bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Interspecific variation in non-breeding aggregation: a multi-colony tracking study of two sympatric seabirds
Authors: Buckingham L , Bogdanova MI , Green JA , Dunn RE , Wanless S , Bennett S , Bevan RM , Call A , Canham M , Corse CJ , Harris MP , Heward CJ , Jardine DC , Lennon J , Parnaby D , Redfern CPF , Scott L , Swann RL , Ward RM , Weston ED , Furness RW , Daunt F
Published: November 2021

Migration is a widespread strategy for escaping unfavourable conditions during winter, but the extent to which populations that segregate during the breeding season aggregate during the non-breeding season is poorly understood. Low non-breeding season aggregation may be associated with higher likelihood of overlap with threats, but with fewer populations affected, whereas high aggregation may result in a lower probability of exposure to threats, but higher overall severity. We investigated non-breeding distributions and extent of population aggregation in 2 sympatrically breeding auks. We deployed geolocation-immersion loggers on common guillemotsUria aalgeand razorbillsAlca tordaat 11 colonies around the northern UK and tracked their movements across 2 non-breeding seasons (2017-18 and 2018-19). Using 290 guillemot and 135 razorbill tracks, we mapped population distributions of each species and compared population aggregation during key periods of the non-breeding season (post-breeding moult and mid-winter), observing clear interspecific differences. Razorbills were largely distributed in the North Sea, whereas guillemot distributions were spread throughout Scottish coastal waters and the North, Norwegian and Barents Seas. We found high levels of aggregation in razorbills and a strong tendency for colony-specific distributions in guillemots. Therefore, razorbills are predicted to have a lower likelihood of exposure to marine threats, but more severe potential impact due to the larger number of colonies affected. This interspecific difference may result in divergent population trajectories, despite the species sharing protection at their breeding sites. We highlight the importance of taking whole-year distributions into account in spatial planning to adequately protect migratory species.
Assessing size-based exposure to microplastic particles and ingestion pathways in zooplankton and herring in a coastal pelagic ecosystem of British Columbia, Canada
Authors: Mahara N , Alava JJ , Kowal M , Grant E , Boldt JL , Kwong LE , Hunt BPV
Published: November 2021

Microplastic particles (hereafter 'microplastics') are a widespread class of pollutants in marine environments that can become embedded in food webs. Due to their diverse composition and size, microplastics can enter food webs both directly through consumption and indirectly via trophic transfer. In this study, we investigated potential ingestion pathways of microplastics in an important pelagic food web in coastal British Columbia, Canada. Between March and September 2019, we completed repeat surveys of water, zooplankton, and larval Pacific herring Clupea pallasii at 11 locations in Baynes Sound, Strait of Georgia. Five zooplankton taxa were isolated from each zooplankton sample for specific analysis. Juvenile herring were sampled once in September. Samples were cold-digested with KOH or H2O2 and suspected microplastics isolated. Suspected microplastics were confirmed using μ-Raman spectroscopy and were subsequently identified from the collected samples. The average microplastic concentration in surface waters was 0.59 microplastic particles l-1, and no clear spatial pattern was evident. Average microplastic particle loads were 0.0007 ind.-1 in zooplankton, 0.0017 ind.-1 in larval herring, and 0.089 ind.-1 in juvenile herring. There was a clear difference in the biological:microplastic particle ratio across size fractions (125-250, 250-500, 500-1000, 1000-2000, 2000-4000 µm) in the water column. In size classes <1000 µm, biological particles outnumbered microplastic particles by up to 4 orders of magnitude, whereas for size classes >1000 µm, the ratio decreased to nearly 1. Zooplanktivorous consumers like juvenile herring are more likely to consume microplastics than prey since the ratio of microplastic particles >1000 µm to potential food, and therefore encounter rate, is higher.
Using environmental product declarations for green public procurement and life cycle assessment of concrete pavements
Authors: Rangelov Milena , Dylla Heather , Sivaneswaran Nadarajah
Published: November 2021

Environmental impacts of concrete production have been evaluated for more than a decade. As a result, a national program for environmental product declarations (EPDs) of concrete has been initiated. The main objective of this paper is to analyze concrete EPDs produced to date and evaluate their applicability for green public procurement (GPP) and life-cycle assessment (LCA) of concrete pavements. EPDs provide transparent and verified quantification of environmental impacts, calculated per predetermined guidelines, known as Product Category Rules (PCRs). PCRs for concrete were developed through involvement of stakeholders from the building industry; therefore, these PCRs may not be fully applicable to paving concrete. The analysis included over 70 published EPDs and revealed that there are marked variations in underlying data sources and data quality, which hinders comparability of EPDs and use of EPDs for benchmarking. Concrete EPDs were created primarily using proprietary data sources suitable for the private sector. However, in the public sector, the use of proprietary data may be cost-prohibitive for agencies, disable transparency, and present the impediment to wider GPP and LCA adoption. To that end, reliable public datasets offer more promise for the development of paving concrete EPD. This study also compares concrete PCR to that of other paving materials (cement, aggregate, asphalt), all of which were created with no overarching entity. Accordingly, the potential options for harmonization and synergetic use of these EPDs in GPP and pavement LCA are also investigated.
Laboratory And Field Tests On A Prefabricated Steel-Bar Mesh-Panel System For Continuously-Reinforced-Concrete Pavement (CRCP)
Authors: Katayama Norinobu , Fujisaki Kazuhiko , Ueno Takehisa , Onishi Ryutaro , Yoshitake Isamu
Published: November 2021

The decline in the number of persons of working age is a social problem in Japan. This is a particularly serious concern for workers in the construction field; construction systems should be considered for productivity improvements. Prefabrication systems are an effective method for shortening construction cycles and times. In fact, various precast concrete members have been employed to realize more rapid construction and improvements in quality. Using precast concrete members is difficult because jointless roads are preferable for highway pavement. Continuously reinforced concrete pavement (CRCP), which has the advantages of concrete jointless construction and high ductility, is a suitable method for highway road construction. Typical Japanese highways built with CRCP reduce the amount of horizontal cracking by arranging transverse rebars at an angle of 60° to the main rebars. Note that rebar placement and bonding in conventional CRCP are troublesome and labor intensive owing to the long construction time required. We have developed prefabricated steel bar meshes for CRCP and can report some benefits relating to their practical application. To examine the fundamental properties of mesh panels, we conducted a laboratory experiment and a simulated field test. The primary concern of welded rebars are failures induced by cyclic loading. A flexural fatigue loading test using CRCP models was conducted. In addition, a comparative survey on conventional and prefabrication systems was performed in the simulated field test to quantify the constructability of CRCP and to observe the extent of cracking in concrete. This paper reports on our experimental investigation.
Hythlodaeus' Second Marathon Sentence of 926 Words and the “Contextual Launch” of the Utopia
Authors: Malsbary Gerald
Published: November 2021

This article is a follow-up to a previous one in Moreana 51 (2014), which provided a detailed analysis of the immediately preceding 464-word sentence. The two sentences placed near the end of Utopia I work together to illustrate the political wisdom (in both domestic and foreign affairs) which the fictional Hythlodaeus has acquired in his travels, and at the same time encourage readers of Utopia to look forward to, and to accept the wisdom of the Utopians way of life as a positive model for Europe. There is an undoubted harmony between the sensible practices of the “Achorians” and “Macarians” and More's political philosophy as revealed in his epigrams. Nevertheless, the two long sentences also function as praeambula to the full-length account of the Utopians, and they are meant to guide our interpretation. The details of their structure, here analyzed, bring about certain rhetorical effects. In a crescendo of irony, the long sentences establish a rather peculiar character for Hythlodaeus as the sole narrator of Utopia II: he is an independent, utterly frank witness to this fictional “reality” of More's creation, and by the end of Utopia I we readers are prepared to listen to Utopia II with very critical ears indeed.
The Political Theory of Thomas More’s Epigrammata
Authors: Brooks Veronica
Published: November 2021

This essay argues that More’s Epigrammata contains a coherent political theory that is inspired by ancient Roman republicanism. More defines “liberty” as the people’s willing obedience to virtuous leaders who rule for the common good, and he claims that popular opinion is the source of legitimacy rather than divine sanction. In doing so, More critiques the Tudor regime and presents an alternative theory of kingship based on his understanding of liberty. However, More also criticizes hereditary monarchy as such and explicitly prefers a republican regime of elected men who share authority among equal peers. This republican regime more effectively promotes the common good, but it depends upon virtue in the rulers and in the citizens. More’s satirical epigrams on virtue and vice are part of his political teaching insofar as they establish his conception of citizen virtue, which supports his republicanism.
A Visual Mining Approach to Improved Multiple- Instance Learning
Authors: Castelo Sonia , Ponti Moacir , Minghim Rosane
Published: November 2021

Multiple-instance learning (MIL) is a paradigm of machine learning that aims to classify a set (bag) of objects (instances), assigning labels only to the bags. This problem is often addressed by selecting an instance to represent each bag, transforming an MIL problem into standard supervised learning. Visualization can be a useful tool to assess learning scenarios by incorporating the users’ knowledge into the classification process. Considering that multiple-instance learning is a paradigm that cannot be handled by current visualization techniques, we propose a multiscale tree-based visualization called MILTree to support MIL problems. The first level of the tree represents the bags, and the second level represents the instances belonging to each bag, allowing users to understand the MIL datasets in an intuitive way. In addition, we propose two new instance selection methods for MIL, which help users improve the model even further. Our methods can handle both binary and multiclass scenarios. In our experiments, SVM was used to build the classifiers. With support of the MILTree layout, the initial classification model was updated by changing the training set, which is composed of the prototype instances. Experimental results validate the effectiveness of our approach, showing that visual mining by MILTree can support exploring and improving models in MIL scenarios and that our instance selection methods outperform the currently available alternatives in most cases.
A Procedure for Factoring and Solving Nonlocal Boundary Value Problems for a Type of Linear Integro-Differential Equations
Authors: Providas Efthimios , Parasidis Ioannis Nestorios
Published: November 2021

The aim of this article is to present a procedure for the factorization and exact solution of boundary value problems for a class of n-th order linear Fredholm integro-differential equations with multipoint and integral boundary conditions. We use the theory of the extensions of linear operators in Banach spaces and establish conditions for the decomposition of the integro-differential operator into two lower-order integro-differential operators. We also create solvability criteria and derive the unique solution in closed form. Two example problems for an ordinary and a partial intergro-differential equation respectively are solved.
A Simple Control Strategy Based on Trajectory Planning for Vertical Acrobot
Authors: Wang Lejun , Chen Siyu , Zhang Pan , She Jinhua , Lai Xuzhi
Published: November 2021

This paper presents a simple control method on the basis of the trajectory planning for vertical Acrobot to accomplish the control goal of moving the system from the downward initial position (DIP) and steadying the system at the upward target position (UTP). First, for the active link, we frame a trajectory that contains some adjustable parameters. Along the framed trajectory, we can make the active link stabilize at its end angle from its start angle. Furthermore, we change the trajectory parameters to make the passive link also arrive at the zone near the end angle. Next, we devise a PD-based tracking controller to track this planned trajectory. In this way, the vertical Acrobot is swung up to a small zone near the UTP. Then, from the approximate linear model at the UTP, we devise a stabilization controller to stabilize the vertical Acrobot at the UTP. Finally, we implement the simulation to show the validity of the proposed method.
University–Industry Collaboration: A Sustainable Technology Transfer Model
Authors: Terán-Bustamante Antonia , Martínez-Velasco Antonieta , López-Fernández Andrée Marie
Published: November 2021

Faced with the pandemic caused by COVID-19, universities worldwide are giving a powerful response to support their communities. One way to provide support is via the collaboration between universities and industries, allowing the co-creation of knowledge that leads to innovation. Historically, universities, as knowledge-intensive organizations (KIOs), have produced knowledge through research. At present, its important contribution to countries’ economy is widely recognized through the development of new knowledge and technical know-how. Universities are a source of innovation for firms, which ultimately translates into social welfare improvements. The objective of this research is to analyze the university–firm linkage. The methodological strategy is carried out using Bayesian networks through a model where the main elements of university–industry linking, which impact competitiveness and innovation, are identified and quantified. The technology transfer model shows that the most crucial processes are Technology Strategy, Value Proposal, Knowledge Management, Control and Monitoring, Innovation Management, Needs Detection, Knowledge Creation, New Products and Services, and Absorption Capacity.
A Detailed Survey and Future Directions of Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) with Potential Applications
Authors: Elmeseiry Nourhan , Alshaer Nancy , Ismail Tawfik
Published: November 2021

Recently, unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), also known as drones, have gained widespread interest in civilian and military applications, which has led to the development of novel UAVs that can perform various operations. UAVs are aircraft that can fly without the need of a human pilot onboard, meaning they can fly either autonomously or be remotely piloted. They can be equipped with multiple sensors, including cameras, inertial measurement units (IMUs), LiDAR, and GPS, to collect and transmit data in real time. Due to the demand for UAVs in various applications such as precision agriculture, search and rescue, wireless communications, and surveillance, several types of UAVs have been invented with different specifications for their size, weight, range and endurance, engine type, and configuration. Because of this variety, the design process and analysis are based on the type of UAV, with the availability of several control techniques that could be used to improve the flight of the UAV in order to avoid obstacles and potential collisions, as well as find the shortest path to save the battery life with the support of optimization techniques. However, UAVs face several challenges in order to fly smoothly, including collision avoidance, battery life, and intruders. This review paper presents UAVs’ classification, control applications, and future directions in industry and research interest. For the design process, fabrication, and analysis, various control approaches are discussed in detail. Furthermore, the challenges for UAVs, including battery charging, collision avoidance, and security, are also presented and discussed.
Spatiotemporal Graph Indicators for Air Traffic Complexity Analysis
Authors: Isufaj Ralvi , Koca Thimjo , Piera Miquel Angel
Published: November 2021

There has been extensive research in formalising air traffic complexity, but existing works focus mainly on a metric to tie down the peak air traffic controllers workload rather than a dynamic approach to complexity that could guide both strategical, pre-tactical and tactical actions for a smooth flow of aircraft. In this paper, aircraft interdependencies are formalized using graph theory and four complexity indicators are described, which combine spatiotemporal topological information with the severity of the interdependencies. These indicators can be used to predict the dynamic evolution of complexity, by not giving one single score, but measuring complexity in a time window. Results show that these indicators can capture complex spatiotemporal areas in a sector and give a detailed and nuanced view of sector complexity.
Use of High Resolution Spatiotemporal Gene Expression Data to Uncover Novel Tissue-Specific Promoters in Tomato
Authors: Chen Lulu , Li Yuhang , Wang Yuting , Li Wenzhen , Feng Xuechao , Zhao Lingxia
Published: November 2021

Genetic modification can be an effective strategy for improving the agronomic traits of tomato (Solanum lycopersicum) to meet demands for yield, quality, functional components, and stress tolerance. However, limited numbers of available tissue-specific promoters represent a bottleneck for the design and production of transgenic plants. In the current study, a total of 25 unigenes were collected from an RNA-sequence dataset based on their annotation as being exclusively expressed in five type of tissues of tomato pericarp (outer and inner epidermis, collenchyma, parenchyma, and vascular tissues), and every five unigenes, was respectively selected from each tissue based on transcription expression. The 3-kb 5′ upstream region of each unigene was identified from the tomato genome sequence (SL2.50) using annotated unigene sequences, and the promoter sequences were further analyzed. The results showed an enrichment in T/A (T/A > 70%) in the promoter regions. A total of 15 putative tissue-/organ-specific promoters were identified and analyzed by real-time (RT) quantitative (q) PCR analysis, of which six demonstrated stronger activity than widely used tissue-specific tomato promoters. These results demonstrate how high spatiotemporal and high throughput gene expression data can provide a powerful means of identifying spatially targeted promoters in plants.
Functional Characteristics and Molecular Identification of Interspecific Hybrids from Genus Capsicum
Authors: Olszewska Dorota , Tomaszewska-Sowa Magdalena , Witkowska Emilia , Litewka Jakub
Published: November 2021

The taxonomy of the genus Capsicum has distinguished more than twenty species of peppers with only C. annuum L. being a vegetable of economic importance. The remaining species can, however, be used in breeding via interspecies hybridization as a source of valuable functional traits. The aim of the study was to obtain interspecific hybrids of peppers with increased agronomic potential and their molecular identification. Based on their agromorphological characteristics, the obtained hybrids (‘Anchi’ × C. frutescens L.)F1 and (‘Anchi’ × C. baccatum var. pendulum)F1 formed fruits that had the combined functional traits typical of the cultivar ‘Anchi’, with a high content of soluble solids and dry matter characteristic of pollinators. To identify hybrids and their parental forms, the random amplified polymorphic DNA polymerase chain reaction (PCR-RAPD) and inter simple sequence repeat polymerase chain reaction (PCR-ISSR) techniques were used. The polymorphic products obtained in both methods totalled 65% and 59%, respectively, and they allowed for the identification of all tested genotypes, excluded the possibility of self-pollination of ‘Anchi’ plants, and confirmed the hybrid characteristics of the crossbreed (‘Anchi’ × C. frutescens L.)F1.
A Critical Review on Lignocellulosic Biomass Yield Modeling and the Bioenergy Potential from Marginal Land
Authors: Haberzettl Jan , Hilgert Pia , von Cossel Moritz
Published: November 2021

Lignocellulosic biomass from marginal land is needed for a social–ecologically sustainable bioeconomy transition. However, how much biomass can be expected? This study addresses this question by reviewing the limitations of current biomass yield modeling for lignocellulosic crops on marginal land and deriving recommendations to overcome these limitations. It was found that on the input side of biomass yield models, geographically limited research and the lack of universally understood definitions impose challenges on data collection. The unrecognized complexity of marginal land, the use of generic crop growth models together with data from small-scale field trials and limited resolution further reduce the comparability of modeling results. On the output side of yield models, the resistance of modeled yields to future variations is highly limited by the missing incorporation of the risk of land use changes and climatic change. Moreover, several limitations come with the translation of modeled yields into bioenergy yields: the non-specification of conversion factors, a lack of conversion capacities, feedstock yield–quality tradeoffs, as well as slow progress in breeding and the difficulty of sustainability criteria integration into models. Intensified political support and enhancement of research on a broad range of issues might increase the consistency of future yield modeling.
Agave Steroidal Saponins as Potential Bioherbicides
Authors: Durán Alexandra G. , Benito Javier , Macías Francisco A. , Simonet Ana M.
Published: November 2021

Agave saponins are a valuable resource for the prospective development of new forms of agrochemicals. The extraction method was optimized and applied to 17 Agave species. Thirteen saponin fractions (SFs) were assayed on wheat etiolated coleoptiles, and analysed using UPLC-QTOF-MSE, NMR spectroscopy and the HMBC method for aglycone identification (HMAI). Six SFs were assayed on standard target species (STS) and weeds. The new extraction method reduces costs to obtain SFs with the same activity. The tested SFs assayed on etiolated wheat coleoptiles that belong to the subgenus Agave were among those with the highest activity levels. The combination of HMAI together with UPLC-MS allowed the identification of 20 aglycones in the SFs, and no isolation or hydrolysis of the saponins was required. A Principal Component Analysis (PCA) showed that for the active SFs the structural key would be the length of their sugar chain. The presence of a carbonyl group at C-12 implied an enhancement in phytotoxic activity. Six SFs were assayed on seeds, and no activity on Solanum lycopersicum (tomato) was observed; however, good activity profiles were obtained on weed E. crus-galli (IC50 < 80 ppm), better than the commercial herbicide Logran®. These findings represent a possible lead for the development of natural herbicides through the use of saponins of subgenus Agave species.
Spatiotemporal Assessment and Meteorological Determinants of Atmospheric Drought in Agricultural Areas of East-Central Poland
Authors: Bartoszek Krzysztof , Baranowska Alicja , Kukla Łukasz , Skowera Barbara , Węgrzyn Alicja
Published: November 2021

Atmospheric drought is an extremely important issue on a global, regional and local scale, especially in the context of climate change. The aim of the study was to assess the spatiotemporal variation of atmospheric (meteorological) drought in agricultural areas of east-central Poland, represented by the Lublin Voivodeship (Lublin region) in 1971–2015. Average monthly air temperatures and monthly precipitation totals recorded over the 45-year period at 25 weather stations were used in the study. The assessment of spatiotemporal variation in atmospheric drought in the study area was based on calculations of the aridity index. The analysis showed an increase in the severity of atmospheric drought in the Lublin region, with intensification of this phenomenon in the last two decades, especially in the warmer half of the year (April, June–August). The main cause of drought in the Lublin region was identified as a statistically significant increase in air temperature (on average, from 0.4 °C to 0.7 °C/10 years in April, July and August, and from 0.2 °C to 0.5 °C/10 years in June) together with the absence of changes in precipitation in the warmer half of the year. This may be linked to some increase in the frequency of high-pressure circulation types, both non-directional and advection from the south. Due to the worsening problem of drought in Poland in recent years, especially in agriculture, there is a need for further research on this subject and for solutions aimed at optimizing agricultural use of the productive environment.
Optimum Sowing Date and Salt Tolerant Variety Boost Rice (Oryza sativa L.) Yield and Water Productivity during Boro Season in the Ganges Delta
Authors: Sarangi Sukanta K. , Mainuddin Mohammed , Maji Buddheswar , Mahanta Kshirendra K. , Digar Saheb , Burman Dhiman , Mandal Uttam Kumar , Mandal Subhasis
Published: November 2021

Rice-fallow and rice-rice are major cropping systems in the salt affected region of the Ganges Delta covering West Bengal, India and Bangladesh. The dry season rice (Boro) is grown mostly by irrigation from ground water in this water scarce region. Boro encounters soil and water salinity, air temperature fluctuations and intense evaporative demand. We studied six sowing dates (1 October, 15 October, 1 November, 15 November, 1 December and 15 December) and three varieties (WGL 20471, Bidhan 2 and IET 4786) of rice to find an interacting effect on yield and water productivity. Soil and water salinity varied during the growing period with lower soil salinity during the month of November (2.20–2.53 dS m−1) and higher soil salinity towards the end of the growing season (4.30–5.23 dS m−1). The mean field water salinity was higher (1.78 dS m−1) during the Boro 2017–18 compared to that (1.65 dS m−1) during 2016–17, as about 49 mm rainfall was received in the month of March 2017. Sowing dates significantly affected the yield of Boro rice. Earliest sowing on 1 October is not feasible as it significantly reduced the grain and straw yields. Sowing of nursery up to 1 of November was found to be the best possible option, and it should not be delayed up to 15 December. The rice variety IET 4786 was found to be susceptible to salinity with the lowest grain yield 2.65–2.98 t ha−1, compared to Bidhan 2 (3.41–5.95 t ha−1) and WGL 20471 (3.40–5.81 t ha−1). Both irrigation and economic water productivity of Boro were affected by sowing dates and variety. Rice variety IET 4786 required less irrigation water (1320 mm) than the other two varieties (1350 mm). Higher (>0.5 kg m−3) irrigation water productivity of Boro can be achieved by selecting salt tolerant varieties (WGL 20471 and Bidhan 2) and optimum sowing window of 1–15 November.
Starch Morphology and Metabolomic Analyses Reveal That the Effect of High Temperature on Cooked Rice Elongation and Expansion Varied in Indica and Japonica Rice Cultivars
Authors: Okpala Nnaemeka Emmanuel , Potcho Mouloumdema Pouwedeou , Imran Muhammad , An Tianyue , Bao Gegen , He Longxin , Li Lin , Tang Xiangru
Published: November 2021

Rice (Oryza sativa L.) is mainly grouped into indica and japonica varieties. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of temperature on cooked rice elongation, cooked rice expansion, and rice fragrance. This study was conducted in three growth temperature chambers with indica cultivar Basmati 385 (B385) and japonica cultivar Yunjingyou (YJY). Grains of B385 grown in low-temperature regimes had the highest cooked rice elongation and expansion, whereas the grains of YJY grown in high-temperature regimes had the highest cooked rice elongation and expansion. Starch granules of B385 grown in low-temperature regimes were more compact and bigger, compared to grains grown in medium- and high-temperature regimes. Conversely, the starch granules of YJY grown in high-temperature regimes were more compact and bigger, compared to those grown in medium- and low-temperature regimes. Metabolomic analyses showed that temperature affected the rice metabolome and revealed that cyclohexanol could be responsible for the differences observed in cooked rice elongation and expansion percentage. However, in both B385 and YJY, grains from low-temperature regimes had the highest 2-AP content and the lowest expression levels of the badh2 gene. The findings of this study will be useful to rice breeders and producers.
The Influence of Industrial Waste on the Magnetic Properties of Salt-Affected Soils from Two Soda Ash Manufacturing Sites
Authors: Łuczak Katarzyna , Pindral Sylwia , Michalski Adam , Kusza Grzegorz , Ślęzak Ewelina , Hulisz Piotr
Published: November 2021

The aim of this study was to characterize the impact of soda ash manufacturing on the magnetic properties of soils located in the agricultural landscape in north-central Poland. Two study sites were chosen: Mątwy (SM) and Janikowo (SJ). Highly saline soils with halophyte communities were selected in order to develop an understanding of the relationship between salinization of water–soil interface and the potential contamination risk of the environment. Basic chemical and physicochemical properties of topsoil (0–25 cm) and water (surface and groundwater) samples from five locations were characterized. The characteristics of soil contamination were based on the content of selected metals, magnetic properties and salinity indices. Potential routes of contaminant migration (air and water fluxes) were analyzed. High magnetic anomalies of technogenic origin were revealed in the studied soils. A statistically confirmed relationship between high magnetic susceptibility and the content of selected metals (Co, Ni, Cu, Zn, Ba, Pb and Mn) showed the high utility of magnetometric techniques in soil research (diagnosis of soil transformation and contamination during technogenic impact). Three potential factors influencing contaminant migration were revealed: highly saline ground and surface water, eolian transport of fine-grained mineral fractions from waste ponds and atmospheric deposition of coal combustion products.
Improving Crop Lodging Resistance by Adjusting Plant Height and Stem Strength
Authors: Niu Yanan , Chen Tianxiao , Zhao Chenchen , Zhou Meixue
Published: November 2021

Crop height not only determines plant resistance to lodging and crowding, but also affects crop architecture, apical dominance, biomass, and mechanical harvesting. Plant height is determined by the internode elongation, regulated by genes involved in gibberellin (GA) and brassinosteroid (BR) biosynthesis or related signaling networks. Plants’ genetic inability to synthesize or respond to GAs and BRs induce dwarfness. However, the signaling mechanisms of GAs and BRs for controlling plant height individually or collectively are still unclear. Since stem mechanically supports plant during the whole life span, components that affect stem physical strength are also important to crop lodging resistance. One of the major components is lignin, which forms stem structure, thus contributing to crop lodging resistance. In this review, we looked into the reported genes involved in lignin, GAs, and BRs biosynthesis and summarized the signaling networks centered by these genes. Then, we filled the knowledge gap by modifying plant height through interrupting normal GA and BR metabolism utilizing core gene inhibitors. Therefore, we highly endorsed the current approaches of using plant growth regulators (PRGs) to maintain an ideal plant height under lodging stress, and proposed possibilities of modifying crop culm strength against lodging as well.
Effects of Dietary Protein Concentration on Lipid Metabolism Gene Expression and Fatty Acid Composition in 18–23-Month-Old Hanwoo Steers
Authors: Bharanidharan Rajaraman , Thirugnanasambantham Krishnaraj , Ibidhi Ridha , Bang Geumhwi , Jang Sun Sik , Baek Youl Chang , Kim Kyoung Hoon , Moon Yea Hwang
Published: November 2021

The present study evaluated the influence of dietary protein level on growth performance, fatty acid composition, and the expression of lipid metabolic genes in intramuscular adipose tissues from 18- to 23-month-old Hanwoo steers, representing the switching point of the lean-to-fat ratio. Forty steers with an initial live weight of 486 ± 37 kg were assigned to one of two treatment groups fed either a concentrate diet with 14.5% CP and or with 17% CP for 6 months. Biopsy samples of intramuscular tissue were collected to analyze the fatty acid composition and gene expression at 23 months of age. Throughout the entire experimental period, all steers were restrained twice daily to allow individual feeding. Growth performance, blood metabolites, and carcass traits, according to ultrasonic measurements, were not affected by the experimental diets. The high-protein diet significantly increased the expression of intramuscular PPARα (p < 0.1) and LPL (p < 0.05) but did not affect genes involved in fatty acid uptake (CD36 and FABP4) nor lipogenesis (ACACA, FASN, and SCD). In addition, it downregulated intramuscular VLCAD (p < 0.01) related to lipogenesis but also GPAT1 (p = 0.001), DGAT2 (p = 0.016), and SNAP23 (p = 0.057), which are involved in fatty acid esterification and adipocyte size. Hanwoo steers fed a high-protein diet at 18–23 months of age resulted in a relatively lower lipid turnover rate than steers fed a low-protein diet, which could be responsible for shortening the feeding period.
Cardoon Meal as Alternative Protein Source to Soybean Meal for Limousine Bulls Fattening Period: Effects on Growth Performances and Meat Quality Traits
Authors: Nannucci Lapo , Mariottini Francesco , Parrini Silvia , Sirtori Francesco , Bozzi Riccardo , Falce Michele , Aquilani Chiara , Confessore Andrea , Cannas Antonello , Brajon Giovanni
Published: November 2021

Soybean meal is the most important protein source in beef cattle feeding. The research of alternative protein sources to replace soy use, avoiding negative effects on in vivo performance and on the product’s quality, is an important issue. In this context, cardoon represents a non-OGM resilient crop that can be cultivated in marginal lands for extracting its seed oil (utilized for biodiesel and biodegradable bioplastic production) and whose and the residual meal from its seed oil (utilized for biodiesel and biodegradable bioplastic production) could be a suitable by-product for animal feeding, due to its fairly high protein content. The aim of this study was to evaluate the feasibility of using cardoon meal as an innovative protein source during the Limousine bulls’ fattening period. Thirty-two bulls were divided into two groups and fed with a diet containing soybean meal (SG) or partially replacing soybean meal with cardoon meal as a protein source (CG), respectively. The feeding trial lasted about 11 months. Growth performances and meat physical–chemical traits were evaluated. No statistical differences in feed efficiency, average daily gain, or in the main meat quality indicators, as well as in fatty acid profiles were found among the groups. Therefore, cardoon meal could be considered as an alternative to soybean meal in fattening Limousine bulls in order to enhance the sustainability of the farming system.
Effect of Supplementary Levels of Rumen-Protected Lysine and Methionine on Growth Performance, Carcass Traits, and Meat Quality in Feedlot Yaks (Bos grunniens)
Authors: Ma Zhiyuan , Zhao Zhiwei , Wang Hucheng , Zhou Jianwei , Zhang Chengfu
Published: November 2021

Yak, a unique bovine species on the Qinghai-Tibetan Plateau, has provided pastoralists with the basic materials of production and life for thousands of years. Existing literature showed that yak meat is of high nutritional value for humans whereas the growth performance is relatively low. As it has been demonstrated, lysine and methionine are the two key limiting amino acids in ruminants. Therefore, this study was conducted to investigate the effect of supplementary levels of rumen-protected lysine (RPL) and methionine (RPM) on growth performance, carcass traits, and meat quality in feedlot yaks. Thirty-two male yaks, with initial body weight (IBW) of 237.5 ± 13.99 kg were randomly assigned to four dietary treatments (n = 8), including control group (CON; basal diet without adding rumen-protected amino acid (RPAA)), low RPAA supplementation group (Group Low; basal diet supplemented with RPL (30.0 g/animal/day) and RPM (7.5 g/animal/day)), medium RPAA supplementation group (Group Medium; basal diet supplemented with RPL (50.0 g/animal/day) and RPM (12.5 g/animal/day)), and high RPAA supplementation group (Group High; basal diet supplemented with RPL (70.0 g/animal/day) and RPM (17.5 g/animal/day)). The average daily gain was increased linearly (p < 0.001) and quadratically (p < 0.01) while feed to gain ratio was decreased linearly (p < 0.001) and quadratically (p < 0.001) with the increasing RPAA supplementation, and the average daily gain was higher while feed to gain ratio was lower in RPAA than CON (p < 0.001). Meat color L* values and b* were decreased linearly (p < 0.01) with the increase of RPAA supplementation, and b* was lower in RPAA than CON (p < 0.05). Meat color a* value was increased linearly (p < 0.05) with the increasing RPAA supplementation, and a* was higher in RPAA than CON (p < 0.05). The 24 h drip loss and shear force were decreased quadratically (p < 0.01) with the increasing RPAA supplementation, and drip loss and shear force values were lower in RPAA than CON (p < 0.05). The glycine concentration in longissimus dorsi (LD) increased linearly (p < 0.05) with the increasing RPAA supplementation. These results demonstrated that both the growth performance and meat quality characteristics were improved in feedlot yaks as an effect of the dietary supplementation with RPL and RPM, and the medium supplementary level is recommended, since it showed the most promising results.
A Bibliometric Analysis and Global Trends in Fascioliasis Research: A Neglected Tropical Disease
Authors: Ahmad Tauseef , Imran Muhammad , Ahmad Kabir , Khan Muhammad , Baig Mukhtiar , Al-Rifai Rami H. , Al-Omari Basem
Published: November 2021

Background: Fascioliasis is a zoonotic neglected tropical disease caused by Fasciola hepatica and F. gigantica. In endemic regions, fascioliasis represents a huge problem in livestock production and significantly threatens public health. The present study was performed to assess the key bibliometric indicators, plot the global research outcome, and strive to find the research frontiers and trends in fascioliasis. Methods: A descriptive bibliometric and visualized study was conducted. The data were extracted from the Web of Science Core Collection (WoSCC) database. The WoSCC was searched using key terms covering a wide range of synonyms related to the causative agent (Fasciola) and the disease (fascioliasis). The database search was performed for the period from the inception of WoSCC until 3 October 2021. The downloaded data were exported into VOSviewer software version 1.6.17 for Windows to construct co-authorship countries, keywords co-occurrence, bibliographic coupling sources, and citation and documents network visualization. Results: A total of 4165 documents were included in this bibliometric analysis. The included documents were published between the years 1913 and 2021 from 116 countries, mainly from the United States of America (USA) (n = 482, 11.6%). The most prolific year was 2018 (n = 108). The journal that attracted the most publications was Veterinary Parasitology (n = 324), while the most productive author in this area was Rondelaud D (n = 156). In terms of total link strength (TLS), the most influential country was Spain (TLS = 236), followed by the USA (TLS = 178). Conclusion: This study is of value for veterinarians, doctors, and researchers to explore insights into research frontiers and trends in research on fascioliasis. The number of publications on fascioliasis has increased over time. Above 35% of publications have been produced by the USA, France, England, and Spain. “Fasciola hepatica” and “cattle” were the most dominant and widely used keywords. Research collaboration should be established among the researchers from developing countries with developed countries to learn new advancements and effective control strategies for fascioliasis.
Molecular Detection and Genotyping of Enterocytozoon bieneusi in Black Goats (Capra hircus) in Yunnan Province, Southwestern China
Authors: Xie Shi-Chen , Zou Yang , Li Zhao , Yang Jian-Fa , Zhu Xing-Quan , Zou Feng-Cai
Published: November 2021

Enterocytozoon bieneusi is a fungus-like protist that can parasitize in the intestines of humans and various animals causing a threat to public health. However, there has been no data for E. bieneusi prevalence and genotypes in black goats in Yunnan Province, Southwestern China. In this study, 907 fecal samples were collected from black goats in 5 counties from Yunnan Province. The prevalence and genotypes of E. bieneusi were examined by nested PCR amplification targeting the nuclear internal transcribed spacer (ITS). Multi-locus sequence typing (MLST) was used to further examine the potential occurrence of genetic segregation. The overall prevalence of E. bieneusi in black goats in Yunnan Province was 10.3% (93/907). Statistical analysis revealed that E. bieneusi prevalence was significantly associated with the region, age and gender of black goats (p < 0.001). Four new genotypes (CYG-1, CYG-2, CYG-3, CYG-4) and 11 known genotypes (CHG1, CHG2, CHG3, CHG5, CHG28, J, D, BEB6, Wildboar3, CD6, SDD1) of E. bieneusi were identified. At the microsatellite and minisatellite loci, 15, 2, 17, and 33 sequences were obtained, respectively, forming one new multi-locus genotype (MLG27). Phylogenetic analysis revealed that all 15 genotypes were clustered into group 1 and group 2, with zoonotic potential. This is the first report of E. bieneusi prevalence and genotypes in black goats in Yunnan Province, China. Effective control strategies and measures should be taken to reduce the risk of E. bieneusi transmission between black goats, other animals, and humans.
Effect of Type and Dietary Fat Content on Rabbit Growing Performance and Nutrient Retention from 34 to 63 Days Old
Authors: Alejandro Saiz del Barrio , Ana Isabel García-Ruiz , Nuria Nicodemus
Published: November 2021

The study was carried out on individually and collectively housed growing rabbits from 34 to 63 days of age. Two experiments were conducted using three fat sources: Soybean oil (SBO), Soya Lecithin Oil (SLO), and Lard (L; Exp. 1), and SBO, Fish Oil (FO), and Palm kernel Oil (PKO; Exp. 2), added at two inclusion levels (1.5 and 4.0%). In both trials, 180 rabbits were housed in individual cages and additional 600 rabbits in collective cages from day 34 to 63. Animals fed with 4% dietary fat showed lower Daily Feed Intake (DFI) and Feed Conversion Ratio (FCR) than those fed with 1.5%, except in the individually housed animals in Exp. 1. In the collective housed group in Exp. 1, DFI was a 4.8% higher in animals fed with diets containing lard than those fed with SBO (p = 0.036). Lard inclusion also tended to reduce mortality (p = 0.067) by 60% and 25% compared with SBO and SLO diets, respectively. Mortality was the highest with the higher level of soya lecithin (14% vs. 1%, p < 0.01). A similar mortality rate was observed in the lowest level of SBO. In the grouped-housed animals in Exp. 2, a decrease of DFI (−12.4%), Bodyweight (BW) at 63 d (−4.8%), and Daily Weight Gain (DWG) (−7.8%) were observed with the inclusion of fish oil (p < 0.01) compared to other fat sources. Fish oil also tended to increase (p = 0.078) mortality (13.2%) compared with palm kernel oil (6.45%); similar results were found when animals were individually housed. The overall efficiency of N retention (NRE) increased with the highest level of fat in Exp. 1 (34.9 vs. 37.8%; p < 0.0001). It can be concluded that lard and palm kernel oil are alternative sources of fat due to the reduction of mortality. The inclusion of fish oil impaired animal productivity and increased mortality. An increment of the dietary fat level improved FCR and overall protein retention efficiency.
Field-Emission Scanning Electron Microscope as a Tool for Large-Area and Large-Volume Ultrastructural Studies
Authors: Lewczuk Bogdan , Szyryńska Natalia
Published: November 2021

The development of field-emission scanning electron microscopes for high-resolution imaging at very low acceleration voltages and equipped with highly sensitive detectors of backscattered electrons (BSE) has enabled transmission electron microscopy (TEM)-like imaging of the cut surfaces of tissue blocks, which are impermeable to the electron beam, or tissue sections mounted on the solid substrates. This has resulted in the development of methods that simplify and accelerate ultrastructural studies of large areas and volumes of biological samples. This article provides an overview of these methods, including their advantages and disadvantages. The imaging of large sample areas can be performed using two methods based on the detection of transmitted electrons or BSE. Effective imaging using BSE requires special fixation and en bloc contrasting of samples. BSE imaging has resulted in the development of volume imaging techniques, including array tomography (AT) and serial block-face imaging (SBF-SEM). In AT, serial ultrathin sections are collected manually on a solid substrate such as a glass and silicon wafer or automatically on a tape using a special ultramicrotome. The imaging of serial sections is used to obtain three-dimensional (3D) information. SBF-SEM is based on removing the top layer of a resin-embedded sample using an ultramicrotome inside the SEM specimen chamber and then imaging the exposed surface with a BSE detector. The steps of cutting and imaging the resin block are repeated hundreds or thousands of times to obtain a z-stack for 3D analyses.