 2022

This study aimed to clarify the type of photosensitization induced by C. serpens and to verify if the plant remains toxic after being collected and stored. Eight crossbred sheep, aged between 6 and 36 months, were divided into three groups (G1 to G3). Over 30 days, daily, G1 received an exclusive diet of C. serpens, and G2 and G3 received 10 g/kg/BW and 20 g/kg/BW, respectively. Two other sheep were used as controls (CG). Before administration, the plant had been harvested every 15 days. Liver biopsies and blood samples were taken from all sheep on day zero and weekly. All sheep that received the plant developed clinical signs of photosensitization, and no changes were observed in the serum activities of AST and GGT. On day 30, all sheep except Ov1 from G1 and Ov7 were euthanized and necropsied. All sheep that received the plant developed clinical signs. Macroscopic or histologic lesions were not observed in the liver. Ov 1 recovered 13 days after the end of ingestion. These results demonstrated that C. serpens causes primary photosensitization. It is advisable to avoid grazing on pastures invaded by the plant or to remove them from the pastures immediately after observing the first signs.
Valorization of Invasive Plant Extracts against the Bispecies Biofilm Staphylococcus aureus–Candida albicans by a Bioguided Molecular Networking Screening
Authors: Hamion Guillaume , Aucher Willy , Tardif Charles , Miranda Julie , Rouger Caroline , Imbert Christine , Girardot Marion
Published: November 2022

Invasive plants efficiently colonize non-native territories, suggesting a great production of bioactive metabolites which could be effective antibiofilm weapons. Our study aimed to look for original molecules able to inhibit bispecies biofilm formed by S. aureus and C. albicans. Extracts from five invasive macrophytes (Ludwigia peploides, Ludwigia grandiflora, Myriophyllum aquaticum, Lagarosiphon major and Egeria densa) were prepared and tested in vitro against 24 h old bispecies biofilms using a crystal violet staining (CVS) assay. The activities of the extracts reducing the biofilm total biomass by 50% or more were comparatively analyzed against each microbial species forming the biofilm by flow cytometry (FCM) and scanning electron microscopy. Extracts active against both species were fractionated. Obtained fractions were analyzed by UHPLC-MS/MS and evaluated by the CVS assay. Chemical and biological data were combined into a bioactivity-based molecular networking (BBMN) to identify active compounds. The aerial stem extract of L. grandiflora showed the highest antibiofilm activity (>50% inhibition at 50 µg∙mL−1). The biological, chemical and BBMN investigations of its fractions highlighted nine ions correlated with the antibiofilm activity. The most correlated compound, identified as betulinic acid (BA), inhibited bispecies biofilms regardless of the three tested couples of strains (ATCC strains: >40% inhibition, clinical isolates: ≈27% inhibition), confirming its antibiofilm interest.
Novel Alligator Cathelicidin As-CATH8 Demonstrates Anti-Infective Activity against Clinically Relevant and Crocodylian Bacterial Pathogens
Authors: Santana Felix L. , Estrada Karel , Alford Morgan A. , Wu Bing C. , Dostert Melanie , Pedraz Lucas , Akhoundsadegh Noushin , Kalsi Pavneet , Haney Evan F. , Straus Suzana K. , Corzo Gerardo , Hancock Robert E. W.
Published: November 2022

Host defense peptides (HDPs) represent an alternative way to address the emergence of antibiotic resistance. Crocodylians are interesting species for the study of these molecules because of their potent immune system, which confers high resistance to infection. Profile hidden Markov models were used to screen the genomes of four crocodylian species for encoded cathelicidins and eighteen novel sequences were identified. Synthetic cathelicidins showed broad spectrum antimicrobial and antibiofilm activity against several clinically important antibiotic-resistant bacteria. In particular, the As-CATH8 cathelicidin showed potent in vitro activity profiles similar to the last-resort antibiotics vancomycin and polymyxin B. In addition, As-CATH8 demonstrated rapid killing of planktonic and biofilm cells, which correlated with its ability to cause cytoplasmic membrane depolarization and permeabilization as well as binding to DNA. As-CATH8 displayed greater antibiofilm activity than the human cathelicidin LL-37 against methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus in a human organoid model of biofilm skin infection. Furthermore, As-CATH8 demonstrated strong antibacterial effects in a murine abscess model of high-density bacterial infections against clinical isolates of S. aureus and Acinetobacter baumannii, two of the most common bacterial species causing skin infections globally. Overall, this work expands the repertoire of cathelicidin peptides known in crocodylians, including one with considerable therapeutic promise for treating common skin infections.
Overview of Bioactive Fungal Secondary Metabolites: Cytotoxic and Antimicrobial Compounds
Authors: Conrado Rafael , Gomes Tainah Colombo , Roque Gabriella Sales Calaço , De Souza Ana Olívia
Published: November 2022

Microorganisms are known as important sources of natural compounds that have been studied and applied for different purposes in distinct areas. Specifically, in the pharmaceutical area, fungi have been explored mainly as sources of antibiotics, antiviral, anti-inflammatory, enzyme inhibitors, hypercholesteremic, antineoplastic/antitumor, immunomodulators, and immunosuppressants agents. However, historically, the high demand for new antimicrobial and antitumor agents has not been sufficiently attended by the drug discovery process, highlighting the relevance of intensifying studies to reach sustainable employment of the huge world biodiversity, including the microorganisms. Therefore, this review describes the main approaches and tools applied in the search for bioactive secondary metabolites, as well as presents several examples of compounds produced by different fungi species with proven pharmacological effects and additional examples of fungal cytotoxic and antimicrobial molecules. The review does not cover all fungal secondary metabolites already described; however, it presents some reports that can be useful at any phase of the drug discovery process, mainly for pharmaceutical applications.
A Bioluminescence-Based Drug Screen Identifies Activities of Fexinidazole and Its Metabolites against Helicobacter pylori
Authors: Mohamed Abdolhakim , Chilingerian John N , Bali Prerna , Obonyo Marygorret , Debnath Anjan
Published: November 2022

Helicobacter pylori is responsible for a wide range of gastric diseases, including gastric cancer and gastritis. With half of the world’s population infected by H. pylori and the current standard of care associated with suboptimal outcomes, a search for more effective drugs is critical. To facilitate drug screening for H. pylori, we developed a microtiter plate-based compound screening method that is faster and can screen multiple compounds. We identified activities of fexinidazole and its sulfoxide and sulfone metabolites against H. pylori. Both fexinidazole and its metabolites exhibited equipotency against SS1, 60190, and G27 strains, which were about 3–6-fold more potent than the currently used metronidazole. We also determined the minimal inhibitory concentration (MIC) of metronidazole, fexinidazole, and its metabolites against these strains by a traditional agar plate-based method. While MIC values of fexinidazole and metronidazole were similar against all the strains, both sulfoxide and sulfone showed lower MIC values than metronidazole against SS1 and 60190. Given the recent FDA approval of fexinidazole, our data on the in vitro antibacterial activities of fexinidazole and its metabolites support further evaluation of this drug with the goal of producing an alternative nitro-based antimicrobial with good safety profiles for the treatment of H. pylori infection.
Characterisation of Staphylococci Isolated from Milk Samples of a Water Buffalo Herd
Authors: Labuschagne Christiaan , Karzis Joanne , Britz Hans , Petzer Inge-Marié
Published: November 2022

Water buffalo produce a tenth of milk for global human consumption. Non-aureus staphylococci (NAS) are among the most commonly isolated bacteria from mastitis in water buffalo and dairy cows. These results described the initial characterisation of 17 NAS—15 Staphylococcus simulans and two Staphylococcus chromogenes from a water buffalo herd (n = 44) in South Africa. The isolates were identified by classical microbiology, MALDI-TOF, and 16S rRNA, and the disc diffusion method determined the antibiotic susceptibility. A multi-locus sequence typing scheme (MLST) was developed to determine S. simulans sequence types (ST), by defining and comparing seven housekeeping gene fragment sequences. Sequence typing confirmed all 15 S. simulans isolates from water buffalo which belonged to a single ST, genetically distant from the six bovine STs isolated from adjacent farms, which also varied, indicating no current bacterial transfer between species. The antibiotic resistance patterns of S. simulans varied between beta-lactams. The mean milk somatic cell count (SCC) for the water buffalo milk samples was 166,500 cells/mL milk. This information offers insights into the epidemiology and comparison among isolates from various origins, which leads to effective proactive mastitis strategies resulting in safe, high-quality dairy products from water buffalo and dairy cows for human consumption.
Effect of Glycerol on Fosfomycin Activity against Escherichia coli
Authors: Ortiz-Padilla Miriam , Portillo-Calderón Inés , Velázquez-Escudero Ana , Rodríguez-Baño Jesús , Pascual Álvaro , Rodríguez-Martínez José Manuel , Docobo-Pérez Fernando
Published: November 2022

Fosfomycin is an antimicrobial that inhibits the biosynthesis of peptidoglycan by entering the bacteria through two channels (UhpT and GlpT). Glycerol is clinically used as a treatment for elevated intracranial pressure and induces the expression of glpT in Escherichia coli. Glycerol might offer synergistic activity by increasing fosfomycin uptake. The present study evaluates the use of glycerol at physiological concentrations in combination with fosfomycin against a collection of isogenic mutants of fosfomycin-related genes in E. coli strains. Induction of fosfomycin transporters, susceptibility tests, interaction assays, and time-kill assays were performed. Our results support the notion that glycerol allows activation of the GlpT transporter, but this induction is delayed over time and is not homogeneous across the bacterial population, leading to contradictory results regarding the enhancement of fosfomycin activity. The susceptibility assays showed an increase in fosfomycin activity with glycerol in the disk diffusion assay but not in the agar dilution or broth microdilution assays. Similarly, in the time-kill assays, the effect of glycerol was absent by the emergence of fosfomycin-resistant subpopulations. In conclusion, glycerol may not be a good candidate for use as an adjuvant with fosfomycin.
Antioxidant, Anti-α-Glucosidase, Antityrosinase, and Anti-Inflammatory Activities of Bioactive Components from Morus alba
Authors: Hsu Jui-Hung , Yang Chang-Syun , Chen Jih-Jung
Published: November 2022

The root bark of Morus alba L. (Mori Cortex) is used to treat diuresis and diabetes in Chinese traditional medicine. We evaluated different solvent extracts and bioactive components from the root bark of Morus alba L. for their antioxidant, anti-α-glucosidase, antityrosinase, and anti-inflammatory activities. Acetone extract showed potent antioxidant activity, with SC50 values of 242.33 ± 15.78 and 129.28 ± 10.53 µg/mL in DPPH and ABTS radical scavenging assays, respectively. Acetone and ethyl acetate extracts exhibited the strongest anti-α-glucosidase activity, with IC50 values of 3.87 ± 1.95 and 5.80 ± 2.29 μg/mL, respectively. In the antityrosinase assay, the acetone extract showed excellent activity, with an IC50 value of 7.95 ± 1.54 μg/mL. In the anti-inflammatory test, ethyl acetate and acetone extracts showed significant anti-nitric oxide (NO) activity, with IC50 values of 10.81 ± 1.41 and 12.00 ± 1.32 μg/mL, respectively. The content of the active compounds in the solvent extracts was examined and compared by HPLC analysis. Six active compounds were isolated and evaluated for their antioxidant, anti-α-glucosidase, antityrosinase, and anti-inflammatory properties. Morin (1) and oxyresveratrol (3) exhibited effective antioxidant activities in DPPH and ABTS radical scavenging assays. Additionally, oxyresveratrol (3) and kuwanon H (6) showed the highest antityrosinase and anti-α-glucosidase activities among all isolates. Morusin (2) demonstrated more significant anti-NO and anti-iNOS activities than the positive control, quercetin. Our study suggests that the active extracts and components from root bark of Morus alba should be further investigated as promising candidates for the treatment or prevention of oxidative stress-related diseases, hyperglycemia, and pigmentation disorders.
Correction: Lee et al. Demyristoylation of the Cytoplasmic Redox Protein Trx-h2 Is Critical for Inducing a Rapid Cold Stress Response in Plants. Antioxidants 2021, 10, 1287
Authors: Lee Eun Seon , Park Joung Hun , Wi Seong Dong , Chae Ho Byoung , Paeng Seol Ki , Bae Su Bin , Phan Kieu Anh Thi , Kim Min Gab , Kwak Sang-Soo , Kim Woe-Yeon , Yun Dae-Jin , Lee Sang Yeol
Published: November 2022

In the original publication [...]
Potential Impacts of Hydralazine as a Novel Antioxidant on Cardiovascular and Renal Disease—Beyond Vasodilation and Blood Pressure Lowering
Authors: Chang Ting-Ting , Chen Jaw-Wen
Published: November 2022

Hydralazine is a traditional antihypertensive drug that was developed several decades ago. Its most well-known effect is blood pressure lowering by arterial vasodilation. While mainly used an adjunct treatment for clinical hypertension or chronic heart failure, this old drug has also shown potential as a repurposing drug for the atherosclerosis vascular disease and various kidney diseases. Recent experimental studies suggest that hydralazine exerts antioxidative, anti-apoptotic, and HIF-1α stabilization effects for angiogenesis and vascular protection. Hydralazine also exerts reno-protective effects via its antioxidation, DNA demethylation, and anti-inflammation abilities. The above evidence provides advanced rationales for new applications of this drug beyond blood pressure lowering and arterial vasodilation. Here, we summarized the recent experimental advances in the use of hydralazine for either a vascular disease or kidney diseases, or both. Given the wide populations of people with cardiovascular and/or kidney diseases, future studies are worth validating the potential impacts of hydralazine on the clinical outcomes in selected patients.