bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A low-protein maternal diet during gestation affects the expression of key pancreatic β-cell genes and the methylation status of the regulatory region of the MafA gene in the offspring of Wistar rats
Authors: Sosa-Larios Tonantzin C. , Ortega-Márquez Ana L. , Rodríguez-Aguilera Jesús R. , Vázquez-Martínez Edgar R. , Domínguez-López Aaron , Morimoto Sumiko
Published: March 2023

Maternal nutrition during gestation has important effects on gene expression-mediated metabolic programming in offspring. To evaluate the effect of a protein-restricted maternal diet during gestation, pancreatic islets from male progeny of Wistar rats were studied at postnatal days (PND) 36 (juveniles) and 90 (young adults). The expression of key genes involved in β-cell function and the DNA methylation pattern of the regulatory regions of two such genes, Pdx1 (pancreatic and duodenal homeobox 1) and MafA (musculoaponeurotic fibrosarcoma oncogene family, protein A), were investigated. Gene expression analysis in the pancreatic islets of restricted offspring showed significant differences compared with the control group at PND 36 (P < 0.05). The insulin 1 and 2 (Ins1 and Ins2), Glut2 (glucose transporter 2), Pdx1, MafA, and Atf2 (activating transcription factor 2), genes were upregulated, while glucokinase (Gck) and NeuroD1 (neuronal differentiation 1) were downregulated. Additionally, we studied whether the gene expression differences in Pdx1 and MafA between control and restricted offspring were associated with differential DNA methylation status in their regulatory regions. A decrease in the DNA methylation levels was found in the 5' flanking region between nucleotides −8118 to −7750 of the MafA regulatory region in restricted offspring compared with control pancreatic islets. In conclusion, low protein availability during gestation causes the upregulation of MafA gene expression in pancreatic β-cells in the male juvenile offspring at least in part through DNA hypomethylation. This process may contribute to developmental dysregulation of β-cell function and influence the long-term health of the offspring.
Algorithm for Generating S-Boxes with Prescribed Differential Properties
Authors: Marochok Stanislav , Zajac Pavol
Published: March 2023

Cryptographic S-boxes are vectorial Boolean functions that must fulfill strict criteria to provide security for cryptographic algorithms. There are several existing methods for generating strong cryptographic S-boxes, including stochastic search algorithms. These search algorithms typically generate random candidate Boolean functions (or permutations) that are improved during the search by examining the search space in a specific way. Here, we introduce a new type of stochastic algorithm for generating cryptographic S-boxes. We do not generate and then improve the Boolean function; instead, we build the vector of values incrementally. New values are obtained by randomized search driven by restrictions on the differential spectrum of the generated S-box. In this article, we formulate two new algorithms based on this new approach and study the better one in greater detail. We prove the correctness of the proposed algorithm and evaluate its complexity. The final part contains an experimental evaluation of the method. We show that the algorithm generates S-boxes with better properties than a random search. We believe that our approach can be extended in the future by adopting more advanced stochastic search methods.
Design, Analysis, and Optimization of a Kinematically Redundant Parallel Robot
Authors: Liang Xu , Zeng Xiang , Li Guotao , Chen Wentao , Su Tingting , He Guangping
Published: March 2023

It has been nearly 60 years since the introduction of the Gough–Stewart manipulator (GSM). With the advantages of superior load capacity and high precision, the GSM still plays an important role in many fields. However, the GSM has limitations such as a small workspace and complex singularities. To overcome these problems, a novel kinematically redundant parallel robot is designed with three redundant actuators added on the basis of the GSM. First, the structure of the proposed robot is introduced, and the kinematics of the proposed robot is established. Second, the workspaces of the proposed robot are analyzed, and the results show that the position workspace volume and the maximum torsion and orientation angles of the proposed robot can be improved effectively. Third, the singularities of the proposed robot and the GSM are compared based on the Jacobian matrices. Finally, the multi-parameter, multi-objective optimization is used to optimize the geometric parameters of the proposed robot, and an experimental prototype of the proposed robot is designed based on the optimization results.
Reluctant Innovators: Dynamic Capabilities and Digital Transformation of Italian Opera Houses in the Pandemic Crisis
Authors: Bellini Nicola , Raglianti Marina
Published: March 2023

This paper analyzes the impact of COVID-19 pandemic on the process of digitalization of Italian opera houses. Based on a conceptual framework provided by the literature on dynamic capabilities and digital transformation, the evidence collected from six case studies is presented. Results are discussed with reference to two ideal-types of pandemic-induced paths (“back to normal” vs “new normal”) and to the variables that explain differences in strategies: history, digital mindset of human resources staff, dominance, leadership and external integration. Relevant implications for both theory and policy and managerial practice are presented with regard to present and future innovation paths.
Optimization of the Wire Diameter Based on the Analytical Model of the Mean Magnetic Field for a Magnetically Driven Actuator
Authors: Wu Zhangbin , Bai Hongbai , Xue Guangming , Ren Zhiying
Published: March 2023

A magnetic field induced by an electromagnetic coil is the key variable that determines the performance of a magnetically driven actuator. The applicability of the empirical models of the coil turns, static resistance, and inductance were discussed. Then, the model of the mean magnetic field induced by the coil was established analytically. Based on the proposed model, the sinusoidal response and square-wave response were calculated with the wire diameter as the decision variable. The amplitude and phase lag of the sinusoidal response, the time-domain response, steady-state value, and the response time of the square-wave response were discussed under different wire diameters. From the experimental and computational results, the model was verified as the relative errors were acceptably low in computing various responses and characteristic variables. Additionally, the optimization on the wire diameter was carried out for the optimal amplitude and response time. The proposed model will be helpful for the analytical analysis of the mean magnetic field, and the optimization result of the wire diameter under limited space can be employed to improve the performance of a magnetically driven actuator.
UltraFLoads: A Simulation Suite and Framework for High-Fidelity Flight Loads
Authors: Feldwisch Johan , Bauer Martin
Published: March 2023

With the progress of high-performance computing, computationally expensive high-fidelity methods can be applied early in the design process of an aircraft. This enables Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) for the assesment of flight performance, handling qualities, flight loads due to manoeuver or gusts, and stability such as flutter. Those aeroealstic analyses require coupling of disciplines to adequately address the interplay of flexibility, aerodynamic forces and inertia forces. Previous work at the German Aerospace Center have demonstrated the proof of concept for those multidisciplinary analyses. Now, UltraFLoads is a simulation suite in the FlowSimulator ecosystem to offer standardized, multidisciplinary scenarios. UltraFLoads can be used as a tool, as a library and as a framework. This work describes the architecture, the integration layers, which scenarios are available and which equations are used. Three different applications are presented. The first case involves a steady fluid–structure-coupled simulation with geometrically nonlinear deformation. The second case compares the deformation of a simulated elastic, free-flying aircraft with actual flight test data. The last application demonstrates the flight dynamic capabilities with a bank to bank maneuver.
Hydrogen-Powered Aviation—Design of a Hybrid-Electric Regional Aircraft for Entry into Service in 2040
Authors: Eissele Jona , Lafer Stefan , Mejía Burbano Cristian , Schließus Julian , Wiedmann Tristan , Mangold Jonas , Strohmayer Andreas
Published: March 2023

Over the past few years, the rapid growth of air traffic and the associated increase in emissions have created a need for sustainable aviation. Motivated by these challenges, this paper explores how a 50-passenger regional aircraft can be hybridized to fly with the lowest possible emissions in 2040. In particular, the use of liquid hydrogen in this aircraft is an innovative power source that promises to reduce CO2 and NOx emissions to zero. Combined with a fuel-cell system, the energy obtained from the liquid hydrogen can be used efficiently. To realize a feasible concept in the near future considering the aspects of performance and security, the system must be hybridized. In terms of maximized aircraft sustainability, this paper analyses the flight phases and ground phases, resulting in an aircraft design with a significant reduction in operating costs. Promising technologies, such as a wingtip propeller and electric green taxiing, are discussed in this paper, and their potential impacts on the future of aviation are highlighted. In essence, the hybridization of regional aircraft is promising and feasible by 2040; however, more research is needed in the areas of fuel-cell technology, thermal management and hydrogen production and storage.
Enabling Green Approaches by FMS-AMAN Coordination
Authors: Ahrenhold Nils , Stasicka Izabela , Abdellaoui Rabeb , Mühlhausen Thorsten , Temme Marco-Michael
Published: March 2023

Growing political pressure and widespread social concerns about climate change are triggering a paradigm shift in the aviation sector. Projects with the target of reducing aviation’s CO2 emissions and their impact on climate change are being launched to improve currently used procedures. In this paper, a new coordination process between aircraft flight management systems (FMSs) and an arrival manager (AMAN) was investigated to enable fuel-efficient and more sustainable approaches. This coordination posed two major challenges. Firstly, current capacity-centred AMANs’ planning processes are not optimised towards fuel-efficient trajectories. To investigate the benefit of negotiated trajectories with fixed target times for waypoints and thresholds, the terminal manoeuvring area was redesigned for an independent parallel runway system. Secondly, the FMS-AMAN negotiation process plan the trajectories based on time, whereas air traffic controllers guide traffic based on distance. Three tactical assisting tools were implemented in an air traffic controller’s working position to enable a smooth transition from distance-based to time-based coordination and guidance. The whole concept was implemented and tested in real-time human-in-the-loop studies at DLR’s Air Traffic Validation Center. Results showed that the new airspace design and concept was feasible, and a reduction in flown distance was measured.
aeroBERT-Classifier: Classification of Aerospace Requirements Using BERT
Authors: Tikayat Ray Archana , Cole Bjorn F. , Pinon Fischer Olivia J. , White Ryan T. , Mavris Dimitri N.
Published: March 2023

The system complexity that characterizes current systems warrants an integrated and comprehensive approach to system design and development. This need has brought about a paradigm shift towards Model-Based Systems Engineering (MBSE) approaches to system design and a departure from traditional document-centric methods. While MBSE shows great promise, the ambiguities and inconsistencies present in Natural Language (NL) requirements hinder their conversion to models directly. The field of Natural Language Processing (NLP) has demonstrated great potential in facilitating the conversion of NL requirements into a semi-machine-readable format that enables their standardization and use in a model-based environment. A first step towards standardizing requirements consists of classifying them according to the type (design, functional, performance, etc.) they represent. To that end, a language model capable of classifying requirements needs to be fine-tuned on labeled aerospace requirements. This paper presents an open-source, annotated aerospace requirements corpus (the first of its kind) developed for the purpose of this effort that includes three types of requirements, namely design, functional, and performance requirements. This paper further describes the use of the aforementioned corpus to fine-tune BERT to obtain the aeroBERT-Classifier: a new language model for classifying aerospace requirements into design, functional, or performance requirements. Finally, this paper provides a comparison between aeroBERT-Classifier and other text classification models such as GPT-2, Bidirectional Long Short-Term Memory (Bi-LSTM), and bart-large-mnli. In particular, it shows the superior performance of aeroBERT-Classifier on classifying aerospace requirements over existing models, and this is despite the fact that the model was fine-tuned using a small labeled dataset.
A Hybrid Model for Evaluating the Outcomes of Student Pilots within the Didactic System of Aviation Education
Authors: Kelemen Miroslav , Polishchuk Volodymyr , Kelemen Martin , Sabo Jozef
Published: March 2023

The agenda of the international community is focused on the global problem of aviation in the lack of pilots while maintaining the quality of their professional education. The trend is to explore the potential of students and help increase resistance to obstacles on the way to results, but especially on the way to the creation of the required competencies, knowledge, and skills. The main goal of this paper is to develop a hybrid expert model evaluating the results and risks of student (pilot) outcomes to improve the quality of individual results in the didactic system of aviation education (study results from theoretical subjects, evaluation from training on flight simulators, and from practical flight training) within one information platform. The model is based on the modern theory of intellectual knowledge analysis, fuzzy set theory, and a systems approach. Information from the repository of 696 individual results of undergraduate students (pilots) from the total number of 2682 undergraduate students of all specializations in aviation education in the period 2005–2022 was used in the creation of the model. The results were tested on the examples of five undergraduate students (pilots) and demonstrated the applicability of the expert methodology for evaluating the quality and risks of individual results in aviation education for individual study counseling within one information platform.
Design and Experiment of a Seamless Morphing Trailing Edge
Authors: Cheng Gui , Ma Tianrui , Yang Jun , Chang Nan , Zhou Xiang
Published: March 2023

Morphing trailing edge wing as an important morphing wing technology has gained wide attention because of its advantages, such as gust mitigation, improved aerodynamic efficiency, and reduced radar reflective area. However, the key problems such as low load carrying capacity and insufficient smooth deformation profile are still not solved in a balanced manner. The purpose of this paper is to design a seamless morphing trailing edge structure that has good load bearing capacity and can realize a chord-wise camber variation with a smooth contour subjected to the required aerodynamic load. In this paper, an innovative seamless trailing edge structure is proposed, and the critical dimensions and parameters are designed through a parametric study based on the 2D and 3D finite element models of the trailing edge structure. A physical prototype was designed and fabricated for deformation and load-bearing experiments. The finite element simulation and experimental results show that the morphing trailing edge can carry a 0.015 MPa aerodynamic load and realize the ±15° smooth camber change. The present study demonstrates the effectiveness and potential of the proposed morphing trailing edge concept for the real application on aircrafts.
Understanding the Early Stage of Planet Formation: Design and Demonstration of the Space Experimental Apparatus
Authors: Huang Chenyang , Yu Yang , Song Zhijun , Cheng Bin , Dai Wenyue
Published: March 2023

Planet formation begins with the collision and growth of dust in protoplanetary disks. Concerning the basic cognition of the early stage of planet formation, a long-standing weakness of the research is a comprehensive physical model describing the collisional evolution of dust particles. Microgravity experiments providing original data are crucial in developing related theories. In this work, we propose an experimental scheme for observing the collisional growth of dust analogues under a unidirectional and continuous shearing process, aiming at a future implementation in space experiments. The experimental process is simulated using the discrete element method, and the atlas of the design parameter versus the evolutionary path is depicted. We notice fractal structures and growth stalling as remarkable outcomes in the process of collisional growth, which is analogous to the evolutionary mechanism in the ancient protoplanetary disks. Based on these phenomena, we determine the sensitive design parameters, i.e., the shear velocity and the filling factor, which serve as the recommended parameters in future space experiments. The validation using numerical experiments shows that the experimental scheme with proper design parameters is feasible, which promises to generate constructive data that will facilitate the development of planet formation theory.
Individual and Interactive Effects of Nitrogen and Phosphorus on Drought Stress Response and Recovery in Maize Seedlings
Authors: Gelaw Temesgen Assefa , Goswami Kavita , Sanan-Mishra Neeti
Published: March 2023

Plants have an inherent mechanism for perceiving drought stress and respond through a series of physiological, cellular and molecular changes for maintaining physiological water balance. It has been shown that nitrogen (N) and phosphate (P) can help to improve plant tolerance to water limitation by increasing the activities of the photosynthetic machinery and antioxidant enzymes. Maize is highly sensitive to drought stress, especially at the seedling stage. In this study, we used four maize genotypes (HKI-161, HKI-193-1, HQPM-1 and HQPM-7) and studied the effect of N and P application on response to drought stress and recovery at germination and seedling stage. We show that application of N and P had no effect on rate of germination but increased the seedling growth, chlorophyll content, malondialdehyde levels, proline, anthocyanin content, gas exchange parameters and antioxidant enzymes (APX, CAT and GR) during drought stress. The variation in the effect was visible across genotypes, but the observed changes indicate improved drought stress tolerance in the maize seedlings. During drought recovery, seedlings of HKI-161 and HKI-193-1 genotype that did not receive N and/or P treatment or that were pre-supplemented with only P showed rapid transition to flowering stages. Seedlings pretreated with N showed comparatively late transition to flowering. The HQPM-1 seedlings, which received N treatment moved to flowering stage while HQPM-7 seedlings showed only normal vegetative growth under all treatment conditions. Molecular analysis identified 2016 transcripts that are differentially expressed in the drought tolerant and susceptible genotypes. About 947 transcripts showed >3-fold change in expression and were expressed during stress tolerant genotype. Transcripts coding for proteins in P and N metabolism were identified within the drought regulated transcripts. The analysis showed that transcripts related to P metabolism were expressed during stress and recovery phases in the susceptible genotype while transcripts related to N metabolism were down regulated during drought stress and recovery stages in all the genotypes.
Negative Media Sentiment about the Pig Epidemic and Pork Price Fluctuations: A Study on Spatial Spillover Effect and Mechanism
Authors: Ma Chi , Tao Jianping , Tan Caifeng , Liu Wei , Li Xia
Published: March 2023

As the media have continued to pay increasing attention to pig epidemic events, some local pig epidemic events may have a large degree of negative impact on the pork market and the whole pig industry chain, leading to pork price fluctuations. Strengthening pig epidemic control, monitoring media reporting sentiment, and stabilizing pork price fluctuations are important measures to improve the economy and people’s livelihood. This paper sets out to identify the relationship between the negative media sentiment about the pig epidemic and the market risk of pork prices within a setting with pig epidemic risk. Based on the provincial panel data of China from January 2011 to December 2022, this paper uses the spatial panel Durbin model to investigate the impact of negative media sentiment about the pig epidemic on pork price fluctuations from the perspective of local and spillover effects, and further discusses the mechanism of consumer sentiment. The empirical results show that: (1) The negative media sentiment about the pig epidemic significantly exacerbates pork price fluctuations, and there is a single threshold effect, which is weakened after crossing the threshold value. (2) The negative media sentiment about the pig epidemic has a significant positive spillover effect on pork price fluctuations, showing the characteristics of “being a neighbor”. The spatial spillover effect shows a significant spatial attenuation feature and an inverted U-shaped change with the inflection point at 1400 km. (3) The effect is related to the heterogeneity of media reputation. The local aggravation effect of local media’s negative sentiment on pork price fluctuations is greater than that of central media and information network platforms. In terms of the spatial spillover effect, the negative sentiment of the information network platforms has the strongest effect on the aggravation of pork price fluctuations in neighboring regions. (4) The mechanism study finds that the negative media sentiment about the pig epidemic positively affects pork price fluctuations through the path of “consumer sentiment”. Therefore, this research recommends that the government department should strengthen the supervision of media sentiment about the pig epidemic and reasonably guide consumer sentiment to stabilize the pork market.
The Evolution Model of and Factors Influencing Digital Villages: Evidence from Guangxi, China
Authors: Li Weiwei , Zhang Ping , Zhao Kaixu , Chen Hua , Zhao Sidong
Published: March 2023

(1) Background: Digitalization is the key to sustainable village development, posing a new challenge for village planning, construction, and governance in all countries. The construction of digital villages is currently in the stage of experimentation and exploration; China is the largest developing country and a pioneer in the digitization of villages. (2) Methods: Based on a combination of the Boston Consulting Group Matrix and GeoDetector, we conducted an empirical study on 70 counties in Guangxi, aiming to analyze the construction level, evolution model, and driving mechanism of digital villages and to provide a basis for decisions on government investment and social participation. (3) Results: First, Conspicuous disequilibrium in rural digitalization has manifested in Guangxi, and counties at different levels (leader, follower, and straggler) show significant clustering and correlation effects in their geographical distribution. Second, digital village construction in Guangxi has evolves in diversified modes (divided into four types: star, gazelle, cow, and dog), with hot and cold areas forming a center–periphery structure. Third, rural digitalization has a very complex driving mechanism, with high heterogeneity in the direct influencing factors, significant synergistic enhancement of factors, and nonlinear enhancement dominating the interaction’s relationship. (4) Conclusions: According to the results of analysis, we suggest highlighting the government-driven mechanism and regional linkage in the construction of digital villages, formulating differentiated management policies and development plans based on the combination of top-level design and grassroots innovation, establishing joint meetings or development associations and service alliances, and stimulating the enthusiasm of the whole of society, especially farmers and enterprises, in order to achieve rapid and sustainable rural digitalization.
Comparative Primary Metabolite Profiling of Setaria viridis Reveals Potential Markers to Water Limitation
Authors: Guedes Fernanda Alves de Freitas , Nascimento Luana Beatriz dos Santos , Costa Mara Priscila , Macrae Andrew , Alves-Ferreira Marcio , Caldana Camila , Reinert Fernanda
Published: March 2023

Growing varieties with higher water-use efficiency is crucial to address water limitation in agriculture. Breeding programs often resort to model plants, and Setaria viridis has been consolidating its position as a model for C4 grasses. However, we lack a detailed analysis of drought-induced metabolic changes in S. viridis. To partially redress this, we assessed the primary metabolic profile of roots, leaves, and panicles in response to three watering levels. Five-day-old seedlings were submitted to water-limiting conditions for 25 days when samples were harvested. GC-MS-based analysis revealed that each plant organ had a specific metabolic profile, with TCA intermediates altered in above- and underground parts. The sPLS-DA analysis allowed clear separation of the water regimes for the three organs. Of the 36 most important metabolites, only four (sucrose, glycerol-3P, gluconate and adenine) were shared by all plant organs. A subset of 12 metabolites, including proline, were further evaluated as drought bioindicator candidates, with galactinol and gluconate emerging for vegetative parts while alanine seems informative of aerial part water status. In general, water limitation decreased the content of nitrogen compounds in aboveground tissues and increased the amounts of carbohydrates, especially in the sink organs. This study adds to our understanding of the metabolic responses of grasses to water limitation and identified potential bioindicators for drought in different plant organs.
Pest Localization Using YOLOv5 and Classification Based on Quantum Convolutional Network
Authors: Amin Javeria , Anjum Muhammad Almas , Zahra Rida , Sharif Muhammad Imran , Kadry Seifedine , Sevcik Lukas
Published: March 2023

Pests are always the main source of field damage and severe crop output losses in agriculture. Currently, manually classifying and counting pests is time consuming, and enumeration of population accuracy might be affected by a variety of subjective measures. Additionally, due to pests’ various scales and behaviors, the current pest localization algorithms based on CNN are unsuitable for effective pest management in agriculture. To overcome the existing challenges, in this study, a method is developed for the localization and classification of pests. For localization purposes, the YOLOv5 is trained using the optimal learning hyperparameters which more accurately localize the pest region in plant images with 0.93 F1 scores. After localization, pest images are classified into Paddy with pest/Paddy without pest using the proposed quantum machine learning model, which consists of fifteen layers with two-qubit nodes. The proposed network is trained from scratch with optimal parameters that provide 99.9% classification accuracy. The achieved results are compared to the existing recent methods, which are performed on the same datasets to prove the novelty of the developed model.
Bioactive Compounds of Barbatimão (Stryphnodendron sp.) as Dietary Additive in Lamb Diets
Authors: Barbosa Cristiane R. , Pantoja Jessica C. , Fernandes Tatiane , Chagas Renata A. , Souza Carla G. , Santos Aylpy R. D. , Souza Marcio R. , Vargas Junior Fernando M.
Published: March 2023

This study aimed to evaluate barbatimão bark extracts as a feed additive and substitute for lasalocid sodium (LAS) for feedlot lambs. Lambs were distributed into three treatments: LAS (0.018 g of lasalocid sodium), DBB (1.500 g of dried and milled barbatimão bark), and BHE (0.300 g of barbatimão hydroalcoholic extract). There was no effect (p = 0.32) of the inclusion of DBB and BHE extracts on the average daily gain. Inclusion of BHE in lamb diets reduced (p < 0.05) the fatness score compared to LAS, which was similar to DBB. The BHE decreased the yellowness intensity and hue angle (p < 0.05) of meat compared to the LAS. Animals that consumed DBB and BHE had a reduced (p = 0.04) total cholesterol level. Thus, the use of barbatimão bark extracts can replace lasalocid sodium in the diet of feedlot lambs, with no detrimental effects on performance or metabolic parameters.
Comparison of the Effect of NaOH Pretreatment and Microbial Agents on Rice Straw Decomposition
Authors: Chen Qiyu , Li Yufei , Wang Chengli , Wang Yue
Published: March 2023

Rice straw contains a large amount of lignocellulose which is difficult to be decomposed. The objective of this study was to determine the effect of alkaline pretreatment (sodium hydroxide, NaOH) and microbial agents on the decomposition of rice straw. The experimental detail consisted of NaOH (control and NaOH solution pretreatment) and microbial agent (Bacillus licheniformis agent, Bacillus subtilis agent, Trichoderma viride agent, and no microbial agent) treatments. Compared with no NaOH pretreatment, the pH of NaOH pretreatment increased by 6.30–18.28%, while the electrical conductivity decreased by 49.18%, but the change in total nutrient content was not obvious. Under no NaOH pretreatment, Bacillus subtilis agent improved the temperature of the rice straw decomposition. Compared with Bacillus licheniformis agent and Trichoderma viride agent, Bacillus subtilis agent increased the alkali-hydrolyzable nitrogen, available phosphorus, and available potassium in rice straw by 1.39–10.30%. The organic carbon content was reduced by 3.50% and 17.15%. The germination index was greater than 80%. Under NaOH pretreatment, the pile with Bacillus subtilis agent reached the maximum temperature (39.5 °C) on the 12th day. Compared with Bacillus licheniformis agent and Trichoderma viride agent, Bacillus subtilis agent increased the content of alkali-hydrolyzable nitrogen and available phosphorus in rice straw by 1.64–11.87%. The humus polymerization, organic carbon, and carbon/nitrogen ratio were reduced by 6.40–44.06%. In addition, gray analysis, principal component analysis, and comprehensive evaluation were used to comprehensively evaluate the effect of straw decomposition. The results showed that Bacillus subtilis agent under NaOH pretreatment and no NaOH pretreatment had the most obvious effect on rice straw composting. This study provides a scientific basis for efficient decomposition of rice straw.
Reducing the Adverse Effects of Salt Stress by Utilizing Compost Tea and Effective Microorganisms to Enhance the Growth and Yield of Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) Plants
Authors: Elbagory Mohssen
Published: March 2023

One of the worst environmental conditions limiting crop plant productivity is salinity. As a result, ecologically friendly methods are urgently needed to boost the development and yield of wheat growing on saltine soils. Two-year field studies to examine the effects of applying compost tea (CT) and effective microorganisms (EMs; Azospirillum brasilense, Pseudomonas koreensis, and Bacillus circulans) on the growth and yield of two wheat cultivars, namely Sids 12 as a salinity susceptible cultivar and Misr 1 as a salinity resistant cultivar, under salt-affected soils. The findings corroborated our hypothesis that, in comparison to the control and the individual applications of EM or CT, the combined application (EM + CT) significantly improved growth, yield, uptake of nutrients, and photosynthetic characteristics. Furthermore, the combined application markedly (p ≤ 0.05) boosted the antioxidant enzymes. Our research showed that the combination treatment could increase soil microbial activity and activate critical soil enzymes, primarily dehydrogenase and urease. In general, the combination treatment has demonstrated a good effect in terms of stimulating plant development and raising element concentrations in wheat under salt stress.
Subchronic Toxicological Evaluation of Xiushui 134Bt Transgenic Insect-Resistant Rice in Rats
Authors: Yang Ruifang , Piao Zhongze , Tang Jianhao , Wan Changzhao , Lee Gangseob , Bai Jianjiang
Published: March 2023

In this study, Xiushui 134Bt, a highly insect-resistant rice transgenic material with stable expression of CryIAc1 gene in rice plants and no significant changes in main agronomic traits, was obtained by means of Agrobacterium-mediated transformation method using japonica rice Xiushui 134 as receptor material. Biosecurity of the transgenic rice Xiushui 134Bt was assessed by rat feeding experiments. Wistar rats were fed a nutritionally balanced diet supplemented with 35% Genetically Modified (LGM) or 70% Genetically Modified (HGM) Xiushui 134Bt, respectively, for 90 days. Compared with the wild-type group (Xiushui 134), there were no significant differences in body weight, total food intake, food conversion rate, relative organ weight, blood routine, blood physiological or biochemical parameters, or histopathological examination between LGM and HGM Bt groups (p > 0.05). These results indicate that the transgenic rice Xiushui 134Bt is non-toxic in laboratory animals and provide guidance for the future commercial release of the transgenic rice Xiushui 134Bt in China.
Morphological and Transcriptome Analysis of Flooding Mitigation of the Damage Induced by Low-Temperature Stress on Direct-Seeded Early Indica Rice at the Seedling Stage
Authors: Wang Wenxia , Du Jie , Wu Ziming , Zeng Yongjun , Pan Xiaohua , Cheng Shanmei , Zeng Yanhua
Published: March 2023

Low temperature (LT) chilling damage often occurs at the seedling stage of rice growth, especially direct-seeded early indica rice, and flooding can alleviate the damage caused by LT chilling at the rice seedling stage. However, few studies have elucidated the molecular mechanism by which suitable flooding alleviates LT stress-induced damage. Therefore, LT, LT plus flooding (LTF) and control (CK) treatments were established at 8 °C for 3 days to determine the phenotype, agronomic traits and transcriptomic of direct-seeded early indica rice at the seedling stage. The results showed that compared with LTF, the seedling height, root number, fresh weight, dry weight and T3 (the 3rd leaf from the top) leaf length significantly decreased after LT treatment; LTF could reduce the damage of LT to the agronomic characters of rice seedlings. The physiological characteristics showed that compared with LT, LTF significantly decreased soluble protein content and CAT activity. Transcriptomic profiling showed that 5934 DEGs were identified from the rice leaves between the LT and CK comparison groups; 7658 DEGs were identified between the LTF and CK; and 2697 DEGs were identified between the LT and LTF treatment. In biological process, the ‘metabolic process’ was the most enriched subcategory. In cellular components, the three most enriched subcategories were ‘cell’, ‘cell part’ and ‘organelle’. ‘Binding’ was the most enriched subcategory in molecular function. Differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were significantly enriched in photosynthesis, carotenoid biosynthesis, flavonoid biosynthesis, glycolysis gluconeogenesis, glycine, serine and threonine metabolism and plant hormone signal transduction pathways. Photosynthesis, energy metabolism and signal transduction pathway play important roles in flooding mitigation of LT stress. The results of this study may help to elucidate changes in physiological characteristics and gene expression through which flooding mitigates LT stress.
Application of Mixture Models for Doubly Inflated Count Data
Authors: Arora Monika , Chaganty N. Rao
Published: March 2023

In health and social science and other fields where count data analysis is important, zero-inflated models have been employed when the frequency of zero count is high (inflated). Due to multiple reasons, there are scenarios in which an additional count value of k > 0 occurs with high frequency. The zero- and k-inflated Poisson distribution model (ZkIP) is more appropriate for such situations. The ZkIP model is a mixture distribution with three components: degenerate distributions at 0 and k count and a Poisson distribution. In this article, we propose an alternative and computationally fast expectation–maximization (EM) algorithm to obtain the parameter estimates for grouped zero and k-inflated count data. The asymptotic standard errors are derived using the complete data approach. We compare the zero- and k-inflated Poisson model with its zero-inflated and non-inflated counterparts. The best model is selected based on commonly used criteria. The theoretical results are supplemented with the analysis of two real-life datasets from health sciences.
A Monogenean Gill Parasite within the Genus Haliotrema (Ancyrocephalidae) Infecting Argyrops filamentosus Fish: Morphology and Molecular Studies
Authors: Abdel-Gaber Rewaida , Alghamdi Masheil , Al Quraishy Saleh , Al-Shaebi Esam M. , Elkhadragy Manal F. , El-Ashram Saeed , Dkhil Mohamed A.
Published: March 2023

Due to the presence of different parasite taxa and other disease-causing agents, all fish species are extremely prone to dangers. As a result, the current study focused on some of the monogenean parasites that infect one of the economically important fish species, the soldier bream Argyrops filamentosus, from the Red Sea coast of Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. Following that, thirty A. filamentosus fish specimens were examined for monogenean parasites. The parasitic species were isolated and morphologically and molecularly studied. The presence of one monogenean species of Haliotrema susanae (F: Ancyrocephalidae) infecting gills was observed in 50% of the investigated fish species. The ancyrocephalid species Haliotrema susanae is characterized by having all generic features within the genus Haliotrema. It could be distinguished from other species within this genus by the male copulatory organ including a copulatory tube with no accessory piece and a haptor made up of two pairs of anchors, two bars, and seven pairs of marginal hooks. As ectoparasitic taxa of the investigated sparid fish, the current study of Haliotrema species constitutes the first report of this genus. A molecular phylogenetic analysis based on the partial 28S rRNA gene region was analyzed to investigate the phylogenetic affinity of this parasite with the genus Haliotrema belonging to Ancyrocephalidae. This study considers the addition of a new genetic sequence for this parasite species.
Seasonal Movement Patterns of Urban Domestic Cats Living on the Edge in an African City
Authors: Simmons Robert E. , Seymour Colleen L. , George Sharon T. , Peters Koebraa , Morling Frances , O’Riain M. Justin
Published: March 2023

Domestic cats (Felis catus) are amongst the most destructive invasive vertebrates globally, depredating billions of native animals annually. The size and seasonal variation of their geographical “footprint” is key to understanding their effects on wildlife, particularly if they live near conservation areas. Here we report the first GPS-tracking studies of free-roaming owned cats in the city of Cape Town, South Africa. A total of 23 cats was tracked (14 cats in summer, 9 in winter) using miniature (22 g) GPS locators in 2010–2011. In summer, all cats living on the urban-edge (UE: n = 7) made extensive use of protected areas, while only one of seven urban (U) cats (>150 m from the edge) did so. In winter two of four UE and two of five U cats entered protected areas. Home ranges (95% kernel density estimates) were significantly larger in summer (3.00 ± 1.23 ha) than winter (0.87 ± 0.25 ha) and cats ventured further from their homes in summer (maximum 849 m) than in winter (max 298 m). The predation risk posed by caracal (Caracal caracal) may limit the time cats spend in protected areas, but our results suggest that cat buffers around conservation areas should be at least ~600 m wide to reduce impacts to native fauna.
Influence of the Slaughter Method on the Hygienic Quality of Beef Cattle Meat and Animal Welfare Biomarkers
Authors: Bouzraa Said , Agüera Estrella I. , Requena Francisco , Rodríguez Inmaculada , Serrano Salud
Published: March 2023

The main objective of this research was to carry out a comparative study between different types of slaughter in beef cattle with and without stunning. In addition, the hygienic quality of the obtained meat was determined through microbiological analysis and the animal welfare at the time of slaughtering was assessed by means of physiological parameters. A total of 52 blood samples collected at the slaughterhouse during slaughter (10 for each type of slaughter: regular, halal, and halal with stunning; 10 at the time of resting; and 12 from rotating box slaughter) were analysed for physiological parameters indicating animal welfare status, namely, glucose, cortisol, lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) and creatine kinase (CK). In addition, the meat from 30 of the above animals was analysed for aerobic mesophilic bacteria, enterobacteria and coliforms. Moreover, a radiological study of the possible skull damage due to the non-penetrative captive bolt used at the time of stunning in the halal rite slaughter was carried out. A significance difference (p < 0.05) in the microbiological counts per type of slaughter was observed. It was proven that the amounts of glucose, LDH, CK, and cortisol in plasma were influenced (p < 0.05) by the type of slaughter. The halal rite slaughter using stunning with a non-penetrative captive bolt resulted in the best hygienic quality of meat and obtained the lowest values for all animal welfare biomarkers.
The Effect of Direct-Fed Lactobacillus Species on Milk Production and Methane Emissions of Dairy Cows
Authors: Williams S. Richard O. , Jacobs Joe L. , Chandra Subhash , Soust Martin , Russo Victoria M. , Douglas Meaghan L. , Hess Pablo S. Alvarez
Published: March 2023

Using direct-fed microbials to mitigate enteric methane emissions could be sustainable and acceptable to both consumers and producers. Forty lactating, multiparous, Holstein-Friesian cows were randomly allocated one of two treatments: (1) a base of ad libitum vetch (Vicia sativa) hay and 7.0 kg DM/d of a grain mix, or (2) the basal diet plus 10 mL of MYLO® (Terragen Biotech Pty Ltd., Coolum Beach, Queensland, Australia) delivering 4.17 × 108 cfu of Lactobacillus per mL. Neither feed intake (25.4 kg/d vs. 24.8 kg/d) nor milk yield (29.9 vs. 30.3 kg/d) were affected by treatment. Feed conversion efficiency was not affected by treatment when expressed on an energy-corrected milk basis (1.15 vs. 1.18 kg/kg DMI). Neither methane yield (31.6 vs. 31.1 g/kg DMI) nor methane intensity (27.1 vs. 25.2 g/kg energy corrected milk) were affected by treatments. While these results are contrary to our expectations and not significant, all were numerically in a favorable direction. Given there are reports that diet and dose rate may impact the size of any effect, we recommend a dose–response study be undertaken using a basal diet that is commonly used in pasture-based dairy systems.
A Survey of Calf Housing Facilities Pre-Weaning, Management Practices and Farmer Perceptions of Calf Welfare on Irish Dairy Farms
Authors: Sinnott Alison M. , Bokkers Eddie A. M. , Murphy John Paul , Kennedy Emer
Published: March 2023

It is unknown whether calf rearing facilities in the Republic of Ireland are fit for purpose, or if facilities sufficiently consider calf and farmer welfare. The aim of this study was to review current calf housing facilities and management practices on Irish farms to determine if calves are reared in structurally appropriate facilities with management decisions that safeguard calf and farmer welfare. Fifty-one farms located in the Munster region in the Republic of Ireland were visited twice: (1) Pre-calving (December–January) and (2) During peak calving (January–March). During visit one, herd owners completed a questionnaire regarding calf housing and management practices on-farm and each facility used to rear calves was measured (measurement of cubic air capacity, ventilation, pen area, drainage etc.) without calves being present. Visit two consisted of a short interview with the principal calf manager to validate previously asked questions and environmental based measurements of each calf house that had been recorded, with any deviation from the first visit noted (measurements of temperature, wind speed, light intensity, facility provisions in-house and in-pen; calves present). Average herd size was 254, operating a spring calving system with a median calving season length of 11.6 weeks. While most farms expanded (88%; N = 51), this did not appear to have negatively affected calf space allowances (9.9% houses overcrowded at a space allowance of 1.5 m2/calf; N = 121). Calves were most commonly housed in group sizes of <12 (71.6% of all groupings; N = 394), with farmers moving away from individual housing for a period immediately post-birth, to grouping them immediately instead (58.8%; N = 51). The number of farmers testing colostrum was 31.4% (N = 51). Although the calving season was compact, most farmers were unconcerned about the upcoming spring workload (58.8%; N = 51). Farms appeared sufficiently prepared for spring, with most using the same number or less sheds during visit two than declared in visit one (76.5%; N = 51). To conclude, farmers made sufficient provision for calf housing and space allowances for calves that facilitated group housing post-birth. While structural and management components of rearing systems appear in line with sectoral recommendations, certain areas require attention on many farms (e.g., colostrum testing) to safeguard calf welfare and reduce the workload associated with calf rearing for farmers.
Mycobacterium avium Subspecies paratuberculosis in Asymptomatic Zoo Herbivores in Poland
Authors: Bruczyńska Małgorzata , Didkowska Anna , Brzezińska Sylwia , Nowak Magdalena , Filip-Hutsch Katarzyna , Kalicki Mirosław , Augustynowicz-Kopeć Ewa , Anusz Krzysztof
Published: March 2023

Mycobacterial infections are significant issues in zoo animals, influencing animal welfare, conservation efforts, and the zoonotic potential of pathogens. Although tuberculosis is recognised to be highly dangerous, paratuberculosis can also lead to animal losses and is potentially dangerous for humans. The aim of the current study was to confirm whether Mycobacterium avium spp. paratuberculosis (MAP) infections are currently present in zoos in Poland. Faeces samples (n = 131) were collected from different animal species from eight zoos in Poland. The faeces were decontaminated and inoculated into Herrold’s Egg Yolk Media. The species was determined using commercial DNA testing. The IS900 was checked using RT-PCR. The culture was positive in seven samples: five with M. avium, one with Mycobacterium fortiatum, and one without any identified Mycobacterium species. RT-PCR confirmed MAP genetic material in nine animals. Our findings represent the first confirmation of MAP in bongo (Tragelaphus eurycerus), indicating that it is present in Polish zoological gardens. Fortunately, the disease can be monitored more easily due to recent legislation (the Animal Health Law).