bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effects of Dietary Mixture Enriched in Polyunsaturated Fatty Acids and Probiotic on Performance, Biochemical Response, Breast Meat Fatty Acids, and Lipid Indices in Broiler Chickens
Authors: Gheorghe Anca , Habeanu Mihaela , Ciurescu Georgeta , Lefter Nicoleta Aurelia , Ropota Mariana , Custura Ioan , Tudorache Minodora
Published: August 2022

This study evaluated the effects of a dietary mixture based on extruded linseed and pea (ELP; 20:80 w/w) and probiotics (L. acidophilus) on the performance, biochemical responses, breast muscle fatty acids (FA) profile, and lipid indices in broiler chickens. A total of 480 one-day-old Ross 308 broilers were assigned into four groups in a 2 × 2 factorial arrangement with two levels of ELP (0% and 30%) at the expense of soybean meal, corn, and vegetable oil and two levels of probiotic (0 and 20 g ton−1 feed). There were no effects of ELP diet or probiotic supplementation on performance and carcass traits. Feeding the ELP diet increased plasma total protein, urea nitrogen (PUN), and creatinine (Cre) levels with no changes in the PUN/Cre ratio. A probiotic addition lowered the total cholesterol (TC), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), and the TC/HDL-C and LDL-C/HDL-C ratios. The ELP diet improved the breast muscle FA profile by lowering total saturated FA (SFA) and increasing total polyunsaturated FA (PUFA), omega-3 (n-3), unsaturated FA (UFA), PUFA/SFA, and UFA/SFA ratios. Probiotics increased total PUFA, omega-6 (n-6) and decreased the n-6/n-3 ratio, total UFA, and UFA/SFA ratio. Dietary treatment interaction exhibited a synergistic effect for total PUFA and an antagonistic effect for n-3 PUFA and n-6/n-3 PUFA ratio in breast muscle. Probiotics reduced some lipid indices (PUFA/SFA ratio, desirable FA and nutritive value index) only when ELP0 was fed. In conclusion, based on these results, using ELP30 alone in broiler diets is recommended to improve meat’s nutritional value for consumers.
Biological Characteristics of a Rare and Vulnerable Species (SCHIZOTHORAX ARGENTATUS (Kessler, 1874)) of TOKYRAUYN RIVER and Approbation of Its Artificial Reproduction
Authors: Amirbekova Fariza , Isbekov Kuanysh B. , Assylbekova Saule Zh. , Sharipova Olga A. , Adyrbekova Kamila , Bulavina Nailya
Published: August 2022

As a result of the complex impact of anthropogenic factors on the ecosystem of Balkhash Lake, the main commercial species of fish—endemic—Balkhash marinka was on the verge of extinction. Artificial reproduction is becoming increasingly important every year in the complex of works to maintain the commercial stocks of valuable fish species as well as to preserve rare and endangered populations. Despite the fact that attempts at artificial reproduction have been repeatedly made, to date no scientific and methodological basis has been created to study and preserve rare and endangered fish species in the Republic of Kazakhstan and there are no adapted technologies for the formation of repair herds of fish of this category for the fish breeding enterprises of the reproductive complex of Kazakhstan. The presence of a replacement stock of the Balkhash marinka will further contribute to the development and improvement of biotechnical methods for their breeding and cultivation of viable stocking material. The stocking of natural water bodies with viable fish seeds and the maintenance of living collections of rare and endangered fish species will contribute to their conservation in natural conditions and, as a reserve, in the country’s fish farms. The results of the development of effective technologies for artificial reproduction and the formation of a replacement stock of the Balkhash marinka in industrial conditions contribute to solving the fundamental problem associated with the preservation of rare and endemic fish species from complete extinction, genetic diversity and the rational use of the potential of natural populations. An analysis of genetic identification showed that the breeders of marinka, according to the results of sequencing the barcoding gene CO1 of mitochondrial DNA, belong to the species Balkhash marinka S. argentatus with an accuracy of 99–100%.
Reclamation of Saline Soil under Association between Atriplex nummularia L. and Glycophytes Plants
Authors: dos Santos Monaliza Alves , Freire Maria Betânia Galvão Santos , Freire Fernando José , da Rocha Alexandre Tavares , de Lucena Pedro Gabriel , Ladislau Cinthya Mirella Pacheco , de Melo Hidelblandi Farias
Published: August 2022

Phytoremediation is an efficient technique for the reclamation of salt-affected soils by growing plants. The present study aims to evaluate the intercropping of halophyte Atriplex nummularia Lindl. with naturally occurring species (Mimosa caesalpiniifolia Benth, Leucaena leucocephala (Lam.) de Wit and Azadirachta indica A. Juss.) adapted to semiarid regions as a management capable of enhancing the phytoremediation capacity of these species. A field experiment was conducted in a randomized block and contained four replicates. Species were cultivated alone and in association with A. nummularia to evaluate their potential uses in the reclamation of soils. Exchangeable Ca2+, Mg2+, Na+, and K+, as well as salinity and sodicity variables, were evaluated. The evaluations were performed at 9 and 18 months of plant growth. The results indicated that A. nummularia individualized was the treatment most efficient; with reductions of 80%, 63%, and 84% in electrical conductivity, sodium adsorption ratio, and exchangeable sodium percentage values, respectively at 18 months compared to starting of the experiment. However, the use of A. nummularia and species adapted to the semiarid in association, or even alone, promoted beneficial effects on the soil quality after the establishment of the plants.
Validation of Molecular Markers Significant for Flowering Time, Plant Lodging, Stem Geometry Properties, and Raffinose Family Oligosaccharides in Pea (Pisum sativum L.)
Authors: Gawłowska Magdalena , Lahuta Lesław , Boros Lech , Sawikowska Aneta , Kumar Pankaj , Knopkiewicz Michał , Kaczmarek Zygmunt , Święcicki Wojciech
Published: August 2022

The field pea (Pisum sativum L.) is studied as an important grain legume used in both human and animal feed. DNA markers can contribute to the rapid breeding of novel pea cultivars. This study aimed to identify such molecular markers as the number of days to the beginning of flowering, plant lodging, and stem geometry. Phenotypic measurements were recorded during the field trials. Qualitative and quantitative analyses of soluble carbohydrates (e.g., monosaccharides, sucrose, and raffinose family oligosaccharides) in the pea seeds were performed. A t-test was used to detect the significance of markers associated with each trait. Fifteen markers that were significant for thirteen traits were identified in this analysis. The same markers were identified for verbascose concentration in 2013 and 2014 and stem-wall thickness in 2014 and 2015. Our marker for the number of days to the beginning of flowering (AB141) was 4 cM from the AB64 marker, which was identified as a marker linked to days to 50% bloom. We found a negative correlation between lodging score at the end of flowering and stem diameter in the middle (2015, −0.40) of this study set of pea lines. Although similar correlations were detected in the Carneval × MP1401 population, the correlation between lodging at maturity and diameter in the middle and upper stem sections was positive. In markers validation, particularly for polygenic traits, a statistical analysis of the observed characters is an important step for a division of the trait values into a bimodal distribution.
Growth, Yield and Profitability of Major Carps Culture in Coastal Homestead Ponds Stocked with Wild and Hatchery Fish Seed
Authors: Hossain Mohammad Belal , Nur As-Ad Ujjaman , Ahmed Md. Moudud , Ullah Md. Akram , Albeshr Mohammed Fahad , Arai Takaomi
Published: August 2022

Major carps, native freshwater fish in South Asian nations, are economically valuable fish species with high market demand. Coastal rural people can cultivate them in their own seasonal, largely underutilized, small homestead ponds with low input and understanding. However, the major problems with fish production in this region are the lack of quality carp seed and appropriate culture techniques. Therefore, this research was carried out on growth performance, survival rate, yield, feed conversion ratio (FCR), and profit of carp polyculture systems stocking with hatchery-produced and wild sourced fish seed in homestead ponds located in a coastal area along the Bay of Bengal. Three different treatments (T1–T3), each treatment with three replications, were designed for culturing carps, Gibelion catla, Labeo rohita, Labeo calbasu, and Cirrhinus mrigala using two local hatcheries seeds (T1 and T2), and wild seeds from the Halda River (T3). For all treatments, the stocked fish were maintained in the same size, weight, density, and ratio. Water quality parameters were measured at intervals of seven days, and the mean values were found to be within an acceptable range for fish farming and, in most cases, did not differ significantly from each other. The specific growth rate (SGR) was found higher in T3 for G. catla (1.16 ± 0.012%/day), L. rohita (1.19 ± 0.035%/day), and C. mrigala (1.06 ± 0.03%/day) and significantly differed (p < 0.05) among the treatments. Additionally, there were significant differences between the treatments in terms of ultimate weight, weight gain, survival rate, fish production, and return on investment (ROI) (p < 0.05). The lower FCR in T3 (2.65 ± 0.10) than in T1 (3.32 ± 0.31) and T2 (3.21 ± 0.33) indicated that stocking wild seed had higher profitability potentials. High genetic variety in the population of naturally occurring, free-living fish, resistance to disease, a high rate of survival, and the hardiness of wild seed are all factors that might contribute to the better performance of wild seed stock. However, the total yield and total return from the T3 treatment also emphasized that carp farming using wild seed is not viable because of the variable amount, high seed cost, low transportation facilities, and very small natural seed-stock supplies from the river. Inbreeding and reduced genetic variety in the hatchery stock could result in the production of poor-quality seed, which had an impact on the production performance in culture treatments stocked with hatchery seed.
Effects of Grazing Sheep and Mowing on Grassland Vegetation Community and Soil Microbial Activity under Different Levels of Nitrogen Deposition
Authors: Zhou Chengyang , Zuo Shining , Wang Xiaonan , Ji Yixin , Lamao Qiezhuo , Liu Li , Huang Ding
Published: August 2022

Increasing nitrogen deposition plays a critical role in the material circulation of grassland. Mowing and grazing sheep are important means of utilizing grassland. This study investigated the effects of nitrogen deposition, sheep grazing and mowing on the soil, vegetation and soil microorganisms of grassland. N deposition increased soil inorganic nitrogen, SOM and microbial activity, and decreased soil pH, while grazing sheep and mowing had opposing effects. Compared with mowing, grazing sheep decreased the range of grass groups in the community. N deposition increased the proportion of Leymus chinensis in the community and decreased community diversity. N deposition enhanced the contribution rate of soil to the vegetation community, and reduced the effect of microorganisms on the vegetation community. In addition, N deposition significantly interacted with mowing and grazing sheep in terms of effects on soil inorganic nitrogen, soil organic matter (SOM), microbial respiration (Q), microbial mass carbon (MBC), and vegetation diversity. Therefore, appropriate N deposition in sheep grazing and mown grasslands could enhance inorganic N and organic matter, increase microbial activity, offset the adverse effects of grazing sheep and mowing, and contribute to maintaining community diversity and grassland productivity.
Changes in the Physiological Adaptation and Regulation Ability in Harmonia axyridis under Chlorpyrifos and Imidacloprid Stress
Authors: Li Guoyong , Ni Xiaoli , Liu Meikun , Tang Bing , Li Can , Liu Yangyang
Published: August 2022

As the dominant natural enemy of aphids, Harmonia axyridis plays a crucial role in integrated pest control (IPM) in agro-ecosystems. In order to study the physiological adaptation and regulation ability of Harmonia axyridis to insecticides under chemical pesticide stress, ladybirds were treated with organophosphorus chlorpyrifos (chlorpyrifos) and new nicotine imidacloprid (imidacloprid) to explore the physiological adaptability of ladybirds under chemical pesticide stress by activating trehalose metabolism. The results showed that the imidacloprid affect the larvae develop to pupate, resulted in the H. axyridis died and significantly increased the food consumption of Harmonia axyridis, while the chlorpyrifos prolong the development period of pupae significantly and decreased significantly the food intake of H. axyridis fed with aphids treated with chlorpyrifos. It was further found that Chlorpyrifos could inhibit the activity of the trehalase, while the trehalase activity increased under imidacloprid stress, but both insecticides could decrease the trehalose content. The TRE and TPS genes of Harmonia axyridis under chlorpyrifos and imidacloprid stress were upregulated or downregulated. These relevant results can provide a strong reference for the rational use of chemical pesticides or biological pesticides to control pests in the future.
Nondestructive Detection of Microcracks in Poultry Eggs Based on the Electrical Characteristics Model
Authors: Shi Chenbo , Wang Yuxin , Zhang Chun , Yuan Jin , Cheng Yanhong , Jia Baodun , Zhu Changsheng
Published: August 2022

The eggshell is the major source of protection for the inside of poultry eggs from microbial contamination. Timely detection of cracked eggs is the key to improving the edible rate of fresh eggs, hatching rate of breeding eggs and the quality of egg products. Different from traditional detection based on acoustics and vision, this paper proposes a nondestructive method of detection for eggshell cracks based on the egg electrical characteristics model, which combines static and dynamic electrical characteristics and designs a multi-layer flexible electrode that can closely fit the eggshell surface and a rotating mechanism that takes into account different sizes of eggs. The current signals of intact eggs and cracked eggs were collected under 1500 V of DC voltage, and their time domain features (TFs), frequency domain features (FFs) and wavelet features (WFs) were extracted. Machine learning algorithms such as support vector machine (SVM), linear discriminant analysis (LDA), decision tree (DT) and random forest (RF) were used for classification. The relationship between various features and classification algorithms was studied, and the effectiveness of the proposed method was verified. Finally, the method is proven to be universal and generalizable through an experiment on duck eggshell microcrack detection. The experimental results show that the proposed method can realize the detection of eggshell microcracks of less than 3 μm well, and the random forest model combining the three features mentioned above is proven to be the best, with a detection accuracy of cracked eggs and intact eggs over 99%. This nondestructive method can be employed online for egg microcrack inspection in industrial applications.
Crop Lodging and The Roles of Lignin, Cellulose, and Hemicellulose in Lodging Resistance
Authors: Li Qing , Fu Canfang , Liang Chengliang , Ni Xiangjiang , Zhao Xuanhua , Chen Meng , Ou Lijun
Published: August 2022

With increasingly frequent extreme weather events, lodging has become an important limiting factor for crop yield and quality and for mechanical harvesting. Lodging resistance is a precondition for “super high yield” crops, and the question of how to achieve lodging resistance to guarantee high yield is an urgent scientific problem. Here, we summarize the anatomical results of lodging resistance stems and find that the lodging resistance of stems is closely related to stem components. Therefore, we focus on the roles of lignin, cellulose and hemicellulose, which provide stem rigidity and strength, in crop lodging resistance. By combing the synthetic regulatory molecular network of lignin, cellulose and hemicellulose, we find that only some of the genes involved in the biosynthesis and regulation of lignin, cellulose, and hemicellulose have been shown to significantly affect lodging resistance. However, many relevant genes remain to be studied in sufficient detail to determine whether they can be applied in breeding for lodging resistance. This work provides valuable information for future studies of lodging resistance.
Combining Ability Analysis and Marker-Based Prediction of Heterosis in Yield Reveal Prominent Heterotic Combinations from Diallel Population of Rice
Authors: Rahman Md. Mobinur , Sarker Umakanta , Swapan Md Ahsanul Haque , Raihan Mohammad Sharif , Oba Shinya , Alamri Saud , Siddiqui Manzer H.
Published: August 2022

Combining ability along with heterosis was elucidated in the 21 F1 hybrid population of rice derived from a 7 × 7 diallel mating design. Furthermore, to formulate a strategy for marker-based prediction of heterosis, the molecular genetic diversity (GD) was then surveyed among the seven parental lines with RAPD markers. Analysis of combining ability revealed significant GCA and SCA variances and the ratio between the aforesaid genetic parameter was more than unity for most of the traits signifying the preponderance of additive gene action. Hybrid combination Double Rice × Pokkali was the best specific combiner for the traits pollen fertility percentage (%), panicle length (cm), filled grains/panicle (no.) and grain yield/hill (g) while Muktagacha × BRRI dhan29 and Basmati × Double Rice were the best specific combiners for grain length (mm) and 1000-grain weight (g), respectively. Regarding the magnitude of heterosis, Double Rice × Pokkali exhibited maximum heterobeltiosis for panicle length (33.33%) and the number of filled grains/panicle (144.01%). Furthermore, Pokkali × Chinigura was verified for producing the highest heterobeltiosis for tillers/hill (173.17%), as well as grain yield/hill (71.05%). The heatmap relying on molecular genetic diversity exposed the highest genetic distance between Chinigura and Pokkali followed by Muktagacha and Pokkali. Unweighted neighbor-joining trees clustered the parental lines into three groups indicating the presence of considerable genetic diversity among those seven parental genotypes. A positive and significant correlation was explored between molecular GD with specific combining ability as well as heterosis for all of the traits revealing the huge potentiality of hybrid performance prediction using RAPD markers with the present set of individuals. Thus, exploration of definite genomic regions underlying the candidate genes for respective traits relying on such RAPD-generated data following an advanced molecular marker approach would pave the path of mining out yielder heterotic combinations.
Design and Verification of the Variable Capacity Roller-Wheel Precision Rice Direct Seed-Metering Device
Authors: Li Hanqing , Zhao Chunjiang , Yan Bingxin , Ling Lin , Meng Zhijun
Published: August 2022

In view of the problems of the inability to continuously adjust the seeding rate, small adjustment range, and low precision of the rice direct seed-metering device, a variable capacity roller-wheel seed-metering device was designed, fabricated, and verified. With the variable capacity method, the seeding rate could be adjusted steplessly and with high precision through the seeding rate adjusting mechanism. Meanwhile, theoretical analysis and parametric design of the critical components, such as the seeding wheel and the seeding rate adjusting mechanism, were carried out. The rotation speed of the seed-metering device, the sphericity of rice seeds, and the adjustment depth were selected as the main influencing factors of the experiment. Then, the full-factor experiment was conducted, and the results of the bench validation experiments showed that the average seeds per hill error of the seed-metering device could be controlled within 2%. Meanwhile, the seed-metering device performed the best when the rotation speed of the seed meter device was 30 r/min, the sphericity of rice seeds was 52.7%, and the hole depth was 6 mm. Compared to the conventional mechanical precision seed-metering device, the designed seed-metering device offered better seeding performance. The research results provide theoretical and practical references for the design of a rice seed-metering device and the development of precision agriculture.
QTL Mapping of Mesocotyl Elongation and Confirmation of a QTL in Dongxiang Common Wild Rice in China
Authors: Huang Qian , Ju Chunyan , Cheng Yibing , Cui Di , Han Bing , Zhao Zhengwu , Ma Xiaoding , Han Longzhi
Published: August 2022

Direct-seeded rice (DSR) cultivation is an effective and important way to resolve agricultural labor scarcity, water scarcity and high production cost issues. Mesocotyl elongation (ME) is the main driver of the rapid emergence of rice seedlings from the soil and is an important indicator of the suitability of rice varieties for direct seeding. Hence, discovering ME-related genes is particularly important for breeding rice varieties suitable for direct seeding. In this study, a chromosome segment substitution line (CSSL) population generated from a cross between Dongxiang common wild rice and Nipponbare (Nip) was used to map quantitative trait loci (QTLs) for ME. Two QTLs for mesocotyl length were identified on chromosomes 3 and 6 with logarithm of odds (LOD) scores ranging from 5.47 to 6.04 and explaining 15.95–16.79% of the phenotypic variance. Among these QTLs, qML6 accounted for the highest phenotypic variance (16.79%). Then, to confirm the strongest QTL, we generated an F2 segregating population via the CSL127 line harboring the qML6 locus and the recurrent parent Nip. The QTL qML6-1 associated with ME was mapped to a location between markers DX-C6-2 and DX-C6-4, which is consistent with the location of the previously mapped QTL qML6. qML6-1 had an LOD score of 8.45 and explained 30.56% of the phenotypic variance. The QTLs detected in this study provide promising targets for further genetic characterization and for use in marker-assisted selection to develop varieties with improved ME for the cultivation of DSR.
Multifunctional Role of Acca sellowiana from Farm Management to Postharvest Life: A Review
Authors: Vatrano Thomas , Amenta Margherita , Copetta Andrea , Guardo Maria , Nunziata Angelina , Strano Maria Concetta , Petriccione Milena
Published: August 2022

Feijoa (Acca sellowiana (O. Berg) Burret syn Feijoa sellowiana Berg) is a monotypic species belonging to the Myrtaceae family. Feijoa is cultivated in different countries, and it is mainly consumed as fresh fruit, due to its attractive nutritional quality, nevertheless, several feijoa-based products have been produced and are available in some niche and local markets. The fruits are not the only edible part of the tree since petals of hermaphrodite showy flowers can also be eaten. Fruits are rich in vitamin C, fiber, potassium, iodine, phosphorus, sugars, and calcium. In addition, a large number of bioactive compounds, with many health-promoting benefits, have been identified. This review is carried out with the aim to provide comprehensive and updated over-view of the state of the art related to the knowledge on feijoa, evaluating the main agronomic, qualitative, and nutraceutical traits of its edible parts. Moreover, the variability in feijoa genetic resources to identify and select promising genotypes useful for breeding programs and the postharvest management of fruit and edible flowers will be discussed. Overall, feijoa has great potential to be considered as a sustainable fruit crop from farm to table.
The Problem of Weed Infestation of Agricultural Plantations vs. the Assumptions of the European Biodiversity Strategy
Authors: Kubiak Adrianna , Wolna-Maruwka Agnieszka , Niewiadomska Alicja , Pilarska Agnieszka A.
Published: August 2022

Meeting the nutritional needs of a dynamically developing global society is a major challenge. Despite the modernisation of agriculture, huge losses in the quality and quantity of crops occur each year, mainly due to weed species, which are the most important biotic limitation to agricultural production. Globally, approximately 1800 weed species cause a 31.5% reduction in plant production, which translates to USD 32 billion per year in economic losses. However, when the same herbicides are frequently applied, plants develop segetal immune mechanisms. There are currently around 380 herbicide-resistant weed biotypes worldwide. Due to the negative influence of herbicides on ecosystems and the legal regulations that limit the use of chemical crop protection products, it is necessary to develop a new method of weed control. Bioherbicides, based on living organisms or their secondary metabolites, seem to be an ideal solution. The biocontrol market is worth around EUR 550 million in Europe and EUR 1.6 billion worldwide, with an estimated 15% growth expected by 2025. Despite numerous studies that have demonstrated the effectiveness of microbial bioherbicides, only 25 mould-based bioherbicides are currently available to growers. Due to the high specificity and selectivity of biological crop protection products, as well as their low production costs and non-toxicity to the environment and human health, they would appear to be a safe alternative to chemical pesticides.
Industrial Hemp Clone Selection Method under LED Smart Farm Condition Based on CBD Production per Cubic Meter
Authors: Ryu Byeong-Ryeol , Kim Chang-Hyeug , Kwon Tae-Hyung , Han Joon-Hee , Gim Gyeong-Ju , Jahirul Islam Md , Azad Md Obyedul Kalam , Hafizur Rahman Md , Soyel Rana Md , Lim Jung-Dae , Lim Young-Seok
Published: August 2022

Cannabis breeders are combining several genes to develop economically valuable fiber, seed, and medicinal hemp. This study analyzed the characteristics and selection of traits based on cannabidiol production of medicinal cannabis lines successfully grown under artificial light and nutrient solution cultivation conditions in smart farm conditions. Sixteen female plants were selected by seeding medical hemp F1 hybrid specimens obtained by randomly crossing Cherry Wine and native hemp from each country. The F1 generation was treated with 12 h light to induce flower differentiation. CBD production peaked on day 50 of the treatment, and this was selected as the harvesting day. All F1 hybrids were separated by leaf and inflorescence after collecting morphological data, and fresh and dry weights were measured. The CBD production of leaf and inflorescence per cubic meter was calculated. The CW21-5 line produced a total of 53.002 ± 0.228 g of CBD per cubic meter, the highest CBD producer. In addition, heatmap correlation analysis showed that most morphological data were not related to cannabinoid content. Principal Component Analysis (PCA) and Self-Organizing Map (SOM) analysis showed that CW21-5 is an arbitrary line that does not cluster with other lines, and the reason for its excellent CBD yield per cubic meter is that it has a narrow plant diameter and a high CBD content at the same time.
Ultrasound-Assisted Extraction of Total Phenolic Compounds and Antioxidant Activity in Mushrooms
Authors: Aliaño-González María José , Barea-Sepúlveda Marta , Espada-Bellido Estrella , Ferreiro-González Marta , López-Castillo José Gerardo , Palma Miguel , Barbero Gerardo F. , Carrera Ceferino
Published: August 2022

The consumption of mushrooms has considerably increased in recent years because of their beneficial nutritional properties due to their essential amino acids, proteins, and dietary fiber content. Recent research has shown that they are also rich in polysaccharides and phenolic compounds. These compounds exhibit decisive free radical and ROS scavenging power with potential application to the treatment of neurodegenerative disorders. In addition, they present important properties like antioxidant, antiaging, and immune modulation. In the present research, the optimization for the extraction of total phenolic compounds and the antioxidant activity (DPPH and ABTS), based on ultrasound–assisted techniques has been carried out. Five variables (% MeOH in solvent, extraction temperature, amplitude, cycle, and sample:solvent ratio have been selected; both the total phenolic compounds content as well as the antioxidant activity (DPPH and ABTS)) have been considered as the response variables. The optimal conditions, determined by means of a multiresponse optimization method, were established at 0.2 g of sample extracted with 15.3 mL of solvent (93.6% MeOH) at 60 °C for 5 min and using 16.86% amplitude and 0.71 s−1 cycles. A precision study of the optimized method has been performed with deviations lower than 5%, which proves the repeatability and precision of the extraction method. Finally, the extraction method has been applied to wild and commercial mushrooms from Andalusia and Northern Morocco, which has confirmed its suitability for the extraction of the phenolic compounds from mushroom samples, while ensuring maximum antioxidant activity.
CO2 Elevation and Nitrogen Supply Alter the Growth and Physiological Responses of Tomato and Barley Plants to Drought Stress
Authors: Chen Yiting , Wei Zhenhua , Wan Heng , Zhang Jiarui , Liu Jie , Liu Fulai
Published: August 2022

Global climate change will modify plants in terms of growth and physiology. To better understand the consequences of this effect, the responses of the leaf water relations and nitrogen (N) use efficiency of barley and tomato plants to elevated CO2 (e[CO2], 800 ppm) combined with progressive drought stress at two levels of N supply (N1, 0.5 g N pot−1 and N2, 1.0 g N pot−1) were studied. The plants were grown in two separate phytotrons at ambient CO2 (a[CO2], 400 ppm) and e[CO2], respectively. The leaf physiological parameters as well as carbon (C) and N concentrations were determined; plant growth, water and N use efficiencies were evaluated. The results showed that e[CO2] increased photosynthesis and water use efficiency (WUE) while decreased specific leaf area (SLA) in both species, whereas N supply level differentially influenced WUE in barley and tomato plants. The abscisic acid (ABA)-induced stomatal closure during progressive soil drying varied between the two species where the stomatal conductance (gs) of barley plants was more sensitive to leaf ABA than tomato plants, though CO2 environment did not affect the response in both species. Compared to a[CO2], e[CO2] reduced plant transpiration rate (Tplant) in barley but not in tomato. e[CO2] increased the leaf C:N ratio ([C:N]leaf) in plants by enhancing leaf C concentration ([C]leaf) in barley and by dilution of leaf N concentration ([N]leaf) in tomato, respectively, but N2 substantially decreased [C:N]leaf, and thus, N treatment was the dominant factor controlling [C:N]leaf. Collectively, appropriate N supply may modulate the acclimation of plants to e[CO2] and soil water deficits. This study provides some novel insights into N management of different plant species for adapting to future drier and CO2-enriched environment.
Effects of Biochar on Soil Properties and Tomato Growth
Authors: Calcan Suzana Ioana , Pârvulescu Oana Cristina , Ion Violeta Alexandra , Răducanu Cristian Eugen , Bădulescu Liliana , Madjar Roxana , Dobre Tănase , Egri Diana , Moț Andrei , Iliescu Lavinia Mihaela , Jerca Ionuț Ovidiu
Published: August 2022

The paper aimed at evaluating the effects of biochar (BC) produced by slow pyrolysis of vine pruning residue on soil physicochemical properties and tomato plant growth. A greenhouse experiment was conducted for 66 days, applying different treatments for 3 soil types, i.e., foliar fertilizer, BC (at a volumetric ratio between BC and soil of 20/80), BC + foliar fertilizer, and no treatments. Strongly alkaline BC (pH = 9.89 ± 0.01) had a significant beneficial effect on the growth performance of tomato plants sown in a strongly acidic soil (pH = 5.40 ± 0.02). The mean values of height, number of leaves, and collar diameter of plants grown in BC-amended soil without foliar treatment were up to 50% higher than those of plants grown in soil with the other treatments. This positive effect of BC on plant growth is due to the changes in the soil properties. The addition of BC led to increased values of electrical conductivity, pH, soluble and available nutrient concentration. Moreover, BC reduced soil bulk density by about 50%, resulting in improved plant root development and thus enhanced water and nutrient uptake. Accordingly, BC derived from vine pruning residues can improve soil quality and tomato plant growth, as well as reduce biomass residues.
Physical Attributes of an Irrigated Oxisol after Brassicas Crops under No-Tillage System
Authors: Torres José Luiz Rodrigues , Mazetto Júnior José Carlos , de Souza Silveira Bruna , Loss Arcângelo , dos Santos Gilsonley Lopes , de Assis Renato Lara , Lemes Ernane Miranda , da Silva Vieira Dinamar Márcia
Published: August 2022

In no-tillage areas, cover crops are a continuous supply of organic matter and other positive improvements to the soil’s structural quality. We evaluated soil physical attributes in area cultivated with brassica crops on residues of cover crops cultivated under no-tillage. Six cover crops coverages [1-Brachiaria (B), 2-Sunn hemp (S), 3-Pearl millet (M), 4-S + B; 5-B + M; 6-S + M] and a native area (Cerrado biome), were evaluated for soil resistance to penetration (RP), soil density (SD), soil macroporosity, microporosity, volumetric moisture (VM), weighted mean diameter, geometric mean diameter, and aggregate stability index. RP and VM differed among treatments; no compacted soil layer was observed at up to 0.4 m soil depth; Low RP and SD were observed for Brachiaria and Pearl millet (Poaceae) compared to Sunn hemp (Fabaceae) in deeper soil layers; The principal components and cluster analysis indicated B + M as the most promising coverage for deep soil structuring. The soil physical quality indicators showed that millet in isolated cultivation or intercropped with another cover was the culture that presented the best results for most of the evaluated characteristics. The best indices of soil aggregation were observed where the species of the Poaceae Family were being cultivated in isolation or intercropped with each other.
Chitosan and Titanium Dioxide Are More Effective in Improving Seed Yield and Quality in Nanoparticle Compared to Non-Structured Form: A Case Study in Five Milk Thistle Ecotypes (Silybum marianum (L.) Gaertn.)
Authors: Jafari Samira , Mousavi-Fard Sadegh , Rezaei Nejad Abdolhossein , Mumivand Hasan , Sorkheh Karim , Nikoloudakis Nikolaos , Fanourakis Dimitrios
Published: August 2022

Milk thistle is an important medicinal crop. In this two-year field study, the optimal form [bulk (non-structured), nanoparticles (NPs)] and concentration (0, 50, 100 mg L−1) of chitosan and titanium dioxide (TiO2) applications for improving seed yield, as well as seed mineral (N, Mg, Fe, Ti), protein, and oil contents were investigated in five ecotypes. Leaf gas exchange, ratio of variable to maximum fluorescence (Fv/Fm), and hydration were also evaluated in situ. Chitosan and TiO2 improved all traits under study, with the former generally being more effective. When applied in the NP form, the positive effect was stronger. For chitosan NPs, a low concentration was optimal. Increased hydration status was associated with enhanced stomatal conductance, which, together with Fv/Fm, were positively related to photosynthetic rate. The seed yield per plant was positively related to main capitulum traits (i.e., diameter, number, and weight of seeds), as well as to seed weight and number of capitula per plant. In conclusion, the improvement of seed yield and quality by application of chitosan and TiO2 in either form was underlain by the same components, though their relative importance depends on the ecotype. Chitosan NPs were most effective, demonstrating an economical, eco-friendly, and sustainable means to stimulate milk thistle yield.
Behaviour and Welfare Impacts of Releasing Elephants from Overnight Tethers: A Zimbabwean Case Study
Authors: Williams Ellen , Clark Natasha , Rendle-Worthington Jake , Yon Lisa
Published: August 2022

Within the southern African elephant tourism industry, chaining or tethering elephants is still a relatively routine practice, despite the known negative impacts. Cited reasons for chaining include fear of aggressive interactions between elephants when handlers are absent, or a general increase in expression of aggressive behaviours (both to other elephants and to their human handlers). In Zimbabwe, concerns expressed include the danger of elephants escaping and entering human-inhabited areas. Four male semi-captive elephants at a Zimbabwe tourist facility were taken off overnight (~12 h) tethers and were placed in small pens (‘bomas’), approximate sizes from 110 m2 to 310 m2), as part of a strategy to improve elephant welfare. Behavioural data were collected from overnight videos from December 2019 to March 2020, between 18:00 to 06:00, using focal, instantaneous sampling (5-min interval). Data were collected for three nights at three time periods: (i) Tethered; (ii) approximately four weeks post-release; (iii) approximately eight weeks post-release. Behavioural change over these time points was analysed using general linear models with quasibinomial error structures. Behavioural changes indicative of improved welfare were observed following these management changes, and no significant increases in aggression were observed either between elephants, or towards their human handlers. Proportion of time engaging in lying rest was higher in the first month after release from tethering (mean ± SD, 50 ± 14%) than when elephants were tethered (20 ± 18%) (p < 0.05). Additionally, although not statistically significant, stereotypies were reduced when elephants were no longer tethered (4 ± 6% observations tethered compared to 2 ± 2% off tethers), and positive social behaviour also increased (1 ± 1% on tethers, 2 ± 2% off tethers), with the greatest improvements seen in the pair-housed elephants. To improve elephant welfare in southern African tourism facilities we strongly advocate that less restrictive management practices which enable greater choice and freedom of movement overnight are implemented.
Harbour Porpoise Abundance in Portugal over a 5-Year Period and Estimates of Potential Distribution
Authors: Torres-Pereira Andreia , Araújo Hélder , Matos Fábio L. , Bastos-Santos Jorge , Sá Sara , Ferreira Marisa , Martínez-Cedeira José , López Alfredo , Sequeira Marina , Vingada José , Eira Catarina
Published: August 2022

The Iberian porpoise population is small and under potentially unsustainable removal by fisheries bycatch. Recently, a marine Site of Community Importance (SCI) was legally approved in Portugal, but no measures ensued to promote porpoise conservation. Information about porpoise abundance and distribution is fundamental to guide any future conservation measures. Annual aerial surveys conducted between 2011 and 2015 show a low overall porpoise abundance and density (2254 individuals; 0.090 ind/km2, CV = 21.99%) in the Portuguese coast. The highest annual porpoise estimates were registered in 2013 (3207 individuals, 0.128 ind/km2), followed by a sharp decrease in 2014 (1653 individuals, 0.066 ind/km2). The porpoise density and abundance estimated in 2015 remained lower than the 2013 estimates. A potential distribution analysis of the Iberian porpoise population was performed using ensembles of small models (ESMs) with MaxEnt and showed that the overall habitat suitability is particularly high in the Portuguese northern area. The analysis also suggested a different pattern in porpoise potential distribution across the study period. These results emphasize the importance of further porpoise population assessments to fully understand the spatial and temporal porpoise habitat use in the Iberian Peninsula as well as the urgent need for on-site threat mitigation measures.
A Perspective of Molecular Cytogenomics, Toxicology, and Epigenetics for the Increase of Heterochromatic Regions and Retrotransposable Elements in Tambaqui (Colossoma macropomum) Exposed to the Parasiticide Trichlorfon
Authors: dos Santos Costa Maria , da Silva Hallana Cristina Menezes , Soares Simone Cardoso , Favarato Ramon Marin , Feldberg Eliana , Gomes Ana Lúcia Silva , Artoni Roberto Ferreira , Matoso Daniele Aparecida
Published: August 2022

Rex retroelements are the best-known transposable elements class and are broadly distributed through fish and also individual genomes, playing an important role in their evolutionary dynamics. Several agents can stress these elements; among them, there are some parasitic compounds such as the organochlorophosphate Trichlorfon. Consequently, knowing that the organochlorophosphate Trichlorfon is indiscriminately used as an antiparasitic in aquaculture, the current study aimed to analyze the effects of this compound on the activation of the Transposable Elements (TEs) Rex1, Rex3, and Rex6 and the structure of heterochromatin in the mitotic chromosomes of the tambaqui (Colossoma macropomum). For this, two concentrations of the pesticide were used: 30% (0.261 mg/L) and 50% (0.435 mg/L) of the recommended LC50–96 h concentration (0.87 mg/L) for this fish species. The results revealed a dispersed distribution for Rex1 and Rex6 retroelements. Rex3 showed an increase in both marking intensity and distribution, as well as enhanced chromosomal heterochromatinization. This probably happened by the mediation of epigenetic adaptive mechanisms, causing the retroelement mobilization to be repressed. However, this behavior was most evident when Trichlorfon concentrations and exposure times were the greatest, reflecting the genetic flexibility necessary for this species to successfully adapt to environmental changes.
Detection of Giardia duodenalis Zoonotic Assemblages AI and BIV in Pet Prairie Dogs (Cynomys ludovicanus) in Bangkok, Thailand
Authors: Kamyingkird Ketsarin , Phoosangwalthong Pornkamol , Klinkaew Nutsuda , Leelanupat Alisara , Kengradomkij Chanya , Chimnoi Wissanuwat , Rungnirundorn Teerapat , Nimsuphan Burin , Inpankaew Tawin
Published: August 2022

Giardia is a flagellate protozoa that can be transmitted via direct contact and by consuming contaminated water. It is pathogenic in humans and various other animals, including exotic pets. Pet prairie dogs are popular in Thailand, but they have not been investigated regarding giardiasis. Giardia infection was measured, and genetic characterization was performed to investigate the zoonotic potential of Giardia carried by pet prairie dogs. In total, 79 fecal samples were examined from prairie dogs visiting the Kasetsart University Veterinary Teaching Hospital during 2017–2021. Simple floatation was conducted. Two Giardia-positive samples were submitted for DNA extraction, PCR targeting the Giardiassu rRNA, tpi and gdh genes was performed, and genetic characterization using sequencing analysis was conducted. Risk factors associated with Giardia infection were analyzed. Giardia infection was found in 11 out of the 79 pet prairie dogs (13.9%). Giardia infection was significantly higher in male prairie dogs (p = 0.0345). Coccidia cysts (12.7%), the eggs of nematodes (6.3%), and amoeba cysts (2.5%) were also detected. Genetic characterization of the two Giardia-positive samples revealed that they were G. duodenalis assemblage A, sub-genotypes AI and assemblage B, and sub-genotype BIV, the zoonotic assemblages. This was the first report of Giardia infection in pet prairie dogs in Bangkok, Thailand. The results revealed that these pet prairie dogs in Thailand were infected with zoonotic assemblages of G. duodenalis sub-genotype AI, which might have been derived from animal contaminants, whereas sub-genotype BIV might have been derived from human contaminants. Owners of prairie dogs might be at risk of giardiasis or be the source of infection to their exotic pets.
Effects of Enrofloxacin on the Epiphytic Algal Communities Growing on the Leaf Surface of Vallisneria natans
Authors: Chen Qi , Jin Luqi , Zhong Yuan , Ji Gaohua
Published: August 2022

Enrofloxacin (ENR) is a member of quinolones, which are extensively used in livestock farming and aquaculture to fight various bacterial diseases, but its residues are partially transferred to surface water and affect the local aquatic ecosystem. There are many studies on the effect of ENR on the growth of a single aquatic species, but few on the level of the aquatic community. Epiphytic algae, which are organisms attached to the surface of submerged plants, play an important role in the absorption of nitrogen and phosphorus in the ecological purification pond which are mainly constructed by submerged plants, and are commonly used in aquaculture effluent treatment. Enrofloxacin (ENR) is frequently detected in aquaculture ponds and possibly discharged into the purification pond, thus imposing stress on the pond ecosystem. Here, we performed a microcosm experiment to evaluate the short-term effects of pulsed ENR in different concentrations on the epiphytic algal communities growing on Vallisneria natans. Our results showed an overall pattern of “low-dose-promotion and high-dose-inhibition”, which means under low and median ENR concentrations, the epiphytic algal biomass was promoted, while under high ENR concentrations, the biomass was inhibited. This pattern was mainly attributed to the high tolerance of filamentous green algae and yellow-green algae to ENR. Very low concentrations of ENR also favored the growth of diatoms and cyanobacteria. These results demonstrate a significant alteration of epiphytic algal communities by ENR and also spark further research on the potential use of filamentous green algae for the removal of ENR in contaminated waters because of its high tolerance.
The Monitoring of Mycoplasma gallisepticum Minimum Inhibitory Concentrations during the Last Decade (2010–2020) Seems to Reveal a Comeback of Susceptibility to Macrolides, Tiamulin, and Lincomycin
Authors: Bottinelli Marco , Gastaldelli Michele , Picchi Micaela , Dall’Ora Arianna , Cristovao Borges Lorena , Ramírez Ana Sofía , Matucci Andrea , Catania Salvatore
Published: August 2022

Mycoplasma gallisepticum (Mg) is a highly contagious avian pathogen responsible for significant economic losses for the poultry industry. In some circumstances, antimicrobial treatment is useful to contain clinical signs of Mg infection in birds. However, antimicrobial resistance emergence is now common among animal pathogens, becoming a worldwide health concern. The collection of minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) data is fundamental for an appropriate antimicrobial use and for fighting antimicrobial resistance emergence. However, MIC data can only be generated in specialized laboratories, and therefore they are not regularly available. MICs of 67 non-vaccine-derived Mg isolates collected in Italy between 2010 and 2020 were obtained. Although 79.1% of the Mg isolates showed enrofloxacin MICs ≥ 8 µg/mL, a statistically significant trend toward low MICs of erythromycin, tylosin, tilmicosin, spiramycin, tiamulin, and lincomycin was observed, indicating a comeback to susceptibility of Mg toward these drugs. Doxycycline proved to be slightly more effective than oxytetracycline. The present study shows that Mg changed its susceptibility toward many of the drugs most commonly used for its containment over a ten-year period.