bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Maximum entropy production principle: history and current status
Authors: Martyushev L M
Published: August 2020

The maximum entropy production principle (MEPP) was repeatedly and independently proposed in the mid-20th century in various fields of physics and proved to be extremely effective in various nonequilibrium problems. We describe the main areas of research that laid the foundations for this principle and discuss its modern form and limitations. We give special attention to a discussion of nonequilibrium phase transitions based on the MEPP and to the relation between the MEPP and other known assertions about the behavior of entropy. We discuss the role of this principle in the analysis of various modern problems in both physics and biology, including the laws of evolution and the definition of life.
A Holistic Approach to Mental and Physical Well-Being
Authors: Jasubhai Shilpa
Published: August 2020

A major goal of mankind since ages has been to seek liberation from suffering, both physical and mental. Ancient Indian physician and scholar Charaka emphasized positive mental health when he articulated that the task of medicine is not simply to strive for absence of disease but to enable an individual to learn about and lead ideal life. Recent trends in the field of psychology have major developments in the field of Complementary and Alternative Medicine. The methods used to heal patients both physically and psychologically are increasingly holistic in their approaches. Research suggests that holistic techniques used to reduce stress, anxiety and depression are being utilized by patients and clients more and more and subsequently replacing what used to be the authority of pharmaceutical remedies. According to a study done by the Samueli Institute in Alexandria, Virginia, the United States has shown a marked increase in the use of methods such as hypnosis, yoga, relaxation exercise, acupressure, affirmations, reiki, meditation, spiritual healing and energy healing. Taking a holistic approach to healing means consider all realms of existence, not just the physical body. The objective of present article is to create an awareness of the benefits of holistic approach and achieving dramatic changes in physical, emotional and behavioural health.
Sex determination and Y chromosome constitutive heterochromatin
Authors: Ibraimov Abyt
Published: August 2020

In many animals, including us, the genetic sex is determined at fertilization by sex chromosomes. Seemingly, the sex determination (SD) in human and animals is determined by the amount of constitutive heterochromatin on Y chromosome via cell thermoregulation. It is assumed the medulla and cortex tissue cells in the undifferentiated embryonic gonads (UEG) differ in vulnerability to the increase of the intracellular temperature. If the amount of the Y chromosome constitutive heterochromatin is enough for efficient elimination of heat difference between the nucleus and cytoplasm in rapidly growing UEG cells the medulla tissue survives. Otherwise it doomed to degeneration and a cortex tissue will remain in the UEG. Regardless of whether our assumption is true or not, it remains an open question why on Y chromosome there is a large constitutive heterochromatin block? What is its biological meaning? Does it relate to sex determination, sex differentiation and development of secondary sexual characteristics? If so, what is its mechanism: chemical or physical? There is no scientifically sound answer to these questions.
Advancements of transcriptome imputation and related transcriptome-wide association studies
Authors: Zhang Wen
Published: August 2020

Despite the progresses of genome-wide association studies (GWASs) in revealing genetic mechanisms of human complex traits, the basis through which most identified risk variants function are highly unknown and need further investigations as well as discoveries. Recent advancements of transcriptome predictions put the transcriptome-wide association studies (TWASs) forward into a new era. TWAS through imputed transcriptomes could discover more gene-trait associations and relevant joint-tissue TWAS via eQTL analysis provide insights into furthering elucidations about gene-level association studies in difficult-to-acquire tissues. This mini-review goes over the recent advancements of gene expression imputations as well as the gene-trait association studies, which highlight the importance of genetically regulated expression (GReX) in this area.
Mycobacterial polymerases: A possible drug target for TB treatment
Authors: Meena Swati , Meena Laxman S.
Published: August 2020

Mycobacterium tuberculosis causes a deadly disease called Tuberculosis (TB).  It enters in a healthy person through respiration and ultimately reaches into lung epithelial cells, where it attacks on lung macrophages to replicate in it and increase its population.  For replication process, polymerase activity is essential.  There are some compounds which inhibit polymerase activity or denature polymerase enzyme such as Humic acid, Heparin, Urea, Organic compounds, Phenolic compounds etc.  In this manuscript, we are trying to show importance of M. tuberculosis pathogenesis by using polymerase activity that may be therapeutic drug target for TB.
The origin of the human karyotype: its uniqueness, causes and effects
Authors: Ibraimov Abyt
Published: August 2020

As is known, the diploid number of human chromosomes is 46, while in other higher primates, such as chimpanzees and gorillas, this number is 48. It has been established that a decrease in the number of chromosomes by two in humans is a result of the fusion of two autosomes into one chromosome in his karyotype ancestors. However, why such changes in chromosomes occurred among the highest primates in humans, their uniqueness, causes and consequences have not yet become the subject of special studies. We believe that the transition from 48 to 46 chromosomes, as well as changes in the composition, localization and amount of chromosomal heterochromatin regions in the karyotype of the ancestors of modern man turned out to be crucial in his formation as a biological species with all the ensuing consequences.
VARIETY OF VARIABLE ALFALFA TAISIA
Authors: Stepanova Galina
Published: August 2020

In order to create alfalfa varieties with high adaptive capacity and promote their cultivation to the North, a biotechnology of coordinated plant-microbial symbiotic selection was developed to create varieties with increased symbiotic efficiency that can grow on uncultured and medium-cultivated, acidic soils. Using this biotechnology, the variety of alfalfa variable Taisia was created and in 2015 was included in the State register of breeding achievements that were allowed to be used. The variety is recommended for cultivation in the North-Western, Central and Volga-Vyatka regions. When growing the traditional method cultivated (without pre-inoculated seed) on medium soil the yield of dry matter in the North-West region was in the range of 6.8–16.0 t/ha, in the Central of 5.6–14.2 t/ha, Volga-Vyatka – 8.4–20.0 t/ha. Pre-sowing inoculation of seeds with complementary strains of nodule bacteria increased the yield of green mass in the North-Western region by 30–177%, in the Central region – by 45–102%. On uncultivated acidic soil (pH 4.6), where alfalfa was not previously grown, without inoculation, the yield of Taisia was 1.85 t/ha of dry matter and 42 kg/ha of seeds. Inoculation with a production strain of nodule bacteria 412b increased the yield to 4.65 t/ha of dry matter and 114 kg/ha of seeds. The efficiency of the symbiosis was 151 and 171%, respectively. Inoculation with a complementary strain of nodule bacteria RCAM 1774 increased the collection of dry matter by 4 times to 9.2 t/ha, seeds – by 8.9 times to 372 kg/ha.
Resveratrol Improves Bnip3-Related Mitophagy and Attenuates High-Fat-Induced Endothelial Dysfunction
Authors: Li Chen , Tan Ying , Wu Jiandi , Ma Qinghui , Bai Shuchang , Xia Zhangqing , Wan Xiaoliang , Liang Jianqiu
Published: August 2020

Statin treatment reduces cardiovascular risk. However, individuals with well-controlled low-density lipoprotein (LDL) levels may remain at increased risk owing to persistent high triglycerides and low high-density lipoprotein cholesterol. Because resveratrol promotes glucose metabolism and mitigates cardiovascular disorders, we explored its mechanism of protective action on high-fat-induced endothelial dysfunction. Human umbilical venous endothelial cells were treated with oxidized LDL (ox-LDL) in vitro. Endothelial function, cell survival, proliferation, migration, and oxidative stress were analyzed through western blots, quantitative polymerase chain reaction, ELISA, and immunofluorescence. ox-LDL induced endothelial cell apoptosis, proliferation arrest, and mobilization inhibition, all of which resveratrol reduced. ox-LDL suppressed the activities of mitochondrial respiration complex I and III and reduced levels of intracellular antioxidative enzymes, resulting in reactive oxygen species overproduction and mitochondrial dysfunction. Resveratrol treatment upregulated Bnip3-related mitophagy and prevented ox-LDL-mediated mitochondrial respiration complexes inactivation, sustaining mitochondrial membrane potential and favoring endothelial cell survival. We found that resveratrol enhanced Bnip3 transcription through hypoxia-inducible factor 1 (HIF1) and 5′ AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK). Inhibition of AMPK and HIF1 abolished resveratrol-mediated protection of mitochondrial redox balance and endothelial viability. Together, these data demonstrate resveratrol reduces hyperlipemia-related endothelial damage by preserving mitochondrial homeostasis.
Detection of Aflatoxins in Different Matrices and Food-Chain Positions
Authors: Miklós Gabriella , Angeli Cserne , Ambrus Árpád , Nagy Attila , Kardos Valéria , Zentai Andrea , Kerekes Kata , Farkas Zsuzsa , Jóźwiak Ákos , Bartók Tibor
Published: August 2020

Aflatoxins, produced mainly by filamentous fungi Aspergillus flavus and Aspergillus parasiticus, are one of the most carcinogenic compounds that have adverse health effects on both humans and animals consuming contaminated food and feed, respectively. Aflatoxin B1 (AFB1) and aflatoxin B2 (AFB2) as well as aflatoxin G1(AFG1) and aflatoxin G2 (AFG2) occur in the contaminated foods and feed. In the case of dairy ruminants, after the consumption of feed contaminated with aflatoxins, aflatoxin metabolites [aflatoxin M1 (AFM1) and aflatoxin M2 (AFM2)] may appear in milk. Because of the health risk and the official maximum limits of aflatoxins, there is a need for application of fast and accurate testing methods. At present, there are several analytical methods applied in practice for determination of aflatoxins. The aim of this review is to provide a guide that summarizes worldwide aflatoxin regulations and analytical methods for determination of aflatoxins in different food and feed matrices, that helps in the decision to choose the most appropriate method that meets the practical requirements of fast and sensitive control of their contamination. Analytical options are outlined from the simplest and fastest methods with the smallest instrument requirements, through separation methods, to the latest hyphenated techniques.
Aerostructural Design Exploration of a Wing in Transonic Flow
Authors: Bons Nicolas P. , Martins Joaquim R. R. A.
Published: August 2020

Multidisciplinary design optimization (MDO) has been previously applied to aerostructural wing design problems with great success. Most previous applications involve fine-tuning a well-designed aircraft wing. In this work, we broaden the scope of the optimization problem by exploring the design space of aerostructural wing design optimization. We start with a rectangular wing and optimize the aerodynamic shape and the sizing of the internal structure to achieve minimum fuel burn on a transonic cruise mission. We use a multi-level optimization procedure to decrease computational cost by 40%. We demonstrate that the optimization can transform the rectangular wing into a swept, tapered wing typical of a transonic aircraft. The optimizer converges to the same wing shape when starting from a different initial design. Additionally, we use a separation constraint at a low-speed, high-lift condition to improve the off-design performance of the optimized wing. The separation constraint results in a substantially different wing design with better low-speed performance and only a slight decrease in cruise performance.
Field Validation of the DNDC-Rice Model for Methane and Nitrous Oxide Emissions from Double-Cropping Paddy Rice under Different Irrigation Practices in Tamil Nadu, India
Authors: Oo Aung Zaw , Sudo Shigeto , Fumoto Tamon , Inubushi Kazuyuki , Ono Keisuke , Yamamoto Akinori , Bellingrath-Kimura Sonoko D. , Win Khin Thuzar , Umamageswari Chellappan , Bama Kaliappan Sathiya , Raju Marimuthj , Vanitha Koothan , Elayakumar Palanisamy , Ravi Venkatachalam , Ambethgar Vellaisamy
Published: August 2020

Two-year field experiments were conducted at Tamil Nadu Rice Research Institute, Aduthurai, Tamil Nadu, India, to evaluate the effect of continuous flooding (CF) and alternate wetting and drying (AWD) irrigation strategies on rice grain yield and greenhouse gas emissions from double-cropping paddy rice. Field observation results showed that AWD irrigation was found to reduce the total seasonal methane (CH4) emission by 22.3% to 56.2% compared with CF while maintaining rice yield. By using the observed two-year field data, validation of the DNDC-Rice model was conducted for CF and AWD practices. The model overestimated rice grain yield by 24% and 29% in CF and AWD, respectively, averaged over the rice-growing seasons compared to observed values. The simulated seasonal CH4 emissions for CF were 6.4% lower and 4.2% higher than observed values and for AWD were 9.3% and 12.7% lower in the summer and monsoon season, respectively. The relative deviation of simulated seasonal nitrous oxide (N2O) emissions from observed emissions in CF were 27% and −35% and in AWD were 267% and 234% in the summer and monsoon season, respectively. Although the DNDC-Rice model reasonably estimated the total CH4 emission in CF and reproduced the mitigation effect of AWD treatment on CH4 emissions well, the model did not adequately predict the total N2O emission under water-saving irrigation. In terms of global warming potential (GWP), nevertheless there was a good agreement between the simulated and observed values for both CF and AWD irrigations due to smaller contributions of N2O to the GWP compared with that of CH4. This study showed that the DNDC-Rice model could be used for the estimation of CH4 emissions, the primary source of GWP from double-cropping paddy rice under different water management conditions in the tropical regions.
Comparison of Two Inoculation Methods of Endophytic Bacteria to Enhance Phytodegradation Efficacy of an Aged Petroleum Hydrocarbons Polluted Soil
Authors: Pawlik Małgorzata , Płociniczak Tomasz , Thijs Sofie , Pintelon Isabel , Vangronsveld Jaco , Piotrowska-Seget Zofia
Published: August 2020

Endophyte-enhanced phytodegradation is a promising technology to clean up polluted soils. To improve the success rate of this nature-based remediation approach, it is important to advance the inoculation method as this has been shown to strongly affect the final outcome. However, studies evaluating inoculation strategies and their effect on hydrocarbon degradation are limited. This study aims to investigate two different manners of endophyte inoculation in Lolium perenne growing in an aged petroleum hydrocarbon polluted soil: (1) direct soil inoculation (SI), and (2) pre-inoculation of the caryopses followed by soil inoculation (PI). Different endophytic bacterial strains, Rhodococcus erythropolis 5WK and Rhizobium sp. 10WK, were applied individually as well as in combination. Depending on the method of inoculation, the petroleum hydrocarbon (PHC) degradation potential was significantly different. The highest PHC removal was achieved after pre-inoculation of ryegrass caryopses with a consortium of both bacterial strains. Moreover, both strains established in the aged-polluted soil and could also colonize the roots and shoots of L. perenne. Importantly, used endophytes showed the selective colonization of the environment compartments. Our findings show that the method of inoculation determines the efficiency of the phytodegradation process, especially the rate of PHC degradation. This study provides valuable information for choosing the most cost-effective and beneficial means to optimize phytodegradation.
Efficiencies of Heterotic Grouping Methods for Classifying Early Maturing Maize Inbred Lines
Authors: Oyetunde Oyeboade Adebiyi , Badu-Apraku Baffour , Ariyo Omolayo Johnson , Alake Christopher Olusanya
Published: August 2020

The success of a hybrid breeding program is dependent on available heterotic patterns for exploitation of grain-yield heterosis. The efficiency of the assignment of germplasm lines into heterotic groups is a prerequisite for obtaining useful heterotic patterns among germplasm lines. A total of 256 maize hybrids, comprising 244 top crosses, six diallel cross hybrids, and six checks, were grown under Striga infestation, drought, and optimal conditions, from 2015 to 2017. The study determined the combining abilities of the parental inbreds, classified the inbreds into heterotic groups, and compared the efficiencies of the following four grouping methods for classifying the inbreds: specific combining ability (SCA) effect of grain yield; general combining ability (GCA) effects of multiple traits (HGCAMT); SCA and GCA (HSGCA) for yield; and single nucleotide polymorphism-based genetic distance (SNP-based genetic distance (GD)). Significant GCA and/or SCA mean squares were revealed for most measured traits in all test environments. Sums of squares (SS) due to GCA were higher than SCA SS for measured traits in all test environments. The HSGCA, SCA, and SNP-based GD methods identified four heterotic groups, whereas the HGCAMT identified three groups, in all environments. The additive gene effect was preponderant in the inheritance of most measured traits. The efficiencies of the grouping methods varied with the test environments. The HSGCA and SCA methods were the most efficient for grouping in all test conditions. For practical breeding purposes, the HGCAMT and HSGCA methods were recommended under Striga infestation and drought, respectively. The heterotic patterns, which were revealed in this study, were effective for planning hybridization schemes for developing high-yielding, Striga-tolerant/resistant, and drought-tolerant maize hybrids for stressful environments.
Effects of Morphological and Anatomical Characteristics of Banana Crown Vascular Bundles on Cutting Mechanical Properties Using Multiple Imaging Methods
Authors: Zhao Lei , Yang Haijun , Xie Heng , Duan Jieli , Jin Mohui , Fu Han , Guo Jie , Xu Zeyu , Jiang Tingting , Yang Zhou
Published: August 2020

To obtain the appropriate mechanized cutting region for banana dehanding, the methods of X-ray Computed Tomography (CT), Paraffin-embedded tissue section, and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) were adopted to observe the morphological and anatomical characteristics of vascular bundles of the banana crown. The results indicated that the crown can be divided into three regions, viz., the central stalk–crown transition region (CSCTR), the crown expansion region (CER), and the crown–finger transition region (CFTR). According to the obtained characteristics, the cutting mechanical properties are found to be affected by the relative angle between the vascular bundle and cutter (RAVBC) and the vascular bundle density. In CSCTR, due to the opposite change of RAVBC and density, the cutting mechanical properties become unstable and the cutting energy decreases gradually from 4.30 J to 2.57 J. While in CER, the cutting mechanical properties tend to be stable, and the cutting energy varies in a small range (2.83–2.92 J), owing to the small changes of RAVBC and density. When the vascular bundles cross from the CER to CFTR, the cutting energy increases with the increase of RAVBC and density, which varies from 3.37 to 4.84 J. Accordingly, the appropriate cutting region for dehanding, which can reduce the energy consumption and improve the cutting efficiency, is ascertained to be between CSCTR and CER.
Productive and Physiological Response of Organic Potato Grown under Highly Calcareous Soils to Fertilization and Mycorrhization Management
Authors: Lombardo Sara , Abbate Cristina , Pandino Gaetano , Parisi Bruno , Scavo Aurelio , Mauromicale Giovanni
Published: August 2020

The enhancement of the actual low yields is the most important challenge regarding organic farming management. In this view, a valid tool may arise by the improvement of fertilization management and efficiency. In this regard, arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) can play an important role, especially in low fertility soils such as calcareous ones, through a better nutrient uptake and by alleviating abiotic stresses. A replicated-space experiment was carried out to investigate the role of mycorrhizal-based inoculants combined with full or halved fertilizer doses on yield and physiological traits of three early potato cultivars organically grown in highly calcareous and alkaline soils. The results indicate that AMF symbiosis ameliorated, in comparison to the not-inoculated plants, the potato tolerance to limestone stress by enhancing the potential quantum efficiency of photosystem II (Fv/F0) and plant gas-exchange parameters (photosynthesis rate and stomatal conductance). Moreover, a significant improvement of marketable yield (+25%) was observed, mainly due to an increase of the number of tubers plant−1 (+21%) and, to a lesser extent, of average tuber weight (+10%). The AMF efficiency was higher applying halved fertilizer doses and in the location where soil conditions were unfavourable for potato growth. Moreover, the qRT-PCR highlighted that AMF colonization was similar in each location, demonstrating their tolerance to limestone, alkalinity and P stresses. These findings outlined that AMF are good candidate to bio-ameliorate calcareous soils and are very useful for improving potato yields under organic farming, limiting external fertilizers supply and environmental pollution.
Testing an Animal Welfare Assessment Protocol for Growing-Rabbits Reared for Meat Production Based on the Welfare Quality Approach
Authors: Botelho Nadina , Vieira-Pinto Madalena , Batchelli Pau , Pallisera Joaquim , Dalmau Antoni
Published: August 2020

The objective of the present study is to present an animal welfare assessment protocol for growing-rabbits for discussion after its implementation in 32 farms from Spain and Portugal. The protocol comprises the principles of Good Feeding, Good Housing, Good Health and Appropriate Behaviour of the Welfare Quality protocols and includes 36 welfare parameters. Overall, the protocol showed a good capacity for discrimination between farms, with scores ranging 44 to 82 points. The protocol seems reliable for the assessment of animal welfare after proper training of auditors. However, for the criteria social behaviour and other behaviours, further research is needed to ascertain if the methodology and times of observation used are appropriate. Some farms had high mortality rates with a low prevalence of health problems, while others had low mortality rates with high prevalence of health problems due to different managements of culling. The protocol should be improved, to impede farms with high mortality rates but a low prevalence of health issues the day of the audit from obtaining better scores than the second type of farms, by limiting the compensation in key measures. The main points to be solved in the growing-rabbit farms were: to provide more space to the animals; register the number of animals culled accurately; change cervical dislocation for another killing method and provide the farmers training in animal welfare.
Characterization of microRNAs during Embryonic Skeletal Muscle Development in the Shan Ma Duck
Authors: Li Chuan , Xiong Ting , Zhou Mingfang , Wan Lei , Xi Suwang , Liu Qiuhong , Chen Yi , Mao Huirong , Liu Sanfeng , Chen Biao
Published: August 2020

Poultry skeletal muscle provides high quality protein for humans. Study of the genetic mechanisms during duck skeletal muscle development contribute to future duck breeding and meat production. In the current study, three breast muscle samples from Shan Ma ducks at embryonic day 13 (E13) and E19 were collected, respectively. We detected microRNA (miRNA) expression using high throughput sequencing following bioinformatic analysis. qRT-PCR validated the reliability of sequencing results. We also identified target prediction results using the luciferase reporter assay. A total of 812 known miRNAs and 279 novel miRNAs were detected in six samples; as a result, 61 up-regulated and 48 down-regulated differentially expressed miRNAs were identified between E13 and E19 (|log2 fold change| ≥ 1 and p ≤ 0.05). Enrichment analysis showed that target genes of the differentially expressed miRNAs were enriched on many muscle development-related gene ontology (GO) terms and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathways, especially mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) signaling pathways. An interaction network was constructed using the target genes of the differentially expressed miRNAs. These results complement the current duck miRNA database and offer several miRNA candidates for future studies of skeletal muscle development in the duck.
Hibernation Patterns of the European Hedgehog, Erinaceus europaeus, at a Cornish Rescue Centre
Authors: South Kathryn E. , Haynes Kelly , Jackson Angus C.
Published: August 2020

The European hedgehog, Erinaceus europaeus, is frequently admitted to rescue centres in the UK. With many overwintering in captivity, there is cause to investigate hibernation patterns in order to inform and improve husbandry and monitoring protocols. Thirty-five hedgehogs were studied over two winters. Weight change during hibernation for the first winter was used to test for effects of disturbance on different aspects of hibernation, including total duration, frequency and duration of spontaneous arousals. There was no significant difference between the two winters for any of the four aspects studied. Significant positive correlations demonstrated that weight-loss increased with the duration of the hibernation period and with percent of nights spent asleep, but not with the number of arousal events. Thus, weight-loss appears more strongly associated with the proportion of time spent asleep than with the number of arousal events. This was surprising given the assumed energetic expense of repeated arousal and was potentially due to availability of food during arousals. In contrast with previous studies, larger hedgehogs lost less weight per day than did smaller hedgehogs. They also woke up more often (i.e., had more opportunities to feed), which may explain the unexpected pattern of weight-loss. Hibernatory behaviour in captivity differs from that in the wild, likely because of non-natural conditions in hutches and the immediate availability of food. This study provides a basis for further research into the monitoring and husbandry of hedgehogs such that it can be adapted for each individual according to pre-hibernation weight and behaviour during hibernation.
A Review of Current Knowledge on Staphylococcus agnetis in Poultry
Authors: Szafraniec Gustaw M. , Szeleszczuk Piotr , Dolka Beata
Published: August 2020

This review aims to summarize recent discoveries and advancements regarding the characteristics of Staphylococcus agnetis (S. agnetis) and its role in poultry pathology. S. agnetis is an emerging pathogen that was primarily associated with mastitis in dairy cattle. After a presumed host jump from cattle to poultry, it was identified as a pathological agent in broiler chickens (Gallus gallus domesticus), causing lameness induced by bacterial chondronecrosis with osteomyelitis (BCO), septicemia, and valvular endocarditis. Economic and welfare losses caused by lameness are global problems in the poultry industry, and S. agnetis has been shown to have a potential to induce high incidences of lameness in broiler chickens. S. agnetis exhibits a distinct repertoire of virulence factors found in many different staphylococci. It is closely related to S. hyicus and S. chromogenes, hence infections caused by S. agnetis may be misdiagnosed or even undiagnosed. As there are very few reports on S. agnetis in poultry, many facts about its pathogenesis, epidemiology, routes of transmission, and the potential impacts on the poultry industry remain unknown.
Bone Morphology and Strength in the Mid-Diaphysis of the Humerus and Metacarpus in Dairy Calves Prior to Weaning
Authors: Gibson Michaela , Dittmer Keren , Hickson Rebecca , Back Penny , Rogers Chris
Published: August 2020

Calf growth rate in relation to future milk production has been thoroughly studied; however, the observation of growth arrest lines in bones from heifers with humeral fractures has highlighted the need to understand bone growth in relation to calf growth. The aim of this study was to describe the relationship of peripheral quantitative computed tomography (pQCT)-derived measures of bone strength and morphology with gross measurements of size and growth in pre-weaning dairy calves. Liveweight, height, body length, girth and leg length were measured at one, six and twelve weeks of age. At these intervals, the mid-diaphysis of the metacarpus was also scanned in the live animal using pQCT. At six and twelve weeks old, a subset of calves were euthanised and the humerus was collected and scanned at the mid-diaphysis using pQCT. Differences in growth patterns were observed between the metacarpus and humerus over time. Weight was the best predictor for measures of periosteal circumference and stress strain index (R2 = 0.49–0.58) in the metacarpus, and also the best predictor for measures of stress strain index at all ages in the humerus (R2 = 0.94). The strong relationship with weight and bone measures emphasises the need for adequate preweaning nutrition for future bone growth.
C57BL/6J and B6129F1 Embryo Transfer: Unilateral and Bilateral Transfer, Embryo Number and Recipient Female Background Control for the Optimization of Embryo Survival and Litter Size
Authors: Lamas Sofia , Franquinho Filipa , Morgado Marlene , Mesquita João R. , Gärtner Fátima , Amorim Irina
Published: August 2020

Embryo transfer (ET) is a common procedure in rodent facilities. Optimizing this technique may help to reduce the number of animals, but little information is available regarding wild type strains and the conditions that affect embryo transfer. To explore this theme, 2-cell C57BL/6J embryos were transferred after overnight culture of freshly collected zygotes using different conditions: unilateral transfers using a total of 6, 8, 12, 15, 20 and 25 embryos were performed initially; then, this strain was also used for bilateral transfers using a total of 6, 12 and 20 embryos equally divided by the two oviducts. Groups of 25 embryos were not tested for the bilateral technique, since this condition produced the lower success rate when using the unilateral technique and 20 embryos would still represent a large number of embryos. A group of 2-cell B6129F1 embryos was also transferred using unilateral and bilateral ET with 6, 12 and 20 embryos. Crl:CD1(ICR) were used as recipient females for non-reciprocal transfers and C57BL/6J were used to test reciprocal transfers (only tested for six C57BL/6J unilateral transfers). Unilateral transfers using C57BL/6J mice produced higher success rates using six embryos, compared to the other groups transferred unilaterally (p-values between 0.0001 and 0.0267), but the mean number of pups per litter was not different among groups. Bilateral transfer produced higher number of pups when 20 embryos were divided by the two oviducts compared to six (p = 0.0012) or 12 (p = 0.0148) embryos, but with no differences in success rates. No statistical differences were found between the groups of B6129F1, but better results were obtained on bilateral transfers using a total of six embryos. For the strain tested (C57BL/6J), the uterine environment (Crl:CD1(ICR) or C57BL/6J recipient) does not impact the outcome of the technique. These results complement previous work published using genetically engineered mice strains and show that unilateral transfers using low number of embryos (6), produce better outcomes when compared to bilateral or unilateral transfers using more embryos. It also highlights differences between the outcome of bilateral transfers in the two strains tested. A set of historical data of genetically engineered mice at a C57BL/6J background was also included, confirming that lower embryo numbers are related to higher success rates. Together, the outcome of these experiments can be important to reduce the number of recipient and donor females, optimize embryo transfers and improve animal welfare discouraging the use of a more invasive technique.
Genome-Wide Assessment of Runs of Homozygosity in Chinese Wagyu Beef Cattle
Authors: Zhao Guoyao , Zhang Tianliu , Liu Yuqiang , Wang Zezhao , Xu Lei , Zhu Bo , Gao Xue , Zhang Lupei , Gao Huijiang , Liu George E. , Li Junya , Xu Lingyang
Published: August 2020

Runs of homozygosity (ROH) are continuous homozygous regions that generally exist in the DNA sequence of diploid organisms. Identifications of ROH leading to reduction in performance can provide valuable insight into the genetic architecture of complex traits. Here, we evaluated genome-wide patterns of homozygosity and their association with important traits in Chinese Wagyu beef cattle. We identified a total of 29,271 ROH segments from 462 animals. Within each animal, an average number of ROH was 63.36 while an average length was 62.19 Mb. To evaluate the enrichment of ROH across genomes, we initially identified 280 ROH regions by merging ROH events across all individuals. Of these, nine regions containing 154 candidate genes, were significantly associated with six traits (body height, chest circumference, fat coverage, backfat thickness, ribeye area, and carcass length; p < 0.01). Moreover, we found 26 consensus ROH regions with frequencies exceeding 10%, and several regions overlapped with QTLs, which are associated with body weight, calving ease, and stillbirth. Among them, we observed 41 candidate genes, including BCKDHB, MAB21L1, SLC2A13, FGFR3, FGFRL1, CPLX1, CTNNA1, CORT, CTNNBIP1, and NMNAT1, which have been previously reported to be related to body conformation, meat quality, susceptibility, and reproductive traits. In summary, we assessed genome-wide autozygosity patterns and inbreeding levels in Chinese Wagyu beef cattle. Our study identified many candidate regions and genes overlapped with ROH for several important traits, which could be unitized to assist the design of a selection mating strategy in beef cattle.
Can Endocrine Dysfunction Be Reliably Tested in Aged Horses That Are Experiencing Pain?
Authors: Gehlen Heidrun , Jaburg Nina , Merle Roswitha , Winter Judith
Published: August 2020

The aim of the present study was to evaluate (i) the effects of different intensities and types of treated pain on the basal concentrations of adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) and cortisol, and (ii) the thyrotropin-releasing hormone (TRH) stimulation test, to determine whether treated pain caused a marked increase of ACTH, which would lead to a false positive result in the diagnosis of pituitary pars intermedia dysfunction (PPID). Methods: Fifteen horses with treated low to moderate pain intensities were part of the study. They served as their own controls as soon as they were pain-free again. The horses were divided into three disease groups, depending on their underlying disease (disease group 1 = colic, disease group 2 = laminitis, disease group 3 = orthopedic problems). A composite pain scale was used to evaluate the intensity of the pain. This pain scale contained a general part and specific criteria for every disease. Subsequently, ACTH and cortisol were measured before and after the intravenous application of 1 mg of TRH. Results: There was no significant difference in the basal or stimulated ACTH concentration in horses with pain and controls, between different pain intensities or between disease groups. Descriptive statistics, however, revealed that pain might decrease the effect of TRH on the secretion of ACTH. There was an increase of ACTH 30 min after TRH application (p = 0.007) in the treated pain group, but this difference could not be statistically confirmed. Measuring the basal ACTH concentration and performing the TRH stimulation test for the diagnosis of PPID seem to be possible in horses with low to moderate pain.
Isolates, Antimicrobial Susceptibility Profiles and Multidrug Resistance of Bacteria Cultured from Pig Submissions in New Zealand
Authors: Riley Christopher B. , Chidgey Kirsty L. , Bridges Janis P. , Gordon Emma , Lawrence Kevin E.
Published: August 2020

Data on the scope of bacterial pathogens present and the frequency of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) in New Zealand’s pigs are limited. This study describes bacterial isolates, antimicrobial susceptibility data, and multidrug resistance (MDR; resistance to ≥3 antimicrobial classes) from New Zealand pig submissions. Porcine test data from June 2003 to February 2016 were obtained from commercial veterinary pathology laboratory records. In total, 470/477 unique submissions resulted in bacterial growth, yielding 779 isolates. Sample type was recorded for 360/477 (75.5%); lung (79/360; 21.9%), faecal (61/360; 16.9%) and intestinal (45/360; 12.5%) were most common. The most common isolates were Escherichia coli (186/779, 23.9%), Actinobacillus pleuropneumoniae (43/779; 5.5%), Streptococcus suis (43/779; 5.5%), unidentified Campylobacter spp. (38/779; 4.9%), alpha haemolytic Streptococci (32/779; 4.1%), coagulase negative Staphylococcus spp. (26/779; 3.3%), and Pasteurella multocida (25/779; 3.2%). Susceptibility results were available for 141/779 (18.1%) isolates from 62/470 (13.2%) submissions. Most were susceptible to trimethoprim-sulphonamide (75/81; 92.6%), but fewer were susceptible to penicillin (37/77; 48.1%), tilmicosin (18/43; 41.9%), or tetracyclines (41/114; 36.0%). No susceptibility data were available for Salmonella spp., Campylobacter spp., or Yersinia spp. isolates. MDR was present in 60/141 (42.6%) isolates. More data on sample submission drivers, antimicrobial drug use, and susceptibilities of important porcine bacterial isolates are required to inform guidelines for prudent antimicrobial use, to reduce their prevalence, human transmission, and to minimise AMR and MDR.
Melittin from Apis florea Venom as a Promising Therapeutic Agent for Skin Cancer Treatment
Authors: Sangboonruang Sirikwan , Kitidee Kuntida , Chantawannakul Panuwan , Tragoolpua Khajornsak , Tragoolpua Yingmanee
Published: August 2020

Melittin, a major component found in bee venom, is produced by the Apis species of the honey bee. In this study, the effect of melittin derived from Apis florea (Mel-AF), which is a wild honey bee species that is indigenous to Thailand, was investigated against human malignant melanoma (A375) cells. In this study, Mel-AF exhibited considerable potential in the anti-proliferative action of A375 cells. Subsequently, the cellular mechanism of Mel-AF that induced cell death was investigated in terms of apoptosis. As a result, gene and protein expression levels, which indicated the activation of cytochrome-c release and caspase-9 expression, eventually triggered the release of the caspase-3 executioner upon Mel-AF. We then determined that apoptosis-mediated cell death was carried out through the intrinsic mitochondrial pathway. Moreover, advanced abilities, including cell motility and invasion, were significantly suppressed. Mel-AF manipulated the actin arrangement via the trapping of stress fibers that were found underneath the membrane, which resulted in the defective actin cytoskeleton organization. Consequently, the expression of EGFR, a binding protein to F-actin, was also found to be suppressed. This outcome strongly supports the effects of Mel-AF in the inhibition of progressive malignant activity through the disruption of actin cytoskeleton-EGFR interaction and the EGFR signaling system. Thus, the findings of our current study indicate the potential usefulness of Mel-AF in cancer treatments as an apoptosis inducer and a potential actin-targeting agent.
The Interaction of the Endogenous Hydrogen Sulfide and Oxytocin Systems in Fluid Regulation and the Cardiovascular System
Authors: Denoix Nicole , McCook Oscar , Ecker Sarah , Wang Rui , Waller Christiane , Radermacher Peter , Merz Tamara
Published: August 2020

The purpose of this review is to explore the parallel roles and interaction of hydrogen sulfide (H2S) and oxytocin (OT) in cardiovascular regulation and fluid homeostasis. Their interaction has been recently reported to be relevant during physical and psychological trauma. However, literature reports on H2S in physical trauma and OT in psychological trauma are abundant, whereas available information regarding H2S in psychological trauma and OT in physical trauma is much more limited. This review summarizes recent direct and indirect evidence of the interaction of the two systems and their convergence in downstream nitric oxide-dependent signaling pathways during various types of trauma, in an effort to better understand biological correlates of psychosomatic interdependencies.
Mitochondrial Activation and Reactive Oxygen-Species Overproduction during Sperm Capacitation are Independent of Glucose Stimuli
Authors: Carrageta David F. , Guerra-Carvalho Bárbara , Sousa Mário , Barros Alberto , Oliveira Pedro F. , Monteiro Mariana P. , Alves Marco G.
Published: August 2020

Spermatozoa capacitation is a complex process that requires specific ionic and energetic conditions to support biochemical alterations leading to motility hyperactivation. However, human sperm capacitation is still poorly understood. Herein, we studied the effects of glucose on human sperm capacitation. Healthy men seminal samples (n = 55) were submitted to a density gradient centrifugation and incubated in capacitating conditions in the absence or presence of increasing glucose concentrations (0, 5.5, 11, and 22 mM). Viability and total motility were accessed. Phosphotyrosine levels were measured. Mitochondrial activity and endogenous ROS production were evaluated. Oxidative stress-induced damage was analyzed. Culture media was collected and analyzed by 1H-NMR. Our results show that glucose is essential for human sperm capacitation and motility. Notably, we observed that mitochondrial activity increased even in the absence of glucose. This increased mitochondrial activity was followed by a ROS overproduction, although no oxidative stress-induced damage was detected. Our results show that glucose is essential for capacitation but mitochondrial activation is independent from its stimuli. ROS overproduction may take part on a finely regulated signaling pathway that modulates or even activates capacitation. Taken together, our results constitute a paradigm shift on human sperm capacitation physiology.
The KEAP1/NRF2 Signaling Pathway in Keratinization
Authors: Ishitsuka Yosuke , Ogawa Tatsuya , Roop Dennis
Published: August 2020

Keratinization is a tissue adaptation, but aberrant keratinization is associated with skin disorders such as ichthyoses, atopic dermatitis, psoriasis, and acne. The disease phenotype stems from the interaction between genes and the environment; therefore, an understanding of the adaptation machinery may lead to a new appreciation of pathomechanisms. The KEAP1/NRF2 signaling pathway mediates the environmental responses of squamous epithelial tissue. The unpredicted outcome of the Keap1-null mutation in mice allowed us to revisit the basic principle of the biological process of keratinization: sulfur metabolism establishes unparalleled cytoprotection in the body wall of terrestrial mammals. We summarize the recent understanding of the KEAP1/NRF2 signaling pathway, which is a thiol-based sensor-effector apparatus, with particular focuses on epidermal differentiation in the context of the gene-environment interaction, the structure/function principles involved in KEAP1/NRF2 signaling, lessons from mouse models, and their pathological implications. This synthesis may provide insights into keratinization, which provides physical insulation and constitutes an essential innate integumentary defense system.
Chronic Kidney Disease as Oxidative Stress- and Inflammatory-Mediated Cardiovascular Disease
Authors: Podkowińska Alina , Formanowicz Dorota
Published: August 2020

Generating reactive oxygen species (ROS) is necessary for both physiology and pathology. An imbalance between endogenous oxidants and antioxidants causes oxidative stress, contributing to vascular dysfunction. The ROS-induced activation of transcription factors and proinflammatory genes increases inflammation. This phenomenon is of crucial importance in patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD), because atherosclerosis is one of the critical factors of their cardiovascular disease (CVD) and increased mortality. The effect of ROS disrupts the excretory function of each section of the nephron. It prevents the maintenance of intra-systemic homeostasis and leads to the accumulation of metabolic products. Renal regulatory mechanisms, such as tubular glomerular feedback, myogenic reflex in the supplying arteriole, and the renin–angiotensin–aldosterone system, are also affected. It makes it impossible for the kidney to compensate for water–electrolyte and acid–base disturbances, which progress further in the mechanism of positive feedback, leading to a further intensification of oxidative stress. As a result, the progression of CKD is observed, with a spectrum of complications such as malnutrition, calcium phosphate abnormalities, atherosclerosis, and anemia. This review aimed to show the role of oxidative stress and inflammation in renal impairment, with a particular emphasis on its influence on the most common disturbances that accompany CKD.
Long-Term Forecasting of Electrical Loads in Kuwait Using Prophet and Holt–Winters Models
Authors: Almazrouee Abdulla I. , Almeshal Abdullah M. , Almutairi Abdulrahman S. , Alenezi Mohammad R. , Alhajeri Saleh N.
Published: August 2020

The rapidly increasing population growth and expansion of urban development are undoubtedly two of the main reasons for increasing global energy consumption. Accurate long-term forecasting of peak load is essential for saving time and money for countries’ power generation utilities. This paper introduces the first investigation into the performance of the Prophet model in the long-term peak load forecasting of Kuwait. The Prophet model is compared with the well-established Holt–Winters model to assess its feasibility and accuracy in forecasting long-term peak loads. Real data of electric load peaks from Kuwait powerplants from 2010 to 2020 were used for the electric load peaks, forecasting the peak load between 2020 and 2030. The Prophet model has shown more accurate predictions than the Holt–Winters model in five statistical performance metrics. Besides, the robustness of the two models was investigated by adding Gaussian white noise of different intensities. The Prophet model has proven to be more robust to noise than the Holt–Winters model. Furthermore, the generalizability test of the two models has shown that the Prophet model outperforms the Holt–Winters model. The reported results suggest that the forecasted maximum peak load is expected to reach 18,550 and 19,588 MW for the Prophet and Holt–Winters models by 2030 in Kuwait. The study suggests that the best months for scheduling the preventive maintenance for the year 2020 and 2021 are from November 2020 until March 2021 for both models.