bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Trust Nobody: How Voters React To Conspiracy Theories
Authors: Invernizzi Giovanna , Mohamed Ahmed Ezzeldin
Published: September 2020

With the advent of social media, conspiracy theories became integrated into salient political debates, yet the scope of their implications on citizens' political behavior remains unclear. Using an online experiment among US subjects, we show that conspiracy theories decrease voters' trust in political institutions, such as mainstream parties and courts, as well as information providers. Subjects were exposed to conspiracy theories that are completely unrelated to American domestic politics, which further underscores the danger of such narratives. Results, however, suggest that voters do not weigh unrelated conspiracies in their evaluation of politicians' performance. Overall, our findings illustrate that an informational environment permeated by conspiracy theories could impede the functioning of democracy by eroding trust in its institutions, but that voters' capacity to keep politicians accountable is resilient to unrelated information.
Who Says Shut Up and Dribble? Race and the Response to Athletes' Political Activism
Authors: Niven David
Published: September 2020

In response to a political comment from NBA superstar LeBron James, a Fox News commentator suggested he “shut up and dribble.” James and many others considered the comment racist. Defenders suggested it was driven by political ideology rather than race. Interestingly, both perspectives could find support in existing research. Using responses to a large national survey asking whether respondents find athlete political activism “acceptable,” here I find strong evidence that both ideology and race shape attitudes on the subject. The picture that emerges reveals that party and ideology matter, but even after controlling for them, the race and racial views of the respondent help shape their perspective on political athletes. Establishing the importance of race and racial views here helps illuminate why the intersection of sports and politics generates such fierce responses including unvarnished vitriol from some political figures.
Elucidation of the Signatures of Proteasome-Catalyzed Peptide Splicing
Authors: Paes Wayne , Leonov German , Partridge Thomas , Nicastri Annalisa , Ternette Nicola , Borrow Persephone
Published: September 2020

Proteasomes catalyze the degradation of endogenous proteins into oligopeptides, but can concurrently create spliced oligopeptides through ligation of previously non-contiguous peptide fragments. Recent studies have uncovered a formerly unappreciated role for proteasome-catalyzed peptide splicing (PCPS) in the generation of non-genomically templated human leukocyte antigen class I (HLA-I)-bound cis-spliced peptides that can be targeted by CD8+ T cells in cancer and infection. However, the mechanisms defining PCPS reactions are poorly understood. Here, we experimentally define the biochemical constraints of proteasome-catalyzed cis-splicing reactions by examination of in vitro proteasomal digests of a panel of viral- and self-derived polypeptide substrates using a tailored mass-spectrometry-based de novo sequencing workflow. We show that forward and reverse PCPS reactions display unique splicing signatures, defined by preferential fusion of distinct amino acid residues with stringent peptide length distributions, suggesting sequence- and size-dependent accessibility of splice reactants for proteasomal substrate binding pockets. Our data provide the basis for a more informed mechanistic understanding of PCPS that will facilitate future prediction of spliced peptides from protein sequences.
Phosphorus Availability Promotes Bacterial DOC-Mineralization, but Not Cumulative CO2-Production
Authors: Allesson Lina , Andersen Tom , Dörsch Peter , Eiler Alexander , Wei Jing , Hessen Dag O.
Published: September 2020

The current trend of increasing input of terrestrially derived dissolved organic carbon (DOC) to boreal freshwater systems is causing increased levels of carbon dioxide (CO2) supersaturation and degassing. Phosphorus (P) is often the most limiting nutrient for bacterial growth and would thus be expected to increase overall mineralization rates and CO2 production. However, high carbon (C) to P ratios of terrestrially derived DOC could also cause elevated cell-specific respiration of the excess C in heterotrophic bacteria. Using data from a survey of 75 Scandinavian lakes along an ecosystem gradient of DOC, we estimated in situ CO2 production rates. These rates showed a unimodal response with DOC-specific CO2 production negatively related to DOC:total phosphorus (TP) ratio, and a turning point at 5 mg C L−1, indicating higher DOC turnover rates in productive than in unproductive lakes. To further assess the dependency of bacterial respiration (BR) on DOC and P, we monitored CO2 production in incubations of water with a gradient of DOC crossed with two levels of inorganic P. Finally, we crossed DOC and P with a temperature gradient to test the temperature dependency of respiration rates [as oxygen (O2) consumption]. While total CO2 production seemed to be unaffected by P additions, respiration rates, and growth yields, as estimated by ribosomal gene copy numbers, suggest increased bacterial growth and decreased cell-specific respiration under non-limited P conditions. Respiration rates showed a sigmoid response to increasing DOC availability reaching a plateau at about 20 mg C L−1 of initial DOC concentrations. In addition to these P and DOC level effects, respiration rates responded in a non-monotonic fashion to temperature with an increase in respiration rates by a factor of 2.6 (±0.2) from 15 to 25°C and a decrease above 30°C. The combined results from the survey and experiments highlight DOC as the major determinant of CO2 production in boreal lakes, with P and temperature as significant modulators of respiration kinetics.
A Compact FEM Implementation for Parabolic Integro-Differential Equations in 2D
Authors: Reddy Gujji Murali Mohan , Seitenfuss Alan B. , Medeiros Débora de Oliveira , Meacci Luca , Assunção Milton , Vynnycky Michael
Published: September 2020

Although two-dimensional (2D) parabolic integro-differential equations (PIDEs) arise in many physical contexts, there is no generally available software that is able to solve them numerically. To remedy this situation, in this article, we provide a compact implementation for solving 2D PIDEs using the finite element method (FEM) on unstructured grids. Piecewise linear finite element spaces on triangles are used for the space discretization, whereas the time discretization is based on the backward-Euler and the Crank–Nicolson methods. The quadrature rules for discretizing the Volterra integral term are chosen so as to be consistent with the time-stepping schemes; a more efficient version of the implementation that uses a vectorization technique in the assembly process is also presented. The compactness of the approach is demonstrated using the software Matrix Laboratory (MATLAB). The efficiency is demonstrated via a numerical example on an L-shaped domain, for which a comparison is possible against the commercially available finite element software COMSOL Multiphysics. Moreover, further consideration indicates that COMSOL Multiphysics cannot be directly applied to 2D PIDEs containing more complex kernels in the Volterra integral term, whereas our method can. Consequently, the subroutines we present constitute a valuable open and validated resource for solving more general 2D PIDEs.
Electrothermal Phenomena in Ferroelectrics
Authors: Uchino Kenji
Published: September 2020

Physical properties of lead-zirconate-titanate (PZT) ceramics change according to the initial electric poling process and electrical boundary conditions. This paper reports the electrothermal, piezothermal, and piezoelectric coupling phenomena in ferroelectrics from thermodynamics viewpoints, in particular, thermal property differences between unpoled and poled PZT’s in the poling direction for open circuit and short circuit conditions. We propose a new terminology, “secondary electrothermal” coupling factor kλ, which is analogous to the electromechanical coupling factor k, relating the elastic compliances under short- and open-circuit conditions, in order to explain the fact that the short-circuit condition exhibited the larger thermal diffusivity than the open-circuit condition. On the other hand, the unpoled specimen exhibits the lowest thermal diffusivity. This tutorial paper was authored for providing comprehensive knowledge on equilibrium and time-dependent thermodynamics in ferroelectrics.
Microbe-Plant Growing Media Interactions Modulate the Effectiveness of Bacterial Amendments on Lettuce Performance Inside a Plant Factory with Artificial Lighting
Authors: Van Gerrewey Thijs , Vandecruys Maarten , Ameloot Nele , Perneel Maaike , Van Labeke Marie-Christine , Boon Nico , Geelen Danny
Published: September 2020

There is a need for plant growing media that can support a beneficial microbial root environment to ensure that optimal plant growth properties can be achieved. We investigated the effect of five rhizosphere bacterial community inocula (BCI S1–5) that were collected at three open field organic farms and two soilless farms on the performance of lettuce (Lactuca sativa L.). The lettuce plants were grown in ten different plant growing media (M1–10) composed of 60% v/v peat (black peat or white peat), 20% v/v other organics (coir pith or wood fiber), 10% v/v composted materials (composted bark or green waste compost) and 10% v/v inorganic materials (perlite or sand), and one commercial plant growing medium inside a plant factory with artificial lighting. Fractional factorial design of experiments analysis revealed that the bacterial community inoculum, plant growing medium composition, and their interaction determine plant performance. The impact of bacterial amendments on the plant phenotype relied on the bacterial source. For example, S3 treatment significantly increased lettuce shoot fresh weight (+57%), lettuce head area (+29%), root fresh weight (+53%), and NO3-content (+53%), while S1 treatment significantly increased lettuce shoot dry weight (+15%), total phenolic content (+65%), and decreased NO3-content (−67%). However, the effectiveness of S3 and S1 treatment depended on plant growing medium composition. Principal component analysis revealed that shoot fresh weight, lettuce head area, root fresh weight, and shoot dry weight were the dominant parameters contributing to the variation in the interactions. The dominant treatments were S3-M8, S1-M7, S2-M4, the commercial plant growing medium, S1-M2, and S3-M10. Proper selection of plant growing medium composition is critical for the efficacy of bacterial amendments and achieving optimal plant performance inside a plant factory with artificial lighting.
Distribution of Pigeon Pea Cyst Nematode and Root-Knot Nematodes in Major Sesame Growing Areas in Myanmar
Authors: Min Yu Yu , Naing Thu Htet , Htun Nwe Nwe , Myint Aung Kyaw , Ichinose Yuri , Perry Roland N. , Yoshimura Atsushi , Toyota Koki
Published: September 2020

The pigeon pea cyst nematode, Heterodera cajani, is an economically important plant-parasitic nematode in sesame production. The objective of the study was to investigate distribution of H. cajani in the major sesame producing areas in Myanmar. Before cultivation, soil samples were collected in 96 local farmer’s fields: (19 fields in Magway, 20 fields in Mandalay, 14 fields in Sagaing and 43 in Nay Pyi Taw), and nematode density was quantified by real-time PCR. The cyst nematode was detected in 63.2% of the fields in Magway and the mean density was 22.6 eggs equivalent (20 g soil)−1. In Mandalay and Nay Pyi Taw, the cyst nematode was detected in 40.0% and 18.6% of the fields with the mean densities of 9.9 and 21.0 eggs equivalent (20 g soil)−1, respectively. By contrast, the cyst nematode was not detected in Sagaing fields, in which sesame is rotated with paddy rice. Infestation of root-knot nematodes (RKN, Meloidogyne spp.) was also evaluated, because sesame is generally rotated with rice and pulses, which are attacked by RKN. The results showed 25.6% infestation of RKN with a mean density of 34.3 eggs equivalent (20 g soil)−1 only in Nay Pyi Taw, while there was no infestation in Magway, Mandalay, and Sagaing. The relationships between the nematode infestation level and the cropping patterns in each sesame growing area in Myanmar were discussed.
Impact of Agronomic Biofortification with Zinc on the Nutrient Content, Bioactive Compounds, and Antioxidant Capacity of Cowpea Bean (Vigna unguiculata L. Walpers)
Authors: López-Morales David , de la Cruz-Lázaro Efraín , Sánchez-Chávez Esteban , Preciado-Rangel Pablo , Márquez-Quiroz César , Osorio-Osorio Rodolfo
Published: September 2020

Zinc intake deficiency is a public health problem and increasing the nutrient’s content in the edible parts of plants can help mitigate it. The objective of this work was to determine the effect of the edaphic and foliar application of zinc sulphate on the nutrient content, bioactive compounds, and antioxidant capacity of cowpea beans (Vigna unguiculata L. Walpers). A sample of 100 grains was taken, and the length, width, thickness, weight, ash content, fat, humidity, fibers, carbohydrates, protein, energy, macro- and micro- nutrients, total phenols, flavonoids, anthocyanins, and antioxidant capacity were determined. The 0.250 g edaphic-12.5 mM foliar dose produced grains of a greater weight and size. All of the edaphic and foliar doses increased the grain zinc content, and the highest value was found with the 0.125 g edaphic-50.0 mM foliar dose. The total phenols increased with 12.5 g of edaphic zinc, while phenols, flavonoids, and the antioxidant capacity increased with 50.0 mM foliar zinc. The edaphic and foliar application of zinc sulphate increased the grain weight and size, zinc content, total phenols, and antioxidant capacity. Therefore, edaphic and foliar zinc biofortification enriches this nutrient in cowpea grains, and could reduce micronutrient malnutrition in the urban and rural communities of Mexico.
Molecular Marker Technology for Crop Improvement
Authors: Soriano Jose Miguel
Published: September 2020

Since the 1980s, agriculture and plant breeding have changed with the development of molecular marker technology. In recent decades, different types of molecular markers have been used for different purposes: mapping, marker-assisted selection, characterization of genetic resources, etc. These have produced effective genotyping, but the results have been costly and time-consuming, due to the small number of markers that could be tested simultaneously. Recent advances in molecular marker technologies such as the development of high-throughput genotyping platforms, genotyping by sequencing, and the release of the genome sequences of major crop plants open new possibilities for advancing crop improvement. This Special Issue collects sixteen research studies, including the application of molecular markers in eleven crop species, from the generation of linkage maps and diversity studies to the application of marker-assisted selection and genomic prediction.
In Vivo Screening and Antidiabetic Potential of Polyphenol Extracts from Guava Pulp, Seeds and Leaves
Authors: Shabbir Hassan , Kausar Tusneem , Noreen Sobia , Rehman Hafeez ur , Hussain Ashiq , Huang Qingrong , Gani Adil , Su Shiwei , Nawaz Asad
Published: September 2020

The present study investigates the antidiabetic potential of polyphenol extracts purified from guava pulp, seeds and leaves using an in vivo experiment on albino rats. The polyphenols from guava pulp, seeds and leaves were extracted using methanol solvent and the sonication method while being evaluated by total phenolic contents and radical scavenging activity assay. The proximate composition of powders revealed that ash, protein and total sugars were significantly (p < 0.05) higher in leaves and seeds, while vitamin C was highest in pulp. Total phenolic and antioxidant activities were highest in pulp followed by leaves and seeds. The findings of feed intake and body gain revealed that the supplementation of polyphenols, especially from pulp, significantly (p < 0.05) increased the feed intake, which resulted in increased body weight. Moreover, total cholesterol (TC) and low-density lipoprotein (LDL) levels were significantly (p < 0.05) decreased, while the level of high-density lipoprotein (HDL) was increased in groups fed with polyphenols from guava pulp compared to both (+ive and –ive) control groups. Furthermore, blood glucose and triglycerides were significantly (p < 0.05) decreased in supplemented groups compared to the control group of diabetes mice, which resulted in the inhibition of α-amylase and glucose transport. Besides this, packed cell volume (PCV), mean corpuscular volume (MCV), hemoglobin, red blood cells (RBCs), white blood cells (WBCs) and platelet levels were increased significantly (p < 0.05) in pulp’s extract followed by leaves and seeds compared to both control groups. Overall, the antidiabetic potential of different extracts was in the following order: pulp > leaves > seeds. The findings suggest the feasibility of adding 200–250 mg/kg.bw of polyphenol extracts of pulp as an alternative to diabetic drugs.
Differences in the Loin Tenderness of Iberian Pigs Explained through Dissimilarities in Their Transcriptome Expression Profile
Authors: Fernández-Barroso Miguel Ángel , Caraballo Carmen , Silió Luis , Rodríguez Carmen , Nuñez Yolanda , Sánchez-Esquiliche Fernando , Matos Gema , García-Casco Juan María , Muñoz María
Published: September 2020

Tenderness is one of the most important meat quality traits and it can be measured through shear force with the Warner–Bratzler test. In the current study, we use the RNA-seq technique to analyze the transcriptome of Longissimus dorsi (LD) muscle in two groups of Iberian pigs (Tough and Tender) divergent for shear force breeding values. We identified 200 annotated differentially expressed genes (DEGs) and 245 newly predicted isoforms. The RNAseq expression results of 10 genes were validated with quantitative PCR (qPCR). Functional analyses showed an enrichment of DE genes in biological processes related to proteolysis (CTSC, RHOD, MYH8, ACTC1, GADD45B, CASQ2, CHRNA9 and ANKRD1), skeletal muscle tissue development (ANKRD1, DMD, FOS and MSTN), lipid metabolism (FABP3 and PPARGC1A) and collagen metabolism (COL14A1). The upstream analysis revealed a total of 11 transcription regulatory factors that could regulate the expression of some DEGs. Among them, IGF1, VGLL3 and PPARG can be highlighted since they regulate the expression of genes involved in biological pathways that could affect tenderness. The experiment revealed a set of candidate genes and regulatory factors suggestive to search polymorphisms that could be incorporated in a breeding program for improving meat tenderness.
Silage of Prickly Pears (Opuntia spp.) Juice By-Products
Authors: Vastolo Alessandro , Calabrò Serena , Cutrignelli Monica Isabella , Raso Girolamo , Todaro Massimo
Published: September 2020

Cactus pear cladodes are used as forage in the most arid regions. In Italy, the human consumption of prickly pear fruits and juice is gradually increasing for their numerous health benefits. In manufacturing plants that produce prickly pear juice, several by-products (prickly pear by-products PPB) are obtained. Despite their interesting nutritional characteristics, PPB are not very usable because of their poor shelf-life which is related to their high moisture and sugar content. The aim of this study was to verify the efficacy of ensilage to preserve PPB and to compare different inclusion levels (0, 5, and 10% as fed) of wheat straw. For each treatment, four under vacuum micro-silos were prepared and, after 35 days of storage, the state of preservation was evaluated. Subsequently, the aliquots were analyzed for chemical composition and incubated with bovine rumen fluid to evaluate the fermentation kinetics. The PPB 5% of straw showed significant lower pH and ammonia nitrogen concentration, indicating a better preservation process. Moreover, PPB 5% of straw showed better nutritional parameters (higher crude protein and lower Neutral Detergent Fibre) and fermentation characteristics (higher degradability and VFA volatile fatty acids production) when compared with the other PPB silages. Ensilage with straw represents a suitable storage technique to preserve the nutritional characteristics of PPB.
Selection for Favorable Health Traits: A Potential Approach to Cope with Diseases in Farm Animals
Authors: Hu Guoyu , Do Duy Ngoc , Gray Janine , Miar Younes
Published: September 2020

Disease is a global problem for animal farming industries causing tremendous economic losses (>USD 220 billion over the last decade) and serious animal welfare issues. The limitations and deficiencies of current non-selection disease control methods (e.g., vaccination, treatment, eradication strategy, genome editing, and probiotics) make it difficult to effectively, economically, and permanently eliminate the adverse influences of disease in the farm animals. These limitations and deficiencies drive animal breeders to be more concerned and committed to dealing with health problems in farm animals by selecting animals with favorable health traits. Both genetic selection and genomic selection contribute to improving the health of farm animals by selecting certain health traits (e.g., disease tolerance, disease resistance, and immune response), although both of them face some challenges. The objective of this review was to comprehensively review the potential of selecting health traits in coping with issues caused by diseases in farm animals. Within this review, we highlighted that selecting health traits can be applied as a method of disease control to help animal agriculture industries to cope with the adverse influences caused by diseases in farm animals. Certainly, the genetic/genomic selection solution cannot solve all the disease problems in farm animals. Therefore, management, vaccination, culling, medical treatment, and other measures must accompany selection solution to reduce the adverse impact of farm animal diseases on profitability and animal welfare.
Interactions between Egg Storage Duration and Breeder Age on Selected Egg Quality, Hatching Results, and Chicken Quality
Authors: Nasri Hedia , van den Brand Henry , Najar Taha , Bouzouaia Moncef
Published: September 2020

Egg storage duration and breeder age are probably interacting to influence egg quality, hatchability, and hatchling quality. To evaluate this interaction, the impact of breeder age (31, 42, 66 weeks) and storage duration (2, 5, 12, 19 days) was investigated on broiler breeder eggs (Arbor Acres). Thick albumen diameter and pH increased, and yolk dry matter decreased between 2 and 19 days of storage. With the increase of breeder age from 31 to 66 weeks, albumen height, percentage and dry matter and shell percentage decreased and the egg weight and yolk percentage, dry matter and diameter increased. Prolonged egg storage increased the yolk pH in all breeder ages, but earlier and steeper in the oldest breeders. Prolonged egg storage resulted in a lower hatchability of set and fertile eggs due to a higher percentage of embryonic mortality. Early mortality increased earlier and steeper with prolonged egg storage in the oldest compared to younger breeders. Between 5 and 19 days of storage, yolk free body mass, liver and proventriculus + gizzard percentages decreased, as well as hatchling length and yolk efficiency (yolk absorption per initial yolk weight). The latter effects were most pronounced in the younger than in the older breeders. Therefore, eggs are preferably stored shorter than 7 d, but if long storage (≥12 days) cannot be avoided, we recommend to store eggs of older breeders when egg quality and hatchability are most important. In case hatchling quality is most important, it would be better to store eggs of younger breeders (31 weeks) for a prolonged period.
Effects of a Grain Source (Corn Versus Barley) and Starter Protein Content on Performance, Ruminal Fermentation, and Blood Metabolites in Holstein Dairy Calves
Authors: Kazemi-Bonchenari Mehdi , Mirzaei Mehdi , HosseinYazdi Mehdi , Moradi Mohammad Hossein , Khodaei-Motlagh Mahdi , Pezeshki Adel
Published: September 2020

The effects of a grain source (corn grain (CG) vs. barley grain (BG)) and starter protein content (19% vs. 22% CP, dry matter basis) on growth performance, digestibility, ruminal fermentation, and blood metabolites were evaluated in Holstein dairy calves. Forty 3-day-old female calves with a starting body weight of 39.3 kg were subjected to four treatments in a completely randomized design with two by two factorial arrangements. Treatments were: (1) CG + 19% CP (CG-19CP); (2) CG + 22% CP (CG-22CP); (3) BG + 19% CP (BG-19CP); and (4) BG + 22% CP (BG-22CP). All calves were weaned at 59 days of age and remained in the study until 73 days of age. Starter and total DM intake were not affected by grain source and dietary protein content (p > 0.05). The average daily gain and feed efficiency were improved, and ruminal total short-chain fatty acid, propionate, and butyrate concentrations were increased in BG calves compared to CG calves (p < 0.05). The ruminal concentrations of ammonia nitrogen (d 71; p = 0.02) and acetate (d 35; p = 0.02) were increased in CG fed calves compared to BG. The greatest wither height (p = 0.03) and blood insulin concentration (p = 0.03) were seen in BG-22CP treatment. In conclusion, BG has marginal benefit in the height of calves when fed with diet containing 22% CP which may be recommendable in replacement heifer rearing programs.
Nanoparticles from Equine Fetal Bone Marrow-Derived Cells Enhance the Survival of Injured Chondrocytes
Authors: Kim Ki Hoon , Park Tae Sub , Cho Byung-Wook , Kim Tae Min
Published: September 2020

Recent studies have shown that mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) can play a restorative role against degenerative joint diseases in horses. The purpose of this study was to investigate whether fetal bone marrow-derived cells (BMC)-derived nanoparticles (BMC-NPs) can stimulate the survival of equine chondrocytes. Equine fetal BMCs were isolated and characterized, and the role of BMC-NPs s in equine chondrocytes undergoing inflammatory cell death was examined. BMCs have several characteristics, such as the potential to differentiate into chondrocytes and osteocytes. Additionally, BMCs expressed immunoregulatory genes in response to treatment with tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) and Interleukin 1 beta (IL-1β). We found that BMC-NPs were taken up by equine chondrocytes. Functionally, BMC-NPs promoted the growth of chondrocytes, and reduced apoptosis induced by inflammatory cytokines. Furthermore, we observed that BMC-NPs upregulated the phosphorylation of protein kinase B (Akt) in the presence of IL-1β, and reduced the phosphorylation of TNF-α-induced activation of extracellular signal-regulated kinase 1/2 (ERK1/2) in the chondrocytes. Cumulatively, our study demonstrated that equine fetal BMC-NPs have the potential to stimulate the survival of chondrocytes damaged by inflammatory cytokines. Thus, BMC-NPs may become an alternative cell-free allogenic therapeutic for degenerative joint diseases in horses.
Mannanoligosaccharides as a Carbon Source in Biofloc Boost Dietary Plant Protein and Water Quality, Growth, Immunity and Aeromonas hydrophila Resistance in Nile Tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus)
Authors: Kishawy Asmaa T.Y. , Sewid Alaa H. , Nada Hend S. , Kamel Mohamed A. , El-Mandrawy Shefaa A.M. , Abdelhakim Taghrid M.N. , El-Murr Abd Elhakeem I. , Nahhas Nihal El , Hozzein Wael N. , Ibrahim Doaa
Published: September 2020

The aim of the present study was to evaluate mannan oligosaccharides (MOS) or glycerol (GLY) as a carbon source on biofloc systems of Nile tilapia (O. niloticus) juveniles. Fish (n = 750) were reared in open flow (Controls) or biofloc systems (B-GLY and B-MOS) fed with a plant or fish protein source over a period of twelve weeks. Total ammonia nitrogen and nitrate decreased in the biofloc groups, while biofloc volume increased in B-MOS. Compared to the controls, B-MOS and B-GLY exhibited higher weight gain and improved feed conversion, irrespectively of the diet. Serum level of C-reactive protein was reduced, while IgM and lysozyme activity was higher in the B-MOS fish, compared to other groups. Intestinal Bacillus spp. count was increased, whereas Vibrio, Aeromonas and Pseudomonas spp. counts decreased in B-MOS reared groups, compared to the other groups. The proinflammatory cytokine (IL-8 and IFN-γ) transcript expression was upregulated in B-MOS more than B-GLY reared groups. Compared to the controls, the virulence of Aeromonas hydrophila was decreased in the B-MOS and B-GLY groups. The results indicate several benefits of using MOS as a carbon source in a biofloc Nile tilapia system; a cost benefit analysis is required to assess the economic viability of this.
Impact of Rotten Eggs on Hatchery Performances: A Multicentric Study
Authors: Franzo Giovanni , Swart Wessel , Ugalde Miren Arbe , Cotta Higor , Lecoupeur Mathilde , Boyer William , Koutoulis Kostas , Cecchinato Mattia
Published: September 2020

Day-old chick quality is an essential element for the overall profitability of the broiler productive cycle and has been associated with the growth performance and feed conversion rate. An effect on the development of the immune system was also reported, which could likely account for reduced susceptibility to infectious diseases and improved animal welfare parameters. Besides direct cost reduction, lower antimicrobial use and improved animal welfare are crucial in the directive of European Union legislation and are at the forefront of customer choices. Several factors contribute to determining the chick quality. Breeder flocks genetics, health, and management affect the egg features, quality, and bacterial load. However, hatchery practices play a pivotal role, since adequate hygiene and handling are fundamental in reducing egg contamination and cross-contamination. The presence of rotten eggs is often regarded as a major risk, since the internal bacterial load can contaminate the needle used for in-ovo vaccination, the nearby eggs, and the whole incubator/hatching room when broken. In the present multicentric study, representative of 40 hatcheries located in 11 European countries, a remarkable impact of the rotten egg percentage on the hatchery productive parameters, representative of the hatchability, embryo mortality, and level of contamination, was demonstrated. Efficient rotten egg removal and the application of appropriate detection and removal tools should thus provide remarkable benefits for hatchery performance and indirectly for downstream poultry production.
Grimace Scores: Tools to Support the Identification of Pain in Mammals Used in Research
Authors: Cohen Shari , Beths Thierry
Published: September 2020

The 3Rs, Replacement, Reduction and Refinement, is a framework to ensure the ethical and justified use of animals in research. The implementation of refinements is required to alleviate and minimise the pain and suffering of animals in research. Public acceptability of animal use in research is contingent on satisfying ethical and legal obligations to provide pain relief along with humane endpoints. To fulfil this obligation, staff, researchers, veterinarians, and technicians must rapidly, accurately, efficiently and consistently identify, assess and act on signs of pain. This ability is paramount to uphold animal welfare, prevent undue suffering and mitigate possible negative impacts on research. Identification of pain may be based on indicators such as physiological, behavioural, or physical ones. Each has been used to develop different pain scoring systems with potential benefits and limitations in identifying and assessing pain. Grimace scores are a promising adjunctive behavioural technique in some mammalian species to identify and assess pain in research animals. The use of this method can be beneficial to animal welfare and research outcomes by identifying animals that may require alleviation of pain or humane intervention. This paper highlights the benefits, caveats, and potential applications of grimace scales.
A Short Period of Darkness after Mixing of Growing Pigs Intended for PDO Hams Production Reduces Skin Lesions
Authors: Marinelli Lieta , Mongillo Paolo , Carnier Paolo , Schiavon Stefano , Gallo Luigi
Published: September 2020

Agonistic behavior after the regrouping of unfamiliar pigs has been recognized as one of the major welfare issues for pig husbandry, as it may result in lesions, lameness, and health problems. One scarcely investigated strategy to curb agonistic behavior is reducing the availability of visual stimuli potentially eliciting aggressions. In this study, we investigated the expression of agonistic behavior by growing pigs and the resulting accumulation of skin lesions over a period of 14 days following the formation of new social groups, which occurred in a condition of darkness maintained for 48 h. Compared to a simulated natural photoperiod (12 h light/day), darkness significantly reduced the number of skin lesions on the mid- and rear thirds of pigs’ body (p ≤ 0.01). A lack of corresponding decrease in frequency and duration of agonistic interactions suggests that darkness acts by decreasing the efficacy, not the expression, of aggressions. Furthermore, the location of lesions mostly affected by darkness indicates that the latter mostly acted by reducing the possibility of pigs to convey damage to a fleeing conspecific, rather than to one involved in a reciprocal fighting. The lighting regime provided did not affect growth performance traits of a 17-weeks feeding trial. The present results identify in the provision of darkness an easily applicable, and relatively inexpensive intervention, that leads to the reduction of skin lesions.
Genetics of Arthrogryposis and Macroglossia in Piemontese Cattle Breed
Authors: Di Stasio Liliana , Albera Andrea , Pauciullo Alfredo , Cesarani Alberto , Macciotta Nicolò P. P. , Gaspa Giustino
Published: September 2020

Arthrogryposis and macroglossia are congenital pathologies known in several cattle breeds, including Piemontese. As variations in single genes were identified as responsible for arthrogryposis in some breeds, we decided: (i) to test the hypothesis of a similar genetic determinism for arthrogryposis in the Piemontese breed by genotyping affected and healthy animals with a high-density chip and applying genome-wide association study (GWAS), FST and canonical discriminant analysis (CDA) procedures, and (ii) to investigate with the same approach the genetic background of macroglossia, for which no genetic studies exist so far. The study included 125 animals (63 healthy, 30 with arthrogryposis, and 32 with macroglossia). Differently from what reported for other breeds, the analysis did not evidence a single strong association with the two pathologies. Rather, 23 significant markers on different chromosomes were found (7 associated to arthrogryposis, 11 to macroglossia, and 5 to both pathologies), suggesting a multifactorial genetic mechanism underlying both diseases in the Piemontese breed. In the 100-kb interval surrounding the significant SNPs, 20 and 26 genes were identified for arthrogryposis and macroglossia, respectively, with 12 genes in common to both diseases. For some genes (NTN3, KCNH1, KCNH2, and KANK3), a possible role in the pathologies can be hypothesized, being involved in processes related to muscular or nervous tissue development. The real involvement of these genes needs to be further investigated and validated.
The Influence of Essential Oils on Gut Microbial Profiles in Pigs
Authors: Ruzauskas Modestas , Bartkiene Elena , Stankevicius Arunas , Bernatoniene Jurga , Zadeike Daiva , Lele Vita , Starkute Vytaute , Zavistanaviciute Paulina , Grigas Juozas , Zokaityte Egle , Pautienius Arnoldas , Juodeikiene Grazina , Jakstas Valdas
Published: September 2020

In recent years, the intake of ultra-processed foods has increased dramatically worldwide. Missing natural foods in the diet raise the need of biologically active food components that could compensate for this deficiency and help maintain proper immune status. This study used pigs as an animal model for the assessment of the impact of consumption of Origanum vulgare plant extract combined with Mentha piperita and Thymus vulgaris essential oils on microbial profile in intestines. A single group of weaned pigs received basal diet, while the other group basal diet supplemented with plant extract and two essential oils in the form of bilayer tablets prepared using “liquid/solid” phase technology. Metagenomic sequencing was performed with the aim to investigate changes of microbial communities in ileum, caecum, and colon. The results demonstrated that the combination of essential oils was non cytotoxic, and had a positive effect on the microbial composition in the large intestine of pigs due to significant increase in the number of probiotic bacteria. The amount of Lactobacillus was 2.5 times and Bifidobacterium 1.9 times higher in the animal group fed with supplement. The combination, however, had some negative impact on the variety of minor species in the distal part of the ileum. Additional studies need to be performed to obtain knowledge on how combinations of essential oils can change bacterial variety in the proximal part of the gastrointestinal tract.
Phytate Degradation, Transcellular Mineral Transporters, and Mineral Utilization by Two Strains of Laying Hens as Affected by Dietary Phosphorus and Calcium
Authors: Sommerfeld Vera , Omotoso Adewunmi , Oster Michael , Reyer Henry , Camarinha-Silva Amélia , Hasselmann Martin , Huber Korinna , Ponsuksili Siriluck , Seifert Jana , Stefanski Volker , Wimmers Klaus , Rodehutscord Markus
Published: September 2020

Laying hens require less phosphorus (P) but markedly more calcium (Ca) in their diet than broilers. These differences may cause more distinct interactions with phytate degradation and utilization of minerals in laying hens than those in broilers. The objective of the study was to characterize intestinal phytate degradation, ileal transcript copy numbers of transcellular Ca and P transporters, and mineral utilization by two laying hen strains fed with standard or reduced levels of dietary Ca and P at the laying peak. The strains showed differences regarding several traits driving Ca and P metabolism along the digestive tract. Thus, the two strains may use different mechanisms to meet their respective P demand, i.e., via effective phytate degradation and transcellular transport. Clear effects of the Ca level on myo-inositol concentrations and mineral utilization revealed the significance of this element for the measured traits. The absence of P-mediated effects confirmed the findings of several studies recommending that P concentrations used in laying hen feeds are too high. Differences were noted between individuals within one treatment. The next step would be to evaluate the data in individual birds to identify birds that better cope with a challenging diet.
Determination of Drug Efflux Pump Efficiency in Drug-Resistant Bacteria Using MALDI-TOF MS
Authors: Lu Wen-Jung , Lin Hsuan-Ju , Hsu Pang-Hung , Lin Hong-Ting Victor
Published: September 2020

Multidrug efflux pumps play an essential role in antibiotic resistance. The conventional methods, including minimum inhibitory concentration and fluorescent assays, to monitor transporter efflux activity might have some drawbacks, such as indirect evidence or interference from color molecules. In this study, MALDI-TOF MS use was explored for monitoring drug efflux by a multidrug transporter, and the results were compared for validation with the data from conventional methods. Minimum inhibitory concentration was used first to evaluate the activity of Escherichia coli drug transporter AcrB, and this analysis showed that the E. coli overexpressing AcrB exhibited elevated resistance to various antibiotics and dyes. Fluorescence-based studies indicated that AcrB in E. coli could decrease the accumulation of intracellular dyes and display various efflux rate constants for different dyes, suggesting AcrB’s efflux activity. The MALDI-TOF MS analysis parameters were optimized to maintain a detection accuracy for AcrB’s substrates; furthermore, the MS data showed that E. coli overexpressing AcrB led to increased ions abundancy of various dyes and drugs in the extracellular space at different rates over time, illustrating continuous substrate efflux by AcrB. This study concluded that MALDI-TOF MS is a reliable method that can rapidly determine the drug pump efflux activity for various substrates.
Ceftolozane/Tazobactam and Ceftazidime/Avibactam for Multidrug-Resistant Gram-Negative Infections in Immunocompetent Patients: A Single-Center Retrospective Study
Authors: Cultrera Rosario , Libanore Marco , Barozzi Agostino , d’Anchera Erica , Romanini Letizia , Fabbian Fabio , De Motoli Francesco , Quarta Brunella , Stefanati Armando , Bolognesi Niccolò , Gabutti Giovanni
Published: September 2020

Complicated infections from multidrug-resistant Gram-negative bacteria (MDR-GNB) represent a serious problem presenting many challenges. Resistance to many classes of antibiotics reduces the probability of an adequate empirical treatment, with unfavorable consequences, increasing morbidity and mortality. Readily available patient medical history and updated information about the local microbiological epidemiology remain critical for defining the baseline risk of MDR-GNB infections and guiding empirical treatment choices, with the aim of avoiding both undertreatment and overtreatment. There are few literature data that report real-life experiences in the use of ceftolozane/tazobactam and ceftazidime/avibactam, with particular reference to microbiological cure. Some studies reported experiences for the treatment of MDR-GNB infections in patients with hematological malignancies or specifically in Pseudomonas aeruginosa infections. We report our clinical single-center experience regarding the real-life use of ceftolozane/tazobactam and ceftazidime/avibactam to treat serious and complicated infections due to MDR-GNB and carbapenem-resistant Enterobacterales (CRE), with particular regard given to intra-abdominal and urinary tract infections and sepsis.
The Association between Serum Bilirubin Levels and Colorectal Cancer Risk: Results from the Prospective Cooperative Health Research in the Region of Augsburg (KORA) Study in Germany
Authors: Seyed Khoei Nazlisadat , Anton Gabriele , Peters Annette , Freisling Heinz , Wagner Karl-Heinz
Published: September 2020

Emerging studies have suggested that bilirubin, particularly unconjugated bilirubin (UCB), has substantial anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that protect against oxidative stress-associated diseases such as cancer. Few observational studies have investigated the etiological role of bilirubin in colorectal cancer (CRC) development. In this case-control study, nested in the population-based prospective cohort of the Cooperative Health Research in the Region of Augsburg (KORA) study in south Germany, pre-diagnostic circulating UCB concentrations were measured by high-performance liquid chromatography in 77 CRC cases and their individually matched controls. Multivariable unconditional logistic regression was used to estimate the odds ratios (OR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) for associations between log-transformed UCB levels (log-UCB), standardized per one-standard-deviation (one-SD) increment, and CRC risk. The models were a priori stratified by sex based on previous evidence. In the fully adjusted models, each one-SD increment in log-UCB was indicative of a positive association with CRC risk (OR, 1.20; 95% CI, 0.52–2.79) among men, and of an inverse association (OR, 0.76; 95% CI, 0.34–1.84) among women (Pheterogeneity = 0.4 for differences between men and women). We found little evidence for sex-specific associations of circulating bilirubin with CRC risk, and further studies are needed to confirm or refute the potential associations.
Mitochondrial Glutathione: Recent Insights and Role in Disease
Authors: Marí Montserrat , de Gregorio Estefanía , de Dios Cristina , Roca-Agujetas Vicente , Cucarull Blanca , Tutusaus Anna , Morales Albert , Colell Anna
Published: September 2020

Mitochondria are the main source of reactive oxygen species (ROS), most of them deriving from the mitochondrial respiratory chain. Among the numerous enzymatic and non-enzymatic antioxidant systems present in mitochondria, mitochondrial glutathione (mGSH) emerges as the main line of defense for maintaining the appropriate mitochondrial redox environment. mGSH’s ability to act directly or as a co-factor in reactions catalyzed by other mitochondrial enzymes makes its presence essential to avoid or to repair oxidative modifications that can lead to mitochondrial dysfunction and subsequently to cell death. Since mitochondrial redox disorders play a central part in many diseases, harboring optimal levels of mGSH is vitally important. In this review, we will highlight the participation of mGSH as a contributor to disease progression in pathologies as diverse as Alzheimer’s disease, alcoholic and non-alcoholic steatohepatitis, or diabetic nephropathy. Furthermore, the involvement of mitochondrial ROS in the signaling of new prescribed drugs and in other pathologies (or in other unmet medical needs, such as gender differences or coronavirus disease of 2019 (COVID-19) treatment) is still being revealed; guaranteeing that research on mGSH will be an interesting topic for years to come.
Polyphenols in Urine and Cardiovascular Risk Factors: A Cross-Sectional Analysis Reveals Gender Differences in Spanish Adolescents from the SI! Program
Authors: Laveriano-Santos Emily P. , Parilli-Moser Isabella , Ramírez-Garza Sonia L. , Tresserra-Rimbau Anna , Storniolo Carolina E. , Ruiz-León Ana María , Estruch Ramón , Bodega Patricia , Miguel Mercedes de , Cos-Gandoy Amaya de , Carral Vanesa , Santos-Beneit Gloria , Fernández-Alvira Juan M. , Fernández-Jiménez Rodrigo , Fuster Valentín , Lamuela-Raventós Rosa M.
Published: September 2020

(1) Background: Epidemiological studies have shown an inverse association between polyphenol intake and cardiovascular risk factors (CVRFs) in adults, but few have provided information about adolescents. The aim of this study was to evaluate the relationship between urinary total polyphenol excretion (TPE) and CVRFs in adolescents. (2) Methods: A cross-sectional study was performed in 1194 Spanish adolescents from the SI! (Salud Integral) program. TPE in urine samples was determined by the Folin–Ciocalteu method, after solid-phase extraction, and categorized into quartiles. The association between TPE and CVRFs was estimated using mixed-effect linear regression and a structural equation model (SEM). (3) Results: Linear regression showed negative associations among the highest quartile of TPE and body fat percentage (B = −1.75, p-value = <0.001), triglycerides (TG) (B = −17.68, p-value = <0.001), total cholesterol (TC) (B = −8.66, p-value = 0.002), and low-density lipoprotein (LDL)-cholesterol (LDL-C) (B = −4.09, p-value = 0.008) in boys, after adjusting for all confounder variables. Negative associations between TPE quartiles and systolic blood pressure (SBP), diastolic blood pressure (DBP), and TC were also found in girls. Moreover, a structural equation model revealed that TPE was directly associated with body composition and blood glucose and indirectly associated with blood pressure, TG, LDL-C, and high-density lipoprotein-cholesterol (HDL-C) in boys. (4) Conclusions: Higher concentrations of TPE were associated with a better profile of cardiovascular health, especially in boys, while in girls, the association was not as strong.