bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
On achieving gender equity within the liver transplantation medical and surgical workforce
Authors: Verran Deborah
Published: August 2024

Until relatively recently there has been a paucity of readily available information pertaining to the demographics of the medical and surgical workforces for the subspecialty of liver transplantation. This is relevant as it relates to whether gender equity is now being achieved across this particular workforce. This manuscript focuses on what eventually led to the recognition that more comprehensive data were required along with what is now actually known with respect to the gender ratios of the liver transplant workforce along with their related academic activities. Potential solutions to address any ongoing imbalances are also examined. The extent and range of gender disparities previously reported for other cohorts of physicians and surgeons, are also apparent amongst the liver transplant workforce in most regions of the world. This also pertains to the higher leadership positions within liver transplant centers as well as for the related editorial and scientific congress roles. Common themes/recommendations are now emerging as to how best to address the lack of progress towards gender equity. These include the development and implementation of policies, the removal of barriers to career progression, and proper governance. Ongoing actions are going to be required to achieve gender equity across the workforce in liver transplantation around the world.
A fresh look into the interaction of exoplanets magnetosphere with stellar winds using MHD simulations
Authors: Bagheri Fatemeh , Lopez Ramon , Pham Kevin
Published: August 2024

Numerous numerical studies have been carried out in recent years that simulate different aspects of exoplanets’ magnetosphere and stellar winds. These studies have focused primarily on hot Jupiters with sun-like stars. This study addresses the challenges inherent in utilizing existing MHD codes to model hot Jupiter-star systems. Due to the scaling of the system and the assumption of a uniformly flowing stellar wind at the outer boundary of the simulation, MHD codes necessitate a minimum distance of greater than 0.4 au for a Jupiter-like planet orbiting a sun-like star to avoid substantial violations of the code’s assumptions. Additionally, employing the GAMERA (Grid Agnostic MHD for Extended Research Applications) MHD code, we simulate star-planet interactions considering various stellar types (Sun-like and M Dwarf stars) with both Jupiter-like and rocky planets positioned at varying orbital distances. Furthermore, we explore the impact of tidal locking on the total power within the magnetosphere-ionosphere systems.
The challenges of the wind. Ecology of serious leisure in the Brazilian Northeast
Authors: Sirost Olivier , Andrieu Bernard , Dantas da Costa Sobral Jullya Bheatriz , Da Nóbrega Petrucia
Published: August 2024

Aim

The aim of this study is to understand the development of windsports and the challenges faced by wind-based leisure activities.

Methods

The socio-historical dynamics behind the development of wind leisure are analysed on the basis of specialised tourism blogs, as well as a field study carried out in the Northeast Region of Brazil, combining ethnographic observations and semi-structured interviews with 6 wind leisure enthusiasts. All the data is processed using the serious leisure perspective tools developed by Stebbins, and the body ecology tools developed by Andrieu et al.

Results

The results show that wind sports provide a dual continuum. First of all, there are the practitioners, from Neophyte to Devotee Worker. Then there is the junction between land, water and air, where wind practices ensure a dual aesthetic. On the one hand, riders are united by a community of flow, emotion and sensation mediated by their relationship with the wind and the creation of play materials (waves, lagoons, trade winds). On the other hand, the tourist development of these practices serves a political narrative based on postcard aesthetics, enabling wind concessions to be traded for the development of wind farms.

Conclusion

this original research calls for a more systematic exploration of wind practices and the hybridisation of natural elements, which seems to illustrate the crisis that modern sport and its institutions are going through today.
Comparative long-term outcomes of unicompartmental and total knee arthroplasty in knee osteoarthritis patients: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Hu Hai , Li Pengfei , Liu Zelin , Lv Hang , Yang Xiangjun , Liu Peiran
Published: August 2024

Background

Long-term outcomes for knee osteoarthritis patients undergoing unicompartmental knee arthroplasty (UKA) and total knee arthroplasty (TKA) remain inconclusive.

Objectives

This study aims to evaluate the long-term outcomes over five years, including Knee Society Pain Scores (KSPS), Knee Society Scores (KSS), Knee Society Function Scores (KSFS), range of motion (ROM), and survival rates—of UKA vs. TKA in knee osteoarthritis patients.

Design

Systematic review using data from randomized controlled and cohort trials, and world databases.

Data sources

Researchers searched Medline, Embase, Cochrane Controlled Register of Trials, and ClinicalTrials.gov from January 1990 to March 2024.

Eligibility criteria for selecting studies

The researchers selected studies based on adult participants with knee osteoarthritis. Eligible studies compare UKA and TKA reports on clinical or surgical outcomes, including KSPS, KSS, KSFS, ROM and survival rates, over 5 years. The researchers excluded the studies fewer than five years, or if English text was unavailable.

Results

Researchers categorized twenty-nine eligible studies into three groups: five randomized controlled trials, 11 registries and database studies, and 13 cohort studies. The analysis revealed that neither TKA nor UKA definitively outperformed the other in terms of pain (SMD (95% CI): −0.06 [−0.41, 0.28], I2 = 90%) and KSS scores (SMD (95% CI): −0.07 [−0.23, 0.008], I2 = 81%) over a period of five years. However, KSFS (SMD (95% CI): −0.30 [−0.43, −0.17], I2 = 74%) and ROM (SMD (95% CI): −0.78 [−1.11, −0.46], I2 = 92%) tended to favor UKA, and survival rate favor TKA at 5 or over 5-year follow-up periods.

Conclusions

UKA shows a trend towards better outcomes in KSFS and ROM, alongside a more favorable survival rate in TKA at the five-year and beyond follow-up periods.

Systematic Review Registration

https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/display_record.php?RecordID=517835, PROSPERO (CRD42024517835).
Case report: Pathology, antimicrobial resistance, and molecular characterization of bovine abortion cases caused by Nocardia farcinica in Korean native cattle
Authors: Kim Eun-Mi , Yun Chi Sun , Bae You-Chan , Lee Hyunkyoung , Moon Bo-Youn , Lee Kichan , Jeoung Hye-Young , Ku Bok-Kyung , Kim Jongho
Published: August 2024

Introduction

Nocardia farcinica is an opportunistic bacterium that causes bovine mastitis and pulmonary, cutaneous, and central nervous system infections in humans. Bovine abortion caused by N. farcinica has been sporadically reported. The purpose of this study was to analyze the pathological findings of bovine abortions caused by N. farcinica in the Republic of Korea and determine the antimicrobial resistance and genotypical characteristics of N. farcinica isolates.

Case presentation

Three cases of bovine abortions were submitted to the Animal and Plant Quarantine Agency for differential diagnosis. Grossly, one fetus showed severe lung consolidation following palpation of the entire lobes. Histologically, necrotizing granulomatous interstitial pneumonia was observed in all fetuses; a fetus with a gross lesion demonstrated necrotizing lymphadenitis in the mesenteric lymph nodes and necrotizing dermatitis in the ear. N. farcinica isolates were isolated from the abomasal contents and lungs of all fetuses. Finally, two cases were diagnosed as abortions due to N. farcinica, and one was diagnosed as an N. farcinica abortion coinfected with bovine viral diarrhea virus. According to the multilocus sequence analysis, all isolates were identified as N. farcinica and were determined to be genetically related to isolates from humans. Two N. farcinica isolates were resistant to trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole, which is recommended as the first treatment for human nocardial infections.

Conclusion

This is the first pathological report of bovine abortion caused by N. farcinica in the Republic of Korea. Further studies are needed to phenotypically and genotypically characterize N. farcinica isolates with various sources and continuously monitor antimicrobial resistance patterns.
Evaluation of serum vitamin D metabolites, phagocytosis, and biomarkers of inflammation in dogs with naturally occurring diabetes mellitus
Authors: Jaffey Jared A. , Backus Robert C. , Kreisler Rachael , Graves Thomas K. , Al-Nakkash Layla , Allison Lauren
Published: August 2024

Naturally occurring diabetes mellitus (NODM) is one of the most common endocrine disorders in dogs and its etiology closely resembles type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) in people. Human patients with T1DM commonly have cellular derangements consistent with inflammation, impaired immune function, and hypovitaminosis D. There is little information available regarding inflammatory biomarkers, immune function, and vitamin D status in diabetic dogs. Therefore, our objectives were to assess inflammatory biomarkers, vitamin D metabolites, and phagocytic capacity in diabetic dogs and determine whether associations exist with these variables and the level of clinical control or vitamin D metabolites. This was a prospective case–control study that included 20 otherwise healthy diabetic dogs (clinically controlled, n = 10; uncontrolled, n = 10) and 20 non-diabetic, healthy, age (± 2 years), breed, and sex matched controls. Complete blood count, biochemical panel, urinalysis, and fructosamine were performed at a single commercial reference laboratory. Basal plasma tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α, interleukin (IL)-6, IL-8, and IL-10 were measured using a canine-specific multiplex bead-based assay. Serum C-reactive protein (CRP) was measured using a commercially available ELISA kit. Serum 25-hydroxyvitamin (OH)D3 and 24,25-dihydroxyvitamin (OH)2D3 were measured with HPLC. Phagocytosis of opsonized-Escherichia coli (E. coli) was evaluated with flow cytometry. Diabetic dogs had higher serum CRP concentrations than controls (p = 0.02). Plasma IL-8 concentrations were higher in diabetic dogs with uncontrolled clinical disease compared to controls (p = 0.02). Diabetic dogs had a lower percentage of leukocytes that phagocytized opsonized-E. coli (p = 0.02), but an increased number of bacteria phagocytized per cell (p < 0.001) compared to controls. No between-group differences were identified in vitamin D metabolites, nor were associations found between vitamin D and any variables. Fructosamine had a positive association with serum CRP concentration (rho = 0.35, p = 0.03) and number of bacteria phagocytized per cell (rho = 0.45, p = 0.004) in our cohort (n = 40). Like people with T1DM, diabetic dogs have a proinflammatory phenotype and phagocytic dysregulation that may be correlated with glycemic control.
A Structured Approach to Involve Stakeholders in Prioritising Topics for Systematic Reviews in Public Health
Authors: Hoekstra Dyon , Mütsch Margot , Borchard Annegret , Kien Christina , Griebler Ursula , Von Elm Erik , Rehfuess Eva , Gerhardus Ansgar , Lhachimi Stefan K.
Published: August 2024

Objectives

This study aimed to develop and apply a structured approach for prioritising topics for systematic reviews in public health, framed according to the readily applicable PICO format, which encourages the involvement of stakeholders’ preferences in a transparent matter.

Methods

We developed a multi-stage process, consisting of a scoping and two Delphi stages with web-based surveys and invited public health stakeholders in Switzerland to participate: First, respondents specified topics for different public health domains, which were reformulated in a PICO format by content analysis. Second, respondents rated the topics using five stakeholder-refined assessment criteria. Overall rankings were calculated to assess differences between stakeholder groups and rating criteria.

Results

In total, 215 respondents suggested 728 topics altogether. The response rate in the two Delphi stages was 91.6% and 77.6%, respectively. Most top-rated review topics focused on the effectiveness of interventions providing education to different target groups, followed by interventions to increase access to specific healthcare services.

Conclusion

Our approach encourages involvement of stakeholders in identifying priorities for systematic reviews and highlights disparities between stakeholders and between individual criteria.
Management Strategies for Early Blight in Potatoes: Assessment of the TOMCAST Model, Including the Aerobiological Risk Level and Critical Phenological Period
Authors: Meno Laura , Abuley Isaac , Seijo M. Carmen , Escuredo Olga
Published: August 2024

The use of pesticides is an efficient approach for pest management. However, their increasing application in recent decades has come under the spotlight of world policies. In this context, this study addresses the usefulness of a forecasting model (TOMCAST) combined with aerobiological information and a plant development model (physiological days, PDays) for the control of early blight in potatoes in Northwest Spain. Control plots were compared to treated plots, according to the original TOMCAST model and the daily Alternaria spp. concentration, meteorological factors, and phenological and epidemiological observations were monitored for better adjustment of the TOMCAST model to the weather conditions of the geographical area during three crop seasons. The results of the linear regression analysis showed a strong relationship between the parameters included in TOMCAST (leaf wetness and temperature) and the Alternaria spp. conidia concentration. In addition, an unbalanced pattern of trapped conidia was detected throughout the growing season, with an increase near the flowering stage. The epidemiological parameters (infection period, r-AUDPC, maximum severity value, and total and commercial yields) showed significant differences between the cultivars in the control and the TOMCAST plots in terms of r-AUDPC and the maximum severity value. Given the study’s results, the original TOMCAST model was improved with aerobiological and phenological information. The improved model recommends a first spray on a day when the following three requirements are met: Ten accumulated disease severity values (DSVs) according to the TOMCAST model, two days with an aerobiological level greater than 10 conidia/m3, and a PDays value greater than 200. This will reduce the number of fungicide treatments used to control early blight in potato crops, promoting the principles of sustainable agriculture.
Design and Simulation of a Combined Trencher for Transverse Sugarcane Planter
Authors: Zhang Biao , Yang Xinsan , Zhu Yingying
Published: August 2024

The trencher design of the pre-cut transverse sugarcane planter is the basis for realizing deep planting and shallow burial. Aimed at the problems of insufficient seeding space provided by furrows and high resistance to trenching, a structural configuration of a combined trencher suitable for transverse cane planting agronomy was proposed to improve the stability, simplicity, and efficiency of trenching. The collaborative operations of components such as the soil lifting of the leak-proof plow, the soil fragmentation and throwing of the double-disc rotary tiller, the rebound of the fender, the lateral diversion of the furrowing plow, and the motion control of the double rocker arms were comprehensively utilized. The trenching principle of using double-sided guards to block soil backfilling to form a seeding space was applied, as well as pre-side diversion to reduce the forward resistance of plow surfaces. The simulation of the trenching process showed that the combined trencher was available in terms of soil particle transfer and dynamic space-forming capabilities, and the stress distribution of the advancing plow surface was analyzed. Moreover, based on the minimum resistance characteristics, the optimal spacing between the rotary tiller and the furrowing plow and the blade arrangement mode were configured, and the structural parameters of the furrowing plow were optimized to include a soil penetration angle of 20°, an oblique cutting angle of 75°, and a curvature radius of 280 mm. Field experiments have proven that the soil entry movement trajectory, the length and width of the accessible seed placement space, and the average planting depth of cane seeds could all achieve respective design anticipations of the combined trencher. The measured trenching resistance was 7609.7 N, with an error of 22.2% from the predicted value under the same configuration.
Field-Based Soybean Flower and Pod Detection Using an Improved YOLOv8-VEW Method
Authors: Zhao Kunpeng , Li Jinyang , Shi Wenqiang , Qi Liqiang , Yu Chuntao , Zhang Wei
Published: August 2024

Changes in soybean flower and pod numbers are important factors affecting soybean yields. Obtaining the number of flowers and pods, as well as fallen flowers and pods, quickly and accurately is crucial for soybean variety breeding and high-quality and high-yielding production. This is especially challenging in the natural field environment. Therefore, this study proposed a field soybean flower- and pod-detection method based on an improved network model (YOLOv8-VEW). VanillaNet is used as the backbone feature-extraction network for YOLOv8, and the EMA attention mechanism module is added to C2f, replacing the CioU function with the WIoU position loss function. The results showed that the F1, mAP, and FPS (frames per second) of the YOLOv8-VEW model were 0.95, 96.9%, and 90 FPS, respectively, which were 0.05, 2.4%, and 24 FPS better than those of the YOLOv8 model. The model was used to compare soybean flower and pod counts with manual counts, and its R2 for flowers and pods was 0.98311 and 0.98926, respectively, achieving rapid detection of soybean flower pods in the field. This study can provide reliable technical support for detecting soybean flowers and pod numbers in the field and selecting high-yielding varieties.
Regional Differences, Dynamic Evolution, and Convergence of Global Agricultural Energy Efficiency
Authors: Wang Ting , Wu Jing , Liu Jianghua
Published: August 2024

Understanding the regional disparities, dynamic evolution, and convergence–divergence characteristics of global agricultural energy efficiency is crucial for enhancing agricultural energy efficiency, ensuring food security, and responding to global green development trends. This paper utilizes 2002–2021 panel data from 144 countries globally, employing the epsilon-based measure–global Malmquist–Luenberger (EBM-GML) model to estimate agricultural energy efficiency, considering unexpected output. The Dagum Gini coefficient, kernel density estimation, spatial Markov matrix, and spatial convergence model are employed to explain the spatial patterns and evolving trends of global and regional agricultural energy efficiency at three levels: regional disparities, dynamic evolution, and convergence. The results indicate significant spatial heterogeneity in global agricultural energy efficiency, with Europe exhibiting the highest efficiency, followed by Asia and the Americas, while Oceania and Africa demonstrate the lowest efficiency. Agricultural energy efficiency globally and in each region continues to improve, with increasing regional disparities, and difficulties in grade transitions in agricultural energy efficiency across regions. Each region exhibits β-convergence characteristics, but the convergence rates vary, and various factors influence growth rates of agricultural energy efficiency differently across regions. Therefore, countries should tailor their strategies based on local conditions, considering their own resource endowments and developmental stages, and strengthen international exchanges and cooperation.
Optimizing Wheat Planting Density by Adjusting Population Structure and Stabilizing Stem Strength to Achieve High and Stable Yields
Authors: Feng Suwei , Shi Chenchen , Wang Peiyu , Chang Sujing , Liu Chaoyang , Shen Chenwei , Li Shilong , Hu Tiezhu , Ru Zhengang
Published: August 2024

Increasing wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) planting density is the most effective production management method for increasing yields; however, excessive crop populations under high planting densities may experience elevated risk of stem lodging. We conducted this study to assess the relationship between reduced lodging and increased yield, investigate the effects of planting density on wheat population structure, stem strength, and material transport, and provide a basis for rationale planting densities. The experiments were carried out using a split-plot design with three replicates. The main plots contained two wheat varieties: Bainong 5819 (BN5819) and Bainong 4199 (BN4199), and the sub-plots contained four planting density treatments: 90 × 104 plants/ha (D1), 180 × 104 plants/ha (D2), 270 × 104 plants/ha (D3), and 360 × 104 plants/ha (D4). A two-year field trial was conducted in 2021–2023. The relationships between population structure characteristics, changes in stem strength, activation, and retransport of stem material after anthesis, and achievement of high and stable yields were investigated at the different planting densities. When the planting density of wheat increased from D1 to D4 treatment, the activity of fructan hydrolase was significantly increased. Compared with D1 treatment, the highest activity of fructan hydrolase was increased by 457.47 μg/h/g under D4 treatment. At the same time, the increase of density also increased the contribution rate of dry matter accumulation (CDMA) to grain after anthesis increased, with the highest increase in CDMA at 33.67%, which significantly reduced stem strength. Correlation analysis revealed a significant negative association between CDMA and stem strength. Specifically, CDMA levels were significantly lower with the D3 treatment than the D4 treatment, while stem strength remained higher after anthesis as an adaptive response to mitigate lodging risk. Stem storage compounds can promote grain filling and a weight increase in inferior grains. The number of spikes per unit area increased significantly with increasing planting density, but the number of grains per spike and 1000-grain weight decreased significantly. In two years, the number of spikes in D3 treatment increased by a maximum of 211.67 × 104 ha−1 and 99.17 × 104 ha−1, respectively, compared to D1 and D2 treatments. The number of grains per spike was significantly higher than that of D4 treatment, the highest being 3.68 grains. Therefore, in the North China Plain with suitable water, fertilizer, and temperature, the sowing density of 270 × 104 plants/ha established population structure, significantly reduced CDMA, maintained post-anthesis stem strength, enhanced resilience of stems against post-anthesis lodging, and resulted in high yields by stabilizing the number of grains per spike and increasing the number of wheat spikes.
The Influence of Three-Year Grazing on Plant Community Dynamics and Productivity in Habahe, China
Authors: Zeng Guoyan , Ye Mao , Li Miaomiao , Chen Weilong , He Qingzhi , Pan Xiaoting , Zhang Xi , Che Jing , Qian Jiaoron , Lv Yexin
Published: August 2024

The stability, diversity, and biomass of grassland plant communities directly impact the functionality and resilience of ecosystems, making them a focal point for ecological research. This three-year study (2021–2023) in the Habahe pastoral area of Xinjiang, China, aimed to investigate the long-term effects of grazing on grassland vegetation structure, community stability, species diversity, and productivity. The results indicate the following. (1) The Habahe pastoral area hosts a relatively rich plant species diversity, with 40 species distributed across 17 families and 37 genera, predominantly comprising perennial and annual herbs. (2) Grazing significantly affected grassland structure and function, resulting in a 4.35% decrease in plant community stability, a 40.74% decrease in species richness, a 21.55% decrease in species dominance, a 5.08% decrease in species diversity, a 46.79% decrease in aboveground biomass, a 61.86% decrease in coverage, and a 72.12% decrease in height. (3) Grazing alters the relationship between species diversity and community stability, shifting it from a positive correlation to a negative one (p < 0.01) or rendering it non-significant after grazing. (4) Grazing affects the correlation between aboveground biomass and both species diversity and community stability. While the positive correlation between aboveground biomass and species diversity persists, it is not statistically significant (p > 0.05) after grazing. Conversely, the correlation between aboveground biomass and community stability shifts from positive to negative (p < 0.01). These results emphasize the need for integrated management strategies that consider both grazing intensity and plant community composition to maintain the health of grassland ecosystems.
Assessment of Different Humate Ureas on Soil Mineral N Balanced Supply
Authors: Bai Shengjun , Xu Lingying , Ren Rongkui , Luo Yue , Liu Xiaoqi , Guo Jingli , Zhao Xu , Zhang Wentai
Published: August 2024

Urea supplements, such as humic acids, could enhance fertilizer nitrogen use effectiveness. Melting is superior to mixing for humate urea application; however, the effects of diverse humate ureas from various coal sources on soil N supply remain unclear. This study compared the properties of two humic acids from different coal sources (HA1, weathered coal; HA2, lignite coal), and their impact on soil mineral N supply and the nitrate–ammonium ratio under flooded and 60% water-filled pore space (WFPS) over a 14-day incubation. Humate ureas stimulated soil mineral N accumulation and balanced the soil nitrate–ammonium ratio at 1:1; however, no significant difference existed between the two humate ureas under 60% WFPS. Humate urea enhanced soil ammonium nitrogen (NH4+-N) retention and delayed nitrate nitrogen (NH4−-N) release, leading to soil mineral N retention, especially in lignite humic acid urea (H2AU) treatments from lignite under flooding. Structural equation modeling (SEM) and linear regression revealed that humic acids elevated soil redox potential (Eh) and electrical conductivity (EC), stimulating soil N mineralization and adjusting the optimal nitrate–ammonium ratio. Humate urea improved soil mineral N supply compared to traditional urea treatments, and humic acids from lignite were more beneficial for crop cultivation from a mineral soil N supply perspective. These findings enhance our understanding of humate urea benefits and aid in optimizing humic acids application for N management.
Hidden Secrets of Mangrove Swamp Rice Stored Seeds in Guinea-Bissau: Assessment of Fungal Communities and Implications for Food Security
Authors: Conde Sofia , Barai Amidu , Catarino Sílvia , Costa Gonçalo J. , Ferreira Sónia , Tavares Idília , Ferreira Maria Rosa , Temudo Marina Padrão , Monteiro Filipa
Published: August 2024

Rice cultivation is one of the most important agro-economic activities in many countries, and the correct seed storage between production cycles is essential for crop success. In Guinea-Bissau, mangrove swamp rice (MSR) is a highly productive rice cropping system, thus providing surplus for sale. Depending on storage conditions, rice grains may present moisture, insects, or the development of fungi that might affect crop productivity. Considering different rice varieties and storage conditions, samples were collected from 30 farmers within 13 villages across the main MSR-producing regions. Stored rice was used to isolate and identify seed-borne fungi through DNA barcoding, to test aflatoxin content, and to evaluate seed germination rates. Polyethylene bags (the container), raised wooden platforms, and storage rooms (the structures) are the most used facilities. Hermetic containers were recorded mainly in Oio. A total fungal richness of 18 genera was found, and 16 different species were identified. The most represented fungal genera are Aspergillus, Curvularia, and Bipolaris. Despite the presence of aflatoxin-producing fungal samples, they did not present concerning levels for human consumption, and the germination rate was not affected regardless of storage structures. These results provide a baseline on fungi occurrence in stored MSR seeds from traditional facilities in Guinea-Bissau.
Yield Performance of RD6 Glutinous Rice near Isogenic Lines Evaluated under Field Disease Infection at Northeastern Thailand
Authors: Yangklang Jirapong , Sanitchon Jirawat , Siangliw Jonaliza L. , Monkham Tidarat , Chankaew Sompong , Siangliw Meechai , Sirithunya Kanyanath , Toojinda Theerayut
Published: August 2024

RD6, the most popular glutinous rice in Thailand, is high in quality but susceptible to blast and bacterial blight disease. It was thus improved for disease resistance through marker-assisted backcross selection (MAS). The objective of this study was to evaluate the performance of improved near isogenic lines. Eight RD6 rice near isogenic lines (NILs) derived from MAS were selected for evaluation with RD6, a standard susceptible check variety, as well as recurrent parent for a total of nine genotypes. The experiment was conducted during the wet season under six environments at three locations, Khon Kaen, Nong Khai, and Roi Et, which was repeated at two years from 2019 to 2020. Nine genotypes, including eight RD6 rice near isogenic lines (NILs) selected from two in-tandem breeding programs and the standard check variety RD6, were evaluated to select the high-performance new improved lines. The first group, including four NILs G1–G4, was gene pyramiding of blast and BB resistance genes, and the second group, including another four NILs G5–G8, was gene pyramiding of blast resistance and salt tolerance genes. Field disease screening was observed for all environments. Two disease occurrences, blast (leaf blast) and bacterial blight, were found during the rainy season of all environments. The NILs containing blast resistance genes were excellent in gene expression. On the other hand, the improved lines containing the xa5 gene were not highly resistant under the severe stress of bacterial blight (Nong Khai 2020). Notwithstanding, G2 was greater among the NILs for yield maintenance than the other genotypes. The agronomic traits of most NILs were the same as RD6. Interestingly, the traits of G2 were different in plant type from RD6, specifically photosensitivity and plant height. Promising rice RD6 NILs with high yield stability, good agronomic traits, and disease resistance were identified in the genotypes G1, G2, and G7. The high yield stability G1 and G7 are recommended for widespread use in rain-fed areas. The G2 is specifically recommended for use in the bacterial blight (BB) disease prone areas.
Identification and Molecular Characterization of a 16SrII-A Phytoplasma Associated with Cucumber Phyllody in China
Authors: Xi Youwei , Du Mengdan , Tang Yafei , She Xiaoman , Lan Guobing , Yu Lin , Ding Shanwen , He Zifu , Li Zhenggang
Published: August 2024

Cucumber plants (Cucumis sativus) displaying symptoms of phyllody, sterility, and flower virescence were observed in fields located in the Dianbai district of Guangdong province, China. Total DNA was extracted from the symptomatic plants; this was followed by molecular detection using a set of universal phytoplasma primer pairs, R16mF2/mR1, P1/P7, and SecYF1(II)/SecYR1(II). This resulted in the PCR amplification of products corresponding to expected sizes of 1.4 kb, 1.8 kb and 1.7 kb, respectively. The 16S rDNA sequence obtained exhibited 100% similarity with the eggplant phyllody phytoplasma, the ‘Cleome rutidosperma’ witches’ broom phytoplasma, and the ‘Desmodium ovalifolium’ witches’ broom phytoplasma strain DeOWB, all of which belong to the 16SrII group. Phylogenetic analysis, based on the 16S rDNA gene and SecY gene sequences, confirmed the close affiliation of the detected phytoplasma isolate, tentatively designated as cucumber phyllody phytoplasma (CuPh) China isolate, with the 16SrII-A subgroup. Additionally, virtual restriction fragment length polymorphism (RFLP) analysis of the 16S rDNA sequence revealed a pattern that was identical to that of the 16SrII-A subgroup. This is the first report of cucumber phyllody phytoplasma in China.
Evaluation of the Effectiveness of Eugenol and MS-222 as Anesthetics in Zebrafish in Repeated Exposures and Post-Anesthesia Behaviour
Authors: Ayala-Soldado Nahúm , Mora-Medina Rafael , Molina-López Ana María , Lora-Benítez Antonio Jesús , Moyano-Salvago Rosario
Published: August 2024

The increasing use of the zebrafish (Danio rerio) in scientific experiments has made it necessary to implement anesthesia protocols guaranteeing minimum pain and suffering for these animals and ensuring the reliability of the results obtained from their research. Therefore, we aimed to compare the effectiveness of two anesthetics, eugenol and MS-222, in consecutive administrations and evaluate the zebrafish behaviour after repeated anesthesia. Thus, several zebrafish were anaesthetized with eugenol, MS-222, and buffered MS-222 three times repeatedly with a 24-h interval between each exposure. The induction and recovery periods were also timed. Their swimming frequency was determined after each exposure to assess their behaviour after the anesthesia. Anesthesia induction was quicker with eugenol compared to MS-222. However, eugenol presented longer recovery times, which were prolonged after each exposure. Also, the swimming frequency was reduced after each anesthesia with eugenol. The buffered version of MS-222 was more efficacious than the non-buffered one. Both versions of MS-222 did not affect the swimming frequency. Based on these findings, we recommend the utilization of MS-222 buffered rather than eugenol when repeated, brief-duration anesthesia is necessitated for a study.
Deep Learning-Based Automated Approach for Determination of Pig Carcass Traits
Authors: Wei Jiacheng , Wu Yan , Tang Xi , Liu Jinxiu , Huang Yani , Wu Zhenfang , Li Xinyun , Zhang Zhiyan
Published: August 2024

Pig carcass traits are among the most economically significant characteristics and are crucial for genetic selection in breeding and enhancing the economic efficiency. Standardized and automated carcass phenotyping can greatly enhance the measurement efficiency and accuracy, thereby facilitating the selection and breeding of superior pig carcasses. In this study, we utilized phenotypic images and data from 3912 pigs to propose a deep learning-based approach for the automated determination of pig carcass phenotypic traits. Using the YOLOv8 algorithm, our carcass length determination model achieves an average accuracy of 99% on the test set. Additionally, our backfat segmentation model, YOLOV8n-seg, demonstrates robust segmentation performance, with a Mean IoU of 89.10. An analysis of the data distribution comparing manual and model-derived measurements revealed that differences in the carcass straight length are primarily concentrated between −2 cm and 4 cm, while differences in the carcass diagonal length are concentrated between −3 cm and 2 cm. To validate the method, we compared model measurements with manually obtained data, achieving coefficients of determination (R2) of 0.9164 for the carcass straight length, 0.9325 for the carcass diagonal length, and 0.7137 for the backfat thickness, indicating high reliability. Our findings provide valuable insights into automating carcass phenotype determination and grading in pig production.
Study on the Regulatory Mechanism of the PDK1-Mediated TGF-β/Smad Signaling Pathway in Hypoxia-Induced Yak Lungs
Authors: Zhang Yiyang , Wang Jun , Zhang Meng , Li Xiaoyun , Zhang Fan , Zhou Manlin , Yang Kun , Chen Weiji , Ding Haie , Tan Xiao , Zhang Qian , Qiao Zilin
Published: August 2024

The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of hypoxia-induced phenotype, glucose metabolism, ROS levels, and the PDK1-mediated regulation of TGF-β/Smad signaling in yellow cattles, yaks, and those overexpressing PDK1 PASMCs using growth curves, flow cytometry, scratch experiments, glucose and lactic acid assays, RT-qPCR, and Western blotting. The results showed that hypoxia significantly promoted proliferation, migration, antiapoptosis, ROS levels, glucose consumption, and lactate production in yellow cattle PASMCs (p < 0.05), and the cells were dedifferentiated from the contractile phenotype; conversely, hypoxia had no significant effect on yak PASMCs (p > 0.05). PDK1 overexpression significantly promoted proliferation, antiapoptosis, glucose consumption, and lactate production in yak PASMCs under normoxia and hypoxia (p < 0.05), decreased their migration levels under hypoxia (p < 0.05), and dedifferentiated the contractile phenotype of the cells. Overexpression of PDK1 in yak PASMCs is detrimental to their adaptation to hypoxic environments. Yak PASMCs adapted to the effects of hypoxia on lung tissue by downregulating the expression of genes related to the PDK1 and TGF-β/Smad signaling pathways. Taken together, the regulation of PDK1-mediated TGF-β/Smad signaling may be involved in the process of yaks’ adaptation to the hypoxic environment of the plateau, reflecting the good adaptive ability of yaks. The present study provides basic information to further elucidate the mechanism of PDK1-mediated TGF-β/Smad signaling induced by hypoxia in the lungs of yaks, as well as target genes for the treatment of plateau diseases in humans and animals.
Clinicopathological and Molecular Investigation of Newcastle Disease Outbreaks in Vaccinated and Non-Vaccinated Broiler Chicken Flocks in Nepal
Authors: Regmi Subash , Bhatta Rajesh , Pal Pushkar , Shrestha Arvindra , Mató Tamás , Puri Bikash , Paudel Surya
Published: August 2024

Newcastle disease (ND) is a highly contagious viral disease caused by the paramyxovirus, which is a single-stranded ribonucleic acid (RNA) virus. This study was conducted to investigate ND outbreaks in 10 vaccinated or non-vaccinated broiler farms, collectively housing 9840 birds of various ages in the Chitwan and Nawalpur districts of Nepal from July to December 2021. Clinically, the affected birds exhibited symptoms such as limb paralysis, greenish diarrhea (seven out of ten flocks), torticollis (two out of ten flocks), inappetence, and drowsiness (ten out of ten flocks). Birds that succumbed during the clinical course underwent a necropsy for gross pathology and samples were collected for the histopathology and molecular diagnosis. The gross and microscopic examination revealed hemorrhages in the proventriculus, erosions and ulcers in the small intestine, congestion, as well as sero-mucosal hemorrhages in the trachea of affected birds, which are typical of ND. Rapid test kits further confirmed the presence of the ND virus antigen while excluding the avian influenza virus. Furthermore, M gene-based real time polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) was performed in the pooled samples from the affected birds and the presence of a velogenic strain of the ND virus was identified. The phylogenetic analysis of the RT-PCR positive strain based on the partial F gene nucleotide sequence revealed these strains as genotype VII.2 (formerly VIIi). The findings highlight the occurrence of clinical ND outbreaks in farms despite adherence to recommended vaccination protocols in broiler flocks, underscoring the need for a regular comprehensive investigation involving in-depth examinations of available vaccines and genetic analyses.
Recent Developments in the Application of Filamentous Fungus Aspergillus oryzae in Ruminant Feed
Authors: Uwineza Clarisse , Parchami Milad , Bouzarjomehr Mohammadali , Taherzadeh Mohammad J. , Mahboubi Amir
Published: August 2024

The resource-intensive nature of the ruminant farming sector, which has been exacerbated by population growth and increasing pressure to reduce feed antibiotics and growth promoters, has sparked interest in looking for sustainable alternative feed sources to enhance ruminant production efficiency. Edible filamentous fungi, rich in macronutrients like proteins, offer promise in reducing the reliance on conventional protein sources and antimicrobials to improve feed quality and animal performance. The inclusion of single-cell proteins, particularly filamentous fungi, in ruminant feed has long been of scientific and industrial interest. This review focuses on the potential application of the extensively studied Aspergillus oryzae and its fermentation extracts in ruminant nutrition. It provides an overview of conventional ruminant feed ingredients, supplements, and efficiency. Additionally, this review analyzes the re-utilization of organic residues for A. oryzae cultivation and examines the effects of adding fungal extracts to ruminant feed on ruminal digestibility and animal performance, all within a circular bioeconomy framework.
The Effect of Phytogenic Additive in Broiler’s Diet on Production Results, Physicochemical Parameters, and the Composition of Volatile Organic Compounds of Broiler Meat Assessed by an Electronic Nose System
Authors: Michalczuk Monika , Abramowicz-Pindor Paulina , Urban Jakub , Bień Damian , Ciborowska Patrycja , Matuszewski Arkadiusz , Zalewska Anna , Opacka Eliza , Wojtasik-Kalinowska Iwona
Published: August 2024

The primary objective of this study was to investigate the impact of a phytogenic additive (PA) in broiler chickens’ diet on production, physiochemical parameters, and the profile of volatile organic compounds present in broiler chickens’ meat. The experiment was conducted in a commercial chicken house, where Ross 308 broiler chickens were divided into two groups, each consisting of 65,000 broilers. One group was fed a diet supplemented with 100 ppm of PA throughout the rearing period. The primary chemical composition of the meat and its physicochemical parameters were determined. A visual assessment of breast muscles for defects and volatile organic compounds were evaluated using an electronic nose system. No statistically significant differences were shown in the production performance of the chickens; while summarizing all production parameters, a higher EPEF index of 31 points in the experimental group was highlighted. Breast muscle quality showed differences in drip loss and WHC (p ≤ 0.01) in favor of the experimental group, and a lower cutting force value (p ≤ 0.05) was found for breast muscles from the experimental group. The group also had a lower proportion of muscles with a white striping defect, and the results of volatile organic compound profiling showed the most aroma units.
The Use of Pulmonary Arterial Pressure (PAP) for Improved Beef Cattle Management
Authors: Stearns Kaylen , DelCurto-Wyffels Hannah , Wyffels Sam , Van Emon Megan , DelCurto Tim
Published: August 2024

Pulmonary arterial pressure (PAP) determines cattle’s susceptibility to High Altitude Disease (HAD), also known as Brisket Disease, High Mountain Disease, and right-sided heart failure (RHF). This non-infectious disease causes pulmonary hypertension due to hypoxia. PAP measures the resistance of blood flow through the lungs. It is estimated that 1.5 million head of cattle are raised in high-altitude environments (above 1500 m), and HAD accounts for 3–5% of calf death loss yearly. In addition, there have been increasing concerns about feedlot cattle succumbing to RHF at moderate elevations. This review focuses on the historical background, explanation of PAP measurement and scores, genetic implications, and the relationship between PAP and economically relevant traits. Specifically, traits such as gestation length, birth weight, weaning weight, and yearling weight may impact PAP scores. In addition, environmental effects and other factors impacting PAP score variations are discussed. Information gaps and research needs are addressed to determine where missing information could improve the understanding of PAP while also benefiting beef cattle producers in high-elevation production systems.
Seasonal Variation in Mammalian Mesopredator Spatiotemporal Overlap on a Barrier Island Complex
Authors: Bransford Timothy D. , Harris Spencer A. , Forys Elizabeth A.
Published: August 2024

Due to lack of apex predators in human-dominated landscapes, mesopredator relationships are complex and spatiotemporal niche partitioning strategies can vary, especially when seasonal shifts in resource availability occur. Our objective was to understand spatiotemporal niche overlap across seasons among mesopredators inhabiting a barrier island complex. We placed 19 unbaited cameras throughout Fort De Soto County Park, Florida, USA between February 2021 and July 2023. Of six mesopredator species detected, three species had >75 detections during both the wet and dry seasons (coyote, Canis latrans; Virginia opossum, Didelphis virginiana; and raccoon, Procyon lotor). Using general linear mixed models, we determined that during the wet season coyote–raccoon and raccoon–opossum detections were positively associated with each other (p < 0.05). During the dry season, raccoon–opossum detections were positively associated, and opossums were more likely to be detected around mangroves. After calculating coefficients of overlap, we found all three species varied their temporal activity between seasons. During the dry season exclusively, all three mesopredators occupied different temporal niches. The park’s isolated but developed nature has potentially led to a destabilized mesopredator community. Understanding seasonal mesopredator dynamics of Fort De Soto is particularly important because this park supports a high number of nesting shorebirds and sea turtles, which are known food sources for mesopredators.
The Effects of L-citrulline Supplementation on the Athletic Performance, Physiological and Biochemical Parameters, Antioxidant Capacity, and Blood Amino Acid and Polyamine Levels in Speed-Racing Yili Horses
Authors: Li Peiyao , Sun Shuo , Zhang Wenjie , Ouyang Wen , Li Xiaobin , Yang Kailun
Published: August 2024

The objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of pre-exercise L-citrulline supplementation on the athletic performance of Yili speed-racing horses during a high-intensity exercise. On the 20th day of the experiment, blood samples were collected at 3 h and 6 h post-supplementation to measure the amino acid and polyamine concentrations. On the 38th day of the experiment, the horses participated in a 2000 m speed race, and three distinct blood samples were gathered for assessing blood gases, hematological parameters, the plasma biochemistry, antioxidant parameters, and NO concentrations. The results indicate that the L-citrulline group showed a significant increase in the plasma citrulline and arginine concentrations. Conversely, the concentrations of alanine, serine, and threonine were significantly decreased. The glycine concentration decreased significantly, while there was a trend towards an increase in the glutamine concentration. Additionally, the levels of putrescine and spermidine in the plasma of the L-citrulline group were significantly increased. In terms of exercise performance, L-citrulline can improve the exercise performance of sport horses, significantly reduce the immediate post-race lactate levels in Yili horses, and accelerate the recovery of blood gas levels after an exercise. Furthermore, in the L-citrulline group of Yili horses, The levels of the total protein of plasma, superoxide dismutase, catalase, and lactate dehydrogenase were significantly increased both 2 h before and 2 h after the race. The total antioxidant capacity showed a highly significant increase, while the malondialdehyde content significantly decreased. In the immediate post-race period, the creatinine content in the L-citrulline group significantly increased. In conclusion, this study demonstrates that L-citrulline supplementation can influence the circulating concentrations of L-citrulline and arginine in Yili horses, enhance the antioxidant capacity, reduce lactate levels, and improve physiological and biochemical blood parameters, thereby having a beneficial effect on the exercise performance of athletic horses.