bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of Near-Freezing Temperature Storage on the Quality and Organic Acid Metabolism of Apple Fruit
Authors: Shu Chang , Liu Bangdi , Zhao Handong , Cui Kuanbo , Jiang Weibo
Published: July 2024

Organic acids play critical roles in fruit physiological metabolism and sensory quality. However, the conventional storage of apple fruit at 0 ± 0.1 °C cannot maintain fruit acidity efficiently. This study investigated near-freezing temperature (NFT) storage for ‘Golden Delicious’ apples, and the quality parameters, organic acid content, and malate metabolism were studied. The results indicate that NFT storage at −1.7 ± 0.1 °C effectively maintained the postharvest quality of apple fruit when compared to traditional storage at 0 ± 0.1 °C. Fruit that underwent NFT storage showed a better appearance and lower respiratory rate, ethylene production, weight loss, and malondialdehyde (MDA) content but higher firmness and soluble solids content. Further, fruit after NFT storage contained higher titratable acid (18.75%), malate (51.61%), citrate (36.59%), and succinate (2.12%) content when compared to the control after 250 days. This was achieved by maintaining higher cytosolic NAD-dependent malate dehydrogenase (cyNAD-MDH), phosphoenolpyruvate carboxylase (PEPC), vacuolar H+-ATPase (V-ATPase), and vacuolar inorganic pyrophosphatase (V-PPase) activities that promote malate biosynthesis and accumulation while inhibiting enzyme activity that is responsible for malate decomposition, including phosphoenolpyruvate carboxylase kinase (PEPCK) as well as the cytosolic NAD phosphate-dependent malic enzyme (cyNADP-ME). Further, storage at NFTs maintained a higher expression of malate biosynthesis-related genes (MdcyNAD-MDH and MdPEPC) and transport-related genes (MdVHA and MdVHP) while suppressing malate consumption-related genes (MdcyME and MdPEPCK). The results demonstrate that NFT storage could be an effective application for apple fruit, which maintains postharvest quality and alleviates organic acid degradation.
Meat of Sheep: Insights into Mutton Evaluation, Nutritive Value, Influential Factors, and Interventions
Authors: Ding Wenli , Lu Yanan , Xu Bowen , Chen Pan , Li Aoyun , Jian Fuchun , Yu Guangqing , Huang Shucheng
Published: July 2024

Meat from sheep offers an abundance of essential amino acids and trace elements essential for optimal human health and a delectable culinary delight. Because it has fewer calories and a lower cholesterol content than other meats, this succulent meat is not only delicious but also a nutritious choice. Globally, discriminating consumers have expressed profound appreciation for its irresistible flavor and nutritious composition. High-quality sheep breeds and lamb quality are in the spotlight as the market for sheep meat grows. Nevertheless, the demand for rapid growth and the use of antibiotics and other drugs have led to a shortage of high-quality mutton on the market. In the face of this emergency phenomenon, people add organic matter to the growth of mutton to improve the quality of mutton. This paper discusses the comprehensive evaluation methods of meat quality; summarizes the relationship between the nutritional components of meat and diet; discusses the genetic factors affecting meat quality attributes; feed nutrition, feeding methods, mutton storage methods, and related measures to improve the quality of mutton; and provides information on the current status of mutton and the challenges of ensuring high-quality meat supply in the future.
Cell Recycling Application in Single-Stage and Sequential-Stage Co-Production of Xylitol and Ethanol Using Corn Cob Hydrolysates
Authors: Porninta Kritsadaporn , Mahakuntha Chatchadaporn , Khemacheewakul Julaluk , Techapun Charin , Phimolsiripol Yuthana , Rachtanapun Pornchai , Jantanasakulwong Kittisak , Feng Juan , Htike Su Lwin , Nunta Rojarej , Zhuang Xinshu , Wang Wen , Qi Wei , Wang Zhongming , Sommanee Sumeth , Leksawasdi Noppol
Published: July 2024

A sustainable bioeconomy in agricultural and agro-industrial production must inevitably involve the sustainable use of agricultural residues through zero-waste processes. Corn cob is considered crucial agricultural waste as 278 and 293 million tons were produced worldwide in 2022 and 2023, respectively. Corn cob hydrolysates, which are abundant in xylose and glucose, could be efficiently utilized for xylitol and ethanol production through the cultivation of recycling the yeast strain Candida magnoliae TISTR 5664 in the single-stage and sequential-stage co-production of these products. The statistically significant maxima (p ≤ 0.05) ethanol concentrations were improved by 7.8% (49.9–51.7 g/L or 91.3–95.6% of the theoretical) from the single stage of ethanol production employing recycled cells and 9.9% (50.9–54.1 g/L or 77.3–83.9% of the theoretical) from the second step of sequential-stage co-production using recycled cells without xylitol accumulation. Conversely, the single-stage xylitol production utilizing recycled cells under microaerobic conditions resulted in a statistically significant lower (p ≤ 0.05) xylitol concentration by two folds relative to the control, while ethanol concentration was elevated by almost double. The statistically significant maximum (p ≤ 0.05) xylitol was achieved at 25.9 g/L (58.6% of the theoretical) when sequential-stage co-production was initiated in the first step with fresh inoculum only and not recycled cells. The sequential-stage co-production of xylitol and ethanol presented the potential for statistically significant improvement (p ≤ 0.05) of both xylitol and ethanol production processes.
A Study of Growth and Yield of Four Peanut Varieties with Rhizobia Inoculation under Field Conditions
Authors: Ding Bin , Feng Mengshi , Wang Rui , Chang Lei , Jiang Ying , Xie Jixian , Tian Da
Published: July 2024

The symbiotic nitrogen fixation between rhizobia and peanuts offers an advantage in reducing nitrogen fertilizer inputs, decreasing the incidence rate of peanuts, and enhancing soil fertility. Inoculating rhizobia agent is an effective pathway to improve both the quality and yield of peanuts, contributing to food security and promoting sustainable agricultural practices. This study conducted a one-year field experiment in a subtropical humid monsoon climate area in Southeast China to investigate the effects of rhizobia agents on the growth and crop yield of four peanut varieties (i.e., Taihua No.4, No.6, No.8, and No.10). Our research showed that inoculation with rhizobia agent can increase the plant height, lateral branch length, fresh root weight, and leaf area of the four peanut varieties. Meanwhile, inoculation with a rhizobia agent can significantly (p < 0.05) increase the ~50% number of root nodules. Especially for the early-maturing and drought-resistant variety, Taihua No.4 exhibited the highest number of nodules and peanut fruits per plant in the pod-setting stage after inoculation with rhizobia agent, i.e., 24.5 and 18.0, respectively. Under the conventional fertilization conditions (N-P2O5-K2O 15-15-15, 450 kg/hm2), Taihua No.4 and No.6 inoculated with rhizobia agent achieved higher yield increase rates of 11.0% and 11.6% compared to other peanut varieties. This study indicated that the Taihua No.4 and No.6 are the most suitable peanut varieties for rhizobia inoculation and promotion, with enormous potential for yield increase. Meanwhile, optimizing rhizobia inoculation techniques and evaluating soil health status, economic benefits of peanuts, and applicable regions should be explored in the future.
The TIR1/AFB Family in Solanum melongena: Genome-Wide Identification and Expression Profiling under Stresses and Picloram Treatment
Authors: Du Wenchao , Karamat Umer , Cao Liuqing , Li Yunpeng , Li Haili , Li Haoxin , Wei Lai , Yang Dongchen , Xia Meng , Li Qiang , Chen Xueping
Published: July 2024

TIR1/AFB proteins are a class of auxin receptors with key roles in plant development and biotic and abiotic stress responses; several have been identified as targets of the auxin-mimicking herbicide picloram. In this study, we identified five putative TIR1/AFB gene family members in the important vegetable crop Solanum melongena (eggplant) and characterized them using bioinformatics tools and gene expression analyses. Phylogenetic analysis of the TIR1/AFBs classified them into three subgroups based on their Arabidopsis and Solanum lycopersicum homologs. AFB6 homologs were present only in S. melongena and S. lycopersicum, whereas AFB2/3 homologs were found only in Arabidopsis. One pair of S. melongena TIR1 homologs were located in syntenic regions in the genome and appeared to have arisen by segmental duplication. Promoter analysis revealed 898 cis-elements in the TIR1/AFB promoters, 125 of which were related to hormones, stress, light, or growth responses, but only SmAFB5 had a cis-acting regulatory element involved in auxin responsiveness (AuxRR-core). RNA sequencing and expression profiling showed that the TIR1/AFB genes were differentially expressed at different growth stages and in response to light, temperature, and drought. Only SmTIR1A expression was significantly induced by picloram treatment and different growth stages. TIR1/AFB expression is regulated by microRNAs (miRNAs) in other plant species, and we identified 6 or 29 miRNAs that potentially targeted the five TIR1/AFB genes on the basis of comparisons with S. lycopersicum and S. tuberosum miRNAs, respectively. Three-dimensional protein structure predictions revealed that all the TIR1/AFB proteins were very similar in structure, differing only in the numbers of alpha helices and in one angle linking an α helix and a β sheet. For measuring the function of TIR1/AFB genes in response to drought, SmAFB5 was selected, and knockdown by virus-induced gene silence (VIGS) 35S::SmAFB5 lines showed resistance to drought compared to controls. These analyses provide insight into the potential functions of TIR1/AFBs during growth and in response to stress; they highlight differences among the SmTIR1/AFBs that may be useful for eggplant breeding.
Assessment of Soil Enzyme Activities in Plant Root Zone of Saline Soil Reclaimed by Drip Irrigation with Saline Groundwater
Authors: Dou Chaoyin , Lv Yuping , Sun Yidi , Chen Xiaoping , Li Yan
Published: July 2024

Drip irrigation with saline water is frequently adopted to realize the sustainable utilization of saline–sodic soil with high water tables, and soil enzyme activities can be used to indicate changes in soil quality. In the current study, spatiotemporal changes in soil urease enzyme (URE), alkaline phosphatase (ALP) and invertase (INV) activities were investigated during consecutive growing seasons. Soil in beds was sampled before planting (0 y) and one, two, three and four years after the growing season (1 y, 2 y, 3 y, 4 y), and these samples were distributed at four horizontal distances from the drip line (0, 10, 20 and 30 cm) and four vertical soil depths (0–10, 10–20, 20–30 and 30–40 cm). The results showed that a distribution pattern of URE and ALP activities formed during the first growing season, while the distribution of INV activity formed until the third growing season. All three soil enzyme activities in the upper soil layers and positions close to the drip line were more greatly affected by planting year. The average URE activity of the soil profile decreased slightly during the first year and increased by about 220% and decreased by 20% after reclamation for two and three years, and finally, it increased to 4.9 μg NH4+·g−1·h−1 at the end of the fourth growing season. ALP activity remained stable during the first two years and rapidly increased in the following years; in particular, in the fourth year, it reached 32.7 μg ph(OH)·g−1·h−1. INV activity increased continually with the number of years after planting and reached 1009.0 μg glu·g−1·h−1 at the fourth season’s end. An analysis of variance indicated that URE, ALP and INV activities varied insignificantly among the time points of 0 y, 1 y, 2 y and 3 y (p < 0.05), while they were significantly higher for 4 y than for 0 y and 1 y. In addition, all three enzyme activities of the soil profile had an exponentially increasing trend with the number of years after planting. These results indicated the soil quality in saline–sodic soils could be improved with time under drip irrigation with local saline groundwater, especially around the drip line.
The Application of MgO-Modified Biochars for the Immobilization of Ni, Cu, Pb, and Cr in Stone Crushing and Mining-Polluted Soil
Authors: Saleem Irfan , Lahori Altaf Hussain , Mierzwa-Hersztek Monika , Afzal Ambreen , Muhammad Maria Taj , Ahmed Muhammad Shoaib , Vambol Viola , Vambol Sergij
Published: July 2024

The objective of the present study was to investigate the impact of MgO 0.5 g/kg loaded in different organic waste materials on the properties of the modified biochars obtained. The waste materials included tea waste, wood waste, water chestnut peel, and pomegranate peel, which were used to create tea waste MgO-modified biochar (TWMgO-MBC), wood waste MgO-modified biochar (WSMgO-MBC), water chestnut peel MgO-modified biochar (WCMgO-MBC), and pomegranate peel MgO-modified biochar (PPMgO-MBC). All the MgO-modified biochars were prepared at 600 °C for 2 h and applied at 0.5 and 1% doses for the immobilization of Ni, Cu, Pb, and Cr in stone crushing and mining-polluted soil and the reduction in their uptake by pearl millet (Pennisetum glaucum) plant. The greatest fresh and dry biomasses were observed at 45.04% and 31.29%, respectively, with the application of TWMgO-MBC 1% in stone-crushing-polluted soil. The highest degree of immobilization of Ni (76.67%) was observed for the WSMgO-MBC 1% treatment, Cu (73.45%) for WCMgO-MBC 1%, Pb (76.78%) for WSMgO-MBC 1%, and Cr (70.55%) for WCMgO-MBC 1%, in comparison with the control. The maximum uptake of Ni, Cu, Pb, and Cr in the shoot of pearl millet was reduced by 78.43% with WSMgO-MBC 1%, 75.06% with WSMgO-MBC 1%, 90.81% with WCMgO-MBC 1%, and 85.71% with WSMgO-MBC 1% as compared with the control. The greatest reduction in Ni, Cu, Pb, and Cr in the root of pearl millet was observed at 77.81% with WSMgO-MBC 1%, 68.09% with WCMgO-MBC 1%, 84.03% with WCMgO-MBC 1%, and 88.73% with WCMgO-MBC 1%, in comparison with the control. The present study demonstrated that the TWMgO-MBC 1% treatment was highly effective for improving plant growth, while the WSMgO-MBC 1%, and WCMgO-MBC 1% treatments were found to be highly effective for immobilizing heavy metals in polluted soils, thus facilitating safe crop cultivation. Future studies should concentrate on the long-term application of MgO-modified biochars for the remediation of multimetal-polluted soils.
Optimizing Slow-Release Fertilizer Rate for Crop and Soil Productivity in Kimchi Cabbage Cropping Systems in the Highlands of Gangwon Province
Authors: Badu Brempong Mavis , Kim Yangmin X. , Bak Gye-Ryeong , Lee Jeong-Tae
Published: July 2024

Slow-release fertilizer (SRF) improves Kimchi cabbage (KC) productivity in the Highlands of Gangwon Province in South Korea; however, optimum rates for the region are not established. This study investigated the optimum and most economical rate of SRF that maximizes KC yield, nutrient uptake and nitrogen use efficiency (NUE) and enhances soil quality in two experiments at the Highland Agriculture Research Institute. Post-harvest soil N (mg kg−1), P2O5 (mg kg−1), K, Ca and Mg (cmolc kg−1), pH (1:5), electrical conductivity (EC; dSm−1) and organic matter (OM; g kg−1) were measured to assess soil quality. Added net returns (ANR) of treatments were evaluated. Recommended N rate (238 kg ha−1) for KC production was the basis for treatment applications. Treatments included no fertilizer control (‘nf’), full N recommendation SRF (SF1), ½ N recommendation SRF (SF0.5), double N recommendation SRF (SF2) and full N recommendation conventional fast fertilizer (FF). Results showed that SF0.5, SF1 and SF2 influenced the highest KC marketable yield in both experiments (66–74 and 42–66 Mg ha−1, respectively). SRF rates between 0.5 and 1 times the N recommendation produced the highest possible linear increases in marketable yield; and the most economical, with ANR > KRW 83 million ha−1 in the first experiment and > KRW 22 million ha−1 in the second. Crop N, P, K, Ca and Mg uptakes were highest among the three SRF rates in both experiments. SF0.5 influenced the highest (91%) NUE in the first experiment; however, it left 8 mg kg−1 N by the end of this experiment compared to the start-up 27.2 mg kg−1 N. Thus, nutrient mining occurred. Soil N increased between 23 and 135 mg kg−1 by SF 1 and 2 in both experiments. Soil EC spiked to 0.6 dSm−1 from the initial level of 0.2 dSm−1 by SF2 in the first experiment. Soil pH, P2O5, K, Ca and Mg levels post-harvest were comparable among treatments in both experiments. SF0.5, 1 and 2 increased soil OM by 7–16% above pre-experimental levels in the second experiment. In conclusion, SRF rates between 0.5 and 1 for KC produced the maximum corresponding KC yield and were the most economical. SRF rates ≤ 0.5 pose risks of nutrient mining, which could jeopardise native soil fertility. SF1 and 2 improved some soil quality indices (N and OM). However, SF2 potentiates risks of soil salinity and large P losses, and it is less economical. Therefore, for holistic sustainability of the cropping system, the optimum SRF rate should lie between 0.5 and 1 N recommendation.
Fertilizers and Manures Enhance the Bioavailability of Soil Phosphorus Fractions in Karst Grassland
Authors: Pan Jie , Yang Feng , Yang Wen , Zhang Mingjun , He Shengjiang , Li Zhou
Published: July 2024

Phosphorus is one of the major constraints to karst grassland productivity. Understanding the effects of different fertilization practices on soil phosphorus dynamics is essential for enhancing phosphorus bioavailability and rational management of soil phosphorus in karst grasslands. Here, we investigated the effects of fertilizers and manures on soil bioavailability of phosphorus fractions and explored the relationship between soil properties and soil phosphorus fractions. The four fertilizer application designs were as follows: control (CK; no fertilizer or manure); fertilization (F); manure application (M); fertilization and manure application (FM). The results showed that total phosphorus (TP) concentration was elevated by 23%, 1%, and 42% in F, M, and FM treatments, respectively, compared with CK. F and FM treatments enhanced the total inorganic phosphorus (Pi) concentration by 65% and 66%, respectively, while M and FM treatments enhanced the total organo-phosphorus (Po) concentration by 21% and 35%, respectively. FM treatment elevated bioavailable P, active Po, secondary mineral P, primary mineral P, and occluded P by 69%, 39%, 50%, 31%, and 41%, respectively. Fertilizers inhibited soil acid phosphatase activity, whereas alkaline phosphatase did not respond significantly to fertilizer management in low-latitude karst regions. SOM, TN, AP, and MBP are the key factors affecting the bioavailability of phosphorus fractions. The combined application of fertilizer and manure is the most beneficial measure for enhancing soil phosphorus bioavailability. This research helps deepen our understanding of soil phosphorus dynamics in the karst areas and provides a basis for further enhancement of nutrient availability and vegetation productivity of grassland ecosystems.
The Influence of Increasing Roughage Content in the Diet on the Growth Performance and Intestinal Flora of Jinwu and Duroc × Landrace × Yorkshire Pigs
Authors: Xu Gaili , Huang Jing , Chen Wenduo , Zhao Ayong , Pan Jianzhi , Yu Fuxian
Published: June 2024

The Jinwu pig (JW) is a hybrid breed originating from the Chinese indigenous Jinhua pig and Duroc pig, boasting excellent meat quality and fast growth rates. This study aimed to verify the tolerance of JW to roughage, similar to most Chinese indigenous pigs. In this research, two types of feed were provided to JW and Duroc × Landrace × Yorkshire pigs (DLY): a basal diet and a roughage diet (increasing the rice bran and wheat bran content in the basal diet from 23% to 40%) for a 65-day experimental period. The roughage diet showed an increasing trend in the feed conversion ratio (F/G), with a 17.61% increase in feed consumption per unit weight gain for DLY, while the increase for JW was only 4.26%. A 16S rRNA sequencing analysis revealed that the roughage diet increased the relative abundance of beneficial bacteria, such as Lactobacillus and Clostridium, while reducing the relative abundance of some potential pathogens, thus improving the gut microbiota environment. After being fed with the roughage diet, the abundance of bacterial genera, such as Treponema, Terrisporobacter, Coprococcus, and Ruminococcaceae, which aid in the digestion and utilization of dietary fiber, were significantly higher in Jinwu compared to DLY, indicating that these bacterial genera confer Jinwu with a higher tolerance to roughage than DLY.
Anti-Inflammatory Effects of Zinc Oxide and Berberine in Rats with Dextran Sulfate Sodium (DSS)-Induced Colitis
Authors: Kim Seon-Hyoung , Lee Rangyeon , Yoon Jang-Won , Cheong Hee-Tae , Ra Chang-Six , Rhee Ki-Jong , Park Jeongho , Jung Bae-Dong
Published: July 2024

Zinc oxide (ZnO) is frequently used in high concentrations to prevent diarrhea in weaning pigs. However, it can produce environmental pollution, because it is not absorbed by the intestines and is excreted in the feces. In studies to identify an alternative substance to ZnO, we used a model of colitis induced by dextran sulfate sodium (DSS) in rats to compare the anti-inflammatory effects of berberine with ZnO. DSS-treated rats displayed weight loss, shortening of the colon, increased fecal water content, and an increase in the disease activity index (DAI). In contrast, DSS + ZnO- and DSS + berberine-treated rats exhibited reduced colon shortening, decreased fecal water content, and a decrease in the DAI. Histological analysis revealed that both ZnO and berberine treatment reduced epithelial cell damage, crypt destruction, and infiltration of inflammatory cells. Moreover, the liver damage index was not significantly different between ZnO and berberine-treated rats. This study indicated that both ZnO and berberine can improve DSS-induced colitis in rats and suggests berberine as an alternative treatment to ZnO that would not cause environmental pollution.
Sucralose Influences the Productive Performance, Carcass Traits, Blood Components, and Gut Microflora Using 16S rRNA Sequencing of Growing APRI-Line Rabbits
Authors: El-Tahan Hatem M. , Elmasry Mohamad Elsayed , Madian H. A. , Alhimaidi Ahmad R. , Kim In Ho , Park Jae Hong , El-Tahan Hossam M.
Published: July 2024

This study investigated how sucralose influenced rabbit intestine and caecal microbial activity, blood parameters, growth performance, carcass characteristics, and digestibility. In total, 160 5-week-old rabbits from the APRI line weighing 563.29 gm were randomly assigned to four experimental groups with four replicates—5 males and 5 females in each. Four experimental groups were used, as follows: SUC1, SUC2, and SUC3 got 75, 150, and 300 mg of sucralose/kg body weight in water daily, while the control group ate a basal diet without supplements. The results showed that both the control and SUC1 groups significantly (p < 0.05) increased daily weight gain and final body weight. Sucralose addition significantly improved feed conversion ratio (p < 0.05) and decreased daily feed intake (gm/d). The experimental groups do not significantly differ in terms of mortality. Furthermore, nutrient digestibility was not significantly affected by sucralose treatment, with the exception of crud protein digestion, which was significantly reduced (p < 0.05). Additionally, without altering liver or kidney function, sucralose administration dramatically (p < 0.05) decreased blood serum glucose and triglyceride levels while increasing total lipids, cholesterol, and malonaldehyde in comparison to the control group. Furthermore, the addition of sucrose resulted in a significant (p < 0.05) increase in the count of total bacteria, lactobacillus, and Clostridium spp., and a decrease in the count of Escherichia coli. Further analysis using 16S rRNA data revealed that sucralose upregulated the expression of lactobacillus genes but not that of Clostridium or E. Coli bacteria (p < 0.05). Therefore, it could be concluded that sucralose supplementation for rabbits modifies gut microbiota and boosts beneficial bacteria and feed conversion ratios without side effects. Moreover, sucralose could decrease blood glucose and intensify hypercholesterolemia and should be used with caution for human consumption.
Genomic Characterization of Local Croatian Sheep Breeds-Effective Population Size, Inbreeding & Signatures of Selection
Authors: Ramljak Jelena , Špehar Marija , Ceranac Dora , Držaić Valentino , Pocrnić Ivan , Barać Dolores , Mioč Boro , Širić Ivan , Barać Zdravko , Ivanković Ante , Kasap Ante
Published: July 2024

The Istrian (IS) and the Pag sheep (PS) are local Croatian breeds which provide significant income for the regional economy and have a cultural and traditional importance for the inhabitants. The aim of this study was to estimate some important population specific genetic parameters in IS (N = 1293) and PS (N = 2637) based on genome wide SNPs. Estimates of linkage disequilibrium effective population size (Ne) evidenced more genetic variability in PS (Ne = 838) compared to IS (Ne = 197), regardless of historical time (both recent and ancient genetic variability). The discrepancy in the recent genetic variability between these breeds was additionally confirmed by the estimates of genomic inbreeding (FROH), which was estimated to be notably higher in IS (FROH>2 = 0.062) than in PS (FROH>2 = 0.029). The average FROH2–4, FROH4–8, FROH8–16, and FROH>16 were 0.26, 1.65, 2.14, and 3.72 for IS and 0.22, 0.61, 0.75, and 1.58 for PS, thus evidencing a high contribution of recent inbreeding in the overall inbreeding. One ROH island with > 30% of SNP incidence in ROHs was detected in IS (OAR6; 34,253,440–38,238,124 bp) while there was no ROH islands detected in PS. Seven genes (CCSER1, HERC3, LCORL, NAP1L5, PKD2, PYURF, and SPP1) involved in growth, feed intake, milk production, immune responses, and resistance were associated with the found autozygosity. The results of this study represent the first comprehensive insight into genomic variability of these two Croatian local sheep breeds and will serve as a baseline for setting up the most promising strategy of genomic Optimum Contribution Selection.
Untargeted Metabolomic Analysis Reveals Plasma Differences between Mares with Endometritis and Healthy Ones
Authors: Zhang Xijun , Gao Yujin , Mai Zhanhai , Li Yina , Wang Jiamian , Zhao Xingxu , Zhang Yong
Published: July 2024

The aim of this study was to explore alterations in plasma metabolites among mares afflicted with endometritis. Mares were divided into two groups, namely, the equine endometritis group (n = 8) and the healthy control group (n = 8), which included four pregnant and four non-pregnant mares, using a combination of clinical assessment and laboratory confirmation. Plasma samples from both groups of mares were analyzed through untargeted liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) metabolomics. A total of 28 differentially abundant metabolites were identified by screening and identifying differentially abundant metabolites and analyzing the pathway enrichment of differentially. Ten metabolites were identified as potential biomarkers for the diagnosis of endometritis in mares. Among them, seven exhibited a decrease in the endometritis groups, including hexadecanedioic acid, oleoyl ethanolamide (OEA), [fahydroxy(18:0)]12_13-dihydroxy-9z-octa (12,13-diHOME), deoxycholic acid 3-glucuronide (DCA-3G), 2-oxindole, and (+/-)9-HPODE, and 13(S)-HOTRE. On the other hand, three metabolites, adenosine 5′-monophosphate (AMP), 5-hydroxy-dl-tryptophan (5-HTP), and l-formylkynurenine, demonstrated an increase. These substances primarily participate in the metabolism of tryptophan and linolenic acid, as well as fat and energy. In conclusion, metabolomics revealed differentially abundant metabolite changes in patients with mare endometritis. These specific metabolites can be used as potential biomarkers for the non-invasive diagnosis of mare endometritis.
Relationship between Selected SNPs (g.16024A/G, g.16039T/C and g.16060A/C) of the FASN Gene and the Fat Content and Fatty Acid Profile in the Milk of Three Breeds of Cows
Authors: Przybylska Paulina , Kuczaj Marian
Published: July 2024

Fat is an important energy and nutritional component of milk and consists of fatty acids. FASN (fatty acid synthase) is an enzyme that regulates the synthesis of fatty acids in the milk and meat of cattle. It was hypothesized that knowing the relationships between the genotypes of the tested single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) and the content of fat and specific fatty acids would make it possible to improve milk quality in the selection process during cattle breeding. This study aimed to analyze the relationships of SNPs (g.16024A/G, g.16039T/C) of the FASN gene and their genotypes with the fat and fatty acid content of the milk of the following breeds: Polish Red-White (ZR), Polish Red (RP), and Polish Holstein-Friesian Red-White (RW). The SNP g.16060A/C was included in the study, although its effect on the fat composition of cow’s milk has not yet been widely studied. Milk was obtained during test milkings. SNP genotyping was performed using the real-time PCR (HRM) method. The milk from ZR and RP cows was more often characterized by a more favorable fatty acid profile than the milk from RW cows. This information can be used by cattle breeders and consumers of so-called functional food.
Transcriptome Analysis Reveals the Potential Key Genes in Nutritional Deposition in the Common Carp (Cyprinus carpio)
Authors: Wu Yunya , Xiao Pengfei , Sha Hang , Luo Xiangzhong , Zou Guiwei , Liang Hongwei
Published: July 2024

The common carp (Cyprinus carpio) is one of the most important aquaculture species in China, known for its remarkable adaptability and nutritional profile. However, the specific molecular response mechanisms regulating the nutritional deposition of carp remain inadequately elucidated. This study conducted a comprehensive analysis of muscle nutritional content and transcriptome data from liver and muscle tissues of three distinct carp varieties. The aim was to elucidate the key genes and signaling pathways that regulate muscle nutritional composition in carp. The findings revealed that FFRC carp (FFRC) exhibited significantly higher levels of crude fat, total n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids, and total n-6 polyunsaturated fatty acids in muscle tissue compared to Ying carp (YC) and Huanghe carp (HC) (p < 0.05). Transcriptomic analyses correlated these elevated levels with a marked upregulation of genes involved in the activation and transportation of fatty acid (fabp7, acsl5, acsbg2) as well as biosynthesis and elongation of long-chain unsaturated fatty acids (elovl2, fads2) within the liver. Furthermore, the flavor amino acid, essential amino acids, and crude protein content in the muscle of HC were significantly higher than in FFRC and YC (p < 0.05). Transcriptomic analyses indicated that this was associated with significant changes in the expression of genes related to amino acid metabolism (asns, alt, ldha, glul, setd, prodh, l3hypdh, hoga1) within their muscle tissue. This research provides a theoretical foundation for the precise modulation of the muscle nutritional composition in carp.
Motivation and Habits of a Wild Boar-Hunting Community
Authors: Kontsiotis Vasileios J. , Polychronidis Apostolos , Liordos Vasilios
Published: July 2024

The wild boar (Sus scrofa) is a widespread ungulate, the populations of which have recently increased throughout most of its range. This increase has caused negative impacts on ecosystems, biodiversity, and society. Nowadays, the wild boar is considered both a valuable game and a pest. Wildlife managers need to know the habits and motivations of wild boar hunters, a key stakeholder group, for effectively managing this controversial mammal. We carried out face-to-face interviews with 134 wild boar hunters in the Evros Prefecture, in the Region of Eastern Macedonia and Thrace, northern Greece to determine their hunting habits and their motivation for hunting. Most hunters owned a hunting dog (84.3%), hunted in groups of eight to nine people for 48 days, traveled 60 km, stayed outdoors for 4 nights, and spent weekly EUR 61 on average in each hunting season. Two motivations for wild boar hunting were prominent among the hunters (assessed on a 5-point scale; 1 = strongly disagree to 5 = strongly agree): a strong recreation motivation (hunting as a recreational activity; mean score 4.159 ± 1.144 SD) and a considerable utility motivation (hunting for its use values; 3.404 ± 1.11). Both recreation and utility motivations were positively associated with the preference for further increases in wild boar populations. Sociodemographic characteristics and hunting habits variously affected motivations and preferred future population trends. The findings revealed specific habits and strong motivations among hunters. Such findings will be useful for designing and implementing education and outreach programs for informing hunters about the negative impacts of wild boars and the need for their control. The participation of hunters in the management process will be critical for its success.
Forever Becoming: Teaching “Transgender Studies Meets Art History” and Theorizing Trans Joy
Authors: Patel Alpesh Kantilal
Published: July 2024

Academics often comment that their teaching affects their research, but how this manifests is often implicit. In this essay, I explicitly explore the artistic, scholarly, and curatorial research instantiated by an undergraduate class titled “Transgender Studies meets Art History,” which I taught during the fall of 2022. Alongside personal anecdotes—both personal and connected to the class—and a critical reflection on my pedagogy, I discuss the artwork and public programming connected to a curatorial project, “Forever Becoming: Decolonization, Materiality, and Trans* Subjectivity, I organized at UrbanGlass, New York City in 2023. The first part of the article I examine how “trans” can be applied to thinking about syllabus construction and re-thinking canon formation for a class focused on transgender studies’ relationship to art history. In the second half, I theorize trans joy as a felt vibration between/across multiplicity and singularity, belonging and unbelonging, and world-making and world-unmaking. Overall, I consider trans as a lived experience and its utility as a conceptual tool. As a coda, I consider the precarity of teaching this course in the current political climate of the United States.
Evaluating the Conservation Status and Effectiveness of Multi-Type Protected Areas for Carbon Sequestration in the Loess Plateau, China
Authors: Lama Sony , Zhang Jingjing , Luan Xiaofeng
Published: June 2024

Evaluating the conservation effectiveness of multiple types of protected areas (PAs) on carbon sequestration services can enhance the role of PAs in mitigating global warming. Here, we evaluated the conservation status and effectiveness of national parks, nature reserves, forest parks, geo-parks, and scenic spots on carbon sequestration within the Loess Plateau throughout 2000–2020. The results show that all existing PA types have good representation and conservation effectiveness on carbon sequestration. Nature reserves are the most representative of carbon sequestration but are the least effective in protecting carbon sequestration and are the only ones that are weekly effective in protecting critical carbon sequestration. The main factors influencing these results are PA size, 2000 precipitation, slope, change rate of evapotranspiration, PA rank, and 2000 evapotranspiration. We suggest upgrading the critical carbon sequestration distribution areas in scenic spots, forest parks and geo-parks to national parks or nature reserves in the future and implementing appropriate protection and restoration measures in low carbon sequestration areas within grassland and wild plant nature reserves to help achieve the goal of carbon neutrality early.
Optimization and Application of Analytical Assays for the Determination of Oxidative Potential of Outdoor and Indoor Particulate Matter
Authors: Bergomi Andrea , Carrara Elena , Festa Elisa , Colombi Cristina , Cuccia Eleonora , Biffi Beatrice , Comite Valeria , Fermo Paola
Published: June 2024

Recent studies indicate that mass concentration alone is not the best parameter to assess the toxicity and the health effects of particulate matter (PM). Indeed, the chemical composition of the particles plays an important role, and oxidative potential (OP) measurements are being proposed as an alternative way to assess toxicity. The European Union (EU) is currently proposing a draft of the new air quality directive which includes OP measurements but does not specify the methods and/or protocols of analysis. In this light, the purpose of this study was to evaluate the feasibility of two literature assays, namely ascorbic acid (AA) and dithiothreitol (DTT), for routine PM analysis by testing urban PM filters from a one-year sampling campaign conducted by ARPA Lombardia. Indoor PM samples were also tested to emphasize the importance of monitoring closed spaces in which people spend most of their time. Following the optimization of the DTT assay, both methods proved to be suitable for large-scale PM analysis. The results show that the oxidative strength of urban PM is constant throughout the year for the outdoor samples (OPAA: 0.067–0.39 nmol min−1 m−3; OPDTT: 0.033–0.109 nmol min−1 m−3), indicating the need for routine OP monitoring. Instead, indoor areas were characterized by particles with a lower oxidative capacity (OPAA: 5.40–24 pmol min−1 m−3; OPDTT: 9.7–32 pmol min−1 m−3), driven both by lower concentrations and a different chemical composition. All the data collected highlight the need to add this parameter as part of the chemical characterization of PM, moving in the same direction as the new EU air quality directive.
GIS-Based Integrated Multi-Hazard Vulnerability Assessment in Makedonska Kamenica Municipality, North Macedonia
Authors: Aleksova Bojana , Milevski Ivica , Dragićević Slavoljub , Lukić Tin
Published: June 2024

This study presents a comprehensive analysis of natural hazard susceptibility in the Makedonska Kamenica municipality of North Macedonia, encompassing erosion assessment, landslides, flash floods, and forest fire vulnerability. Employing advanced GIS and remote sensing (RS) methodologies, hazard models were meticulously developed and integrated to discern areas facing concurrent vulnerabilities. Findings unveil substantial vulnerabilities prevalent across the area, notably along steep terrain gradients, river valleys, and deforested landscapes. Erosion assessment reveals elevated rates, with a mean erosion coefficient (Z) of 0.61 and an annual erosion production of 182,712.9 m3, equivalent to a specific erosion rate of 961.6 m3/km2/year. Landslide susceptibility analysis identifies 31.8% of the municipality exhibiting a very high probability of landslides, while flash flood susceptibility models depict 3.3% of the area prone to very high flash flood potential. Forest fire susceptibility mapping emphasizes slightly less than one-third of the municipality’s forested area is highly or very highly susceptible to fires. Integration of these hazard models elucidates multi-hazard zones, revealing that 11.0% of the municipality’s territory faces concurrent vulnerabilities from excessive erosion, landslides, flash floods, and forest fires. These zones are predominantly located in upstream areas, valleys of river tributaries, and the estuary region. The identification of multi-hazard zones underscores the critical need for targeted preventive measures and robust land management strategies to mitigate potential disasters and safeguard both human infrastructure and natural ecosystems. Recommendations include the implementation of enhanced monitoring systems, validation methodologies, and community engagement initiatives to bolster hazard preparedness and response capabilities effectively.
Sharp Coefficient Bounds for Starlike Functions Associated with Cosine Function
Authors: Ali Rashid , Raza Mohsan , Bulboacă Teodor
Published: July 2024

Let Scos* denote the class of normalized analytic functions f in the open unit disk D satisfying the subordination zf′(z)f(z)≺cosz. In the first result of this article, we find the sharp upper bounds for the initial coefficients a3, a4 and a5 and the sharp upper bound for module of the Hankel determinant |H2,3(f)| for the functions from the class Scos*. The next section deals with the sharp upper bounds of the logarithmic coefficients γ3 and γ4. Then, in addition, we found the sharp upper bound for H2,2Ff/2. To obtain these results we utilized the very useful and appropriate Lemma 2.4 of N.E. Cho et al., which gave a most accurate description for the first five coefficients of the functions from the Carathéodory’s functions class, and provided a technique for finding the maximum value of a three-variable function on a closed cuboid. All the maximum found values were checked by using MAPLE™ computer software, and we also found the extremal functions in each case. All of our most recent results are the best ones and give sharp versions of those recently published by Hacet.
Statistical Inferences about Parameters of the Pseudo Lindley Distribution with Acceptance Sampling Plans
Authors: Eissa Fatehi Yahya , Sonar Chhaya Dhanraj , Alamri Osama Abdulaziz , Tolba Ahlam H.
Published: July 2024

Different non-Bayesian and Bayesian techniques were used to estimate the pseudo-Lindley (PsL) distribution’s parameters in this study. To derive Bayesian estimators, one must assume appropriate priors on the parameters and use loss functions such as squared error (SE), general entropy (GE), and linear-exponential (LINEX). Since no closed-form solutions are accessible for Bayes estimates under these loss functions, the Markov Chain Monte Carlo (MCMC) approach was used. Simulation studies were conducted to evaluate the estimators’ performance under the given loss functions. Furthermore, we exhibited the adaptability and practicality of the PsL distribution through real-world data applications, which is essential for evaluating the various estimation techniques. Also, the acceptance sampling plans were developed in this work for items whose lifespans approximate the PsL distribution.
Respiratory SARS-CoV-2 Infection Causes Skeletal Muscle Atrophy and Long-Lasting Energy Metabolism Suppression
Authors: Homma Sachiko T. , Wang Xingyu , Frere Justin J. , Gower Adam C. , Zhou Jingsong , Lim Jean K. , tenOever Benjamin R. , Zhou Lan
Published: July 2024

Muscle fatigue represents the most prevalent symptom of long-term COVID, with elusive pathogenic mechanisms. We performed a longitudinal study to characterize histopathological and transcriptional changes in skeletal muscle in a hamster model of respiratory SARS-CoV-2 infection and compared them with influenza A virus (IAV) and mock infections. Histopathological and bulk RNA sequencing analyses of leg muscles derived from infected animals at days 3, 30, and 60 post-infection showed no direct viral invasion but myofiber atrophy in the SARS-CoV-2 group, which was accompanied by persistent downregulation of the genes related to myofibers, ribosomal proteins, fatty acid β-oxidation, tricarboxylic acid cycle, and mitochondrial oxidative phosphorylation complexes. While both SARS-CoV-2 and IAV infections induced acute and transient type I and II interferon responses in muscle, only the SARS-CoV-2 infection upregulated TNF-α/NF-κB but not IL-6 signaling in muscle. Treatment of C2C12 myotubes, a skeletal muscle cell line, with combined IFN-γ and TNF-α but not with IFN-γ or TNF-α alone markedly impaired mitochondrial function. We conclude that a respiratory SARS-CoV-2 infection can cause myofiber atrophy and persistent energy metabolism suppression without direct viral invasion. The effects may be induced by the combined systemic interferon and TNF-α responses at the acute phase and may contribute to post-COVID-19 persistent muscle fatigue.
Study of Periodontal Bacteria in Diabetic Wistar Rats: Assessing the Anti-Inflammatory Effects of Carvacrol and Magnolol Hydrogels
Authors: Potra Cicalău Georgiana Ioana , Marcu Olivia Andreea , Ghitea Timea Claudia , Ciavoi Gabriela , Iurcov Raluca Cristina , Beiusanu Corina , Trifan Daniela Florina , Vicaș Laura Grațiela , Ganea Mariana
Published: July 2024

Periodontal disease and diabetes often co-occur; both are characterized by chronic inflammation. This study aimed to investigate the anti-inflammatory effects of carvacrol and magnolol when incorporated into a periodontal hydrogel and topically applied to Wistar rats with diabetes-associated periodontal disease. Forty male albino Wistar rats were divided into four groups: PD (induced diabetes and periodontitis), PDC (induced diabetes and periodontitis treated with carvacrol), PDM (induced diabetes and periodontitis treated with magnolol), and PDCM (induced diabetes and periodontitis treated with both carvacrol and magnolol). Post treatment, gingival tissue samples were collected to measure levels of the pro-inflammatory cytokines IL-6 and TNF-α. The PDCM group exhibited significantly lower levels of interleukin-6 (IL-6) and tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α) compared to the PD group. The combined application of a periodontal hydrogel containing carvacrol and magnolol may significantly reduce gingival inflammation in rats with diabetes-associated periodontal disease.
Advanced and Metastatic Non-Melanoma Skin Cancer: Epidemiology, Risk Factors, Clinical Features, and Treatment Options
Authors: Attal Zoe Gabrielle , Shalata Walid , Soklakova Arina , Tourkey Lena , Shalata Sondos , Abu Saleh Omar , Abu Salamah Fahed , Alatawneh Ibrahim , Yakobson Alexander
Published: July 2024

Non-melanoma skin cancers (NMSC) form the majority of skin cancers, with basal cell carcinoma (BCC) being the most common and cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma (cSCC) being second. Prolonged ultraviolet (UV) exposure, aging, male gender, and immunosuppression represent most of the causes of this category of diseases. BCCs and cSCCs both include different types of skin cancers, such as nodular or morpheaform BCC or flat cSCC. Locally advanced and metastatic NMSCs cannot be treated surgically; thus, systemic therapy (TKI and Immunotherapy) is needed. Interestingly, NMSCs are frequently linked to abnormal Hedgehog (HH) signaling which most systemic immunotherapies for these cancers are based upon. Of note, the first line therapies of BCC, sonidegib and vismodegib, are HH inhibitors. Programmed death receptor 1 antibody (PD-1) inhibitors such as cemiplimab, pembrolizumab, and nivolumab have been approved for the treatment of cSCC. Thus, this paper reviews the epidemiology, risk factors, clinical features, and treatment options for both BCC and cSCC.
Correction: De La Franier et al. Long-Term Reduction of Bacterial Adhesion on Polyurethane by an Ultra-Thin Surface Modifier. Biomedicines 2022, 10, 979
Authors: De La Franier Brian , Asker Dalal , Hatton Benjamin , Thompson Michael
Published: July 2024

In the published publication [...]