bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Full Envelope Control of Over-Actuated Fixed-Wing Vectored Thrust eVTOL
Authors: Enenakpogbe Emmanuel , Whidborne James F. , Lu Linghai
Published: November 2024

A novel full-envelope controller for an over-actuated fixed-wing vectored thrust eVTOL aircraft is presented. It proposes a generic control architecture, which is applicable to piloted, semi-automatic, and fully automated flight, consisting of an aircraft-level controller (high-level controller) and a control allocation scheme. The aircraft-level controller consists of a main inner loop classical nonlinear dynamic inversion controller and an outer loop proportional–integral linear controller. The inner loop nonlinear dynamic inversion controller is a velocity controller that cancels the nonlinear bare airframe dynamics, while the outer loop proportional–integral linear controller is an attitude and navigation position controller. Together, they are used for hover/low-speed control and forward flight. The control allocation scheme uses a novel architecture, which transfers the nonlinearity in the vectored thrust effector model formulation to the computation of the actuator limits by converting the effector model from polar to rectangular form, thus allowing the use of classical control allocation linear optimisation technique. The linear optimisation technique is an active set linear quadratic programming constrained optimisation algorithm with a weighted least squares formulation. The control allocation allocates the overall control demand (virtual controls) to individual redundant effectors while performing control error minimisation, control channel prioritisation and control effort minimisation. Simulation results show the transition from hover to cruise, climb and descent, and coordinated turn clearly demonstrate that the controller can handle actuator saturation (position or rate).
Intelligent Agricultural Machinery and Robots: Embracing Technological Advancements for a Sustainable and Highly Efficient Agricultural Future
Authors: Yuan Jin , Huang Zichen
Published: November 2024

Agriculture today stands on the brink of transformative innovation, driven by technological advancements in intelligent machinery and robotics [...]
Does Agricultural Science and Technological Innovation Always Boost Farmers’ Income? Evidence from China
Authors: Xiang Yi , Ding Yuke , Yin Shaohua
Published: November 2024

Agricultural science and technological innovation (ASTI) provides important opportunities to enhance agricultural welfare. Based on comparative advantage, value chain, and resource dependence theories, this study employed a variety of econometric models, including fixed effects (FEs), panel-corrected standard errors (PCSEs), feasible generalized least squares (FGLSs), and the systematic generalized method of moments (SYS-GMM), to investigate the impacts of ASTI on farmers’ income using data from a panel of 31 Chinese provinces spanning from 2012 to 2021. Our results reveal that ASTI contributes significantly positively to income growth, but its effects are not uniform: the central and western regions benefit more from ASTI compared to the eastern region. Moreover, as the level of ASTI increases, its positive impact on income growth diminishes. However, regions with higher levels of rural human capital—measured by educational attainment and skills—experience a more pronounced amplification of ASTI’s benefits on income. Additionally, aging populations in both urban and rural areas initially enhance the influence of ASTI on farmers’ income, but this effect diminishes as demographic gaps widen.
The Influence of Sowing Rate and Foliar Fertilization on the Yield of Some Triticale Varieties in the Context of Climate Change in Northwest Romania
Authors: Andras Beniamin Emanuel , Fițiu Avram , Acs Peter Balazs , Horga Vasile Adrian , Racz Ionut , Duda Marcel Matei
Published: November 2024

Triticale is recognized worldwide because of its high protein and lysine contents, high production capacity, and adaptability to biotic and abiotic stress conditions, these qualities being taken over from wheat and rye. Triticale is widely used in various fields, such as animal feed in various forms, medicine, baking, beer and alcohol brewing, cellulose, bioethanol industry, and many others. Thus, the demand for triticale grain is increasing, and this has led to the research and improvement in culture technology to obtain superior products, both quantitatively and qualitatively. The purpose of this study was to identify the best varieties of triticale cultivated in the northwest of Romania, sown in different plots, and fertilized on the ground. Additionally, this study was carried out over a period of two years at the Livada Agricultural Research and Development Station, Satu Mare County. This study was located on acidic soil with a pH between 5.19 and 6.65 and a humus content of 2.82%. The climatic conditions in the reference period were extremely variable; in the first year, a deficit of more than 90 mm of precipitation was registered, and in the second year of this study, an increase of more than 34 mm. The effects of additional fertilization were influenced by the level of precipitation. In 2023, additional fertilization with foliar fertilizer brought production increases of 884 kg/ha, compared with 2022, where foliar fertilization in drought conditions led to a decrease in production. The Utrifun variety proved to be the most productive; this foliar fertilized and with biostimulator, sown at 550 seeds/m2, recorded an increase in production of over 4500 kg/ha compared with the Negoiu control and sown at 650 seeds/m2 and fertilized with foliar fertilizer had an increase of over 4370 kg/ha compared with the Negoiu control. It recorded a production of 9700 kg/ha sown at 550 seeds/m2 and fertilized only on the soil, and sown at 450 seeds/m2 and additionally fertilized with foliar fertilizer recorded a production of 10.900 kg/ha. Utrifun was followed by Zvelt which, sown at 450 seed/m2 and fertilized on the soil, recorded 9500 kg/ha, ensuring an increase of 1800 kg/ha compared with the Negoiu control. The lowest production was achieved by the Tulnic variety, which is 2022, sown at 650 seed/m2 and fertilized on the ground, recorded 5874 kg/ha, 1621 kg/ha less than the control variant. The increases in production obtained by these varieties will be confirmed in a subsequent study under different climatic conditions.
Improving the Microenvironmental of Spring Soybean Culture and Increasing the Yield by Optimization of Water and Nitrogen
Authors: Zhang Lei , Wang Hongbo , Gao Yang , Huang Weixiong , Cao Zhenxi , Tang Maosong , Zhao Fengnian , Guo Yuanhang , Wang Xingpeng
Published: November 2024

Optimizing water and nitrogen management is an effective measure to reduce nitrogen fertilizer loss and environmental pollution risks. This study aims to quantify the impacts of different water and nitrogen management strategies on the soil microenvironment and yield of spring soybeans in southern Xinjiang. In this study, two irrigation quotas were established: W1—36 mm (low water) and W2—45 mm (high water). Three nitrogen application gradients were established: low nitrogen (150 kg·hm−2, N1), medium nitrogen (225 kg·hm−2, N2), and high nitrogen (300 k kg·hm−2, N3). The analysis focused on soil physicochemical properties, enzyme activities, microbial community diversity, soybean yield, and soybean quality changes. The results indicate that the activities of nitrate reductase and urease, as well as total nitrogen content, increased with higher irrigation and nitrogen application rates. The W2N3 treatment significantly increased 0.15 to 4.39, 0.18 to 1.04, and 0.31 to 1.73 times. (p < 0.05). Alkaline protease and sucrase activities increased with higher irrigation amounts, while their response to nitrogen application exhibited an initial increase followed by a decrease. The W2N2 treatment significantly increased by 0.10 to 0.34 and 0.07 to 1.46 times (p < 0.05). Irrigation significantly affected the soil bacterial community structure, while the coupling effects of water and nitrogen notably influenced soil bacterial abundance (p < 0.05). Increases in irrigation and nitrogen application enhanced bacterial diversity and species abundance. Partial least squares path analysis indicated that water–nitrogen coupling directly influenced the soil microenvironment and indirectly produced positive effects on soybean yield and quality. An irrigation quota of 4500 m3 hm−2 and a nitrogen application rate of 300 kg·hm−2 can ensure soybean yield while enhancing soil microbial abundance. The findings provide insights into the response mechanisms of soil microbial communities in spring soybeans to water–nitrogen management, clarify the relationship between soil microenvironments and the yield and quality of spring soybeans, and identify optimal irrigation and fertilization strategies for high quality and yield. This research offers a theoretical basis and technical support for soybean cultivation in southern Xinjiang.
Progress and Innovations in Hydrogels for Sustainable Agriculture
Authors: Ali Khizra , Asad Zahra , Agbna Gamareldawla H. D. , Saud Asif , Khan Areeb , Zaidi Syed Javaid
Published: November 2024

The growing global demands for food security, efficient water use, and environmentally resilient agricultural strategies call for a sustainable agricultural revolution. Water scarcity, the excessive use of pesticides, and soil degradation are viewed as threats to food security. Hydrogels, three-dimensional hydrophilic polymer networks, appear to be revolutionary solutions for the future. Hydrogels have emerged as a promising solution for enhancing crop resilience, enhancing crop yields, and agribusiness productivity. The development and prospects of hydrogels bring about a revolution in sustainable agriculture by focusing on their unique properties, including excellent water absorption capacity, biodegradability, and controlled nutrient/agrochemical delivery. Hydrogels have the potential to transform traditional farming practices into novel crop varieties with improved traits like disease resistance, insect resistance, and drought resistance. Hydrogels enhance soil moisture retention, thereby facilitating seed germination and establishment. Thus, it has been demonstrated that hydrogel application has a significant impact on soil quality and resilience under challenging conditions. With this in mind, this review emphasizes that hydrogels are the way forward for sustainable agriculture, taking into consideration the economic benefits like reduced irrigation and increased crop yields while highlighting the need for regulatory considerations in terms of their safety, biodegradability, environmental impact, and long-term soil effects.
Organic Amendment Enhances Maize Yield Through Improved Photosynthesis, Endogenous Hormones, and Defense Enzymes
Authors: Xu Xuelei , Yan Shiyong , Wang Junyan , Niu Yunmeng , Wei Wenliang , Liu Shutang
Published: November 2024

Enhancing photosynthesis is considered one of the most rational strategies to increase crop yield. However, the dominant physiological driving processes of photosynthesis at different maize growth stages under long-term fertilization remain unclear. Based on a 45-years field experiment, four treatments were selected—namely, CK (no fertilizers), N (276 kg N ha−1), M (60,000 kg manure ha−1), and MN (60,000 kg manure + 276 kg N ha−1)—to study the response of maize physiological characteristics to fertilization. The results showed that long-term fertilization significantly changed the photosynthetic characteristics and endogenous hormones content. Among them, MN increased the photosynthetic rate (Pn) by 41.9–152.3% at different maize growth stages compared to CK. Organic fertilizer addition (M and MN) significantly increased superoxide dismutase (SOD), peroxidase (POD), and soluble sugar (SS) by 26.7–64.3%, 42.5–155.4%, and 16.4–89.5%, respectively. However, proline (Pro) and malondialdehyde (MDA) content decreased by 19.1–44.3% and 0.6-21.3%, respectively. Under these treatments, indole-3-acetic acid (IAA), gibberellins (GA), salicylic acid (SA), zeatin riboside (ZR), abscisic acid (ABA), SS, SOD, and POD were the main physiological driving indicators of photosynthesis. The result of PLS-SEM indicated that the main physiological driving pathways of photosynthesis were “IAA or ZR or SA-SOD-POD-Pn” and “GA or ABA-SOD or POD-SS-Pn”. Additionally, the maize grain yield of N, M, and MN increased by 111.2%, 218.1%, and 297.2% compared to CK, respectively. Overall, organic combined with nitrogen fertilizer could maintain a higher level of photosynthetic capacity by balancing endogenous hormones and enhancing the activity of antioxidant enzymes to support maize production.
Performance of Urea-Based Enhanced Efficiency Fertilizers Under Sidedress Nitrogen Placement Methods
Authors: Adotey Nutifafa , McClure Angela T. , Yin Xinhua , McNeal Jacob P. , Denton Andrew B.
Published: November 2024

Enhanced efficiency nitrogen fertilizer (EENF) is a viable N management tool that can minimize N loss and maximize crop productivity. Research on the efficiency of EENF under relatively newer N-sidedress placement methods for liquid fertilizers, such as Y-Drop dribble, is limited, hence the necessity to address this knowledge gap. A two-year field trial was conducted to evaluate ammonia volatilization, grain quality, and grain yield from surface-applied EENF forms of urea and EENF forms of urea ammonium nitrate (UAN) applied under four placement methods in a rainfed no-till corn production system. The EENF forms of urea evaluated in this trial included Environmentally Smart Nitrogen, SuperU, and ANVOL-treated urea, while ANVOL-treated UAN was the EENF form of UAN. All the urea fertilizers were surface broadcasted while the UAN fertilizers were broadcasted, dribbled in between rows, Y-Drop dribbled, and injected behind colters. Among the non-EENF, urea volatilized the most ammonia (23.1% of total N applied) compared to UAN. Broadcast UAN was much more susceptible to ammonia volatilization than dribbled UAN in between rows. In this trial, the EENF forms of urea and UAN reduced ammonia loss by 65 to 94 and 50 to 51%, respectively, compared to their corresponding non-EENF forms. In 2021, the grain yield of the non-EENF forms of UAN was similar to the EENF forms of the corresponding placement methods. In contrast, there was an additive yield effect from all the urea forms of EENF. A significant negative relationship was observed between ammonia loss and grain protein, grain N, and grain yield; hence, placement methods with higher ammonia loss potential are prone to yield loss.
Solina: An Example of Ancient Wheat Suitable for the Protection of Agrobiodiversity and Agricultural Workers’ Health
Authors: Masciarelli Eva , Di Luigi Marco , De Flaviis Riccardo , Beni Claudio , Di Santo Marco , Silveri Donato , De Amicis Fabiola , Menna Orietta , Casorri Laura
Published: November 2024

Solina is an ancient common wheat that has been cultivated in Abruzzo since the 16th century. It is a variety of wheat typical of mountain and marginal areas with peculiar organoleptic and nutritional characteristics. In this review, a collection of experimental and empirical data analyses on its agronomic, environmental, historical, gastronomic, and cultural characteristics was carried out to propose its possible use in sustainable agriculture. The observed data suggest that Solina represents an ancient wheat variety that could be used as an alternative to modern wheat, following the European Directive 128/2009 on the sustainable use of pesticides. The natural resistance of this ancient wheat to the typical climatic conditions of the territory in which it grows allows for the non-use of chemical fertilizers and pesticides. Therefore, Solina has all the characteristics to respond to consumer demands, paying greater attention to environmental protection, preserving biodiversity, and safeguarding the health of farm workers.
Cutting-Edge Strategies to Enhance Bioactive Compound Production in Plants: Potential Value of Integration of Elicitation, Metabolic Engineering, and Green Nanotechnology
Authors: Martínez-Chávez Luis Alejandro , Hernández-Ramírez Mariana Y. , Feregrino-Pérez Ana Angélica , Esquivel Escalante Karen
Published: November 2024

The increasing demand for bioactive compounds from plants has spurred the exploration of innovative strategies to enhance their production. This review focuses on three advanced methodologies: elicitation, metabolic engineering, and using biosynthesized nanoparticles. Elicitation, through the application of abiotic and biotic stressors, stimulates plant defense mechanisms, and significantly boosts secondary metabolite production. Metabolic engineering further refines this process by genetically modifying key pathways to redirect resources towards the synthesis of valuable compounds. Additionally, biosynthesized metallic and metallic oxide nanoparticles offer a sustainable method to enhance plant growth and metabolite production. These nanoparticles act not only as elicitors, but also catalyze metabolic processes and improve the efficiency of bioactive compound synthesis. Despite significant advancements, challenges remain in optimizing these approaches for large-scale agricultural application, particularly in understanding the precise interactions between nanoparticles and plant systems. The integration of these strategies holds great potential for sustainable agriculture and the development of high-value phytochemicals. Future research should focus on unraveling the complex mechanisms behind these interactions and refining these methods for commercial use, ensuring their environmental and economic sustainability.
Effects of a Vegetable Eel Co-Culture System on the Soil Ammonia-Oxidizing Microbial Community
Authors: Fan Haidan , Bai Naling , Lv Weiguang , Chu Xiangqian , Zheng Xianqing , Li Shuangxi , Zhang Juanqin , Zhang Haiyun , Zhang Hanlin
Published: November 2024

(1) Background: A vegetable eel co-culture system is an economically efficient way of agricultural cultivation, which can have an impact on the soil microbial environment and play a pivotal role in the soil nutrient cycle, but there is little research on its impact on soil ammonia-oxidizing microorganisms. (2) Methods: NovaSeq platform sequencing was employed to investigate the richness, structure, and diversity of soil ammonia-oxidizing microbial communities, exploring the effects of a vegetable eel co-culture system on soil nitrogen cycling. Four different planting treatments were set up: unfertilized without vegetable eel (CCK), fertilized without vegetable eel (CRT), unfertilized with vegetable eel (ICK), and fertilized with vegetable eel (IRT). (3) Results: A vegetable eel co-culture system significantly increased soil pH and decreased bulk density under fertilization conditions. The soil nitrification potential rate was enhanced by a vegetable eel co-culture system to an average of 26.3%. A vegetable eel co-culture system significantly altered the community structure of all ammonia-oxidizing microorganisms, with a significant increase in the richness and diversity of ammonia-oxidizing bacteria (AOB) and comammox clade-A, while fertilization significantly increased the diversity of all ammonia-oxidizing microbial communities. Structural equation modeling (SEM) analysis showed that the main environmental factors affecting the structure of the ammonia-oxidizing microbial community were nitrate and total nitrogen. The number of amoA genes in AOB and comammox clade-B was significantly positively correlated with the soil potential N nitrification rate (PNR), which played a leading role in the nitrification of alkaline vegetable soil. The network analysis revealed that a vegetable eel co-culture system improved the modularity of AOB and comammox clade-B by 13.14% and 5.66%. (4) Conclusions: This study showed that the vegetable eel co-culture system stimulated the evolution of ammonia-oxidizing microbial communities by changing the physicochemical properties, which in turn promoted the soil nitrification reaction.
Unravelling Yield and Yield-Related Traits in Soybean Using GGE Biplot and Path Analysis
Authors: Obua Tonny , Sserumaga Julius Pyton , Tukamuhabwa Phinehas , Namara Mercy , Awio Bruno , Mugarra Johnson , Tusiime Geoffrey , Chigeza Godfree
Published: November 2024

Soybean (Glycine max) is a vital crop for food, animal feed, and industrial products. However, its yield performance is significantly affected by genotype-by-environment interaction (GEI), which complicates the selection of high-yielding, stable varieties. This study aimed to evaluate the yield performance and stability of 12 elite soybean varieties across five major production areas in Uganda using GGE biplot and path analysis. The varieties were planted in a randomized complete block design with three replications over two consecutive seasons. Results revealed significant differences in grain yield among the varieties, locations, and their interactions (p < 0.001). The highest-yielding varieties were Maksoy 5N (979 kg ha−1), Maksoy 4N (978 kg ha−1), Maksoy 3N (930 kg ha−1), and Signal (930 kg ha−1). GGE biplot analysis grouped the locations into two mega-environments, with the Maksoy varieties exhibiting greater yield stability compared to Seed Co. varieties. Path analysis showed that traits such as the number of lower internodes, central internode length, and filled pods had the highest positive direct effects on grain yield. This study provides insights into soybean breeding in tropical environments, highlighting traits that can be targeted to improve yield and stability. The findings offer a framework for breeding programs in Uganda and similar agro-ecological regions, promoting more resilient and productive soybean varieties. This study also illustrated the potential advantages of employing more complex mathematical techniques like path analysis to uncover yield and yield-related traits in soybean breeding programs.
Silicon Enhanced Italian Ryegrass (Lolium multiflorum) Production and Induced Defense Responses Against Fall Armyworm (Spodoptera frugiperda)
Authors: Deng Ya-Nan , Wang Hui , Yuan Li-Sha , Li Tao , Jiang Dun , Song Ge , Yan Shan-Chun
Published: November 2024

The spread of invasive pests exacerbates the direct damage to host plants and the potential threat to the environment. Silicon has the potential to enhance host plant resistance to insects while also increasing plant yield. This study evaluated changes in Italian ryegrass biological yield and resistance to fall armyworm (Spodoptera frugiperda) larvae after silicon supplementation (sodium silicate and potassium silicate at 6 mmol·L−1 were denoted as groups T1 and T2, respectively). Silicon supplementation significantly increased the shoot biological yield (T1 by 30.26%, T2 by 23.05%) and silicon content (T1 by 22.61% and T2 by 12.43%) of Italian ryegrass. At the same time, silicon supplementation increased the protein, soluble sugar, and vitamin contents of Italian ryegrass, while also stimulating the improvement of its physical and chemical defenses. Therefore, even though the nutrient intake of fall armyworm increased, the synergistic physical-chemical defense formed by silica deposition, flavonoid content, and increased protease inhibitor activity in the Italian ryegrass still weakened the antioxidant capacity of the larvae and inhibited larval feeding and protein accumulation. The larval body weight of the T1 and T2 groups decreased by 20.32% and 15.16%, respectively. The comprehensive scores showed that sodium silicate and potassium silicate of the same concentration had similar effects on the growth and insect resistance of Italian ryegrass. These findings suggest that both sodium and potassium silicate are effective silicon supplements for host plants. Therefore, reasonable supplementation of silicon fertilizer may become an important alternative plan for optimizing the comprehensive pest control strategy in agricultural production areas in the future, but this still needs further field research verification.
Exploring Facilitators and Barriers to Managers’ Adoption of AI-Based Systems in Decision Making: A Systematic Review
Authors: Marocco Silvia , Barbieri Barbara , Talamo Alessandra
Published: November 2024

Introduction—Decision making (DM) is a fundamental responsibility for managers, with significant implications for organizational performance and strategic direction. The increasing complexity of modern business environments, along with the recognition of human reasoning limitations related to cognitive and emotional biases, has led to a heightened interest in harnessing emerging technologies like Artificial Intelligence (AI) to enhance DM processes. However, a notable disparity exists between the potential of AI and its actual adoption within organizations, revealing skepticism and practical challenges associated with integrating AI into complex managerial DM scenarios. This systematic literature review aims to address this gap by examining the factors that influence managers’ adoption of AI in DM. Methods—This study adhered to the PRISMA guidelines. Articles from 2010 to 2024 were selected from the Scopus database using specific keywords. Eligible studies were included after rigorous screening and quality assessment using checklist tools. Results—From 202 articles screened, a data synthesis of 16 eligible studies revealed seven major interconnected factors acting as key facilitators or barriers to AI integration within organizations. These factors—Managers’ Perceptions of AI, Ethical Factors, Psychological and Individual Factors, Social and Psychosocial Factors, Organizational Factors, External Factors, and Technical and Design Characteristics of AI—were then organized into a complex analytical framework informed by existing theoretical constructs. Discussion—This contribution provides valuable insights into how managers perceive and interact with AI systems, as well as the conditions necessary for successful integration into organizational DM processes.
Neonatal Clinical Assessment of the Puppy and Kitten: How to Identify Newborns at Risk?
Authors: Pereira Keylla Helena Nobre Pacífico , Fuchs Kárita da Mata , Mendonça Júlia Cosenza , Xavier Gleice Mendes , Câmara Diogo Ribeiro , Cruz Raíssa Karolinny Salgueiro , Lourenço Maria Lucia Gomes
Published: November 2024

Neonatal puppies and kittens have physiological and anatomical characteristics that differ from those of adult animals, which impacts the interpretation of physical examination and complementary tests. The veterinarian must be familiar with the clinical, laboratory, and imaging aspects observed in neonates. It is necessary to thoroughly evaluate the litter and the mother to notice the most subtle signs of illness and advise the owner to constantly monitor the newborns, quickly sending them to specialized care. This review describes how to perform clinical assessments of newborns systematically and recognize clinical signs of neonatal changes or affections in puppies and kittens.
The Demography, Longevity and Mortality of Bullmastiffs Attending Veterinary Practices in Australia
Authors: Carney Abigail , Williamson Peter , Taylor Rosanne M.
Published: November 2024

The Bullmastiff is a giant breed of dog, and there is evidence the breed is predisposed to cancer and musculoskeletal disorders, though the disease investigation of the breed is limited. This study reports on the demography, longevity and mortality of Bullmastiffs attending veterinary practices in Australia over a ten-year period. VetCompass Australia collects patient data from veterinary practices across Australia for epidemiological analysis. All patient records of Bullmastiffs available in the VetCompass Australia database during this decade period were reviewed, with demographic information on the breed inclusive of coat colour, sex, neuter status, weight and location collated. Standardised veterinary diagnostic (VeNom) codes for the most appropriate cause of death were assigned to deceased dogs. The population comprised 2771 Bullmastiffs with an overall median age of 2.8 years. Within the group, 1259 were female (45.4%), 1491 were male (53.8%), and 21 dogs (0.8%) had no recorded sex or neuter status. Dogs grew rapidly in their first year, with an average gain of approximately 1 kg every 10 days. A slower growth rate continued in their second year, and growth plateaued as adulthood was reached, with the mean body weight of adult male dogs (46.6 kg) being heavier than that of females (40.5 kg). The age at death for the group was 8.5 years. The most common causes of death in the breed were mass lesions (28.2%), old age (9.9%), musculoskeletal-related disease (9.9%) and neurological (5.3%) and behavioural disorders (4.8%). Neutering was protective against mortality from urogenital causes (OR: 0.14; CI: 0.02–0.52; p = 0.003) and had a positive effect on longevity. This study provides demographic and health information on a population of Bullmastiffs attending veterinary practices in Australia, which will benefit evidence-based veterinary decisions for this breed. Additionally, the results may assist owners and breeders in making informed decisions on health risks and breeding programmes in the population.
Habitat Type-Based Assemblage and Distribution Prediction of Small Mammals and Chigger Mites (Acari: Trombiculidae) in Chuncheon City, Republic of Korea
Authors: Kim Kiyoon , Hwang Jusun , Kim Kyungmin , Yoon Kwangbae , Oh Daehyun , Park Yungchul
Published: November 2024

While urbanization leads to habitat loss for medium and large mammals, small mammals can survive in fragmented habitats. As they are known to be the primary hosts of chigger mites (Acari: Trombiculidae) that transmit scrub typhus, their habitat can be considered the primary distribution area for chigger mites. This study aims to examine the distribution of small mammals and chigger mites in four habitat types and analyzed species richness, mean intensity (MI), dominance, and infestation rate (IR). A total of six small mammal species were captured, 76.8% of which were identified as Apodemus agrarius. Species richness of small mammals was highest in forests, followed by ecotones, grasslands, and agricultural lands. Apodemus agrarius accounted for 61% of the captures in forests, 80% in ecotones, 84% in grasslands, and 50% in agricultural lands, highlighting its varying dominance across habitat types. The MI of chigger mites was higher in grasslands (215.41 ± 20.70) and ecotones (171.67 ± 30.33) and lower in forests (76.67 ± 32.11). The MI of chigger mites was higher in the fall than that in the spring, and according to the MaxEnt model, they had a narrow, dense distribution in the fall and a wide distribution in the spring. These results suggest that inducing increased species richness of small mammalian hosts by habitat management and vegetation diversification may contribute to a reduction in the MI of chigger mites.
Seasonal Spatio-Temporal Model Improves Refined Stock Assessment and Management of Japanese Sardine (Sardinops melanostictus) in the Northwest Pacific Ocean
Authors: Shi Yongchuang , Han Qingpeng , Zhang Shengmao , Yang Shenglong , Cheng Tianfei , Fan Wei , Zhao Guoqing , Han Haibin , Zhang Heng
Published: November 2024

Accurate estimation of fish stock abundance and exploitability is critical for effective fishery management; however, fishery-dependent data are often affected by temporal and spatial heterogeneities due to the seasonal migration of fish, posing challenges for refined stock management. Previous studies have largely ignored these spatio-temporal dynamics, assuming static populations. This study develops a seasonal spatio-temporal model for Japanese sardine (Sardinops melanostictus) in the Northwest Pacific Ocean (NPO), using fishery-dependent data from 2014 to 2022. Seasonal standardized abundance indices (spring, summer, autumn, and an overall average) were generated and integrated with the abundance maximum sustainable yield (AMSY) method for stock assessment. The performance of the AMSY method using a spatio-temporal index was compared with the conventional model-based index, showing the superiority of the spatio-temporal approach. Results indicate a gradual increase in sardine abundance, with a significant shift in the center of gravity toward the northeast. The stock is in a sustainable state with a 94.8–99% probability of recovery. Although the stock is recovering, careful management is advised to prevent future declines. This framework offers a novel approach for assessing distant water and coastal fishery resources.
Effect of In Ovo Supplementation of Slab51 Probiotic Mixture, Associated with Marek’s Disease Vaccine, on Growth Performance, Intestinal Morphology and Eimeria spp. Infection in Broiler Chickens
Authors: Biagini Lucia , Galosi Livio , Tambella Adolfo Maria , Roncarati Alessandra , De Bellis Danilo , Pesaro Stefano , Attili Anna-Rita , Berardi Sara , Rossi Giacomo
Published: November 2024

The interest for in ovo feeding has grown in the last decades mainly concerning probiotics, live microorganisms that can actively interact with the embryo. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of a multi-strain probiotic diluted in Marek’s disease vaccine (MDV) on zootechnical performances, intestinal morphology and Eimeria spp. infection. One hundred and twenty eggs of Ross 308 broiler chickens were incubated until 18 d, when 105 fertilised and vital eggs were randomly allocated into three groups. A control group (C) was inoculated with MDV; two treated groups (P1 and P2) were inoculated with MDV and different concentrations of probiotics: 1 × 105 CFU/100 μL in P1 and 1 × 106 CFU/100 μL in P2. After hatching, chickens were separated into three replicates (10/replicate). Zootechnical parameters were determined. At the end of the cycle (35 d), chickens were slaughtered, and the intestine was collected for morphological analysis from nine chickens per group (three/replicate). Eimeria spp. oocyst shedding was determined weekly, and parasitic lesions were analysed on the histological sample. In ovo treatment with probiotic did not influence hatching rate but significantly improved body weight and positively influenced intestinal morphometric data compared to C. Oocyst shedding in faeces resulted in an increase in C, with significant differences at sampling performed at 14, 21 and 28 d of age. These results suggest that the tested probiotic compound is safe for in ovo supplementation and effectively improves zootechnical performances and coccidian resistance.
Thermal Manipulation During the Embryonic Stage and the Post-Hatch Characteristics of Broiler Chickens
Authors: Leão Ana Patrícia Alves , de Souza Alexandre Vinhas , Barbosa Daniella Rabelo , da Silva Carina Fernanda Gomes , Alvarenga Renata Ribeiro , de Araújo Itallo Conrado Sousa , Geraldo Adriano , Resende Carla Oliveira , Zangeronimo Márcio Gilberto
Published: November 2024

The objective of this study was to evaluate the influence of thermal manipulation during incubation on the hatchability, the performance, the carcass characteristics, the intestinal villi, the nutrient metabolizability, and some physiological parameters in broiler chickens. Ross eggs were randomly distributed into four commercial automatic incubators. The treatments were as follows: incubator kept at 37.5 °C throughout the incubation period (Ctrl—control), and incubator temperature increased to 39 °C on days 16, 17, and 18 of incubation for 3 (T3h), 12 (T12h), or 24 h (T24h). The chicks were housed in an experimental performance barn and kept until 42 days of age under standard rearing conditions. The hatchability was lower when T24h was used. During the time after hatching, T3h caused higher levels of heat shock protein 70 (HSP70) in the liver, a faster breathing rate, and a drop in the cloacal temperature and hematocrit. T12h increased the respiratory rate. T24h decreased the hematocrit, the weight gain, and the feed intake. The thermal manipulation during incubation did not affect the carcass characteristics, intestinal villi, or metabolizability of nutrients. It was concluded that raising the incubator temperature for 3 h during late incubation may be beneficial for thermoregulation, but raising it for 24 h during this period impairs animal performance.
Temporal Changes in Faecal Microbiota Composition and Diversity in Dairy Cows Supplemented with a Lactobacillus-Based Direct-Fed Microbial
Authors: Campbell Bronwyn E. , Hassan Mohammad Mahmudul , Moore Robert J. , Olchowy Timothy , Ranjbar Shahab , Soust Martin , Ramirez-Garzon Orlando , Al Jassim Rafat , Alawneh John I.
Published: November 2024

The rumen microbiota of dairy cows plays a crucial role in fermenting fibrous material, essential for nutrient extraction and overall productivity, detoxification of anti-nutritional toxic compounds, synthesis of vital nutrients, and is essential for optimal animal health. This study investigated the impact of Lentilactobacillus-, Lactocaseibacillus-, and Lacticaseibacillus-based direct-fed microbial (DFM) supplementation on dairy cows’ faecal microbial composition and diversity. The study was carried out on a commercial dairy farm using 50 Holstein-Friesian cows randomly assigned into control (CON) and treatment (TRT) groups. Faecal samples were collected directly from the rectum every two months from September 2021 to January 2023. The bacterial 16S rRNA gene and fungal ITS-1 regions were amplified, sequenced, and analysed. Microbial diversity was assessed through alpha- and beta-diversity metrics. Linear discriminant analysis effect size (LEfSe) was performed to identify which taxa were driving the changes seen in the microbiota over time and treatment. Bacteroidaceae were the most prevalent bacterial family, followed by Lachnospiraceae and Muribaculaceae in both CON and TRT cows. Ascomycota, Basidiomycota, and Mucoromycota were the dominant three fungal phyla in the faeces of both CON and TRT cows. Bacterial genera Fructilactobacillus was abundant in the CON and Absicoccus in the TRT groups. Fungal taxa Chaetothryriales_incertae_sedis and Pseudomentella were absent in the faeces of TRT cows. Significant temporal and specific taxonomic differences were observed between the CON and TRT groups. The study’s findings underscore the dynamic nature of microbial communities and the importance of targeted dietary interventions. Further research is necessary to elucidate these microbial shifts, long-term impacts, and functional implications, aiming to optimise ruminant nutrition and enhance dairy cow performance.
National Multicenter Study on the Prevalence of Carbapenemase-Producing Enterobacteriaceae in the Post-COVID-19 Era in Argentina: The RECAPT-AR Study
Authors: Echegorry Mariano , Marchetti Paulina , Sanchez Cristian , Olivieri Laura , Faccone Diego , Martino Florencia , Sarkis Badola Tomas , Ceriana Paola , Rapoport Melina , Lucero Celeste , Albornoz Ezequiel ,   RECAPT-AR Group, Corso Alejandra , Pasteran Fernando
Published: November 2024

The COVID-19 pandemic has exacerbated the global antimicrobial resistance (AMR) crisis. Consequently, it is more urgent than ever to prioritize AMR containment and support countries in improving the detection, characterization, and rapid response to emerging AMR threats. We conducted a prospective, multicenter study to assess the prevalence of carbapenemase-producing Enterobacterales in infectious processes in Argentina during the post-COVID-19 pandemic period and explore therapeutic alternatives for their treatment (RECAPT-AR study). Methods: A total of 182 hospitals participated by submitting Enterobacterales clinical isolates to the National Reference Laboratory (NRL) during the first three weeks of November 2021. Inclusion criteria were defined as an ertapenem MIC ≥ 0.5 mg/L, a zone diameter ≤ 22 mm. Carbapenemase genes and those coding for major extended-spectrum β-lactamases were molecularly characterized using multiplex PCR at the NRL. Antibiotic susceptibility testing followed international standards (CLSI and EUCAST). Results: The NRL analyzed 821 Enterobacterales isolates. Metallo-β-lactamase (MBL, 42.0%) and KPC (39.8%) accounted for 81.8% of carbapenemases, followed by OXA-163 (7.4%), a variant of OXA-48 with additional activity against extended-spectrum cephalosporins, and enzyme combinations (8.3%). These combinations included NDM plus KPC (3.4%), OXA-163 plus KPC (2.4%), and OXA-163 plus NDM (2.1%). Klebsiella pneumoniae was the main species recovered, representing 76% of the isolates. According to the carbapenemase classes or combinations, tigecycline exhibited a susceptibility range of 33–83%, fosfomycin 59–81%, colistin 27–78%, and amikacin 17–81%. Ceftazidime-avibactam (CZA) and imipenem-relebactam (IMR) showed 92% and 98% susceptibility against serine carbapenemases, respectively. Meanwhile, aztreonam-avibactam (AZA) exhibited 96–98% susceptibility against all carbapenemase classes. Conclusions: A new epidemiological landscape has emerged, characterized by the equivalent circulation of NDM and KPC. K. pneumoniae remains the primary species responsible for their dissemination. The co-production of carbapenemase combinations, particularly KPC plus NDM, was confirmed, mainly in K. pneumoniae. High activity was observed for AZA against MBLs and for CZA and IMR against KPC and OXA-163 carbapenemases.
Function Analysis of Heme Peroxidase Genes, MpPxd2 and MpPxd4, Under Thiacloprid Exposure in the Neonicotinoid-Resistant Myzus persicae (Sulzer)
Authors: Rao Wenhua , Chen Feng , Zhou Xianzhi , Wang Jun , Lin Lei , Fan Guocheng , Hu Jinfeng
Published: November 2024

The green peach aphid, Myzus persicae, is a notorious pest worldwide. We collected a field population of the pest (FZQ-F) that exhibited high resistance to neonicotinoids. Exposure to neonicotinoids can induce oxidative damage in animals; however, it remains unclear whether antioxidant enzymes contribute to the innate immune response of neonicotinoid-resistant pests against high doses of insecticides. Treatment with sublethal doses of thiacloprid (LC10 and LC25) for 3, 6, 12, 24, 48, and 72 h resulted in significantly increased reactive oxygen species (ROS), including H2O2 content, in FZQ-F adults, indicating insecticide-induced oxidative stress. Additionally, the peroxidase activity in FZQ-F adults increased after thiacloprid exposure. Using comparative genomics, we identified 31 heme peroxidases in M. persicae with a typical “2Cys” structure, and phylogenetic analyses divided them into five groups. Comparative transcriptomes revealed that MpPxd2 and MpPxd4 were significantly upregulated in thiacloprid-treated aphids. Thiacloprid exposure significantly induced MpPxd2 and MpPxd4 expression levels, consistent with high H2O2 content and peroxidase activity. The knockdown of MpPxd2 or MpPxd4 in FZQ-F increased their susceptibility to imidacloprid, thiacloprid, and thiamethoxam, verifying the protective role of the heme peroxidases against neonicotinoids in aphids. The knockdown of MpPxd2 or MpPxd4 also led to shorter longevity and a low fecundity of adult aphids at 31 °C compared to controls. The results show that MpPxd2 or MpPxd4 is important in how cells respond to oxidative stress and may help resistant M. persicae pests to handle neonicotinoids.
Protective Effect of Resveratrol on Kidney Disease and Hypertension Against Microplastics Exposure in Male Juvenile Rats
Authors: Tain You-Lin , Chang-Chien Guo-Ping , Lin Shu-Fen , Hou Chih-Yao , Hsu Chien-Ning
Published: November 2024

Global pollution stems from the degradation of plastic waste, leading to the generation of microplastics (MPs). While environmental pollutants increase the risk of developing hypertension and kidney disease, the effects of MP exposure on these conditions in children remain unclear. Resveratrol, a phenolic compound known for its antihypertensive and renoprotective properties, has gained attention as a potential nutraceutical. This study investigates the effects of resveratrol on kidney disease and hypertension induced by MP exposure in a juvenile rat model. Three-week-old male Sprague–-Dawley (SD) rats were randomly allocated into four groups (n = 8 per group): a control group, a low-dose MP group (1 mg/L), a high-dose MP group (10 mg/L), and a high-dose MP group receiving resveratrol (50 mg/L). By 9 weeks of age, MP exposure resulted in elevated blood pressure and increased creatinine levels, both of which were mitigated by resveratrol treatment. The hypertension and kidney damage induced by high-dose MP exposure were linked to oxidative stress, which resveratrol effectively prevented. Additionally, resveratrol’s protective effects against hypertension and kidney damage were associated with increased acetic acid levels, reduced renal expression of Olfr78, and decreased expression of various components of the renin-angiotensin system (RAS). Low- and high-dose MP exposure, as well as resveratrol treatment, differentially influence gut microbiota composition. Our findings suggest that targeting oxidative stress, gut microbiota, and the RAS through resveratrol holds therapeutic potential for preventing kidney disease and hypertension associated with MP exposure. However, further research is needed to translate these results into clinical applications.
Miniaturized Arrow-Shaped Flexible Filter-Embedded Antenna for Industrial and Medical Applications
Authors: Hussain Musa , Abbas Anees , Awan Wahaj Abbas , Naqvi Syeda Iffat
Published: November 2024

This paper presents the design and characterization of a coplanar waveguide (CPW) fed, low-profile, and flexible arrow-shaped filtenna for ISM band applications at 2.45 GHz. The antenna design involves an innovative approach incorporating etching slots to achieve miniaturization by 34%, contrasting with a traditional quadrilateral-shaped antenna. After the attainment of desired miniaturization, the unwanted harmonics are also mitigated by deploying simple filtering methodology. A perpendicular rectangular stub is strategically introduced to the feedline, effectively minimizing harmonics across a broad frequency range of 3.3–11.0 GHz. Through simulations and measurements, the results indicate that the antenna’s operational band spans from 2.276 to 2.75 GHz, encompassing the entire ISM band (2.4–2.5 GHz). Notably, the antenna demonstrates promising radiation characteristics, including omnidirectional gain of approximately 2.2 dBi and a radiation efficiency exceeding 95%. With a compact overall size of 0.24λ × 0.20λ × 0.0005λ (where λ is the free-space wavelength at 2.45 GHz), coupled with wide harmonic rejection property, the proposed arrow-shaped flitenna emerges as a compelling candidate for ISM band applications.
UWB-Based Real-Time Indoor Positioning Systems: A Comprehensive Review
Authors: Al-Okby Mohammed Faeik Ruzaij , Junginger Steffen , Roddelkopf Thomas , Thurow Kerstin
Published: November 2024

Currently, the process of tracking moving objects and determining their indoor location is considered to be one of the most attractive applications that have begun to see widespread use, especially after the adoption of this technology in some smartphone applications. The great developments in electronics and communications systems have provided the basis for tracking and location systems inside buildings, so-called indoor positioning systems (IPSs). The ultra-wideband (UWB) technology is one of the important emerging solutions for IPSs. This radio communications technology provides important characteristics that distinguish it from other solutions, such as secure and robust communications, wide bandwidth, high data rate, and low transmission power. In this paper, we review the implementation of the most important real-time indoor positioning and tracking systems that use ultra-wideband technology for tracking and localizing moving objects. This paper reviews the newest in-market UWB modules and solutions, discussing several types of algorithms that are used by the real-time UWB-based systems to determine the location with high accuracy, along with a detailed comparison that saves the reader a lot of time and effort in choosing the appropriate UWB-module/method/algorithm for real-time implementation.