bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Novel Bacterial 6-Phytase Improves Growth Performance, Tibia Mineralization and Precaecal Digestibility of Phosphorus in Broilers: Data from Four Independent Performance Trials
Authors: Jlali Maamer , Hincelin Clémentine , Gracia Marta I. , Khattak Farina , Francesch Maria , Rougier Tania , Cozannet Pierre , López Guillermo Cano , Ceccantini Marcio , Yavuz Baris , Ozbek Sarper , Preynat Aurélie , Devillard Estelle
Published: July 2023

A series of four broiler performance studies were conducted in different facilities to investigate the efficacy of a novel bacterial 6-phytase added at 500 FTU/kg diet on growth performance, bone mineralization and precaecal digestibility of phosphorus (pcdP) in broilers fed diets deficient in available P (avP) and calcium (Ca). The experimental design was the same for all studies, with each having three treatments: positive control (PC) diet formulated to meet or exceed the requirements of birds, negative control (NC) diet similarly reduced by 0.15% points in avP and Ca compared to the PC diet, and the NC diet supplemented with phytase (PHY) at 500 FTU/kg diet from 1 to 35 days of age. Body weight (BW) and feed intake were measured at 21 and 35 days of age, and average daily gain (ADG), average daily feed intake (ADFI), feed conversion ratio (FCR), BW gain-corrected-FCR (cFCR), mortality and European performance efficiency factor (EPEF) were calculated. Tibia dry matter, tibia ash content and pcd of P were measured at 21 days of age in all experiments. The analysis of the data from the four experiments showed that compared with birds fed the adequate-nutrient diet, birds fed the NC diet resulted in a decrease (p < 0.05) in BW, ADG, ADFI and EPEF by 6.4, 6.3, 5.9 and 7.1%, respectively, and an increase in (p = 0.02) cFCR by 2.0%. The tibia dry matter and tibia ash content of these birds were also reduced (p < 0.001) by 3.8 and 4.0% points, respectively. PHY diets improved (p < 0.05) BW, ADG, ADFI, EPEF and cFCR by 8.0, 8.3, 7.3, 10.6 and 2.8%, respectively. Phytase addition at 500 FTU/kg diet also increased (p < 0.001) the tibia dry matter and tibia ash content by 3.5 and 4.2% points, respectively. The pcd of P was improved (p < 0.001) by 11.1 and 11.3% points, in comparison with NC and PC diets, respectively, when phytase was added. These performance parameters and tibia mineralization obtained with a diet supplemented with phytase were comparable to or better than the PC diet. The results demonstrated that avP and Ca could be lowered similarly by 0.15% points in broilers diets by using the new bacterial 6-phytase at 500 FTU/kg diet.
An Overview of Climate Change Impacts on Agriculture and Their Mitigation Strategies
Authors: Bibi Farhana , Rahman Azizur
Published: July 2023

In recent years, the adverse effect of climate change on soil properties in the agricultural sector has become a dreadful reality worldwide. Climate change-induced abiotic stresses such as salinity, drought and temperature fluctuations are devastating crops’ physiological responses, productivity and overall yield, which is ultimately posing a serious threat to global food security and agroecosystems. The applications of chemical fertilizers and pesticides contribute towards further deterioration and rapid changes in climate. Therefore, more careful, eco-friendly and sustainable strategies are required to mitigate the impact of climate-induced damage on the agricultural sector. This paper reviews the recently reported damaging impacts of abiotic stresses on various crops, along with two emerging mitigation strategies, biochar and biostimulants, in light of recent studies focusing on combating the worsening impact of the deteriorated environment and climate change on crops’ physiological responses, yields, soil properties and environment. Here, we highlighted the impact of climate change on agriculture and soil properties along with recently emerging mitigation strategies applying biochar and biostimulants, with an aim to protecting the soil, agriculture and environment.
Rice-Fallow Targeting for Cropping Intensification through Geospatial Technologies in the Rice Belt of Northeast India
Authors: Srivastava Amit Kumar , Borah Suranjana Bhaswati , Ghosh Dastidar Payel , Sharma Archita , Gogoi Debabrat , Goswami Priyanuz , Deka Giti , Khandai Suryakanta , Borgohain Rupam , Singh Sudhanshu , Bhattacharyya Ashok
Published: July 2023

Rice-fallow areas have significant potential to sustainably increase agricultural intensification to address growing global food demands while simultaneously increasing farmers’ income by harnessing the residual soil moisture in rainfed ecologies. Assam is the largest rice-growing belt in northeast India during kharif; however, for the next rabi season, an average of 58% of the rice areas remain uncultivated and are described as rice-fallow (Kharif, rabi and zaid are the crop seasons in the study area. The kharif season refers to the monsoon/rainy season and corresponds to the major crop season in the region extending from June to October. The rabi season refers to the winter season extending from November to April, and the zaid season is the summer crop season from April to June). Unutilized rice-fallow areas with optimum soil moisture for a second crop were identified over three consecutive years using multiple satellite data (optical and radar) for the state of Assam and an average accuracy of 92.6%. The reasons governing the existence of rice-fallow areas were analyzed, and an average of 0.88 million ha of suitable rice-fallow areas, based on soil moisture availability, were identified. Targeted interventions were carried out in selected locations to demonstrate the potential of sustainable cropping intensification. Maize, with best management practices, and a yield between 5.5 and 6 t/ha, was demonstrated as a successful second crop during the rabi season in selected areas with optimum residual soil moisture after the kharif paddy harvest. This study highlights the significance of geospatial technology to effectively identify and target suitable rice-fallow areas for cropping intensification and to enhance productivity and profitability.
Development and Experimental Validation of an Agricultural Robotic Platform with High Traction and Low Compaction
Authors: Reiser David , Sharipov Galibjon M. , Hubel Gero , Nannen Volker , Griepentrog Hans W.
Published: July 2023

Some researchers expect that future agriculture will be automated by swarms of small machines. However, small and light robots have some disadvantages. They have problems generating interaction forces high enough to modify the environment (lift a stone, cultivate the soil, or transport high loads). Additionally, they have limited range and terrain mobility. One option to change this paradigm is to use spikes instead of wheels, which enter the soil to create traction. This allows high interaction forces with the soil, and the process is not limited by the weight of the vehicle. We designed a prototype for mechanical soil cultivation and weeding in agricultural fields and evaluated its efficiency. A static and dynamic test was performed to compare the energy input of the electrical motor with precise measurements of the forces on the attached tool. The results indicate that the prototype can create interaction forces of up to 2082 N with a robot weight of 90 kg. A net traction ratio of 2.31 was reached. The dynamic performance experiment generated pull forces of up to 1335 N for a sustained net traction ratio of 1.48. The overall energy efficiency ratio for the machine reached values of up to 0.54 based on the created draft force and the measured input energy consumption.
Identifying an Image-Processing Method for Detection of Bee Mite in Honey Bee Based on Keypoint Analysis
Authors: Lee Hong Gu , Kim Min-Jee , Kim Su-bae , Lee Sujin , Lee Hoyoung , Sin Jeong Yong , Mo Changyeun
Published: July 2023

Economic and ecosystem issues associated with beekeeping may stem from bee mites rather than other bee diseases. The honey mites that stick to bees are small and possess a reddish-brown color, rendering it difficult to distinguish them with the naked eye. Objective and rapid technologies to detect bee mites are required. Image processing considerably improves detection performance. Therefore, this study proposes an image-processing method that can increase the detection performance of bee mites. A keypoint detection algorithm was implemented to identify keypoint location and frequencies in images of bees and bee mites. These parameters were analyzed to determine the rational measurement distance and image-processing. The change in the number of keypoints was analyzed by applying five-color model conversion, histogram normalization, and two-histogram equalization. The performance of the keypoints was verified by matching images with infested bees and mites. Among 30 given cases of image processing, the method applying normalization and equalization in the RGB color model image produced consistent quality data and was the most valid keypoint. Optimal image processing worked effectively in the measured 300 mm data in the range 300–1100 mm. The results of this study show that diverse image-processing techniques help to enhance the quality of bee mite detection significantly. This approach can be used in conjunction with an object detection deep-learning algorithm to monitor bee mites and diseases.
Semantic Segmentation of Cucumber Leaf Disease Spots Based on ECA-SegFormer
Authors: Yang Ruotong , Guo Yaojiang , Hu Zhiwei , Gao Ruibo , Yang Hua
Published: July 2023

Accurate semantic segmentation of disease spots is critical in the evaluation and treatment of cucumber leaf damage. To solve the problem of poor segmentation accuracy caused by the imbalanced feature fusion of SegFormer, the Efficient Channel Attention SegFormer (ECA-SegFormer) is proposed to handle the semantic segmentation of cucumber leaf disease spots under natural acquisition conditions. First, the decoder of SegFormer is modified by inserting the Efficient Channel Attention and adopting the Feature Pyramid Network to increase the scale robustness of the feature representation. Then, a cucumber leaf disease dataset is built with 1558 images collected from the outdoor experimental vegetable base, including downy mildew, powdery mildew, target leaf spot, and angular leaf spot. Tested on the dataset, the Mean Pixel Accuracy of ECA-SegFormer is 38.03%, and the mean Intersection over Union is 60.86%, which is 14.55% and 1.47% higher than SegFormer, respectively. These findings demonstrate the superiority of ECA-SegFormer over the original SegFormer, offering enhanced suitability for precise segmentation of cucumber leaf disease spots in the natural environment.
Adaptive Fusion Positioning Based on Gaussian Mixture Model for GNSS-RTK and Stereo Camera in Arboretum Environments
Authors: Liang Shenghao , Zhao Wenfeng , Lin Nuanchen , Huang Yuanjue
Published: July 2023

The integration of Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) Real-Time Kinematics (RTK) can provide high-precision, real-time, and global coverage of location information in open areas. But in arboretum environment, the ability to achieve continuous high-precision positioning using global positioning technology is limited due to various sources of interference, such as multi-path effects, signal obstruction, and environmental noise. In order to achieve precise navigation in challenging GNSS signal environments, visual SLAM systems are widely used due to their ability to adapt to different environmental features. Therefore, this paper proposes an optimized solution that integrates the measurements from GNSS-RTK and stereo cameras. The presented approach aligns the coordinates between the two sensors, and then employs an adaptive sliding window approach, which dynamically adjusts the window size and optimizes the pose within the sliding window. At the same time, to address the variations and uncertainties of GNSS signals in non-ideal environments, this paper proposes a solution that utilizes a Gaussian Mixture Model (GMM) to model the potential noise in GNSS signals. Furthermore, it employs a Variational Bayesian Inference-based (VBI) method to estimate the parameters of the GMM model online. The integration of this model with an optimization-based approach enhances the positioning accuracy and robustness even further. The evaluation results of real vehicle tests show that in challenging GNSS arboretum environments, GMM applied to GNSS/VO integration has higher accuracy and better robustness.
Cytological Pattern Reveals Genome Downsizing in Cynodon dactylon (L.) Pers along the Longitudinal Gradient
Authors: Li Manqing , Wang Miaoli , Zhang Jingxue , Feng Guilan , Noor Maryam , Guo Zhipeng , Guo Yuxia , Guan Yongzhuo , Yan Xuebing
Published: July 2023

Understanding the cytological pattern of genome size and ploidy level of the bermudagrass (Cynodon dactylon) is vital to explore the evolution pattern and breeding of the species. To study the diversification of the cytological pattern of bermudagrass along the longitudinal gradient, the genome size and ploidy level were measured and explored with the relationship to climate factors. The corresponding ploidy level was verified through the mitotic chromosome counts method. Bermudagrass accessions ploidy level included diploids, triploid, tetraploid, pentaploid and hexaploid with a basic chromosome number of x = 9. The major ploidy level was tetraploid (45%) and aneuploidy was commonly discovered in collected regions. Mean genome size of bermudagrasswas was estimated to be 1.31 pg/1Cx along longitudinal gradient. The 1Cx values of diploid were higher than that of triploid and tetraploid, while the tetraploid had minimum basic genome size. In the current study, we observed that genome downsizing exists in tetraploids of Cynodon dactylon. Tetraploids have a wider distribution than other ploidy levels, especially in arid areas, occupying a relatively high proportion. In addition, at the same ploidy level, genome size was remarkably variable in the current study. The coefficient of determination analysis showed that longitude and mean annual rainfall were significantly correlated to genome size rather than ploidy level. This cytological study will be helpful for further genetic mechanisms and molecular characteristics to landscape adaptation of bermudagrass.
Modeling Climate Change Indicates Potential Shifts in the Global Distribution of Orchardgrass
Authors: Wu Jiqiang , Yan Lijun , Zhao Junming , Peng Jinghan , Xiong Yi , Xiong Yanli , Ma Xiao
Published: July 2023

Orchardgrass (Dactylis glomerata L.) is highly tolerant of shade, cold, and overwintering, making it an ideal species for grassland ecological restoration and livestock production. However, the genetic diversity of orchardgrass may be threatened by climate change. Using a Maximum Entropy (MaxEnt) model with the BCC-CSM2-MR global climate database and the Harmonized World Soil Database, we projected the current and future distribution of orchardgrass suitable areas globally. The predicted ecological thresholds for vital environmental factors were determined to be a temperature seasonality range of 411.50–1034.37 °C, a mean diurnal range of −0.88–10.69 °C, a maximum temperature of the warmest month of 22.21–35.45 °C, and precipitation of the coldest quarter of 116.56–825.40 mm. A range of AUC values from 0.914 to 0.922, indicating the accuracy of the prediction model. Our results indicate that the total area of current suitable habitats for orchardgrass was estimated to be 2133.01 × 104 km2, it is dispersed unevenly over six continents. Additionally, the suitable areas of habitats increased in higher latitudes while decreasing in lower latitudes as greenhouse gas emissions increased. Therefore, efforts should be made to save places in the southern hemisphere that are in danger of becoming unsuitable, with the possibility of using northern America, China, and Europe in the future for conservation and extensive farming.
Probing the RNA Structure of a Satellite RNA of Cucumber Mosaic Virus Using SHAPE Method
Authors: Liu Zhifei , Cao Xinran , Yu Chengming , Yuan Xuefeng
Published: July 2023

Selective 2′-hydroxyl acylation analyzed by primer extension (SHAPE) is a widely used technique for RNA structure analysis using N-methylisatoic anhydride (NMIA) treatment that has been proven to be applicable to different types of RNA templates. In this study, we performed the structural analysis of the viral satellite RNA of cucumber mosaic virus TA-Tb (satCMV TA-Tb) using the SHAPE method. In the preliminary experiment, we optimized the protocol of SHAPE method for analyzing satCMV TA-Tb by determining a suitable quantity of template RNA. This optimization effectively reduced the appearance of a large number of intense bands in the NMIA-untreated sample lane, along with a strong overall background signal that prevented the clear elucidation of the RNA structure. SHAPE analysis indicated the presence of non-structured, single-stranded flexible regions throughout satCMV TA-Tb with prominent flexible stretches located around nucleotide positions 145 to 200. The positions of these flexible regions were particularly consistent with a secondary structure of satCMV TA-Tb predicted by mfold software v.2.3, which consisted of five 5′- and 3′-proximal stem-loops and one internal large multi-branched stem-loop. Sequence alignment and secondary RNA structure prediction of other satCMV sequences that are phylogenetically the same group with satCMV TA-Tb also suggested the presence of 5′- and 3′-proximal stem-loop structures. Our data provide the structural basis for elucidating the mechanism by which satCMV TA-Tb regulates the pathogenicity and replication of its helper virus.
Comparative Study of Photosynthesis Performance of Herbicide-Treated Young Triticale Plants during Drought and Waterlogging Stress
Authors: Todorova Dessislava , Aleksandrov Vladimir , Anev Svetoslav , Sergiev Iskren
Published: July 2023

Owing to global climate changes, periods of soil drought or waterlogging occur. Each of these factors causes negative effects on plant physiological processes and growth. Weeds are another factor that limits plant productivity. The main task of this study is to investigate the physiological reactions of triticale to herbicide treatment and subsequent drought or waterlogging. Young triticale plants were treated with Serrate® (selective herbicide produced by Syngenta) and exposed for 7 days to drought or waterlogging. Plant growth, chlorophyll and carotenoids content, the net photosynthesis rate and chlorophyll a fluorescence were measured during the stress period and after 4 days of plant recovery. Herbicide by itself did not induce considerable changes in the abovementioned parameters during the stress period. Serrate® did not affect strongly the efficiency of the photosynthetic machinery under harsh conditions. A significant reduction in fresh weight (85%), water content (93%), net photosynthesis rate, chlorophyll a fluorescence indices Fv/Fm and Fv/F0, and leaf pigments (58% for chlorophyll a, 53% for chlorophyll b, and 45% for carotenoids) was found because of drought. Waterlogging also influenced negatively these parameters but to a smaller extent. After resuming the normal irrigation, the photosynthesis and chlorophyll a fluorescence tended to increase and showed signs of recovery. The comparative analysis of growth and photosynthetic parameters demonstrated that triticale plants subjected to waterlogging could recover to a higher degree than those exposed to drought.
Improving Nitrogen Status Diagnosis and Recommendation of Maize Using UAV Remote Sensing Data
Authors: Liang Jiaxing , Ren Wei , Liu Xiaoyang , Zha Hainie , Wu Xian , He Chunkang , Sun Junli , Zhu Mimi , Mi Guohua , Chen Fanjun , Miao Yuxin , Pan Qingchun
Published: July 2023

Effective in-season crop nitrogen (N) status diagnosis is important for precision crop N management, and remote sensing using an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) is one efficient means of conducting crop N nutrient diagnosis. Here, field experiments were conducted with six N levels and six maize hybrids to determine the nitrogen nutrition index (NNI) and yield, and to diagnose the N status of the hybrids combined with multi-spectral data. The NNI threshold values varied with hybrids and years, ranging from 0.99 to 1.17 in 2018 and 0.60 to 0.71 in 2019. A proper agronomic optimal N rate (AONR) was constructed and confirmed based on the measured NNI and yield. The NNI (R2 = 0.64–0.79) and grain yield (R2 = 0.70–0.73) were predicted well across hybrids using a random forest model with spectral, structural, and textural data (UAV). The AONRs calculated using the predicted NNI and yield were significantly correlated with the measured NNI (R2 = 0.70 and 0.71 in 2018 and 2019, respectively) and yield (R2 = 0.68 and 0.54 in 2018 and 2019, respectively). It is concluded that data fusion can improve in-season N status diagnosis for different maize hybrids compared to using only spectral data.
Concentration, Life Stage, Feeding, Density, Flow, and Strain Effects on Formalin Sensitivity in Rainbow Trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss)
Authors: Fetherman Eric R. , Neuschwanger Brad , Praamsma Chris , Davis Tracy
Published: July 2023

Formalin is one of the most widely used and effective chemotherapeutic compounds for treatment of fungal infections and external parasites of fish eggs and fish. However, exposure to formalin can cause mortality in eggs and fingerlings, dependent upon the concentration used and the rearing conditions in which fish are treated. Additionally, strains within a species can exhibit differential susceptibility to formalin. Four experiments were conducted to evaluate the differential sensitivity to formalin of four rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss) strains in both the egg and fingerling life stages. Eggs were exposed to concentrations of 1667, 2000, and 5000 ppm formalin, and sensitivity differed among the strains when formalin concentration exceeded 2000 ppm. Exposure to higher formalin concentrations (i.e., 5000 ppm) as eggs did not increase mortality when fish were re-exposed to concentrations of 0, 167, 250, or 500 ppm formalin at 77 mm total length (TL). Fish size affected formalin sensitivity, with larger fish (128 mm TL) exhibiting higher rates of mortality than fish ≤ 77 mm TL when exposed to 250 ppm formalin. The effects of crowding, feeding, flow, and density on the formalin sensitivity of 77 mm TL fish were also investigated. Mortality increased in fish crowded away from the inflow to prevent contact with formalin as it entered the tank, potentially the result of an increase in density index within the crowded tanks. Feeding fish on the day they were treated caused mortality to increase by 5.4 to 8.8% in fish exposed to 167 and 250 ppm formalin, respectively, and mortality differed by strain. Reducing flows by half resulted in doubled to quadrupled mortality, and increased densities resulted in increased mortality in some strains but not others. Hatchery managers should consider what effect rearing conditions and formalin concentrations might have on the strain of fish being treated, prior to large-scale treatment.
Estimating the Feeding Time of Individual Broilers via Convolutional Neural Network and Image Processing
Authors: Nasiri Amin , Amirivojdan Ahmad , Zhao Yang , Gan Hao
Published: July 2023

Feeding behavior is one of the critical welfare indicators of broilers. Hence, understanding feeding behavior can provide important information regarding the usage of poultry resources and insights into farm management. Monitoring poultry behaviors is typically performed based on visual human observation. Despite the successful applications of this method, its implementation in large poultry farms takes time and effort. Thus, there is a need for automated approaches to overcome these challenges. Consequently, this study aimed to evaluate the feeding time of individual broilers by a convolutional neural network-based model. To achieve the goal of this research, 1500 images collected from a poultry farm were labeled for training the You Only Look Once (YOLO) model to detect the broilers’ heads. A Euclidean distance-based tracking algorithm was developed to track the detected heads, as well. The developed algorithm estimated the broiler’s feeding time by recognizing whether its head is inside the feeder. Three 1-min labeled videos were applied to evaluate the proposed algorithm’s performance. The algorithm achieved an overall feeding time estimation accuracy of each broiler per visit to the feeding pan of 87.3%. In addition, the obtained results prove that the proposed algorithm can be used as a real-time tool in poultry farms.
Eight-Year Study of Haemogregarina stepanowi Infection in Poached European Pond Turtles (Emys orbicularis) Held in Belgrade Zoo Quarantine
Authors: Aleksić-Kovačević Sanja , Vučićević Miloš , Özvegy József , Jelisić Stefan , Djurdjević Biljana , Prodanov-Radulović Jasna , Došenović Milan , Marinković Darko
Published: July 2023

The eight-year study (2015–2023) was performed on a large sample of poached European pond turtles infected with Haemogregarina stepanowi and held in a pond that belongs to a quarantine section of Belgrade Zoo. The protected species of European pond turtles have been found in poor health, with general weakness, anorexia, and low motility. Comprehensive cytological, hematological, molecular, and postmortem evaluations have been performed. Initially, Diff Quick staining of the blood smears revealed rounded or elongated erythrocytes, often bearing premeront or U-shaped gamont of the hemogregarines inside. The reduced erythrocyte numbers, hemoglobin, and hematocrit values found in the examined population of infected turtles indicated anemia. Macroscopically, shell necrosis and massive skin hemorrhages were the most prominent findings observed in diseased turtles. Microscopically, the lungs, liver, kidneys, and spleen revealed hyperemia, hemorrhages, and the presence of parasitic stages in tissue samples in 31 of 40 necropsied turtles. Cytological and microscopic examination of the samples proved to be sufficient for establishing the infection, but molecular analyses of the 18S sequence were used for phylogenetic studies. Over the years, the number of diseased and dead turtles has decreased, which could be hypothetically attributed to the elimination of leeches as the definitive host.
Sperm Head Morphology Alterations Associated with Chromatin Instability and Lack of Protamine Abundance in Frozen-Thawed Sperm of Indonesian Local Bulls
Authors: Kusumawati Asmarani , Satrio Faisal Amri , Indriastuti Rhesti , Rosyada Zulfi Nur Amrina , Pardede Berlin Pandapotan , Agil Muhammad , Purwantara Bambang
Published: July 2023

This study aimed to analyze various alterations in the morphology of the sperm head and its association with nucleus instability and insufficient sperm protamine. Frozen-thawed semen from twenty local Indonesian bulls was used for all stages in this study. The results of sperm head defect assessments are used for bull grouping, high (HD) and low (LD). Sperm DNA damage was assessed using Acridine Orange and Halomax. The PRM1 protein abundance was carried out using an enzyme immunoassay, while PRM1 gene expression was carried out using the RT-qPCR. PRM deficiency was performed using CMA3. Several kinds of sperm head defects in the HD were significantly higher (p < 0.05) than in the LD bulls. Sperm DNA damage showed a significant (p < 0.05) difference between the HD and LD bulls. PRM1 abundance was significantly (p < 0.05) decreased in HD bulls. PRM deficiency was significantly (p < 0.05) higher in HD bulls than in LD bulls. PRM deficiency in bulls correlated significantly (p < 0.01) with sperm head defects, DNA damage, and PRM1 abundance. The lack of sperm protamine might affect the sperm nucleus’s stability and induce morphological alterations in the sperm head.
Cardiological Reference Intervals in Adult American Staffordshire Terrier Dogs
Authors: Szpinda Oktawia , Parzeniecka-Jaworska Marta , Czopowicz Michał , Jońska Izabella , Bonecka Joanna , Jank Michał
Published: July 2023

The aim of this study was to determine reference intervals (RI) for echocardiography, electrocardiography (ECG), vertebral heart score (VHS) measurement, and arterial systolic blood pressure (SBP) in American Staffordshire Terrier dogs. The study population included 29 clinically healthy AST dogs of different ages, genders, and body weights. SBP measurement, ECG, thoracic radiography, and echocardiography were performed on each dog. Compared to RIs available for the general population of dogs, the duration of the P wave and QRS complex was longer and VHS was higher. Moreover, the left ventricular dimension in diastole and systole, left atrial dimension, and end point to septal separation values were higher, while the interventricular septum in diastole and systole and aortic root diameter were lower compared to general similar average body weight. The AST breed has a different heart shape, which in this breed is more rounded compared to other dog breeds, especially the deep chest. The specific body structure and the shape of the heart had an impact on the results of the cardiological examination.
The Shepherd and the Hunter: A Genomic Comparison of Italian Dog Breeds
Authors: Bionda Arianna , Cortellari Matteo , Liotta Luigi , Crepaldi Paola
Published: July 2023

Shepherd and hunting dogs have undergone divergent selection for specific tasks, resulting in distinct phenotypic and behavioural differences. Italy is home to numerous recognized and unrecognized breeds of both types, providing an opportunity to compare them genomically. In this study, we analysed SNP data obtained from the CanineHD BeadChip, encompassing 116 hunting dogs (representing 6 breeds) and 158 shepherd dogs (representing 9 breeds). We explored the population structure, genomic background, and phylogenetic relationships among the breeds. To compare the two groups, we employed three complementary methods for selection signature detection: FST, XP-EHH, and ROH. Our results reveal a clear differentiation between shepherd and hunting dogs as well as between gun dogs vs. hounds and guardian vs. herding shepherd dogs. The genomic regions distinguishing these groups harbour several genes associated with domestication and behavioural traits, including gregariousness (WBSRC17) and aggressiveness (CDH12 and HTT). Additionally, genes related to morphology, such as size and coat colour (ASIP and TYRP1) and texture (RSPO2), were identified. This comparative genomic analysis sheds light on the genetic underpinnings of the phenotypic and behavioural variations observed in Italian hunting and shepherd dogs.
Psychiatric Symptoms in Acute and Persisting Forms of COVID-19 Associated with Neural Autoantibodies
Authors: Hansen Niels
Published: July 2023

(1) Background: In this narrative review, we focus on neural autoantibodies in patients with coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) as a consequence of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus type 2 infection and persisting symptoms of post-COVID-19 syndrome with a psychiatric presentation. (2) Methods: Our methods include using the PubMed database to search for appropriate articles. (3) Results: We first describe the phenomenon of the psychiatric manifestation of COVID-19 in acute and persistent forms, associated with neural autoantibodies, often attributable to encephalopathy or encephalitis. We discuss the spectrum of neural autoantibodies in neuropsychiatric patients affected by COVID-19 and post-COVID-19 syndrome. Evidence from our research suggests that it is highly likely that neural autoantibody production is facilitated by SARS-CoV-2 infection, and that more neuropsychiatric patients than control subjects will present neural autoantibodies. (4) Conclusions: These observations support the hypothesis that acute and persisting forms of COVID-19 promote autoimmune diseases. Our patients therefore require comprehensive evaluation to avoid overlooking such autoantibody-associated psychiatric disorders associated with COVID-19.
Antibacterial Activity of Biosynthesized Copper Oxide Nanoparticles (CuONPs) Using Ganoderma sessile
Authors: Flores-Rábago Karla M. , Rivera-Mendoza Daniel , Vilchis-Nestor Alfredo R. , Juarez-Moreno Karla , Castro-Longoria Ernestina
Published: July 2023

Copper oxide nanoparticles (CuONPs) were synthesized using an eco-friendly method and their antimicrobial and biocompatibility properties were determined. The supernatant and extract of the fungus Ganoderma sessile yielded small, quasi-spherical NPs with an average size of 4.5 ± 1.9 nm and 5.2 ± 2.1 nm, respectively. Nanoparticles were characterized by UV−Vis spectroscopy, transmission electron microscopy (TEM), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), X-ray diffraction (XRD), dynamic light scattering (DLS), and zeta potential analysis. CuONPs showed antimicrobial activity against Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus), Escherichia coli (E. coli), and Pseudomonas aeruginosa (P. aeruginosa). The half-maximal inhibitory concentration (IC50) for E. coli was 8.5 µg/mL, for P. aeruginosa was 4.1 µg/mL, and for S. aureus was 10.2 µg/mL. The ultrastructural analysis of bacteria exposed to CuONPs revealed the presence of small CuONPs all through the bacterial cells. Finally, the toxicity of CuONPs was analyzed in three mammalian cell lines: hepatocytes (AML-12), macrophages (RAW 264.7), and kidney (MDCK). Low concentrations (<15 µg/mL) of CuONPs-E were non-toxic to kidney cells and macrophages, and the hepatocytes were the most susceptible to CuONPs-S. The results obtained suggest that the CuONPs synthesized using the extract of the fungus G. sessile could be further evaluated for the treatment of superficial infectious diseases.
Effect of the Selective Dry Cow Therapy on Udder Health and Milk Microbiota
Authors: Filippone Pavesi Laura , Pollera Claudia , Sala Giulia , Cremonesi Paola , Monistero Valentina , Biscarini Filippo , Bronzo Valerio
Published: July 2023

Recently, the use of antimicrobials on dairy farms has been significantly limited from both the legislative and consumer points of view. This study aims to check the efficacy of selective dry cow therapy (SDCT) versus blanket dry cow therapy (BDCT) on bovine udder in healthy animals. SDTC is when an antibiotic is administered only to infected cows, compared with BDCT, where all cows receive an antimicrobial, regardless of their infection status. The milk samples were collected from enrolled Holstein Friesian cows 7 days before dry-off (T0) and 10 days after calving (T1) to assess somatic cell count (SCC), intramammary infections (IMIs), and milk microbiota variation. After pre-drying sampling, cows are randomly assigned to the following treatments: internal teat sealant alone (ITS; 24 cows), which is a treatment in a cow that does not receive antibiotics in SDTC, or in combination with intramammary antibiotic treatment (A+ITS; 22 cows). Non-statistically significant results are found between the two treatment groups at T1 for SCC, milk yield, and alpha diversity in milk microbiota. A statistically (p < 0.033) T1 IMI decrease is reported in the A+ITS group, and a significant beta diversity analysis is shown between the two timepoints (p = 0.009). This study confirms the possibility of selective drying without new IMI risk or increased SCC at calving, considering healthy cows without contagious infections and SCC values >200,000 cells/mL in the previous lactation.
Antibiotic Therapy Strategies for Treating Gram-Negative Severe Infections in the Critically Ill: A Narrative Review
Authors: Corona Alberto , De Santis Vincenzo , Agarossi Andrea , Prete Anna , Cattaneo Dario , Tomasini Giacomina , Bonetti Graziella , Patroni Andrea , Latronico Nicola
Published: July 2023

Introduction: Not enough data exist to inform the optimal duration and type of antimicrobial therapy against GN infections in critically ill patients. Methods: Narrative review based on a literature search through PubMed and Cochrane using the following keywords: “multi-drug resistant (MDR)”, “extensively drug resistant (XDR)”, “pan-drug-resistant (PDR)”, “difficult-to-treat (DTR) Gram-negative infection,” “antibiotic duration therapy”, “antibiotic combination therapy” “antibiotic monotherapy” “Gram-negative bacteremia”, “Gram-negative pneumonia”, and “Gram-negative intra-abdominal infection”. Results: Current literature data suggest adopting longer (≥10–14 days) courses of synergistic combination therapy due to the high global prevalence of ESBL-producing (45–50%), MDR (35%), XDR (15–20%), PDR (5.9–6.2%), and carbapenemases (CP)/metallo-β-lactamases (MBL)-producing (12.5–20%) Gram-negative (GN) microorganisms (i.e., Klebsiella pneumoniae, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Acinetobacter baumanii). On the other hand, shorter courses (≤5–7 days) of monotherapy should be limited to treating infections caused by GN with higher (≥3 antibiotic classes) antibiotic susceptibility. A general approach should be based on (i) third or further generation cephalosporins ± quinolones/aminoglycosides in the case of MDR-GN; (ii) carbapenems ± fosfomycin/aminoglycosides for extended-spectrum β-lactamases (ESBLs); and (iii) the association of old drugs with new expanded-spectrum β-lactamase inhibitors for XDR, PDR, and CP microorganisms. Therapeutic drug monitoring (TDM) in combination with minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC), bactericidal vs. bacteriostatic antibiotics, and the presence of resistance risk predictors (linked to patient, antibiotic, and microorganism) should represent variables affecting the antimicrobial strategies for treating GN infections. Conclusions: Despite the strategies of therapy described in the results, clinicians must remember that all treatment decisions are dynamic, requiring frequent reassessments depending on both the clinical and microbiological responses of the patient.
In Vitro Bioactivities of Commonly Consumed Cereal, Vegetable, and Legume Seeds as Related to Their Bioactive Components: An Untargeted Metabolomics Approach Using UHPLC–QTOF-MS2
Authors: Aloo Simon , Ofosu Fred , Muchiri Mary , Vijayalakshmi Selvakumar , Pyo Choi-Geun , Oh Deog-Hwan
Published: July 2023

We conducted a comprehensive evaluation of the antioxidant, anti-obesity, anti-diabetic, and anti-glycation activities associated with the consumption of broccoli, red cabbage, alfalfa, and buckwheat seeds. Additionally, we explored the relationship between these biological activities and the profiles of amino acids, polyphenols, and organic acids identified in the seeds. Our findings demonstrated that red cabbage, broccoli, and buckwheat extracts exhibited significantly higher antioxidant potential compared to the alfalfa extract. Moreover, buckwheat displayed the most significant capacity for inhibiting alpha-glucosidase. Remarkably, broccoli and red cabbage demonstrated substantial anti-glycation and lipase inhibitory potentials. We identified the presence of amino acids, polyphenols, and organic acids in the extracts through untargeted metabolomics analysis. Correlation analysis revealed that pyroglutamic acid positively correlated with all the investigated functional properties. Most polyphenols made positive contributions to the functional properties, with the exception of ferulic acid, which displayed a negative correlation with all tested biological activities. Furthermore, gluconic acid and arabinonic acid among the organic acids identified displayed a positive correlation with all the functional properties. These results strongly support the anti-diabetic, anti-obesity, and anti-glycation potential of red cabbage, broccoli, and buckwheat seeds.
Increased Blood Concentrations of Malondialdehyde in Plasmodium Infection: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Mueangson Onchuma , Mahittikorn Aongart , Anabire Nsoh Godwin , Mala Wanida , Kotepui Manas
Published: July 2023

Several studies have evaluated the relationship between malondialdehyde (MDA) concentrations and Plasmodium infections; however, the findings remain inconclusive. This study synthesized differences in MDA concentrations among patients with different levels of clinical severity, uninfected controls, and different Plasmodium species. The research protocol was registered in PROSPERO (CRD42023393540). Systematic literature searches for relevant studies were performed using the Embase, MEDLINE, Ovid, ProQuest, PubMed, Scopus, and Google Scholar databases. Qualitative and quantitative syntheses (meta-analyses) of distinct MDA concentrations between the disease groups were performed. Twenty-three studies met the eligibility criteria and were included in the systematic review. Overall, MDA concentrations were significantly elevated in participants with malaria relative to uninfected controls (p < 0.01, Cohen d: 2.51, 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.88–3.14, I2: 96.22%, 14 studies). Increased MDA concentrations in participants with malaria compared with uninfected controls were found in studies that enrolled patients with P. falciparum malaria (p < 0.01, Cohen d: 2.50, 95% CI: 1.90–3.10, I2: 89.7%, 7 studies) and P. vivax malaria (p < 0.01, Cohen d: 3.70, 95% CI: 2.48–4.92, I2: 90.11%, 3 studies). Our findings confirm that MDA concentrations increase during Plasmodium infection, indicating a rise in oxidative stress and lipid peroxidation. Thus, MDA levels can be a valuable biomarker for evaluating these processes in individuals with malaria. However, further research is necessary to fully elucidate the intricate relationship between malaria, antioxidants, oxidative stress, and the specific role of MDA in the progression of malaria.
Chemical Constituents, Antioxidant, and α-Glucosidase Inhibitory Activities of Different Fermented Gynostemma Pentaphyllum Leaves and Untargeted Metabolomic Measurement of the Metabolite Variation
Authors: Zhang Xuechun , Li Shi , Zhang Zhibin , Kong Kin Weng , Wang Zhenxing , He Xiahong
Published: July 2023

To assess the effects of microbial fermentation on Gynostemma pentaphyllum leaves (GPL), four probiotics were used to ferment GPL (FGPL) for 7 days. At different stages of fermentation, changes in the active components and biological activities of FGPL were determined. The findings suggest that short-term fermentation with probiotics can enhance both the content and bioactivity of active components in GPL. However, prolonged fermentation may lead to a decline in these aspects. Among them, the best effect was observed with SWFU D16 fermentation for 2 days. This significantly improved the total phenolic and total flavonoid content, antioxidant capacity, and inhibitory ability against α-glucosidase activity with an increase of 28%, 114.82%, 7.42%, and 31.8%, respectively. The high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) analysis results also supported this trend. Untargeted metabolomics analysis revealed metabolite changes between GPL and FGPL and the key metabolites associated with these functional activities. These key metabolites are mainly organic acids, flavonoids, carbohydrates, terpenoids, and other substances. KEGG analysis demonstrated that microbial metabolism in diverse environments and carbon metabolism were the most significantly enriched pathways. Among them, 3-(3-hydroxyphenyl) propanoic acid, d-glucose, gallic acid, gluconic acid, l-lactic acid, and l-malic acid were mostly involved in the microbial metabolism of diverse environmental pathways. In contrast, D-glucose, gluconic acid, and l-malic acid were mainly related to the carbon metabolism pathway. This study revealed the positive effect of probiotic fermentation on GPL and its potential metabolism mechanism, which could provide supporting data for further research.
Modulation of TLR4/NFκB Pathways in Autoimmune Myocarditis
Authors: Interdonato Livia , Impellizzeri Daniela , D’Amico Ramona , Cordaro Marika , Siracusa Rosalba , D’Agostino Melissa , Genovese Tiziana , Gugliandolo Enrico , Crupi Rosalia , Fusco Roberta , Cuzzocrea Salvatore , Di Paola Rosanna
Published: July 2023

Myocarditis is an inflammatory and oxidative disorder characterized by immune cell recruitment in the damaged tissue and organ dysfunction. In this paper, we evaluated the molecular pathways involved in myocarditis using a natural compound, Coriolus versicolor, in an experimental model of autoimmune myocarditis (EAM). Animals were immunized with an emulsion of pig cardiac myosin and complete Freund’s adjuvant supplemented with mycobacterium tuberculosis; thereafter, Coriolus versicolor (200 mg/Kg) was orally administered for 21 days. At the end of the experiment, blood pressure and heart rate measurements were recorded and the body and heart weights as well. From the molecular point of view, the Coriolus versicolor administration reduced the activation of the TLR4/NF-κB pathway and the levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines (INF-γ, TNF-α, IL-6, IL-17, and IL-2) and restored the levels of anti-inflammatory cytokines (IL-10). These anti-inflammatory effects were accompanied with a reduced lipid peroxidation and nitrite levels and restored the antioxidant enzyme activities (SOD and CAT) and GSH levels. Additionally, it reduced the histological injury and the immune cell recruitment (CD4+ and CD68+ cells). Moreover, we observed an antiapoptotic activity in both intrinsic (Fas/FasL/caspase-3) and extrinsic (Bax/Bcl-2) pathways. Overall, our data showed that Coriolus versicolor administration modulates the TLR4/NF-κB signaling in EAM.
Midgut Cell Damage and Oxidative Stress in Partamona helleri (Hymenoptera: Apidae) Workers Caused by the Insecticide Lambda-Cyhalothrin
Authors: Motta João Victor de Oliveira , Carneiro Lenise Silva , Martínez Luís Carlos , Bastos Daniel Silva Sena , Resende Matheus Tudor Candido Santos , Castro Bárbara Monteiro Castro , Neves Mariana Machado , Zanuncio José Cola , Serrão José Eduardo
Published: July 2023

The stingless bee Partamona helleri plays a role in pollinating both native and cultivated plants in the Neotropics. However, its populations can be reduced by the pyrethroid insecticide lambda-cyhalothrin. This compound may cross the intestinal barrier and circulate through the hemolymph, affecting various non-target bee organs. The aim of the present study was to assess the extent of cellular damage in the midgut and the resulting oxidative stress caused by lambda-cyhalothrin in P. helleri workers. Bees were orally exposed to lambda-cyhalothrin. The lethal concentration at which 50% of the bees died (LC50) was 0.043 mg a.i. L−1. The P. helleri workers were fed this concentration of lambda-cyhalothrin and their midguts were evaluated. The results revealed signs of damage in the midgut epithelium, including pyknotic nuclei, cytoplasm vacuolization, changes in the striated border, and the release of cell fragments, indicating that the midgut was compromised. Furthermore, the ingestion of lambda-cyhalothrin led to an increase in the activity of the detoxification enzyme superoxide dismutase and the levels of the NO2/NO3 markers, indicating oxidative stress. Conversely, the activities of the catalase and glutathione S-transferase enzymes decreased, supporting the occurrence of oxidative stress. In conclusion, the ingestion of lambda-cyhalothrin by P. helleri workers resulted in damage to their midguts and induced oxidative stress.