bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Distance learning during COVID-19 lockdown: Impact on adolescents with specific learning disorders and their parents
Authors: Battisti Andrea , Lazzaro Giulia , Varuzza Cristiana , Vicari Stefano , Menghini Deny
Published: October 2022

Background

The transition of teaching from in-person to Distance Learning (DL) due to the COVID-19 pandemic led to negative effects on students' psychological wellbeing and academic achievement. The worst consequences have been experienced by students with so-called special educational needs, as well as by their parents. However, very little emphasis has been placed on the effects of DL in students with Specific Learning Disorders (SLD). The present work aimed to evaluate the effects of DL during the COVID-19 lockdown in Italian students with SLD and in their parents.

Methods

An online survey was administered to 92 students with SLD and their parents after the COVID-19 lockdown. The survey consisted of four sections: participants' demographic information; perceived stress related to general aspects (i.e., social and family determinants) as well as specific aspects related to DL; attitudes and feelings toward DL; and academic grades before and after DL.

Results

Students with SLD perceived stress mainly from social isolation/distancing and DL (p always ≤ 0.0001), especially from online classes and oral exams (p always ≤ 0.0001). Students who did not benefit from appropriate accommodations (i.e., individualized teaching and learning methods) during DL perceived 3 times more DL-related stress than those who used them as in-person learning (OR = 3.00, CI 95%: 1.24–7.28, p = 0.015). Girls perceived more stress from online lessons (OR = 0.40, CI 95%: 0.16–0.96, p = 0.04) and use of devices (OR = 0.33, CI 95%: 0.14–0.80, p = 0.015) than boys. Negative feelings (less motivation, reduced ability to understand lessons, interact, and stay focused) and positive feelings (less anxiety and more self-confidence with its own rate of learning) toward DL emerged. Higher academic grades also was observed after DL (p ≤ 0.0001). Lastly, strong and positive correlations emerged between students' and parents' perceived stress during DL (p always < 0.001).

Implications

The present study prompts special considerations for students with special educational needs not only when providing conventional instruction, but especially when it is necessary to suddenly modify teaching approaches.
Increasing important roles of child and adolescent psychiatrists in the treatment of gaming disorder: Current status in Japan
Authors: Tateno Masaru , Matsuzaki Takanobu , Takano Ayumi , Higuchi Susumu
Published: October 2022

Background

Digital gaming is the most common leisure activity among children and adolescents in Japan, especially in males. Playing online gaming has become more common among school-age children over the years. As a result, excessive online gaming in younger children has become a significant social problem in Japan. Previous studies have demonstrated that excessive online gaming could cause various mental health issues in children and adolescents. At medical institutions having child and adolescent psychiatry services, there is an increasing number of children and adolescents with various problems related to excessive gaming. The aim of this study was to investigate the current practice of gaming disorder (GD) in clinical settings in Japan.

Methods

The subjects of this study were all of 414 child and adolescent psychiatrists certified by the Japanese Society for Child and Adolescent Psychiatry (JSCAP). The study questionnaire was mailed to all subjects from the official secretariat of JSCAP. Study subjects were requested to answer the questionnaire anonymously. The survey contained three types of responses: open responses; single and multiple-choice responses; and, responses on a five-point Likert scale. The questionnaire consisted of 14 questions regarding GD.

Results

We received 159 responses. The most common reason for a visit to child and adolescent psychiatry service which results in a subsequent diagnosis of GD was school refusal/absenteeism followed by disruption of sleep-awake rhythm. The most common specialized treatment for GD currently offered at child and adolescent psychiatry service is individual psychotherapy. The two most frequently experienced difficulties in the treatment of GD were low motivation to achieve recovery and a large variety of combined problems other than excessive gaming itself. With regard to the three most common psychiatric comorbidities of GD, they were autism spectrum disorder (ASD), attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), and depression.

Discussion

The results of our survey revealed that although GD is a behavioral addiction, many children and adolescents with GD first visit child and adolescent psychiatry clinics rather than specialized clinics for addiction which are usually designed and staffed for adult patients. Because it is known that GD is more prevalent among young males, including junior high and high school students, GD has become one of the most important clinical issues in child and adolescent psychiatry today. The important roles of child and adolescent psychiatrists in the treatment of GD has been increasing.
Lessons from a crisis—opportunities for lasting public health change from the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Sara Jaskanwal Deep Singh
Published: October 2022

The coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19) global pandemic has wrought hardship and disrupted lives across all strata of humanity, giving rise to a variety of social, psychological, and medical challenges to individuals in almost every country in the world. Yet for all the difficulties the pandemic has inflicted, it has forced us to examine previously accepted practices at home, work, and society more broadly and has led to innovative changes in the way we communicate and collaborate. These novel approaches to contemporary challenges were devised primarily to allow continued productivity despite the need for social distancing, but have offered secondary advantages that could provide society with lasting benefits. In the following review, we outline three aspects of working life and public health which could experience lasting improvement on the back of lessons learnt from the current crisis.
Age-specific associations between environmental factors and epistaxis
Authors: Ahn Eun-Jin , Min Hyun Jin
Published: October 2022

Objective

Several studies have demonstrated that environmental factors, such as meteorological factors and air pollutants, are closely associated with epistaxis. However, age-specific associations between environmental factors and epistaxis have not yet been evaluated. This study aimed to evaluate the associations between individual meteorological factors and air pollutants and epistaxis, by age.

Study design

A retrospective cohort study.

Setting

Records of patients covered by the Korean National Health Insurance Service who visited our hospital for epistaxis between January 1, 2002, and December 31, 2015, were retrospectively reviewed.

Methods

The 46,628 enrolled patients were divided into four age groups: age group 0 (<18 years, N = 19,580); age group 1 (18–40 years, N = 10,978); age group 2 (41–70 years, N = 13,395); and age group 3 (>70 years, N = 2,675). Cases of epistaxis and data on environmental factors were analyzed according to the day, month, and year. Stepwise logistic regression was performed to identify the environmental risk factors for epistaxis in each age group.

Results

Age group 0 had the highest number of patients with epistaxis, whereas age group 3 had the lowest. Relative humidity, temperature, concentrations of particulate matter (PM10) and sulfur dioxide, sunshine duration, and wind speed were significantly associated with the occurrence of epistaxis in the study population. However, analysis according to age group showed that the meteorological factors and air pollutants associated with epistaxis were different in each age group.

Conclusion

We suggest that the environmental risk factors for epistaxis should be differentially analyzed according to age.
The impact of mobile Internet use on mental distress among Chinese adults during the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Teng Mingming
Published: October 2022

With the rapid development of digital technology, mobile Internet use is increasing in popularity in China. Previous studies have shown that mobile Internet use has a positive or negative effect on mental distress. Using CFPS2020 data, this paper finds that mobile Internet use significantly alleviates mental distress in Chinese adults. Heterogeneity analysis indicates that mobile Internet use can significantly alleviate mental distress among adults between the ages of 30 and 70, without a bachelor's degree or residing outside the province of Hubei. Furthermore, mobile Internet use significantly reduces mental distress through two mediators: trust and happiness. It also shows that watching short videos or learning online is associated with reduced mental distress, as opposed to online shopping, chatting, or playing games. However, the mental distress of new mobile Internet users in 2020 has not been alleviated. This paper enriches the relevant theoretical research and provides a practical reference for using the mobile Internet to ease mental distress during epidemics.
The AI trilemma: Saving the planet without ruining our jobs
Authors: Ernst Ekkehard
Published: October 2022

Digitalization and artificial intelligence increasingly affect the world of work. Rising risk of massive job losses have sparked technological fears. Limited income and productivity gains concentrated among a few tech companies are fueling inequalities. In addition, the increasing ecological footprint of digital technologies has become the focus of much discussion. This creates a trilemma of rising inequality, low productivity growth and high ecological costs brought by technological progress. How can this trilemma be resolved? Which digital applications should be promoted specifically? And what should policymakers do to address this trilemma? This contribution shows that policymakers should create suitable conditions to fully exploit the potential in the area of network applications (transport, information exchange, supply, provisioning) in order to reap maximum societal benefits that can be widely shared. This requires shifting incentives away from current uses toward those that can, at least partially, address the trilemma. The contribution analyses the scope and limits of current policy instruments in this regard and discusses alternative approaches that are more aligned with the properties of the emerging technological paradigm underlying the digital economy. In particular, it discusses the possibility of institutional innovations required to address the socio-economic challenges resulting from the technological innovations brought about by artificial intelligence.
Activity assay based on the immobilized enzyme kallikrein and mass spectrometry
Authors: Carvalho Daniella Romano De , Laurentino Bruna Barbosa , Rocha Camila Loreta , Kool Jeroen , Somsen Govert , Amstalden van Hove Erika , Cardoso Carmen Lúcia
Published: October 2022

Deregulated activity and expression of human kallikreins (KLKs) may be involved in various pathologies, so these enzymes are an attractive biological target for identifying molecules that can modulate KLK activity. This identification involves applying fast and efficient screening methods. This work describes an off-line assay with mass spectrometry (MS) detection that uses KLK immobilized on Sepharose-NHS as a micro-column configuration (IMER-KLK-Sepharose-NHS). The mass spectrometry used has an ion trap analyzer and electrospray ionization (EIS). The HPLC-MS method for quantifying KLK activity was developed. The enzymatic assay conditions were optimized, and the IMER-KLK-Sepharose-NHS kinetic parameter (KMapp = 15.48 ± 3 μmol L−1) was evaluated. Finally, the method was validated by using leupeptin as a reference inhibitor (IC50 = 0.85 ± 0.10 μmol L−1). The developed method was able to identify the reference inhibitor and can be an alternative for screening KLK inhibitors.
An Arbitrary Lagrangian Eulerian Approach for Estimating Energy Dissipation in Micromirrors
Authors: Di Cristofaro Daniele , Opreni Andrea , Cremonesi Massimiliano , Carminati Roberto , Frangi  Attilio
Published: October 2022

Quantification and minimisation of energy consumption in resonant MEMS micromirrors is a key aspect for a proper structural design. In this setting, the quality factor Q of the drive mode of the device needs to be estimated and, eventually, improved. In this work, we propose a simulation strategy for the numerical computation of MEMS micromirrors quality factors. Full order Arbitrary Lagrangian Eulerian Navier-Stokes simulations have been performed using a SUPG stabilised Chorin-Themam scheme. Finally, the numerical results are compared with experimental data, highlighting the accuracy and efficiency of the proposed method.
An Adaptive Dynamic Surface Technology-Based Electromechanical Actuator Fault-Tolerant Scheme for Blair Mine Hoist Wire Rope Tension Control System
Authors: Chen Xiao , Zhu Zhencai , Ma Tianbing , Chang Jucai , Chang Xiangdong , Zang Wanshun
Published: October 2022

As an important equipment for deep well hoisting, the safe and stable operation of the Blair mine hoist is vital for the development and utilization of deep mineral resources. However, it is always a challenging task to keep consistent wire rope tension in the event of an actuator fault. In this study, an adaptive dynamic surface technology-based actuator fault-tolerant scheme is proposed. A fault observer with a neural network adaptation term is designed to estimate the loss of actuator efficiency caused by faults. Considering the redundant characteristic of the two actuators, a novel dynamic surface technology-based controller with a fuzzy assignment and state constraints is developed to eliminate the impact of fault. The stability of the closed-loop system under the proposed strategy is theoretically proved by rigorous Lyapunov analysis. Comparative experiments under various conditions are carried out on a xPC based mine hoist platform, and the results show the applicability together with the superiority of the proposed scheme.
Design and Experiment of Sweet Potato Up-Film Transplanting Device with a Boat-Bottom Posture
Authors: Li Lin , Xu Yalei , Pan Zhiguo , Zhang Huan , Sun Tianfeng , Zhai Yuming
Published: October 2022

Aimed at solving the problem of the incidence of large film-breaking holes in the current sweet potato boat-bottom-shaped transplant, a boat-bottom-shaped up-film transplanting device was designed. Starting from the agronomic requirements of sweet potato up-film transplanting with a boat-bottom posture, an arc-shaped gripping mechanism was designed. In order to avoid further tearing and breaking the film hole during the movement of the clamping mechanism under the membrane, a transposition mechanism and a positioning cam were designed to jointly control the movement of the clamping mechanism. In order to ensure the stability of the transplanting plant spacing during the operation of the machine, a rotary encoder was used to collect the forward speed of the machine and adjust the speed of the power shaft in real time. Field experiments were carried out in order to verify the reliability and stability of the operation of the above-mentioned design mechanism. In the field test, the advance speed was used as the test factor, and the test indexes included three indexes of the seedlings after transplanting and three indexes of the film holes. The test results showed that the qualified rate of node depth in the middle of the seedling (QRNDMS) is between 95.67% and 86.79%, the qualified rate of root depth at the base of the seedlings (QRRDS) is between 94.00% and 90.11%, and the qualified rate of seedling length into the soil (QRSLS) is between 97.89% and 91.67%. The film hole spacing is between 240.33 mm and 245.32 mm, the film hole length is between 37.01 mm and 42.10 mm, and the film hole length variation rate is between 1.05% and 7.48%. This study can serve as a reference for up-film transplantation, particularly for boat-bottom-shaped up-film transplantation devices.
Traditional and Conditional QTL Analysis of Kernel Size- and Shape-Related Traits in Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.)
Authors: Fan Xiaoli , Liu Xiaofeng , Guo Shaodan , Feng Bo , Zhou Qiang , Deng Guangbing , Long Hai , Xu Zhibin , Wang Tao
Published: October 2022

Optimal kernel size and shape were critical in improving the wheat yield potential and processing quality. A traditional and conditional QTL analysis for kernel-related traits was performed using 152 recombinant inbred lines derived from a cross between Zhongkemai 138 (ZKM138) and Kechengmai 2, whose kernel size showed significant differences. A total of 48 traditional QTLs (LOD: 3.69–14.20) were identified, with twenty-six QTLs distributed across five genomic regions. Each had at least one major stable QTL for kernel-related traits. We deduced from the co-location and conditional QTL analysis results that R3D and R4B.1 primarily controlled kernel shape, while R4D, R6A, and R6D2 primarily contributed to kernel size and the final thousand-kernel weight, potentially providing the genetic basis for the ZKM138’s high TKW and large-kernel performance. R4D may be involved with Rht2, and the possible regulatory effects of the other four QTL clusters are more likely to be influenced by unknown genes. The KASP markers validated their effect on kernel-related traits, and they were used to analyze the transmissibility and distribution of superior genotypes in ZKM138 derivatives and global wheat cultivars, respectively. These findings may serve as a reference for future genetic improvement of the ideal kernel morphology.
Changes in Grain Yield and Yield Attributes Due to Cultivar Development in Indica Inbred Rice in China
Authors: Tao Zui , Zhang Ruichun , Chen Jiana , Cao Fangbo , Liu Longsheng , Zhang Ming , Huang Min
Published: October 2022

Inbred rice has been grown more and more widely, while the planting area of hybrid rice has decreased by approximately 25% in China since 1995. This study aimed to assess the changes in grain yield and yield attributes due to cultivar development in indica (Oryza sativa ssp. indica) inbred rice in China. Field experiments were conducted in 2019 and 2020 to determine the performance of grain yield and yield attributes of an indica super inbred rice cultivar Jinnongsimiao (JNSM) released in 2010 by comparing it with an indica high-yielding inbred rice cultivar Guichao 2 (GC2) released in 1978 and an indica super hybrid rice cultivar Y-liangyou 900 (YLY900) released in 2016. Results showed that JNSM produced 18% higher grain yield than GC2 but 6% lower grain yield than YLY900. Compared with GC2, JNSM had higher spikelets per panicle, spikelet-filling percentage, and harvest index by 67%, 4%, and 11%, respectively. Compared with YLY900, JNSM had 14% lower grain weight and 19% lower biomass production during the pre-heading period. The difference in biomass production during the pre-heading period between JNSM and YLY900 was explained more by crop growth rate than growth duration. This study suggests that (1) the recently released indica super inbred rice cultivar JNSM outyields the old indica high-yielding inbred rice cultivar GC2 as a result of increasing panicle size, spikelet-filling percentage, and harvest index, and (2) further improvement in grain yield in indica inbred rice can be achieved by improving biomass production through promoting pre-heading crop growth.
Identification of the Functional Modules of SlPP2C.D—SlSAUR and Their Roles in Abscisic Acid-Mediated Inhibition of Tomato Hypocotyl Elongation
Authors: Zheng Xiaolin , Fei Shihong , Wang Shajun , He Yong , Zhu Zhujun , Liu Yuanyuan
Published: October 2022

The plant hormone ABA regulates various physiological processes, such as promoting stomatal closure and inhibiting hypocotyl elongation by mediating de-phosphorylation of H+-ATPase. However, the mechanism acting on ABA-induced de-phosphorylation of H+-ATPase remains largely unknown. SMALL AUXIN UP RNAs (SAURs), the largest family of early auxin-response genes, were well-reported to bind to and inhibit PP2C.D phosphatases to maintain plasma membrane H+-ATPase activity. In this study, we aimed to investigate whether SAUR-PP2C.D functional modules were involved in ABA-mediated inhibition of hypocotyl elongation. Here, we show that ABA suppresses hypocotyl elongation in both light-grown and dark-grown tomato seedlings in a dose-dependent manner. Hypocotyl elongation of dark-grown seedlings was more sensitive to ABA compared to that of light-grown seedlings. ABA upregulates seven SlPP2C.D genes. SlPP2C.D1 was highly expressed in hypocotyl and upregulated by light. Y2H data showed SlPP2C.D1 interacted with SlSAUR2, 35, 40, 55, 57, 59, 65, and 70. The other four SlPP2C.Ds were also associated with a subset of SAUR proteins. Our findings have provided new insights for further examination on the SAUR-PP2C.D modules that regulate outputs of ABA and other phytohormones controlling plant growth and development.
Rhizosphere-Associated Microbiome Profile of Agricultural Reclaimed Lands in Egypt
Authors: Korkar Mohamed Hassan , Magdy Mahmoud , Rizk Samah Mohamed , Fiteha Yosur Gamal , Atta Aiman Hanafy , Rashed Mohamed Abdel-Salam
Published: October 2022

Plants especially in their natural habitat are considered part of a rich ecosystem that includes many various microorganisms in the soil. The current study aimed to identify the bacterial profile of agriculture-related soil samples using the metabarcoding technique to compare and explore relevant rhizosphere bacteria associated with plant cultivations in newly reclaimed land and habitual cultivated ones. The total environmental DNA was extracted from rhizosphere and noncultivated samples derived from three land types in Egypt. The bacterial 16S rDNA was amplified and sequenced by NGS technology to profile each sample. The microbial profile was characterized by statistical and literature-based methods. Among all samples, the most identified phyla were Actinobacteriota (28%), followed by Proteobacteriota (26%), Firmicutes (14%), Acidobacteriota and Chloroflexi (7%), Gemmatimonadota (5%), Bacteriodota and Crenarchaeota (3%), and Myxococcota (2%), in addition to 37 other phyla with <1% counts. A total of 74 OTUs were unique to the plant rhizosphere area and classified as Bacteriodota (5.1%:0.3%), Firmicutes (2.4%:0.1%), and Proteobacteria (3.5%:2%) phyla in agricultural and reclaimed lands, respectively. Moreover, the rhizosphere profile included a large portion of uncultured and unidentified bacterial species, which opened a window to further analysis. Our analysis provides a key knowledge about the rhizosphere microbiome and highlights its possible use to create microbial-based biofertilizers targeting plant performance in contrast to traditional fertilizers and their side effect on the agriculture sector.
The Influence of Flag Leaf Removal and Its Characteristics on Main Yield Components and Yield Quality Indices on Wheat
Authors: Racz Ionuṭ , Hirişcău Diana , Berindean Ioana , Kadar Rozalia , Muntean Edward , Tritean Nicolae , Russu Florin , Ona Andreea , Muntean Leon
Published: October 2022

The flag leaf can be an important vehicle for high grain yield due to its position and photosynthetic characteristics. To identify the most adaptive and stable yielding genotype, three winter wheat genotypes were studied during two experimental years under field conditions to quantify the influence of flag leaf removal in different phenological stages on the grain yield and grain quality. To quantify the influence of the flag leaf on the main yield components, the flag leaf was removed every 7 days, starting from the booting stage to ripening. Chlorophyll a, chlorophyll b, and carotenoids were determined from the removed leaves. As a complex trait, the number of grains/spikes and the weight of the grains/spikes were highly influenced by the flag leaf removal during the early generative stages, causing a yield loss from 9% to more than 40%, depending on the variety. It was established that the photosynthetic pigments were highly influenced by the plant phenology stages and the environmental conditions, especially carotenoids, which act as photoprotective and antioxidant agents under stress conditions. Regarding grain quality, flag leaf removal had a significant influence on the accumulation of grain protein and the wet gluten content, the variability of these quantitative traits being also influenced by the climatic conditions.
Metschnikowia pulcherrima as a Biocontrol Agent against Potato (Solanum tuberosum) Pathogens
Authors: Steglińska Aleksandra , Kołtuniak Artur , Berłowska Joanna , Czyżowska Agata , Szulc Justyna , Cieciura-Włoch Weronika , Okrasa Małgorzata , Kręgiel Dorota , Gutarowska Beata
Published: October 2022

An increasing trend in protecting plants against phytopathogens is the replacement of chemical pesticides with environmentally acceptable biopreparations. This article focuses on the possible use of yeast Metschnikowia pulcherrima as a biocontrol agent against potato pathogens. The scope included an assessment of the antimicrobial activity of 10 M. pulcherrima isolates against 10 phytopathogens: Fusarium oxysporum, Fusarium sambucinum, Rhizoctonia solani, Alternaria solani, Alternaria, tenuissima, Alternaria alternata, Colletotrichum coccodes, Phoma exigua, Pectobacterium carotovorum, and Streptomyces scabiei, by the agar-well diffusion method. Pulcherrimin formation, enzymatic profiles detected by the API ZYM system, and metabolite formation evaluated by HPLC analysis were conducted for the most active M. pulcherrima isolates. Leucine arylamidase, valine arylamidase, α- and β-glucosidase, and esterases were the most noteworthy in the pattern of activity. In turn, ethanol, glycerol, and organic acids (acetic, succinic, lactic acids) were determined in the largest quantities. The isolate M. pulcherrima TK1 was selected and cultured on supplemented acid whey. An in situ experiment was carried out on the seed potatoes, which showed a 30%–100% reduction in nine phytopathogens; only P. carotovorum was insensitive to yeast treatment. Therefore, M. pulcherrima TK1 was proposed as the potential biological solution for seed potato protection against phytopathogens.
Impact of Gypsum and Bio-Priming of Maize Grains on Soil Properties, Physiological Attributes and Yield under Saline–Sodic Soil Conditions
Authors: Amer Megahed M. , Elbagory Mohssen , El-Nahrawy Sahar , Omara Alaa El-Dein
Published: October 2022

In order to enhance soil qualities and boost crop output, gypsum, plant-growth-promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR), and chitosan are all viable solutions. This study’s goal was to find out how different amounts of chitosan—0, 25, 50, 75, and 100 mg L−1—in combination with gypsum and PGPR inoculation (Azospirillum lipoferum + Bacillus subtilis), affected the yield of maize plants growing in saline–sodic soil. Field tests were carried out in triplicate across two growing seasons, 2020 and 2021, using a split plot design. According to the findings, applying the gypsum + PGPR + 50 mg L−1 chitosan treatment (T8) considerably improved plant physiology (chlorophyll, carotenoids, and proline levels), nutrient indicators (N, K+ and K+/Na+ ratio), soil enzyme activity (dehydrogenase, urease, amylase, and invertase), cation exchange capacity (CEC), and porosity. On the other hand, we revealed positive effects on Na+, bulk density (BD), electrical conductivity (EC), and the proportion of exchangeable sodium (ESP), thus, enhancing the productivity compared to the alternative treatment. Therefore, it might be inferred that using gypsum, microbial inoculation, and 50 mg L−1 chitosan may be a key strategy for reducing the detrimental effects of salinity on maize plants.
Impacts of Continuous and Intermittent Use of Bovine Colostrum on Laying Japanese Quails: Egg Performance and Traits, Blood Biochemical and Antioxidant Status
Authors: Mokhtarzadeh Shakir , Nobakht Ali , Mehmannavaz Yousef , Palangi Valiollah , Eseceli Hüseyin , Lackner Maximilian
Published: October 2022

The Japanese quail (Coturnix japonica) is farmed for its eggs and meat across the globe. A series of experiments were conducted to evaluate the effect of the permanent or intermittent use of different levels of BC (bovine colostrum) on the egg performance and traits, carcass characteristics, blood biochemical and antioxidant status of laying Japanese quails. In this study, 200 laying quails were used for a duration of six weeks (week 24 to 30) to measure the selected parameters. Treatments included: (1) control (without BC); (2) 2% continuous BC; (3) 4% BC permanently; and (4) and (5) 2% and 4% BC intermittently (every other week), respectively. According to the results, performance, egg quality, carcass traits, biochemical indices and antioxidant status of BC-fed (continuous and intermittent mode) quails were improved compared to the control-diet-fed birds (p < 0.01). Per our observations, quails fed daily with 4% BC had the highest performance, best egg and carcass quality traits, best blood composition and best antioxidant status of serum, although the same parameters were also improved in birds fed intermittently with 4% BC. The final conclusion is that, although quails fed daily with 4% BC showed the best performance, intermittent feeding exerted comparable effects. Therefore, the intermittent-feeding approach could benefit the birds when colostrum preparation is limited due to the high cost of the related process. This approach could improve the economics of poultry breeding while reducing environmental problems, such as antibiotic resistance.
Effect of Lipids in Yak Muscle under Different Feeding Systems on Meat Quality Based on Untargeted Lipidomics
Authors: Xiong Lin , Pei Jie , Wang Xingdong , Guo Shaoke , Guo Xian , Yan Ping
Published: October 2022

The effect of lipids on yak meat quality and volatile flavor compounds in yak meat under graze feeding (GF) and stall feeding (SF) was explored using untargeted lipidomics based on liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry (LC-MS) in this study. First, the volatile flavor compounds in longissimus dorsi (LD) of SF and GF yaks were detected by gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC-MS). In total 49 and 39 volatile flavor substances were detected in the LD of GF and SF yaks, respectively. The contents of pelargonic aldehyde, 3-hydroxy-2-butanone and 1-octen-3-ol in the LD of both GF and SF yaks were the highest among all detected volatile flavor compounds, and the leading volatile flavor substances in yak LD were aldehydes, alcohols and ketones. In total, 596 lipids were simultaneously identified in the LD of SF and GF yaks, and the leading lipids in the LD of both GF and SF yaks were sphingolipids (SPs), glycerolipids (GLs) and glycerophospholipids (GPs). Seventy-five significantly different lipids (SDLs) between GF and SF yaks were identified in the LD. The high content of TG(16:1/18:1/18:1), TG(16:0/17:1/18:1) and TG(16:0/16:1/18:1), PE(18:0/22:4) and PC(18:2/18:0) can improve the a* (redness) and tenderness of yak muscle. The changes in volatile flavor compounds in yak muscle were mainly caused by TG(18:1/18:1/18:2), TG(18:0/18:1/18:1), TG(16:0/17:1/18:1), TG(16:0/16:1/18:1), PC(18:2/18:0), TG(16:1/18:1/18:1), PI(18:0/20:4), TG(16:1/16:1-/18:1) and TG(17:0/18:1/18:1). The above results provide a theoretical basis for improving yak meat quality from the perspective of intramuscular lipids.
Chromosome Instability in Pony of Esperia Breed Naturally Infected by Intestinal Strongylidae
Authors: D’Anza Emanuele , Buono Francesco , Albarella Sara , Castaldo Elisa , Pugliano Mariagiulia , Iannuzzi Alessandra , Cascone Ilaria , Battista Edoardo , Peretti Vincenzo , Ciotola Francesca
Published: October 2022

The Pony of Esperia is an Italian autochthonous horse breed reared in the wild on the Aurunci and Ausoni Mountains. Currently, it is considered an endangered breed, as its population consists of 1623 animals. It is therefore essential to identify all aspects that can improve the management and economy of its breeding, favoring its diffusion. In this paper, the effects of intestinal strongyle infection on the chromosome stability of peripheral blood lymphocytes (PBLs) was evaluated through aneuploidy and chromosome aberration (gap, chromatid and chromosome breaks, and the number of abnormal cells) test. Statistical difference in the mean values of aneuploidy, cells with chromosome abnormalities, and chromosome and chromatid breaks were observed between ponies with high fecal egg counts (eggs per gram > 930) and those with undetectable intestinal strongylosis. The causes of this phenomenon and possible repercussions on the management of Pony of Esperia are discussed in the paper.
Use of GnRH Treatment Based on Pregnancy-Associated Glyco-Proteins (PAGs) Levels as a Strategy for the Maintenance of Pregnancy in Buffalo Cows: A Field Study
Authors: Pacelli Corrado , Barile Vittoria Lucia , Sabia Emilio , Casano Anna Beatrice , Braghieri Ada , Martina Valeria , Barbato Olimpia
Published: October 2022

The aim of the study was to evaluate the effects of GnRH administrated at day 35 after artificial insemination (AI) on the reproductive performance of buffalo cows. In ten buffalo farms in the period January–February, 481 buffalo cows were subjected to estrus synchronization protocol and fixed-time artificial insemination (Ovsynch–TAI program). Radioimmunoassays (RIA) for pregnancy-associated glycoproteins (PAGs) were used to detect pregnancy at day 28 after AI (cut-off value: ≥1 ng/mL). Among pregnant subjects, those with PAG values between 1 and 2.5 ng/mL were considered at risk of embryonic mortality (EM) and were assigned into two groups: treated (T; n = 57) control (C; n = 57). Treated buffaloes received 0.01 mg of buserelin acetate intramuscularly on day 35 after AI, whereas control buffaloes received no treatment. The pregnancy diagnosis was confirmed at day 60 through PAGs level and rectal palpation. The treatment with GnRH had a significant effect (p < 0.001) in reducing EM. Between days 28 and 60 after AI, the animals that experienced EM were only 2/57 in the T group, while were 13/57 in the C group. Moreover, GnRH treatment produced a significant increase (p < 0.001) in the PAG concentration between day 28 and day 60. Administration of GnRH at day 35 after AI in animals considered at risk of low embryo survival based on PAG levels allowed a reduction in pregnancy losses and improved the pregnancy rate during low-breeding season in buffalo.
Supplementation of Paraformic Acid as a Substitute for Antibiotics in the Diet Improves Growth Performance and Liver Health in Broiler Chickens
Authors: Wang Qinjin , Niu Jiaxing , Liu Yang , Jiao Ning , Huang Libo , Jiang Shuzhen , Yan Lei , Yang Weiren , Li Yang
Published: October 2022

The current study aimed to explore the effects of supplementing paraformic acid (PFA) into broilers’ diet on growth performance, inflammatory responses, and liver protection. A total of 567 healthy one-day-old broilers were used in a 42-d study, and they were randomized into three groups. Broilers were fed a basal diet (CON group) or the basal diet supplemented with either 50 mg/kg aureomycin (AB group) or 1000 mg/kg PFA (PFA group). The results showed that the PFA and AB groups had a higher feed conversion rate than the CON group from day 21 to 42 (p < 0.05). Dietary PFA or aureomycin supplementation decreased serum levels of interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-6, IL-10, alanine transaminase, diamine oxidase, and D-lactate, and significantly increased serum concentrations of immunoglobulin (Ig) A, IgM, and complement C4 (p < 0.05). Moreover, dietary PFA or aureomycin supplementation decreased hepatic levels of caspase-1, NOD-like receptor family pyrin domain containing 3 (NLRP3), tumor necrosis factor-alpha, IL-6, and IL-18, as well as NF-κB mRNA expression (p < 0.05). Above all, PFA supplementation into the broilers’ diet improved growth performance, inhibited inflammatory responses, and benefited liver protection. The protective effects of PFA on the liver might be related to inhibition of caspase-1-induced pyroptosis via inactivating the NF-κB/NLRP3 inflammasome axis in broiler chickens.
Effects of Sanitizers on Microbiological Control of Hatching Eggshells and Poultry Health during Embryogenesis and Early Stages after Hatching in the Last Decade
Authors: Oliveira Gabriel da Silva , McManus Concepta , Salgado Cristiane Batista , dos Santos Vinícius Machado
Published: October 2022

The sanitization of hatching eggs is the backbone of the hygienic–sanitary management of eggs on farms and extends to the hatchery. Poultry production gains depend on the benefits of sanitizers. Obtaining the maximum yield from incubation free of toxic sanitizers is a trend in poultry farming, closely following the concerns imposed through scientific research. The toxic characteristics of formaldehyde, the primary sanitizer for hatching eggs, are disappointing, but it is a cheap, practical and widely used antimicrobial. To overcome this shortcoming, multiple synthetic and natural chemical sanitizers have been, and continue to be, tested on hatching eggs. This review aims to evaluate the effects of different sanitizers on the microbiological quality of hatching eggshells and poultry health during embryogenesis and early stages after hatching.
Population Dynamics of American Bullfrog (Lithobates catesbeianus) and Implications for Control
Authors: Chang Byungwoo , Kim Inyoo , Choi Kwanghun , Cho Wonhee , Ko Dongwook W.
Published: October 2022

Lithobates catesbeianus (American bullfrog), known to be one of the notorious invasive species, was introduced to South Korea and has proliferated in the Korean natural environment for the past 25 years. The ecological impact caused by the species is well known, and several management decisions have been implemented to cull its population. However, the effectiveness of past control decisions is largely unknown. We built a population dynamics model for L. catesbeianus in the Onseok reservoir, South Korea, using STELLA architect software. The population model was based on the demographics and ecological process of the species developing through several life stages, with respective parameters for survivorship and carrying capacity. Control scenarios with varying intensities were simulated to evaluate their effectiveness. The limitations of isolated control methods and the importance of integrated management are shown in our results. The population of the American bullfrog in the reservoir was reduced to a manageable level under intensive control of the tadpole stage, using three sets of double fyke nets and 80% direct removal of juvenile and adult stages. According to our results, integrated, intensive, and continuous control is essential for managing the invasive American bullfrog population. Finally, our modeling approach can assist in determining the control intensity to improve the efficiency of measures against L. catesbeianus.
A Comparison of Fresh and Frozen Lamb Meat—Differences in Technological Meat Quality and Sensory Attributes
Authors: Stenberg Elin , Arvidsson-Segerkvist Katarina , Karlsson Anders H. , Ólafsdóttir Aðalheiður , Hilmarsson Óli Þór , Gudjónsdóttir María , Thorkelsson Guðjón
Published: October 2022

Technological meat quality and sensory attributes of fresh and frozen lamb meat were compared. Samples were collected from two abattoirs (one small-scale, one large-scale) that use different slaughter methods in terms of chilling regime and electrical stimulation. The fresh and frozen meat samples included products from both slaughter systems. Ten twin pairs of ram lambs were used in the study, with one of each twin slaughtered at each abattoir. Fresh meat was analysed after chilling and frozen meat was stored frozen for three months and analysed after thawing. The Musculus longissimus thoracis et lumborum was analysed for colour, cooking loss, sensory attributes, Warner-Bratzler shear force (WBSF) and distribution of water and lipid within each meat sample. Meat samples analysed after frozen storage were darker, less red and more yellow than the fresh meat. Freezing and frozen storage increased fluid loss and WBSF compared with the fresh meat, due to protein denaturation. Frozen storage affected sensory attributes by increasing fatty odour, frying flavour, sour flavour, fatty flavour and liver flavour, and by reducing juicy texture and mushy texture.
Practical Application of the Five Domains Animal Welfare Framework for Supply Food Animal Chain Managers
Authors: Grandin Temple
Published: October 2022

The author has worked as a consultant with global commercial supply managers for over 20 years. The focus of this commentary will be practical application of The Five Domains Model in commercial systems. Commercial buyers of meat need simple easy-to-use guidelines. They have to use auditors that can be trained in a workshop that lasts for only a few days. Auditing of slaughter plants by major buyers has resulted in great improvements. Supply chain managers need clear guidance on conditions that would result in a failed audit. Animal based outcome measures that can be easily assessed should be emphasized in commercial systems. Some examples of these key animal welfare indicators are: percentage of animals stunned effectively with a single application of the stunner, percentage of lame animals, foot pad lesions on poultry, and body condition scoring. A farm that supplies a buyer must also comply with housing specifications. The farm either has the specified housing or does not have it. It will be removed from the approved supplier list if housing does not comply. These types of easy to assess indicators can be easily evaluated within the four domains of nutrition, environment, health and behavioral interactions. The Five Domains Framework can also be used in a program for continuous improvement of animal welfare.
Ciprofloxacin Concentrations 1/1000th the MIC Can Select for Antimicrobial Resistance in N. gonorrhoeae—Important Implications for Maximum Residue Limits in Food
Authors: González Natalia , Abdellati Saïd , De Baetselier Irith , Laumen Jolein Gyonne Elise , Van Dijck Christophe , Block Tessa de , Manoharan-Basil Sheeba Santhini , Kenyon Chris
Published: October 2022

Background: Concentrations of fluoroquinolones up to 200-fold lower than the minimal inhibitory concentration (MIC) have been shown to be able to select for antimicrobial resistance in E. coli and Salmonella spp. (the minimum selection concentration—MSC). We hypothesized that the low concentrations of quinolones found in meat may play a role in the genesis of quinolone resistance in Neisseria gonorrhoeae. We aimed to (i) establish the ciprofloxacin MSC for N. gonorrhoeae and (ii) assess if, at the ecological level, the prevalence of gonococcal ciprofloxacin resistance is associated with the concentration of quinolones used in food animal production, which is an important determinant of long-term low-dose exposure to ciprofloxacin in humans. Methods: (i) To assess if subinhibitory ciprofloxacin concentrations could select for de novo generated resistant mutants, a susceptible WHO-P N. gonorrhoeae isolate was serially passaged at 1, 1:10, 1:100 and 1:1000 of the ciprofloxacin MIC of WHO-P (0.004 mg/L) on GC agar plates. (ii) Spearman’s correlation was used to assess the association between the prevalence of ciprofloxacin resistance in N. gonorrhoeae and quinolone use for animals and quinolone consumption by humans. Results: Ciprofloxacin concentrations as low as 0.004 µg/L (1/1000 of the MIC of WHO-P) were able to select for ciprofloxacin resistance. The prevalence of ciprofloxacin resistance in N. gonorrhoeae was positively associated with quinolone use for food animals (ρ = 0.47; p = 0.004; N = 34). Conclusion: Further individual level research is required to assess if low doses of ciprofloxacin from ingested foodstuffs are able to select for ciprofloxacin resistance in bacteria colonizing humans and other species.
Environmental Exposure to Metals, Parameters of Oxidative Stress in Blood and Prostate Cancer: Results from Two Cohorts
Authors: Pizent Alica , Anđelković Milena , Tariba Lovaković Blanka , Živković Semren Tanja , Buha Djordjevic Aleksandra , Gamulin Marija , Bonderović Vera , Aćimović Miodrag , Bulat Zorica
Published: October 2022

We studied the potential role of exposure to various metal(oid)s (As, Cd, Cr, Hg, Ni, and Pb) in prostate cancer. Two cohorts were established: the Croatian cohort, consisting of 62 cases and 30 controls, and the Serbian cohort, consisting of 41 cases and 61 controls. Blood/serum samples were collected. Levels of investigated metal(oid)s, various parameters of oxidative stress, and prostate-specific antigen (PSA) were determined in collected samples. A comparison of the measured parameters between 103 prostate cancer patients and 91 control men from both Croatian and Serbian cohorts showed significantly higher blood Hg, SOD, and GPx levels and significantly lower serum SH levels in prostate cancer patients than in controls. Correlation analyses revealed the significant relationship between certain parameters of oxidative stress and the concentrations of the measured metal(loid)s, pointing to the possible role of metal(oid)-induced oxidative stress imbalance. Furthermore, a significant inverse relationship was found between the blood Pb and the serum PSA in prostate cancer patients, but when the model was adjusted for the impacts of remaining parameters, no significant association between the serum PSA and the measured parameters was found. The results of the overall study indicate a substantial contribution of the measured metal(loid)s to the imbalance of the oxidant/antioxidant system. Although somewhat conflicting, the results of the present study point to the possible role of investigated metal(oid)s in prostate cancer, especially for Hg, since the obtained relationship was observed for both cohorts, followed by the disturbances in oxidative stress status, which were found to be correlated with Hg levels. Nevertheless, further studies in larger cohorts are warranted to explain and confirm the obtained results.
Fermented and Aged Ginseng Sprouts (Panax ginseng) and Their Main Component, Compound K, Alleviate Asthma Parameters in a Mouse Model of Allergic Asthma through Suppression of Inflammation, Apoptosis, ER Stress, and Ferroptosis
Authors: Ryu Ji Hyeon , Woo Min Seok , Cao Dang Long , Kim Eun-Jin , Jeong Yi Yeong , Koh Eun-Ha , Cho Kye Man , Kang Sang Soo , Kang Dawon
Published: October 2022

The association between asthma and oxidative stress remains controversial. Oxidative stress-induced ferroptosis has not been extensively studied in asthma models. This study was performed to investigate the anti-asthmatic and anti-ferroptotic effects of fermented and aged ginseng sprouts (FAGS) with enhanced antioxidant activity and its main component, compound K (CK), in a mouse model of ovalbumin (OVA)-induced allergic asthma. The experimental asthma model was sensitized and challenged with OVA. During the challenge period, two different concentrations of FAGS and CK were administered via oral gavage. Asthmatic parameters were analyzed in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF), blood, and lung tissue. CK, among the ginsenosides analyzed, was highly increased in FAGS compared with GS. Asthma parameters, such as Th2 cytokine and IgE production, mast cell activation, goblet cell hyperplasia, hyperresponsiveness, and inflammation, were dramatically increased in the OVA group. Oxidation and ferroptosis markers were increased in the OVA group. The asthma parameters and ferroptosis markers were markedly decreased in the OVA + FAGS and OVA + CK groups. These results showed that FAGS and CK alleviated asthma parameters in an allergic asthma mouse model by inhibiting inflammation and ferroptosis. Our findings suggest that FAGS and CK could be used as potential treatments for allergic asthma.