bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Inline Milk Lactose Concentration as Biomarker of the Health Status and Reproductive Success in Dairy Cows
Authors: Televičius Mindaugas , Juozaitiene Vida , Malašauskienė Dovilė , Antanaitis Ramunas , Rutkauskas Arūnas , Urbutis Mingaudas , Baumgartner Walter
Published: January 2021

In this study, cow reticulorumen content pH and temperature together with the activity were registered using smaXtec boluses, specially designed for animal care. Body weight, rumination time, milk fat/protein ratio, milk yield, milk lactose, milk electrical conductivity, milk somatic cell count and consumption of concentrated feed were registered by Lely Astronaut® A3 milking robots. The cows in this study were assigned into two groups according to the milk lactose concentration: group 1—milk lactose < 4.70% (n = 20), group 2—milk lactose ≥ 4.70% (n = 15). The following cows were further classified according to milk fat and protein ratio: F/P < 1.2 (class 1), F/P = 1.2 (class 2) and F/P > 1.2 (class 3). According to our results, we can conclude that inline registered milk lactose concentration can be used to indicate the health status and reproductive success of fresh dairy cows. Cows with an increased lactose concentration (≥4.70%) showed more activity (54.47%) and had less risk of mastitis (determined by lower milk electrical conductivity (EC) and somatic cell counts (SCC)) and metabolic disorders, determined by milk F/P. A higher glucose concentration was also apparent in the cows with higher lactose concentration. Registered lower levels of milk lactose can be used for early identification of metabolic disorders and mastitis (set at milk SCC ≥ 100 thousand/mL). Lactose levels in cows’ milk were positively associated with their reproductive success.
Remote and Proximal Sensing Applications for Durum Wheat Nutritional Status Detection in Mediterranean Area
Authors: Fiorentini Marco , Zenobi Stefano , Orsini Roberto
Published: January 2021

Combining remote and proximal sensing in agriculture is essential to monitor crop spatial-temporal variability and to provide high-quality prescription maps for the precision agriculture applications. The study showed how different combinations of soil management (no tillage—NT vs. conventional tillage—CT) and nitrogen (N) fertilization levels (0.90 and 180 kg N ha−1) can affect the durum wheat nutritional status and development through vegetation indices computation and proximal sensing tool application. Chlorophyll and N crop content were measured, in addition a proximal sensing tool and multispectral imagery equipped on unmanned aerial vehicle were used. The N input is the key driver for durum wheat development (4.5 ± 0.92 t ha−1 on average), but when it was not provided the NT performed better than CT (2.51 ± 0.22 vs. 1.46 ± 0.28 t ha−1 respectively) in terms of grain yield. This is due to the greater content of organic matter and N availability which characterizes the NT system. The near infrared (NIR) band-based vegetation indices can well detect the durum wheat nutritional status (R2 = 0.70 on average). The showed results can provide an important contribution in the implementation of ago-environmental policies aimed at environmental impact of cereal-based-cropping systems reduction.
Quantitative Trait Loci Mapping for Vigour and Survival Traits of Barley Seedlings after Germinating under Salinity Stress
Authors: Mwando Edward , Angessa Tefera Tolera , Han Yong , Zhou Gaofeng , Li Chengdao
Published: January 2021

Seed germination and seedling establishment are the most critical stages in the barley (Hordeum vulgare ssp. vulgare L.) life cycle that contribute substantially to grain yield. These two phases are exposed to several forms of environmental stresses such as salinity due to high level of salt accumulation in the soil rhizosphere where seed germination takes place and seedlings emerge from. Previously, we have reported genotypic variability and independent QTLs associated with salinity tolerance at seedling and germination stages. However, genotypic studies on revival of a seedling germinating under salinity stress are yet to close the lack of information between germination and seedling stages. Here, we attempt to close the genetic gap by targeting early seedling survival traits in barley after germination under salinity (NaCl) stress and the various seedling vigour indices. Seedling vigour parameters formed the basis for Quantitative trait locus (QTL) linkage mapping in 103 Doubled Haploid (DH) lines of CM72/Gairdner population, and validated the phenotypic response using a selected diverse panel of 85 barley germplasm. The results indicate that 150 mM NaCl stress significantly reduced all the recorded phenotypic traits compared to 75, 90 and 120 mM NaCl. In both DH population and diversity panel barley germplasm, the highest percentage reduction was recorded in shoot length (65.6% and 50.3%) followed by seedling vigour index length (56.5% and 41.0%), while root length (28.6% and 15.8%) and root dry weight (29.3% and 28.0%) were least reduced when control was compared to150 mM NaCl stress treatment. Six QTLs containing 13 significant markers were detected in the DH population, 3 on chromosomes 1H, 8 on 3H and 2 on 4H with LOD values ranging from 3 to 8 associated with seedling survival traits under salinity stress. Three QTLs one on 1H and two on 3H with closely linked significant markers (Bmac0032, bPb-9418 and bPb-4741), (bPb-4576 and bPb-9624) and (bPb-3623, bPb-5666 and bPb-6383) for 1H and two on 3H respectively formed the regions with high possibility of candidate genes. A QTL on 3H flanked with markers bPb-4576 and bPb-9624 that were detected in more than one salinity survival trait and were closely linked to each other will form a basis for detailed studies leading to gene functional analysis, genetic transformation and marker assisted selection (MAS).
Genetic Dissection for Maize Forage Digestibility Traits in a Multi-Parent Advanced Generation Intercross (MAGIC) Population
Authors: Lopez-Malvar Ana , Malvar Rosa Ana , Butron Ana , Revilla Pedro , Pereira-Crespo Sonia , Santiago Rogelio
Published: January 2021

Forage feedstock is the greatest source of energy for livestock. Unfortunately, less than 50% of their fiber content is actually digested and assimilated by the ruminant animals. This recalcitrance is mainly due to the high concentration of plant cell wall material and to the limited digestion of the fiber by the microorganisms. A Genome-Wide Association Study (GWAS) was carried out in order to identify Single Nucleotide Polymorphisms (SNPs) associated with forage digestibility traits in a maize Multi-Parent Advanced Generation Intercross (MAGIC) population. We identified seven SNPs, corresponding to five Quantitative Trait Loci (QTL), associated to digestibility of the organic matter, 11 SNPs, clustered in eight QTLs, associated to Neutral Detergent Fiber (NDF) content and eight SNPs corresponding with four QTL associated with Acid Detergent Fiber (ADF). Candidate genes under the QTL for digestibility of the organic matter could be the ones involved in pectin degradation or phenylpropanoid pathway. Transcription factor genes were also proposed for the fiber QTL identified, in addition to genes induced by oxidative stress, or a gene involved in lignin modifications. Nevertheless, for the improvement of the traits under study, and based on the moderate heritability value and low percentage of the phenotypic variability explained by each QTL, a genomic selection strategy using markers evenly distributed across the whole genome is proposed.
The Combined Effects of Gibberellic Acid and Rhizobium on Growth, Yield and Nutritional Status in Chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.)
Authors: Rafique Munazza , Naveed Muhammad , Mustafa Adnan , Akhtar Saleem , Munawar Muneeb , Kaukab Sadia , Ali Hayssam M. , Siddiqui Manzer H. , Salem Mohamed Z. M.
Published: January 2021

Plant growth regulators and Rhizobium are actively involved in the regulation of flowering, pod formation, nodulation, and ultimately the growth and yield of legumes. However, very limited information is available on the combined effect of gibberellic acid (GA3) and Rhizobium on growth attributes and yield of legume crops. This experiment was designed to fill this gap by studying the performance of chickpea under exogenous application of GA3 (10−4 and 10−5 M) alone and in combination with Rhizobium. Exogenous application of GA3 (10−5 M) combined with rhizobium inoculation gave the highest values for number of nodules per plant (16) and their dry biomass (0.22 g). Moreover, GA3 application and seed inoculation with Rhizobium, when applied singly, significantly enhanced chickpea growth. However, the most promising results were obtained by the inoculation of Rhizobium accompanied with GA3 (10−5 M). Plant height, grain and stover yield, and chlorophyll contents were enhanced up to 35%, 39%, 21%, and 51%, respectively. Likewise, the bioaccumulation of macronutrients (N, P and K) was maximum in plants receiving both Rhizobium inoculation and GA3 application. It is concluded that the combined application of Rhizobium and GA3 has synergistic effects on the growth, yield, and nutrient contents of chickpea.
A Single Seed Protein Extraction Protocol for Characterizing Brassica Seed Storage Proteins
Authors: Rahman Mahmudur , Liu Lei , Barkla Bronwyn J.
Published: January 2021

Rapeseed oil-extracted expeller cake mostly contains protein. Various approaches have been used to isolate, detect and measure proteins in rapeseeds, with a particular focus on seed storage proteins (SSPs). To maximize the protein yield and minimize hazardous chemical use, isolation costs and the loss of seed material, optimization of the extraction method is pivotal. For some studies, it is also necessary to minimize or avoid seed-to-seed cross-contamination for phenotyping and single-tissue type analysis to know the exact amount of any bioactive component in a single seed, rather than a mixture of multiple seeds. However, a simple and robust method for single rapeseed seed protein extraction (SRPE) is unavailable. To establish a strategy for optimizing SRPE for downstream gel-based protein analysis, yielding the highest amount of SSPs in the most economical and rapid way, a variety of different approaches were tested, including variations to the seed pulverization steps, changes to the compositions of solvents and reagents and adjustments to the protein recovery steps. Following SRPE, 1D-SDS-PAGE was used to assess the quality and amount of proteins extracted. A standardized SRPE procedure was developed and then tested for yield and reproducibility. The highest protein yield and quality were obtained using a ball grinder with stainless steel beads in Safe-Lock microcentrifuge tubes with methanol as the solvent, providing a highly efficient, economic and effective method. The usefulness of this SRPE was validated by applying the procedure to extract protein from different Brassica oilseeds and for screening an ethyl methane sulfonate (EMS) mutant population of Brassica rapa R-0-18. The outcomes provide useful methodology for identifying and characterizing the SSPs in the SRPE.
Zeolite and Vermiculite as Inorganic Soil Amendments Modify Shoot-Root Allocation, Mineral Nutrition, Photosystem II Activity and Gas Exchange Parameters of Chestnut (Castanea sativa Mill) Plants
Authors: Chatzistathis Theocharis , Papaioannou Evgenia , Giannakoula Anastasia , Papadakis Ioannis E.
Published: January 2021

One of the most challenging topics for the sustainable agriculture is how to decrease high fertilization rates. A pot experiment, exploring the effects of zeolite (ZEO) and/or vermiculite (VER) as soil amendments, comparing to the soil application of a controlled release fertilizer (CRF), was realized in chestnut plants. Various parameters related to soil fertility, and plant growth, nutrition, and physiology were investigated to gain knowledge towards more sustainable management. After ZEO application and in comparison to CRF, an impressive boost in soil K was achieved. Moreover, soil P and Zn levels were higher in the VER-treated soil, compared to CRF. Leaf K and Ca concentrations were significantly higher in ZEO, compared to the VER treatment; the highest foliar N and Zn concentrations were measured in CRF and VER, respectively. However, significantly lower foliar Mn and Cu were found in VER. The highest root biomass produced in the ZEO treated plants. For most nutrients, their total uptake per plant was higher in CRF and ZEO. Finally, photosynthetic rates were higher in VER (mainly due to non-stomatal factors) and CRF (mainly due to stomatal factors). Our data open a discussion towards the application of ZEO and/or VER as soil amendments in chestnut nurseries and orchards, aiming at partially decreasing fertilization rates and boosting sustainable nutrient management.
Pilot Study of the Effects of Polyphenols from Chestnut Involucre on Methane Production, Volatile Fatty Acids, and Ammonia Concentration during In Vitro Rumen Fermentation
Authors: Wang Yichong , Yu Sijiong , Li Yang , Zhang Shuang , Qi Xiaolong , Guo Kaijun , Guo Yong , Fortina Riccardo
Published: January 2021

Nutritional strategies can be employed to mitigate greenhouse emissions from ruminants. This article investigates the effects of polyphenols extracted from the involucres of Castanea mollissima Blume (PICB) on in vitro rumen fermentation. Three healthy Angus bulls (350 ± 50 kg), with permanent rumen fistula, were used as the donors of rumen fluids. A basic diet was supplemented with five doses of PICB (0%–0.5% dry matter (DM)), replicated thrice for each dose. Volatile fatty acids (VFAs), ammonia nitrogen concentration (NH3-N), and methane (CH4) yield were measured after 24 h of in vitro fermentation, and gas production was monitored for 96 h. The trial was carried out over three runs. The results showed that the addition of PICB significantly reduced NH3-N (p < 0.05) compared to control. The 0.1%–0.4% PICB significantly decreased acetic acid content (p < 0.05). Addition of 0.2% and 0.3% PICB significantly increased the propionic acid content (p < 0.05) and reduced the acetic acid/propionic acid ratio, CH4 content, and yield (p < 0.05). A highly significant quadratic response was shown, with increasing PICB levels for all the parameters abovementioned (p < 0.01). The increases in PICB concentration resulted in a highly significant linear and quadratic response by 96-h dynamic fermentation parameters (p < 0.01). Our results indicate that 0.2% PICB had the best effect on in-vitro rumen fermentation efficiency and reduced greenhouse gas production.
The Effect of Energy Metabolism up to the Peak of Lactation on the Main Fractions of Fatty Acids in the Milk of Selected Dairy Cow Breeds
Authors: Młynek Krzysztof , Danielewicz Agata , Strączek Ilona
Published: January 2021

During early lactation in dairy cows, metabolic processes are adopted to provide energy and nutrients for the synthesis of milk compounds. High milk production potential includes sudden changes in energy metabolism (negative energy balance (NEB)) that can induce uncontrolled lipomobilization and high blood free fatty acid (FFA) levels. Destabilization of cows’ energy may interfere with endocrine homeostasis, such as the secretion of leptin, a co-regulator of the appetite center. Therefore, it is important to analyze the physiological aspects of the maintenance of energy homeostasis in various dairy breeds. Usually it is crucial for the health of cows, influences the production cycle and lifetime yield, and determines the profitability of production and milk quality. The aim of this study was to analyze the energy metabolism of selected breed groups of cows and its variability in different stages of early lactation. The analysis was performed using data on the following parameters: body condition score (BCS), fatty acid (FA) fractions, basic milk constituents, and serum parameters (BHBA, glucose, and leptin). These results were analyzed in relation to parameters of energy metabolism during the stage up to the peak of lactation. An earlier peak of lactation was shown to be conducive to an increase in the content of non-esterified fatty acids (NEFAs) and of casein and κ-casein. During the study period, parameters characterizing the maintenance of energy homeostasis were usually lower in the Simmental and Black-and-White Lowland cows. Compared to the group with the highest production, their yield was from 2.8 to 4.7 kg lower, but the milk had a more beneficial fatty acid profile and nutrient content, determining suitability for cheese making. At the same time, they had lower levels of NEFAs and β-hydroxybutyrate in the blood, which indicates less spontaneous lipolysis of fat reserves. Concentrations of the appetite regulator leptin in the blood were correlated negatively (p ≤ 0.05) with the glucose concentration (–0.259) and positively with NEFA (0.416). The level of NEFAs was at the same time positively correlated with the content of saturated fatty acids in the milk (0.282–0.652; p ≤ 0.05). These results contribute to our knowledge of the effect of production intensity on the maintenance of homeostasis up to the peak of lactation in dairy breeds with differing production potential. In practice, this may increase the possibilities of improving milk quality and the profitability of production.
Herd-Level and Individual Differences in Fecal Lactobacilli Dynamics of Growing Pigs
Authors: König Emilia , Sali Virpi , Heponiemi Paulina , Salminen Seppo , Valros Anna , Junnikkala Sami , Heinonen Mari
Published: January 2021

We studied the fecal lactobacilli count and species diversity of growing pigs along with immune parameters associated with intestinal lactobacilli. Thirty pigs categorized as small (S, n = 12) or large (L, n = 18) at birth were followed from birth to slaughter in two commercial herds, H1 and H2. Herds differed in terms of their general management. We determined sow colostrum quality, colostrum intake, piglet serum immunoglobulins, and pig growth. We took individual fecal samples from pigs in the weaning and finishing units. We studied lactobacilli count and identified their diversity with 16S PCR. Total lactobacilli count increased in H1 and decreased in H2 between samplings. Lactobacilli species diversity was higher in H1 in both fecal sampling points, whereas diversity decreased over time in both herds. We identified altogether seven lactobacilli species with a maximum of five (one to five) species in one herd. However, a relatively large proportion of lactobacilli remained unidentified with the used sequencing technique. Small pigs had higher lactobacilli counts in both herds but the difference was significant only in H2 (p = 0.01). Colostrum quality was numerically better in H1 than in H2, where colostrum intake tended to be associated with total lactobacilli count (p = 0.05).
Removal of Aerosolized Contaminants from Working Canines via a Field Wipe-Down Procedure
Authors: Perry Erin B. , Discepolo Dakota R. , Liang Stephen Y. , Jenkins Eileen K.
Published: January 2021

Evidence-based canine decontamination protocols are underrepresented in the veterinary literature. Aerosolized microbiological and chemical contaminants can pose a risk in deployment environments highlighting the need for improved canine field decontamination strategies. Prior work has established the efficacy of traditional, water-intensive methods on contaminant removal from the coat of the working canine; however, it is not known if similar reductions can be achieved with simple field expedient methods when resources are limited. The objective of this study was to measure the reduction of aerosolized contamination via a practical “wipe-down” procedure performed on working canine coats contaminated with a fluorescent, non-toxic, water-based aerosol. Disposable, lint-free towels were saturated with one of three treatments: water, 2% chlorhexidine gluconate scrub (CHX), or 7.5% povidone-iodine scrub (PVD). Both CHX and PVD were diluted at a 1:4 ratio. Treatments were randomly assigned to one of three quadrants established across the shoulders and back of commonly utilized working dog breeds (Labrador retrievers, n = 16; German shepherds, n = 16). The fourth quadrant remained unwiped, thus serving as a control. Reduction in fluorescent marker contamination was measured and compared across all quadrants. PVD demonstrated greater marker reduction compared to CHX or water in both breeds (p < 0.0001). Reduction was similar between CHX or water in Labradors (p = 0.86) and shepherds (p = 0.06). Effective wipe-down strategies using common veterinary cleansers should be further investigated and incorporated into decontamination practices to safeguard working canine health and prevent cross-contamination of human personnel working with these animals.
Automatic Prestimulation on Dairy Goats: Milking Efficiency and Teat-End Status
Authors: Bueso-Ródenas Joel , Alejandro Manuel , Romero Gema , Díaz José Ramón
Published: January 2021

Experiments carried out in dairy cows show that mechanical stimulation prior to milking offers a good release of oxytocin without involving changes in milk yield or a reduction of the milking time. The objective of the present study was to evaluate the effect of automatic prestimulation on milk fractioning, milking duration and milk flows, teat-end status, and vacuum levels at the short milk tubes and in the pulsation tubes of dairy goats. With this aim, three experiments in Latin square design were developed employing goats in different moments of the lactation: one of them at the onset of lactation, one at mid-lactation, and the last at the end of lactation. Two treatments were tested: milking with a mechanical prestimulation of 300 ppm for a 20-s period and milking without prestimulation. Results showed that prestimulation at the end of lactation showed slightly lower average milk flow (kg/min) values (0.53 ± 0.02 vs. 0.60 ± 0.02; p = 0.03) and lower maximum vacuum level values (Kpa) in the pulsation tubes (27.08 ± 0.15 vs. 39.48 ± 0.25; p < 0.01). No other differences were found in the variables related to milking efficiency or teat-end status in the three experiments carried out.
Population Viability and Conservation Strategies for the Eurasian Black Vulture (Aegypius monachus) in Southeast Europe
Authors: Dimitriou Kyriakos G. , Kotsonas Evangelos G. , Bakaloudis Dimitrios E. , Vlachos Christos G. , Holloway Graham J. , Yosef Reuven
Published: January 2021

The Eurasian Black Vulture is a globally threatened raptor that in Southeast Europe only occurs in an isolated population in Greece. We examined the population viability for the species under demographic fluctuations and conservation scenarios. The current population showed no possibility of extinction for the next 100 years. However, simulated scenarios showed that the most important factor affecting the viability of the species was medium and high poisoning, leading to 94.8% and 100% probability of extinction, respectively. Furthermore, high reduction of supplementary feeding highlighted an 18.6% extinction possibility. Also, a high increase of wind farms in the area may result in 17.4% extinction possibility. Additionally, the non-establishment of the feeding station in 1987 in the study area would have resulted in an extinction risk of 7%. The species can be translocated to the Olympus National Park by releasing 80 juveniles over 10 years. The implementation of the conservation scenarios concerning the establishment of a supplementary feeding site network, and the reintroduction of the Eurasian Black Vulture in its historic range, along with the elimination of threats posed by poisoning, low food availability, and wind farms would increase the probability of the species persistence and allow the population to become a source for dispersal across Southeast Europe.
Effects of Dietary N-Carbamylglutamate on Growth Performance, Apparent Digestibility, Nitrogen Metabolism and Plasma Metabolites of Fattening Holstein Bulls
Authors: Yang Jinshan , Zheng Jian , Fang Xinpeng , Jiang Xin , Sun Yukun , Zhang Yonggen
Published: January 2021

N-carbamylglutamate (NCG), a structural analog of N-acetylglutamate, improves nitrogen utilization in dairy cows. However, the effects of NCG on bulls are unknown. The purpose of the current research was to investigate the effects of adding different amounts of NCG on growth performance, nutrient digestibility, nitrogen metabolism and plasma metabolites of fattening Holstein bulls. Twenty-four Holstein bulls with similar body weights (BW, 408 ± 21.9 kg) and ages (450 ± 6.1 d; all mean ± SD) were selected for the feeding trial. After 2 weeks of adaptation, bulls were blocked by BW and age and subsequently randomly assigned to 1 of 4 groups: (1) CON group (control diet), (2) L group (supplementation with 20 mg/kg BW NCG), (3) M group (supplementation with 40 mg/kg BW NCG), or (4) H group (supplementation with 80 mg/kg BW NCG). The addition of NCG linearly and quadratically increased the average daily gain (CON vs. L vs. M vs. H = 1.03 vs. 1.19 vs. 1.40 vs. 1.26 kg/d) (p < 0.05), feed conversion ratio (CON vs. L vs. M vs. H = 11.92 vs. 9.22 vs. 7.76 vs. 8.62) (p < 0.05), crude protein digestibility (CON vs. L vs. M vs. H = 64.3 vs. 63.8 vs. 67.7 vs. 65.8%) (0.05 < p < 0.10), N retention (p < 0.05) and N utilization (p < 0.05) of bulls, whereas the contents of fecal N (0.05 < p < 0.10) and urinary N (0.05 < p < 0.10) in NCG-fed bulls linearly decreased compared with those in CON bulls. Bulls fed NCG showed a quadratic increased plasma nitric oxide (p < 0.05) concentration. Furthermore, Arg (p < 0.05), Ile (p < 0.05), Val (p < 0.05), Ala (p < 0.05), Glu (p < 0.05), Ser (p < 0.05), total essential amino acid (p < 0.05) and total nonessential amino acid (p < 0.05) concentrations linearly and quadratically increased with increasing doses of NCG. In contrast, plasma urea (p < 0.05) and ammonia (p < 0.05) concentration linearly and quadratically decreased with increasing doses of NCG. Overall, the addition of NCG increased plasma Arg, Ile, Val, TEAA and TNEAA concentration, which in turn resulted in a higher N utilization and, therefore, higher average daily gain in NCG-fed bulls, providing baseline data for the widespread application of NCG in beef cattle production.
Selection for Test-Day Milk Yield and Thermotolerance in Brazilian Holstein Cattle
Authors: Negri Renata , Aguilar Ignacio , Feltes Giovani Luis , Cobuci Jaime Araújo
Published: January 2021

Intense selection for milk yield has increased environmental sensitivity in animals, and currently, heat stress is an expensive problem in dairy farming. The objectives were to identify the best model for characterizing environmental sensitivity in Holstein cattle, using the test-day milk yield (TDMY) combined with the temperature–humidity index (THI), and identify sires genetically superior for heat-stress (HS) tolerance and milk yield, through random regression. The data comprised 94,549 TDMYs of 11,294 first-parity Holstein cows in Brazil, collected from 1997 to 2013. The yield data were fitted to Legendre orthogonal polynomials, linear splines and the Wilmink function. The THI (the average of two days before the dairy control) was used as an environmental gradient. An animal model that fitted production using a Legendre polynomials of quartic order for the days in milk and quadratic equations for the THI presented a better quality of fit (Akaike’s information criterion (AIC) and Bayesian information criterion (BIC)). The Spearman correlation coefficient of greatest impact was 0.54, between the top 1% for TDMY and top 1% for HS. Only 9% of the sires showed plasticity and an aptitude for joint selection. Thus, despite the small population fraction allowed for joint selection, sufficient genetic variability for selecting more resilient sires was found, which promoted concomitant genetic gains in milk yield and thermotolerance.
Immunomodulatory Effects of Dietary Phosphorus and Calcium in Two Strains of Laying Hens
Authors: Hofmann Tanja , Schmucker Sonja , Sommerfeld Vera , Huber Korinna , Rodehutscord Markus , Stefanski Volker
Published: January 2021

Insufficient nutrient supply can impair the immune system, which is important for animal health and welfare. Since chicken can partly hydrolyze phytate, which is the primary phosphorus storage in plant seeds, a reduction of mineral phosphorus in the diets could be an option for more sustainable egg production. Laying hens require high concentrations of calcium that might inhibit the function of endogenous enzymes for phytate hydrolyzation. The objective of this study was to characterize the impact of standard and reduced dietary phosphorus and calcium concentrations on the number and functionality of immune cells in the peripheral and gut-associated immune system in a white and brown laying hen strain. Reduced mineral phosphorus enhanced several immune parameters such as B cells in blood and IgA concentrations in bile in both strains, and peripheral monocytes and T cells in cecal tonsils in brown hens. Reduced calcium levels resulted in lower numbers of T cells in blood and cecal tonsils in both strains, suggesting negative effects on adaptive immunity. Differences between the two strains were found in almost all immune parameters. Results suggest a potentially beneficial effect of reduced dietary mineral phosphorus on the immune system that is dependent on the genetic background.
Antimicrobial Resistance of Major Bacterial Pathogens from Dairy Cows with High Somatic Cell Count and Clinical Mastitis
Authors: Abdi Reta D. , Gillespie Barbara E. , Ivey Susan , Pighetti Gina M. , Almeida Raul A. , Kerro Dego Oudessa
Published: January 2021

Mastitis is the most prevalent and economically important disease caused by different etiological agents, which leads to increased somatic cell count (SCC) and low milk quality. Treating mastitis cases with antimicrobials is essential to reduce SCC and improve milk quality. Non-prudent use of antimicrobials in dairy farms increased the development of antimicrobial resistant bacteria. This study’s objectives were (1) to isolate and identify etiological agents of mastitis and (2) to determine antimicrobial resistance profiles of bacterial isolates. A total of 174 quarter milk samples from 151 cows with high SCC and clinical mastitis from 34 dairy farms in Tennessee, Kentucky, and Mississippi were collected. Bacterial causative agents were determined by bacteriological and biochemical tests. The antimicrobial resistance of bacterial isolates against 10 commonly used antimicrobials was tested. A total of 193 bacteria consisting of six bacterial species, which include Staphylococcus aureus, Streptococcus uberis, Streptococcus dysgalactiae, Escherichia coli, Klebsiella oxytoca and Klebsiella pneumoniae were isolated. Staphylococcus aureus was the predominant isolate followed by Strep. spp., E. coli, and Klebsiella spp. Results of this study showed that Gram-negatives (E. coli and Klebsiella spp.) were more resistant than Gram-positives (Staph. aureus and Streptococcus spp.). Continuous antimicrobial resistance testing and identification of reservoirs of resistance traits in dairy farms are essential to implement proper mitigation measures.
Effect of Citrus aurantium L. Essential Oil on Streptococcus mutans Growth, Biofilm Formation and Virulent Genes Expression
Authors: Benzaid Chahrazed , Belmadani Amine , Tichati Lazhari , Djeribi Ryad , Rouabhia Mahmoud
Published: January 2021

In an oral cavity, dental caries, periodontal disease, and endodontic lesions are caused by well-known bacterial and fungal pathogens. Essential oils (EOs) have demonstrated antimicrobial activity suggesting their use for oral hygiene. The goal of this study was to evaluate the interaction of bitter orange flower (Citrus aurantium L.) essential oil with cariogenic bacteria Streptococcus mutans and human gingival epithelial cells. After extraction, the chemical composition of the essential oil was analyzed by gas chromatography, and its antimicrobial activity was evaluated against the growth and the expression of virulent genes in S. mutans. Finally, the effects of this essential oil on human gingival epithelial cell adhesion and growth were assessed using cell adhesion and proliferation assays. We showed that the major constituents of the tested essential oil were limonene, linalool, and β-ocimene. The essential oil reduced the growth of S. mutans, and decreased expression of comC, comD, comE, gtfB, gtfC, and gbpB genes. It should, however, be noted that essential oil at high concentration was toxic to gingival epithelial cells. Overall, this study suggests that C. aurantium L. essential oil could be used to prevent/control oral infections.
Effects of Resvega on Inflammasome Activation in Conjunction with Dysfunctional Intracellular Clearance in Retinal Pigment Epithelial (RPE) Cells
Authors: Bhattarai Niina , Piippo Niina , Ranta-aho Sofia , Mysore Yashavanthi , Kaarniranta Kai , Kauppinen Anu
Published: January 2021

Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is an eye disease in which retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) cells play a crucial role in maintaining retinal homeostasis and photoreceptors’ functionality. During disease progression, there is increased inflammation with nucleotide-binding domain, leucine-rich repeat, and Pyrin domain 3 (NLRP3) inflammasome activation, oxidative stress, and impaired autophagy in RPE cells. Previously, we have shown that the dietary supplement Resvega reduces reactive oxygen species (ROS) production and induces autophagy in RPE cells. Here, we investigated the ability of Resvega to prevent NLRP3 inflammasome activation with impaired protein clearance in human RPE cells. Cell viability was measured using the lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) and the 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) assays. Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays (ELISA) were utilized to determine the secretion of cytokines, NLRP3, and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF). Caspase-1 activity was measured with a fluorescent labeled inhibitor of caspase-1 (FLICA; FAM-YVAD-FMK) and detected microscopically. Resvega improved the cell membrane integrity, which was evident as reduced LDH leakage from cells. In addition, the caspase-1 activity and NLRP3 release were reduced, as was the secretion of two inflammatory cytokines, interleukin (IL)-1β and IL-8, in IL-1α-primed ARPE-19 cells. According to our results, Resvega can potentially reduce NLRP3 inflammasome-mediated inflammation in RPE cells with impaired protein clearance.
Antioxidant Activity and Biocompatibility of Fructo-Polysaccharides Extracted from a Wild Species of Ornithogalum from Lebanon
Authors: Medlej Mohammad Kazem , Batoul Cherri , Olleik Hamza , Li Suming , Hijazi Akram , Nasser Ghassan , Maresca Marc , Pochat-Bohatier Céline
Published: January 2021

The present study aims to investigate the properties of biopolymers extracted from a Lebanese onion non edible plant. The extraction was performed under mild conditions by varying the percentage of ultra-sound (US) treatment duration to a total extraction time of 30 min (0, 50, 100% US). The extracts were characterized using FTIR, SEC, GC-MS, TGA, and DSC analyses. The composition of the extracts was determined from the total carbohydrate content and protein content measurements. The thermal analyses indicate that all samples have high thermal stability. The antioxidant activities of the extracts were investigated, using β-carotene bleaching, scavenging activity of ABTS, metal chelating ability, and total antioxidant activity tests. The results indicate that the 50% US treatment leads to the best antioxidant activity. Biocompatibility of the extracts was evaluated using hemolysis and cytotoxicity assays. The results showed that 0 and 50% US samples are not toxic to human cells, in contrary to 100% US.
The Effect of Foliar Selenium (Se) Treatment on Growth, Photosynthesis, and Oxidative-Nitrosative Signalling of Stevia rebaudiana Leaves
Authors: Borbély Péter , Molnár Árpád , Valyon Emil , Ördög Attila , Horváth-Boros Klára , Csupor Dezső , Fehér Attila , Kolbert Zsuzsanna
Published: January 2021

Selenium (Se) enrichment of Stevia rebaudiana Bertoni can serve a dual purpose, on the one hand to increase plant biomass and stress tolerance and on the other hand to produce Se fortified plant-based food. Foliar Se spraying (0, 6, 8, 10 mg/L selenate, 14 days) of Stevia plantlets resulted in slightly decreased stevioside and rebaudioside A concentrations, and it also caused significant increment in stem elongation, leaf number, and Se content, suggesting that foliar Se supplementation can be used as a biofortifying approach. Furthermore, Se slightly limited photosynthetic CO2 assimilation (AN, gsw, Ci/Ca), but exerted no significant effect on chlorophyll, carotenoid contents and on parameters associated with photosystem II (PSII) activity (FV/FM, F0, Y(NO)), indicating that Se causes no photodamage in PSII. Further results indicate that Se is able to activate PSI-cyclic electron flow independent protection mechanisms of the photosynthetic apparatus of Stevia plants. The applied Se activated superoxide dismutase (SOD) isoenzymes (MnSOD1, FeSOD1, FeSOD2, Cu/ZnSOD1, Cu/ZnSOD2) and down-regulated NADPH oxidase suggesting the Se-induced limitation of superoxide anion levels and consequent oxidative signalling in Stevia leaves. Additionally, the decrease in S-nitrosoglutathione reductase protein abundance and the intensification of protein tyrosine nitration indicate Se-triggered nitrosative signalling. Collectively, these results suggest that Se supplementation alters Stevia shoot morphology without significantly affecting biomass yield and photosynthesis, but increasing Se content and performing antioxidant effects, which indicates that foliar application of Se may be a promising method in Stevia cultivation.
Characteristics of Volatile Compounds and Sensory Properties of Mixed Organic Juices Based on Kiwiberry Fruits
Authors: Kostyra Eliza , Król Katarzyna , Knysak Daniel , Piotrowska Anna , Żakowska-Biemans Sylwia , Latocha Piotr
Published: January 2021

Nowadays, the trend related to healthy eating is constantly growing among consumers. The juices based on kiwiberry containing over 20 vital nutrients may have a potential for usage in developing innovative products targeting health-concerned consumers. The aims of the study were: (1) to identify the volatile compounds of kiwiberry juice and its mixes with basic organic juices; (2) to determine the sensory characteristics and level of liking with regard to the tested samples and (3) to select the juice-mix with the highest sensory quality properties and liking. The measurements of volatile compounds in juices were made using a Heracles Neo ultrafast gas chromatograph (HS-GC). The sensory characteristics of the juices were assessed by Descriptive Quantitative Analysis, whereas the consumers’ overall liking was assessed on a 9-point hedonic scale. It was stated that the examined juices differed in the pattern of volatile compounds as well as in the sensory properties and the level of liking. The increasing addition of apple and pear juice to kiwiberry based juices in different ratios contributed to the exposed volatile compounds responsible for floral, sweet and fruity odours. The juice mixes with higher addition of apple or pear juices were more harmonized in terms of sensory image and represented higher levels of overall liking among consumers.
FT-IR Transflection Micro-Spectroscopy Study on Normal Human Breast Cells after Exposure to a Proton Beam
Authors: Ricciardi Valerio , Portaccio Marianna , Perna Giuseppe , Lasalvia Maria , Capozzi Vito , Cammarata Francesco Paolo , Pisciotta Pietro , Petringa Giada , Delfino Ines , Manti Lorenzo , Lepore Maria
Published: January 2021

Fourier transform infrared micro-spectroscopy (μ-FT-IR) is nowadays considered a valuable tool for investigating the changes occurring in human cells after exposure to ionizing radiation. Recently, considerable attention has been devoted to the use of this optical technique in the study of cells exposed to proton beams, that are being increasingly adopted in cancer therapy. Different experimental configurations are used for proton irradiation and subsequent spectra acquisition. To facilitate the use of μ-FT-IR, it may be useful to investigate new experimental approaches capable of speeding up and simplifying the irradiation and measurements phases. Here, we propose the use of low-e-substrates slides for cell culture, allowing the irradiation and spectra acquisition in transflection mode in a fast and direct way. In recent years, there has been a wide debate about the validity of these supports, but many researchers agree that the artifacts due to the presence of the electromagnetic standing wave effects are negligible in many practical cases. We investigated human normal breast cells (MCF-10 cell line) fixed immediately after the irradiation with graded proton radiation doses (0, 0.5, 2, and 4 Gy). The spectra obtained in transflection geometry showed characteristics very similar to those present in the spectra acquired in transmission geometry and confirm the validity of the chosen approach. The analysis of spectra indicates the occurrence of significant changes in DNA and lipids components of cells. Modifications in protein secondary structure are also evidenced.
Characterization of Escherichia coli Strains Derived from Cow Milk of Subclinical and Clinical Cases of Mastitis
Authors: Grudlewska-Buda Katarzyna , Skowron Krzysztof , Wałecka-Zacharska Ewa , Wiktorczyk-Kapischke Natalia , Bystroń Jarosław , Kaczmarek Agnieszka , Gospodarek-Komkowska Eugenia
Published: January 2021

Mastitis is a major economic problem in dairy herds, as it might decrease fertility, and negatively affect milk quality and milk yield. Out of over 150 bacterial species responsible for the udder inflammation, Escherichia coli is one of the most notable. This study aimed to assess antimicrobial susceptibility, resistance to dipping agents and biofilm formation of 150 E. coli strains isolated from milk of cows with subclinical and clinical mastitis. The strains came from three dairy herds located in Northern and Central Poland. The statistical analyses were performed with post-hoc Bonferroni test and chi-square test (including Yates correction). The data with a p value of <0.05 were considered significant. We found that the tested strains were mostly sensitive to antimicrobials and dipping agents. It was shown that 37.33% and 4.67% of strains were resistant and moderately resistant to at least one antimicrobial agent, respectively. No extended-spectrum beta-lactamases (ESBL)-producing E. coli were detected. The majority of strains did not possess the ability to form biofilm or formed a weak biofilm. The strong biofilm formers were found only among strains derived from cows with subclinical mastitis. The lowest bacteria number was noted for subclinical mastitis cows’ strains, after stabilization with iodine (3.77 log CFU × cm−2) and chlorhexidine (3.96 log CFU × cm−2) treatment. In the present study, no statistically significant differences in susceptibility to antibiotics and the ability to form biofilm were found among the strains isolated from cows with subclinical and clinical mastitis. Despite this, infections in dairy herds should be monitored. Limiting the spread of bacteria and characterizing the most common etiological factors would allow proper treatment.
Sentinel-2 Satellite Imagery for Urban Land Cover Classification by Optimized Random Forest Classifier
Authors: Zhang Tianxiang , Su Jinya , Xu Zhiyong , Luo Yulin , Li Jiangyun
Published: January 2021

Land cover classification is able to reflect the potential natural and social process in urban development, providing vital information to stakeholders. Recent solutions on land cover classification are generally addressed by remotely sensed imagery and supervised classification methods. However, a high-performance classifier is desirable but challenging due to the existence of model hyperparameters. Conventional approaches generally rely on manual tuning, which is time-consuming and far from satisfying. Therefore, this work aims to propose a systematic method to automatically tune the hyperparameters by Bayesian parameter optimization for the random forest classifier. The recently launched Sentinel-2A/B satellites are drawn to provide the remote sensing imageries for land cover classification case study in Beijing, China, which have the best spectral/spatial resolutions among the freely available satellites. The improved random forest with Bayesian parameter optimization is compared against the support vector machine (SVM) and random forest (RF) with default hyperparameters by discriminating five land cover classes including building, tree, road, water, and crop field. Comparative experimental results show that the optimized RF classifier outperforms the conventional SVM and the RF with default hyperparameters in terms of accuracy, precision, and recall. The effects of band/feature number and the band usefulness are also assessed. It is envisaged that the improved classifier for Sentinel-2 satellite image processing can find a wide range of applications where high-resolution satellite imagery classification is applicable.
Effect of Sea Buckthorn (Hippophae rhamnoides L.) Mousse on Properties of Probiotic Yoghurt
Authors: Brodziak Aneta , Król Jolanta , Matwijczuk Arkadiusz , Czernecki Tomasz , Glibowski Paweł , Wlazło Łukasz , Litwińczuk Anna
Published: January 2021

The stability of the physico-chemical and sensory characteristics of yoghurts during refrigerated storage is important for industry and the consumer. The aim of the study was to evaluate the nutritional value, microbiological quality, sensory properties, and structure of natural probiotic yoghurts made with the addition of sea buckthorn fruit mousse during refrigerated storage. In this study, we produced natural, probiotic organic yoghurts with the addition of superfoods, i.e., sea buckthorn (Hippophae rhamnoides L.) fruit mousse, using ABT-1 probiotic yoghurt starter culture based on Lactobacillus acidophilus LA-5, Bifidobacterium lactis BB-12, and Streptococcus thermophilus. Physico-chemical (acidity, nutritional value, and structure) as well as microbiological and sensory changes occurring during 21-day refrigerated storage were determined. The yoghurts were characterized by high sanitary and hygienic quality during the whole refrigerated storage. Fourier-Transform Infrared (FTIR) spectra were also used in the analyses of the obtained yoghurt samples. The applied yoghurt additive was visible at the spectral level as an increase in the intensity of the characteristic bands for vibrations related to protein, fat, and polysaccharide structures. Sea buckthorn can be used as a modern and unconventional addition to yoghurts with health-promoting properties. Micrographic studies have shown that the addition of sea buckthorn mousse significantly changes the microstructure of the yoghurt. The structure of sea buckthorn to yoghurt seems to be more susceptible to the influence of damaging factors, which is also confirmed by the FTIR test conducted during the storage.