bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Exploring the Role of Socially Responsible Marketing in Promoting Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion in Organizational Settings
Authors: Trkulja Željka Marčinko , Primorac Dinko , Bilić Irena
Published: March 2024

This paper delves into the concept of socially responsible marketing and its significance in fostering diversity, equity, and inclusion within organizational environments. It elucidates the connection between marketing and corporate social responsibility (CSR), showcasing methods of integrating social responsibility into marketing activities. Ethical principles inherent in socially responsible marketing are delineated, along with examples of CSR programs and projects within marketing initiatives. Furthermore, the paper explores the context and nature of diversity management policies and practices in organizations, highlighting the need for aligning marketing efforts with inclusive practices. It delves into the perception of various antecedents and consequences of diversity, equity, and inclusion at individual, group, and organizational levels, emphasizing the role of marketing in shaping perceptions and fostering inclusivity. Additionally, the paper addresses systemic, structural, organizational, institutional, cultural, and societal obstacles related to diversity, equity, and inclusion, underscoring the importance of socially responsible marketing in overcoming these challenges. It provides insights into how marketing initiatives can contribute to dismantling barriers and promoting diversity and inclusion within diverse organizational settings and workplaces. In conclusion, the paper underscores the pivotal role of socially responsible marketing in advancing diversity, equity, and inclusion agendas within organizational settings. It emphasizes the need for ethical and inclusive marketing practices and offers recommendations for incorporating social responsibility into marketing strategies to foster a more inclusive and equitable business environment.
Multi-Electric Aero Engine Control and Hardware-in-the-Loop Verification with Starter Generator Coordination
Authors: Fang Jun , Zhang Tianhong , Cen Zhaohui , Tsoutsanis Elias
Published: March 2024

The starter generator, characterized by controllable starting torque and disturbance in generator load torque, poses challenges for the multi-electric aero engine control. The key to addressing this issue lies in multi-electric aero engine control with the collaboration of a starter generator. Firstly, a multi-electric aero engine model is established, comprising a full-state turbofan engine model to enhance low-speed simulation capability and an external characteristic model of a starter generator to improve real-time simulation capability. Subsequently, the control methods for a multi-electric aero engine with starter generator coordination are proposed in three processes, including the starting process, acceleration/deceleration process, and steady-state process. During the starting process, the acceleration is controlled by coordinating the torque of the starter generator and the fuel of the aero engine. During the acceleration/deceleration process, the fuel limit value is adjusted based on the electrical load of the starter generator. During the steady-state process, the fuel is compensated based on the q-axis current of the starting generator in response to load torque disturbance. Finally, hardware-in-the-loop simulation experiments are conducted for the control of a multi-electric aero engine. The results show that the coordination reduces the oscillation of the acceleration during the startup of a multi-electric aero engine, enhancing its ability to resist disturbances from electrical load fluctuations during power generation.
Analysis of Blade Aspect Ratio’s Influence on High-Speed Axial Compressor Performance
Authors: Silva Lucilene , Grönstedt Tomas , Xisto Carlos , Whitacker Luiz , Bringhenti Cleverson , Lejon Marcus
Published: March 2024

The ratio between blade height and chord, named the aspect ratio (AR), plays an important role in compressor aerodynamic design. Once selected, it influences stage performance, blade losses and the stage stability margin. The choice of the design AR involves both aerodynamic and mechanical considerations, and an aim is frequently to achieve the desired operating range while maximizing efficiency. For a fixed set of aerodynamic and geometric parameters, there will be an optimal choice of AR that achieves a maximum efficiency. However, for a state-of-the-art aero-engine design, optimality means multi-objective optimality, that is, reaching the highest possible efficiency for a number of operating points while achieving a sufficient stability margin. To this end, the influence of the AR on the performance of the first rotor row of a multistage, multi-objective, high-speed compressor design is analyzed. A careful setup of the high-speed aerodynamic design problem allows the effect of the AR to be isolated. Close to the optimal AR, only a modest efficiency variation is observed, but a considerable change in compressor stability margin (SM) is noted. Decreasing the AR allows for increasing efficiency, but at the expense of a reduced surge margin. This allows the designer to trade efficiency for stability. Increasing the AR, however, is shown to reduce both the surge margin and efficiency; hence, a distinct optimality in stability is observed for the analyzed rotor blade row. In this work, optimality in the surge margin with respect to the AR is observed, whereas there is a close to optimal efficiency. The predicted range from AR = 1.10 to AR = 1.64 is only indicative, considering that the definition of multi-objective optimality requires balancing efficiency and the surge margin and that the choice of balancing these two criteria requires making a design choice along a pareto optimal front.
Decomposition and Driving Factors of Total Factor Productivity of Food Crops in the Yellow River Basin, China
Authors: Liu Jianxu , Li Xiaoqing , Li Yansong , Sirisrisakulchai Jirakom , Kang Xuefei , Cui Jiande
Published: March 2024

The urgency of enhancing agricultural productivity within the Yellow River Basin cannot be overstated, given its critical role in ensuring food security amidst the challenges posed by climate change, natural disasters, and the increasing demand for food crops. Utilizing panel data from nine provinces within the Yellow River Basin for the period 2001 to 2020, this study examines the temporal characteristics and spatial distribution of Total Factor Productivity (TFP) for key grain crops—namely wheat, corn, and soybean—through the application of the Malmquist index which can be decomposed through the DEA-Malmquist index methodology. The empirical results demonstrate that TFP growth rates for these crops have exhibited significant phase variations, with soybean recording the highest TFP growth rate in the basin. Additionally, this study underscores marked regional disparities in soybean productivity. TFP decomposition reveals that the primary drivers of TFP improvement across these crops are attributed to technical progress, with gains in overall technical efficiency largely due to scale efficiency enhancements, whereas pure technical efficiency has shown limited progress. Regional analysis indicates that Inner Mongolia leads in TFP growth for all crops, while Ningxia, Sichuan, and Shaanxi lag behind in wheat, corn, and soybean. Additionally, our analysis delineates natural disasters as a significant barrier to Total Factor Productivity (TFP), notably obstructing technological advancements in wheat cultivation. The investigation further reveals a positive relationship between regional per capita income and the growth of wheat TFP, in contrast to a negative relationship with the TFP growth of corn and soybeans. Moreover, investing in agriculture, forestry, water management, and road infrastructure supports the growth of wheat TFP, while urbanization levels pose constraints. Conclusively, an uptick in annual rural electricity usage, along with improved per capita postal and telecommunication services, exerts a favorable influence on TFP for corn and soybeans.
Analyzing the Impact of Storm ‘Daniel’ and Subsequent Flooding on Thessaly’s Soil Chemistry through Causal Inference
Authors: Iatrou Miltiadis , Tziouvalekas Miltiadis , Tsitouras Alexandros , Evangelou Elefterios , Noulas Christos , Vlachostergios Dimitrios , Aschonitis Vassilis , Arampatzis George , Metaxa Irene , Karydas Christos , Tziachris Panagiotis
Published: March 2024

Storm ‘Daniel’ caused the most severe flood phenomenon that Greece has ever experienced, with thousands of hectares of farmland submerged for days. This led to sediment deposition in the inundated areas, which significantly altered the chemical properties of the soil, as revealed by extensive soil sampling and laboratory analysis. The causal relationships between the soil chemical properties and sediment deposition were extracted using the DirectLiNGAM algorithm. The results of the causality analysis showed that the sediment deposition affected the CaCO3 concentration in the soil. Also, causal relationships were identified between CaCO3 and the available phosphorus (P-Olsen), as well as those between the sediment deposit depth and available manganese. The quantified relationships between the soil variables were then used to generate data using a Multiple Linear Perceptron (MLP) regressor for various levels of deposit depth (0, 5, 10, 15, 20, 25, and 30 cm). Then, linear regression equations were fitted across the different levels of deposit depth to determine the effect of the deposit depth on CaCO3, P, and Mn. The results revealed quadratic equations for CaCO3, P, and Mn as follows: 0.001XCaCO32 + 0.08XCaCO3 + 6.42, 0.004XP2 − 0.26XP + 12.29, and 0.003XMn2 − 0.08XMn + 22.47, respectively. The statistical analysis indicated that corn growing in soils with a sediment over 10 cm requires a 31.8% increase in the P rate to prevent yield decline. Additional notifications regarding cropping strategies in the near future are also discussed.
White Mustard, Sweet Alyssum, and Coriander as Insectary Plants in Agricultural Systems: Impacts on Ecosystem Services and Yield of Crops
Authors: Mena Gedyon Tamiru , Gospodarek Janina
Published: March 2024

The main reason for adding plants to accompany the main crop is to protect it from pests and diseases. We reviewed the effectiveness of white mustard (Sinapis alba L.), sweet alyssum (Lobularia maritima L.), and coriander (Coriandrum sativum L.) in this regard. White mustard proximity had a strong positive influence on the occurrence of Syrphidae, parasitoids, Coccinellidae, and Carabidae, as well as on the fertility of Syrphidae and the longevity of parasitoids—all of which are essential for biological pest control. It also reduced many pests and diseases. The influence of S. alba on yield depends on the spacing used and the species of protected plant. Sweet alyssum positively affected the occurrence of Syrphidae, Coccinellidae, Anthocoridae, epigeal, and soil fauna, as well as the longevity of parasitoids and Anthocoridae. Its effect on the crop yield is variable, depending on the references consulted. The sensitivity of L. maritima to Phyllotreta spp. excludes it as a companion plant for hosts of these pests. Coriander positively affected the occurrence of Chrysopidae, Coccinellidae, Staphylinidae, and Aranea, as well as the longevity of parasitoids and the egg-laying of Syrphidae. It also reduced some crop pests. Introduction of the reviewed plants can improve the biodiversity of beneficial entomofauna that can help control pests and reduce diseases, with benefits to crop and yield. The use of synthetic insecticides can thus be greatly reduced, though it is not always possible to avoid them completely.
Morphological Characterization of 1322 Winter Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) Varieties from EU Referent Collection
Authors: Spanic Valentina , Lalic Zvonimir , Berakovic Ivica , Jukic Goran , Varnica Ivan
Published: March 2024

The wheat grain yields increased in EU from 4.98 t ha−1 to 5.45 t ha−1 in the periods from 2006 to 2014 to from 2015 to 2023. It is hypothesized that changes in specific morphological traits over the years resulted in grain yield increase due to the utilization of new wheat varieties in production. To highlight the current status and changes over time, we evaluated a comprehensive panel of 1322 wheat varieties that included testing of morphological traits of varieties recognized from period from 2006 till 2023. Positive relation of registration year with traits such as seed color, glaucosity of neck of culm, plant height, ear length, scurs and awns length, ear color, and shape of the beak of the lower glume was obtained. The most significant changes over time resulted in a darker color of the seed, decreased area of hairiness of the convex surface of the apical rachis segment, enhanced glaucosity of the neck of the culm and decreased frequency of the plants with recurved flag leaves. It was shown that traits such as the frequency of plants with recurved flag leaves, time of emergence, glaucosity of flag leaves, existence of scurs and awns, and area of the hairiness of the convex surface of the apical rachis segment had significant decreases over time. This research demonstrated the importance of twelve morphological traits in the varietal improvement of grain yield over the time from 2006 to 2023.
The Quality of Winter Wheat Grain by Different Sowing Strategies and Nitrogen Fertilizer Rates: A Case Study in Northeastern Poland
Authors: Lachutta Krzysztof , Jankowski Krzysztof Józef
Published: March 2024

The present study was undertaken to determine the effect of different sowing strategies and spring nitrogen (N) fertilizer rates on the technological quality of winter wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) grain in terms of its milling quality, protein complex quality, and enzyme activity (falling number). Winter wheat grain for laboratory analyses was produced in a small-area field experiment conducted between 2018 and 2021 in the AES in Bałcyny (53°35′46.4″ N, 19°51′19.5″ E, NE Poland). The experimental variables were (i) sowing date (early: 6 September 2018, 5 September 2019, and 3 September 2020; delayed by 14 days: 17–20 September; and delayed by 28 days: 1–4 October), (ii) sowing density (200, 300, and 400 live grains m−2), and (iii) split application of N fertilizer in spring (40 + 100, 70 + 70, and 100 + 40 kg ha−1) at BBCH stages 22–25 and 30–31, respectively. A sowing delay of 14 and 28 days increased the bulk density (by 1 and 1.5 percent points (%p), respectively), vitreousness (by 3 and 6%p, respectively), and total protein content of grain (by 1% an 2%, respectively). A sowing delay of 14 days increased grain hardness (by 5%), the flour extraction rate (by 1.4%p), and the falling number (by 3%) while also decreasing grain uniformity (by 1.9%p). In turn, a sowing delay of 28 days increased the wet gluten content of grain (+0.5–0.6%p) and improved the quality of the protein complex in the Zeleny sedimentation test (+1.5%). An increase in sowing density from 200 to 300 live grains m−2 led to a decrease in grain uniformity (by 2.6%p), the total protein content (by 1.5%), and the wet gluten content of grain (by 0.7%p). A further increase in sowing density decreased grain vitreousness (by 1.4%p). The grain of winter wheat fertilized with 40 and 100 kg N ha−1 in BBCH stages 22–25 and 30–31, respectively, was characterized by the highest hardness (64.7), vitreousness (93%), flour extraction rate (73.9%), total protein content (134 g kg−1 DM), wet gluten content (36%), and Zeleny sedimentation index (69 mL).
Analysis of the Club Convergence and Driving Factors of China’s Green Agricultural Development Levels
Authors: Chen Silin , Guo Xiangyu
Published: March 2024

Green agricultural development opens up a feasible way for China to construct sustainable communities and promote rural revitalization strategies. However, a clear gap on the subject sets apart various regions in China, resulting in off-balance development. This paper, based on the panel data from 31 provinces (municipalities and autonomous regions) in China from 2013 to 2020, established an evaluation index system for China’s green agricultural development levels, measured the green agricultural development in different regions, and applied the log(t) model, the Ordered Probit model, and the Ordered Logit model to identify convergence trends and causes of China’s green agricultural development level club convergence, respectively. Our research found the following: (1) The green agricultural development levels in various regions in China are on the rise, and regional gaps are still significant. The output of green agricultural products is the focus of various regions in promoting green agricultural development. (2) The green agricultural development levels in China’s 31 provinces (municipalities and autonomous regions) have converged to four clubs. China is gradually forming a convergence pattern of green agricultural development levels, with the main agricultural production areas as the core. (3) The regional gap at the level of environmental regulation for green agricultural development first narrows, then expands, and then narrows. The intensity of environmental regulation in most areas is in the first stage. This indicates that China should continue to maintain the current intensity and promote green agricultural development levels to converge towards high-level clubs. In addition, the GDP, grain production area, fiscal support for agriculture, and rural human capital can narrow the gaps in green agricultural development levels between regions.
Effect of Ultrasound-Assisted Vacuum Far-Infrared on the Drying Characteristics and Qualities Attributes of Cistanche Slices
Authors: Wu Bowen , Ma Guojun , Wan Fangxin , Ma Junmin , Zang Zepeng , Xu Yanrui , Chen Ao , Huang Xiaopeng
Published: March 2024

This study applied direct-contact ultrasound-assisted Vacuum Far-Infrared (VFIR) to dry Cistanche slices, investigating the influence of radiation temperature (45 °C, 55 °C, 65 °C), ultrasonic frequency (20 kHz, 40 kHz, 60 kHz) and ultrasonic power (72 W, 96 W, 120 W) on the physicochemical properties, drying characteristics, and microstructure of Cistanche slices. The results showed that the application of ultrasound had a significant enhancement effect on the drying process, with drying time decreasing as radiation temperature, ultrasonic power, and ultrasonic frequency increased. The drying rate curves under three experimental factors exhibited a brief acceleration stage followed by a deceleration stage. Under different drying conditions, the contents of Iridoid and phenylethanoid glycosides in dried products were higher than those under natural drying (ND). Specifically, the content of catalpol at 55 °C, 96 W, 40 kHz (0.56 mg/g) and the content of Leonuride at 55 °C, 96 W, 60 kHz (0.67 mg/g) increased by 1.81 and 1.9 times, compared to ND. The rest of the nutrient content and antioxidant activity increased with the increase in ultrasonic frequency. Compared to ND, ultrasonic-assisted VFIR drying improved the color and rehydration capacity of dried products. Observation of the microstructure revealed that the application of ultrasound made the interior of Cistanche slices loose and porous. In summary, ultrasonic-assisted VFIR drying not only enhances the drying rate but also improves the quality of dried products.
Uptake of Thallium(I) by Rice Seedlings Grown in Different Soils: Key Soil Properties Determining Soil Thallium Availability
Authors: Huang Liang-Sin , Yang Puu-Tai , Lu Yu-An , Liu Wei-Lin , Chuang Tsung-Ju , Wang Shan-Li
Published: March 2024

This study investigated the uptake of thallium (Tl) by rice seedlings grown in different soils with varying physiochemical properties and Tl levels to elucidate the key factors governing soil Tl availability and accumulation in rice plants. The bioconcentration factors of Tl in rice roots (2.5–25.6) and shoots (1.5–14.7) indicated high soil Tl availability and efficient uptake and translocation of Tl in rice plants, with significant variations across soil types. Growth suppression and visual toxic symptoms, such as stem buckling, yellowish leaf tips, and withering leaf edges, occurred at low soil Tl levels due to high Tl toxicity. The accumulation of Tl by rice plants was influenced by both soil and plant-related factors. Cation exchange reactions primarily influenced the concentration of Tl in soil solution, with potassium ions (K+) acting as competitors for cation exchange sites with Tl+ ions and effective inhibitors of Tl uptake by rice plants. Increasing soil K content may mitigate soil Tl availability in contaminated soils by reducing soil Tl(I) adsorption and plant uptake. This study elucidates the key mechanisms governing soil Tl bioavailability and highlights potential management strategies to reduce Tl accumulation in crops.
New Progress in Intelligent Picking: Online Detection of Apple Maturity and Fruit Diameter Based on Machine Vision
Authors: Liu Junsheng , Zhao Guangze , Liu Shuangxi , Liu Yi , Yang Huawei , Sun Jingwei , Yan Yinfa , Fan Guoqiang , Wang Jinxing , Zhang Hongjian
Published: March 2024

In the realm of automated apple picking operations, the real-time monitoring of apple maturity and diameter characteristics is of paramount importance. Given the constraints associated with feature detection of apples in automated harvesting, this study proposes a machine vision-based methodology for the accurate identification of Fuji apples’ maturity and diameter. Firstly, maturity level detection employed an improved YOLOv5s object detection model. The feature fusion section of the YOLOv5s network was optimized by introducing the cross-level partial network module VoVGSCSP and lightweight convolution GSConv. This optimization aimed to improve the model’s multiscale feature information fusion ability while accelerating inference speed and reducing parameter count. Within the enhanced feature fusion network, a dual attention mechanism combining channel and spatial attention (GAM) was introduced to refine the color and texture feature information of apples and to increase spatial position feature weights. In terms of diameter determination, the contours of apples are obtained by integrating the dual features of color and depth images within the target boxes acquired using the maturity detection model. Subsequently, the actual area of the apple contour is determined by calculating the conversion relationship between pixel area and real area at the current depth value, thereby obtaining the diameter of the apples. Experimental results showed that the improved YOLOv5s model achieved an average maturity level detection precision of 98.7%. Particularly noteworthy was the detection accuracy for low maturity apples, reaching 97.4%, surpassing Faster R-CNN, Mask R-CNN, YOLOv7, and YOLOv5s models by 6.6%, 5.5%, 10.1%, and 11.0% with a real-time detection frame rate of 155 FPS. Diameter detection achieved a success rate of 93.3% with a real-time detection frame rate of 56 FPS and an average diameter deviation of 0.878 mm for 10 apple targets across three trials. Finally, the proposed method achieved an average precision of 98.7% for online detection of apple maturity level and 93.3% for fruit diameter features. The overall real-time inference speed was approximately 56 frames per second. These findings indicated that the method met the requirements of real-time mechanical harvesting operations, offering practical importance for the advancement of the apple industry.
Evaluation of Different Soil Salinity Indices Using Remote Sensing Techniques in Siwa Oasis, Egypt
Authors: Salem Omnia H. , Jia Zhonghua
Published: March 2024

Detecting and monitoring changes in soil salinity through remote sensing provides an opportunity for field assessment in regions where on-site measurements are limited. This research, conducted in Siwa Oasis, Egypt, aimed to assess the effectiveness of remote sensing techniques in detecting and monitoring changes in soil salinity. Using Landsat 5 and Landsat 7 satellite images, the researchers evaluated various soil salinity indices based on 56 on-site ground measurements. The study aimed to improve the correlation between electrical conductivity (EC) and index values and explore the relationship between salinity and changes in land cover. Eleven spectral indices were calculated for nine scenes captured in different months. Different approaches were employed, including stacking the data, categorizing EC measurements into salinity levels, analyzing data temporally, and conducting spatial correlation analysis. The initial approach revealed a weak correlation, due to substantial variation in EC values. However, the salinity index SI demonstrated the highest correlation coefficient of 0.38. In the second scenario, the salinity index 2 S2 index exhibited the highest correlation of 0.96 for moderate salinity samples. The third scenario showed that the salinity index 1S1 achieved the highest correlation value of 0.99 for moderately saline areas. In the fourth scenario, the SI index exhibited the strongest correlation among all four ponds, with correlation coefficients of 0.23, 0.23, 0.18, and 0.61. Notably, the correlations observed in the second and third scenarios demonstrated higher correlation coefficients than those of both the first and fourth scenarios. Additionally, remote sensing methods detected a 48% increase in total vegetated area over 17 years, showing the potential of remote sensing techniques in salinity monitoring for expanding agriculture and improving land management.
Effect of Addition of a Mixture of Ethyl Esters of Polyunsaturated Fatty Acid of Linseed Oil to Liquid Feed on Performance and Health of Dairy Calves
Authors: Baba Mohammed K. , Flaga Jadwiga , Kowalski Zygmunt M.
Published: March 2024

This study aimed to determine the effect of supplementing liquid feeds with a mixture of ethyl esters of polyunsaturated fatty acid of linseed oil (EEPUFA; α-linolenic acid—64.5%, linoleic acid—16.1%, and oleic acid—19.4%) on feed intake, body weight gain, feed efficiency, and health of dairy calves. Thirty-six healthy female Holstein–Friesian calves (7 d of age, 41.2 ± 4.0 kg) were assigned to one of two treatment groups (18 calves per group), i.e., control or EEPUFA, and fed liquid feed (whole milk (WM) or milk replacer (MR)) either without or with 10 mL/d of EEPUFA supplementation, respectively, for 56 days (till 63 d of age). Average daily intake of WM and MR was similar between treatments (p = 0.94). Average daily total DM intake and average daily starter feed DM intake were higher for the EEPUFA group (p = 0.05 and p = 0.01, respectively). The average daily body weight gain was also higher for the EEPUFA group (55 g/d; p = 0.03), although final body weight turned out not to be significantly different between groups (75.6 kg vs. 79.0 kg, control vs. EEPUFA, respectively; p = 0.20). Supplementation of liquid feeds with EEPUFA did not affect feed efficiency (p = 0.37) and most of investigated health parameters. However, the percentage of days with diarrhea relative to the number of days receiving treatment was higher in the control group than the EEPUFA group (76 vs. 42, respectively; p = 0.04). Although the results of this preliminary study are promising, further research is needed to establish the dose effect of EEPUFA on the performance and health of calves.
Enhancing Genomic Prediction Accuracy for Body Conformation Traits in Korean Holstein Cattle
Authors: Lee Jungjae , Mun Hyosik , Koo Yangmo , Park Sangchul , Kim Junsoo , Yu Seongpil , Shin Jiseob , Lee Jaegu , Son Jihyun , Park Chanhyuk , Lee Seokhyun , Song Hyungjun , Kim Sungjin , Dang Changgwon , Park Jun
Published: March 2024

The Holstein breed is the mainstay of dairy production in Korea. In this study, we evaluated the genomic prediction accuracy for body conformation traits in Korean Holstein cattle, using a range of π levels (0.75, 0.90, 0.99, and 0.995) in Bayesian methods (BayesB and BayesC). Focusing on 24 traits, we analyzed the impact of different π levels on prediction accuracy. We observed a general increase in accuracy at higher levels for specific traits, with variations depending on the Bayesian method applied. Notably, the highest accuracy was achieved for rear teat angle when using deregressed estimated breeding values including parent average as a response variable. We further demonstrated that incorporating parent average into deregressed estimated breeding values enhances genomic prediction accuracy, showcasing the effectiveness of the model in integrating both offspring and parental genetic information. Additionally, we identified 18 significant window regions through genome-wide association studies, which are crucial for future fine mapping and discovery of causal mutations. These findings provide valuable insights into the efficiency of genomic selection for body conformation traits in Korean Holstein cattle and highlight the potential for advancements in the prediction accuracy using larger datasets and more sophisticated genomic models.
Functional Analysis and Tissue-Specific Expression of Calcitonin and CGRP with RAMP-Modulated Receptors CTR and CLR in Chickens
Authors: Huang Tianjiao , Su Jiancheng , Wang Xinglong , Shi Ningkun , Zhang Xiao , He Jiliang , Li Juan , Zhang Jiannan , Wang Yajun
Published: March 2024

Calcitonin (CT) and calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) are critical regulators of calcium balance and have extensive implications for vertebrate physiological processes. This study explores the CT and CGRP signaling systems in chickens through cloning and characterization of the chicken calcitonin receptor (CTR) and calcitonin receptor-like receptor (CLR), together with three receptor activity-modifying proteins (RAMPs). We illuminated the functional roles for chickens between the receptors examined alone and in RAMP-associated complexes using luciferase reporter assays. Chicken CTRs and CLRs stimulated the cAMP/PKA and MAPK/ERK signaling pathways, signifying their functional receptor status, with CT showing appreciable ligand activity at nanomolar concentrations across receptor combinations. Notably, it is revealed that chicken CLR can act as a functional receptor for CT without or with RAMPs. Furthermore, we uncovered a tissue-specific expression profile for CT, CGRP, CTR, CLR, and RAMPs in chickens, indicating the different physiological roles across various tissues. In conclusion, our data establish a clear molecular basis to reveal information on CT, CGRP, CTR, CLR, and RAMPs in chickens and contribute to understanding the conserved or divergent functions of this family in vertebrates.
Strain-Specific Benefits of Bacillus Probiotics in Hybrid Grouper: Growth Enhancement, Metabolic Health, Immune Modulation, and Vibrio harveyi Resistance
Authors: Han Congjie , Song Shizhen , Cui Congcong , Cai Yan , Zhou Yongcan , Wang Jiawen , Bei Weilie , Zhang Dongdong , Guo Weiliang , Wang Shifeng
Published: March 2024

In the realm of modern aquaculture, the utilization of probiotics has gained prominence, primarily due to their ability to enhance growth, boost immunity, and prevent diseases in aquatic species. This study primarily investigates the efficacy of Bacillus subtilis strains, both host-derived and from other sources, in influencing fish growth, immunity, lipid metabolism, and disease resistance. Employing a 42-day feeding trial, we divided hybrid grouper into four distinct groups: a control group on a basal diet and three experimental groups supplemented with 1 × 108 CFU/g of different Bacillus subtilis strains-BS, 6-3-1, and HAINUP40. Remarkably, the study demonstrated that the 6-3-1 and HAINUP40 groups exhibited significant enhancements across key growth parameters: final body weight (FBW), weight gain rate (WGR), feed intake (FI), feed efficiency ratio (FER), and feed conversion ratio (FCR). The investigation into lipid metabolism revealed that the 6-3-1 strain upregulated seven metabolism-related genes, HAINUP40 affected four metabolism-related genes, and the BS strain influenced two metabolism-related genes, indicating diverse metabolic impacts by different strains. Further, a notable reduction in liver enzymes AST and ALT was observed across all supplemented groups, implying improved liver health. Noteworthy was the BS strain’s superior antioxidative capabilities, positively affecting all four measured parameters (CAT, GSH-Px, MDA). In the sphere of immune-related gene expression, the BS strain significantly decreased the expression of both inflammation and apoptosis-related genes, whereas the HAINUP40 strain demonstrated an upregulation in these genes. The challenge test results were particularly telling, showcasing improved survival rates against Vibrio harveyi infection in the BS and 6-3-1 groups, unlike the HAINUP40 group. These outcomes highlight the strain-specific nature of probiotics and their varying mechanisms of action within the host. In conclusion, this study reveals that probiotic strains, varying by source, demonstrate unique, strain-specific effects in promoting growth and modulating immunity in hybrid grouper. This research highlights the promise of tailored probiotic applications in improving aquaculture practices. Such advancements contribute to more sustainable and efficient fish farming methods.
Comparative Genomics Reveal Phylogenetic Relationship and Chromosomal Evolutionary Events of Eight Cervidae Species
Authors: Tang Lixin , Dong Shiwu , Xing Xiumei
Published: March 2024

Cervidae represents a family that is not only rich in species diversity but also exhibits a wide range of karyotypes. The controversies regarding the phylogeny and classification of Cervidae still persist. The flourishing development of the genomic era has made it possible to address these issues at the genomic level. Here, the genomes of nine species were used to explore the phylogeny and chromosomal evolutionary events of Cervidae. By conducting whole-genome comparisons, we identified single-copy orthologous genes across the nine species and constructed a phylogenetic tree based on the single-copy orthologous genes sequences, providing new insights into the phylogeny of Cervidae, particularly the phylogenetic relationship among sika deer, red deer, wapiti and Tarim red deer. Gene family analysis revealed contractions in the olfactory receptor gene family and expansions in the histone gene family across eight Cervidae species. Furthermore, synteny analysis was used to explore the chromosomal evolutionary events of Cervidae species, revealing six chromosomal fissions during the evolutionary process from Bovidae to Cervidae. Notably, specific chromosomal fusion events were found in four species of Cervus, and a unique chromosomal fusion event was identified in Muntiacus reevesi. Our study further completed the phylogenetic relationship within the Cervidae and demonstrated the feasibility of inferring species phylogeny at the whole-genome level. Additionally, our findings on gene family evolution and the chromosomal evolutionary events in eight Cervidae species lay a foundation for comprehensive research of the evolution of Cervidae.
Occurrence and Risk Factors Associated with Platynosomum illiciens Infection in Cats with Elevated Liver Enzymes
Authors: Chantawong Pinkarn , Potiwong Jiraporn , Choochote Natchanon , Piyarungsri Kakanang , Kunkaew Chakorn , Tangtrongsup Sahatchai , Tiwananthagorn Saruda
Published: March 2024

Platynosomum spp., a hepatic trematode, causes fatal hepatobiliary disease in cats. Feline platynosomiasis is often underestimated due to a lack of awareness and diagnostic challenges. This study aimed to investigate the occurrence, factors, and clinicopathological abnormalities associated with Platynosomum spp. infection in cats with elevated serum ALT levels. Platynosomum infection was determined using zinc sulfate flotation and formalin–ether sedimentation. DNA sequence analysis of PCR products from the Platynosomum internal transcribed spacer 2 (ITS2) region and cox1 gene was used to identify Platynosomum species. Of a total of 43 cat fecal samples, the proportion of Platynosomum spp. infection by microscopic examination was 11.63% (5/43). All PCR-positive samples were molecularly identified as Platynosomum illiciens. From the logistic regression analysis, the odds of Platynosomum infection in cats without a deworming program were 16 times higher than those of regularly dewormed cats. Demographic data, housing conditions, and predatory behavior were not significantly associated with the infection. Regarding blood profiles, infected cats had higher eosinophil counts (p = 0.014), with no significant differences in ALT (p = 0.791) or ALP (p = 0.970) levels compared to non-infected cats. Our findings demonstrate that eosinophilia in cats with increased serum ALT may suggest P. illiciens infection in endemic areas. We strongly recommend a regular deworming program to mitigate the risk of P. illiciens infection.
Probiotic Roles of Clostridium butyricum in Piglets: Considering Aspects of Intestinal Barrier Function
Authors: Tang Xiaopeng
Published: March 2024

China, as the global leader in pork production and consumption, is faced with challenges in ensuring sustainable and wholesome growth of the pig industry while also guaranteeing meat food safety amidst the ban on antibiotics usage in animal feed. The focus of the pig industry lies in guaranteeing piglet health and enhancing overall production performance through nutrition regulation. Clostridium butyricum (C. butyricum), a new type of probiotic, possesses characteristics such as heat resistance, acid resistance, and bile-salt tolerance, meaning it has potential as a feed additive. Previous studies have demonstrated that C. butyricum has a probiotic effect on piglets and can serve as a substitute for antibiotics. The objective of this study was to review the probiotic role of C. butyricum in the production of piglets, specifically focusing on intestinal barrier function. Through this review, we explored the probiotic effects of C. butyricum on piglets from the perspective of intestinal health. That is, C. butyricum promotes intestinal health by regulating the functions of the mechanical barrier, chemical barrier, immune barrier, and microbial barrier of piglets, thereby improving the growth of piglets. This review can provide a reference for the rational utilization and application of C. butyricum in swine production.
Insights into the Evolution of IncR Plasmids Found in the Southern European Clone of the Monophasic Variant of Salmonella enterica Serovar Typhimurium
Authors: Vázquez Xenia , Fernández Javier , Heinisch Jürgen J. , Rodicio Rosaura , Rodicio M. Rosario
Published: March 2024

Salmonella enterica subspecies enterica serovar 4,[5],12:i:- is a monophasic variant of S. Typhimurium which has emerged as a world-wide distributed pathogen in the last decades. Several clones have been identified within this variant, the European clone, the Spanish clone, the Southern European clone and the U.S./American clone. The present study focused on isolates of the Southern European clone that were obtained from clinical samples at Spanish hospitals. The selected isolates were multidrug resistant, with most resistance genes residing on IncR plasmids that also carried virulence genes. These plasmids had a mosaic structure, comprising a highly reduced IncR backbone, which has acquired a large amount of exogenous DNA mostly derived from pSLT and IncI1-I(alfa) plasmids. Although composed of approximately the same elements, the investigated plasmids displayed a high diversity, consistent with active evolution driven by a wealth of mobile genetic elements. They comprise multiple intact or truncated insertion sequences, transposons, pseudo-compound transposons and integrons. Particularly relevant was the role of IS26 (with six to nine copies per plasmid) in generating insertions, deletions and inversions, with many of the rearrangements uncovered by tracking the patterns of eight bp target site duplications. Most of the resistance genes detected in the analyzed isolates have been previously associated with the Southern European clone. However, erm(B), lnu(G) and blaTEM-1B are novel, with the last two carried by a second resistance plasmid found in one of the IncR-positive isolates. Thus, evolution of resistance in the Southern European clone is not only mediated by diversification of the IncR plasmids, but also through acquisition of additional plasmids. All isolates investigated in the present study have the large deletion affecting the fljBA region previously found to justify the monophasic phenotype in the Southern European and U.S./American clones. An SNP-based phylogenetic analysis revealed the close relationship amongst our isolates, and support that those sharing the large fljBA deletion could be more heterogeneous than previously anticipated.
Heterogeneous Antibiotic Resistance Gene Removal Impedes Evaluation of Constructed Wetlands for Effective Greywater Treatment
Authors: Itzhari Daniella , Shuai Weitao , Hartmann Erica M. , Ronen Zeev
Published: March 2024

Microorganisms carrying antimicrobial resistance genes are often found in greywater. As the reuse of greywater becomes increasingly needed, it is imperative to determine how greywater treatment impacts antimicrobial resistance genes (ARGs). Using qPCR and SmartChip™ qPCR, we characterized ARG patterns in greywater microbial communities before, during, and after treatment by a recirculating vertical flow constructed wetland. In parallel, we examined the impact of greywater-treated irrigation on soil, including the occurrence of emerging micropollutants and the taxonomic and ARG compositions of microbial communities. Most ARGs in raw greywater are removed efficiently during the winter season, while some ARGs in the effluents increase in summer. SmartChip™ qPCR revealed the presence of ARGs, such as tetracycline and beta-lactam resistance genes, in both raw and treated greywater, but most abundantly in the filter bed. It also showed that aminoglycoside and vancomycin gene abundances significantly increased after treatment. In the irrigated soil, the type of water (potable or treated greywater) had no specific impact on the total bacterial abundance (16S rRNA gene). No overlapping ARGs were found between treated greywater and greywater-irrigated soil. This study indicates ARG abundance and richness increased after treatment, possibly due to the concentration effects of the filter beds.
Rebound Inverts the Staphylococcus aureus Bacteremia Prevention Effect of Antibiotic Based Decontamination Interventions in ICU Cohorts with Prolonged Length of Stay
Authors: Hurley James
Published: March 2024

Could rebound explain the paradoxical lack of prevention effect against Staphylococcus aureus blood stream infections (BSIs) with antibiotic-based decontamination intervention (BDI) methods among studies of ICU patients within the literature? Two meta-regression models were applied, each versus the group mean length of stay (LOS). Firstly, the prevention effects against S. aureus BSI [and S. aureus VAP] among 136 studies of antibiotic-BDI versus other interventions were analyzed. Secondly, the S. aureus BSI [and S. aureus VAP] incidence in 268 control and intervention cohorts from studies of antibiotic-BDI versus that among 165 observational cohorts as a benchmark was modelled. In model one, the meta-regression line versus group mean LOS crossed the null, with the antibiotic-BDI prevention effect against S. aureus BSI at mean LOS day 7 (OR 0.45; 0.30 to 0.68) inverted at mean LOS day 20 (OR 1.7; 1.1 to 2.6). In model two, the meta-regression line versus group mean LOS crossed the benchmark line, and the predicted S. aureus BSI incidence for antibiotic-BDI groups was 0.47; 0.09–0.84 percentage points below versus 3.0; 0.12–5.9 above the benchmark in studies with 7 versus 20 days mean LOS, respectively. Rebound within the intervention groups attenuated and inverted the prevention effect of antibiotic-BDI against S. aureus VAP and BSI, respectively. This explains the paradoxical findings.
Perioperative Considerations for the Surgical Treatment of Crohn’s Disease with Discussion on Surgical Antibiotics Practices and Impact on the Gut Microbiome
Authors: Olson Shelbi , Welton Lindsay , Jahansouz Cyrus
Published: March 2024

Crohn’s disease, a chronic inflammatory process of the gastrointestinal tract defined by flares and periods of remission, is increasing in incidence. Despite advances in multimodal medical therapy, disease progression often necessitates multiple operations with high morbidity. The inability to treat Crohn’s disease successfully is likely in part because the etiopathogenesis is not completely understood; however, recent research suggests the gut microbiome plays a critical role. How traditional perioperative management, including bowel preparation and preoperative antibiotics, further changes the microbiome and affects outcomes is not well described, especially in Crohn’s patients, who are unique given their immunosuppression and baseline dysbiosis. This paper aims to outline current knowledge regarding perioperative management of Crohn’s disease, the evolving role of gut dysbiosis, and how the microbiome can guide perioperative considerations with special attention to perioperative antibiotics as well as treatment of Mycobacterium avium subspecies paratuberculosis. In conclusion, dysbiosis is common in Crohn’s patients and may be exacerbated by malnutrition, steroids, narcotic use, diarrhea, and perioperative antibiotics. Dysbiosis is also a major risk factor for anastomotic leak, and special consideration should be given to limiting factors that further perturb the gut microbiota in the perioperative period.
Efficacy and Synergistic Potential of Cinnamon (Cinnamomum zeylanicum) and Clove (Syzygium aromaticum L. Merr. & Perry) Essential Oils to Control Food-Borne Pathogens in Fresh-Cut Fruits
Authors: Iseppi Ramona , Truzzi Eleonora , Sabia Carla , Messi Patrizia
Published: March 2024

The presence of microbial pathogens in ready-to-eat produce represents a serious health problem. The antibacterial activity of cinnamon (Cinnamomum zeylanicum) and clove (Syzygium aromaticum L. Merr. & Perry) essential oils (EOs) was determined toward food-borne pathogens by agar disk diffusion and minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) assays. The growth kinetics of all strains, both in a buffer suspension assay and “on food” in artificially contaminated samples, were also investigated. The two EOs demonstrated a good antibacterial effect both alone and in combination (EO/EO). The use of EO/EO led to a synergistic antibacterial effect, also confirmed by the growth kinetics studies, where the EOs were active after 10 h of incubation (p < 0.0001) at significantly lower concentrations than those when alone. In the “on food” studies performed on artificially contaminated fruit samples stored at 4 °C for 8 days, the greatest killing activity was observed at the end of the trial (8 days) with a reduction of up to 7 log CFU/g compared to the control. These results confirm the good antibacterial activity of the EOs, which were more effective when used in combination. Data from the "on food" studies suggest cinnamon and clove essential oils, traditionally used in the food industry, as a possible natural alternative to chemical additives.