bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Multifunctional Solution for Wicked Problems: Value-Chain Wide Facilitation of Legumes Cultivated at Bioregional Scales Is Necessary to Address the Climate-Biodiversity-Nutrition Nexus
Authors: Iannetta Pietro P. M. , Hawes Cathy , Begg Graham S. , Maaß Henrik , Ntatsi Georgia , Savvas Dimitrios , Vasconcelos Marta , Hamann Karen , Williams Michael , Styles David , Toma Luiza , Shrestha Shailesh , Balázs Bálint , Kelemen Eszter , Debeljak Marko , Trajanov Aneta , Vickers R , Rees Robert M.
Published: July 2021

Well-managed legume-based food systems are uniquely positioned to curtail the existential challenge posed by climate change through the significant contribution that legumes can make toward limiting Green House Gas (GHG) emissions. This potential is enabled by the specific functional attributes offered only by legumes, which deliver multiple co-benefits through improved ecosystem functions, including reduced farmland biodiversity loss, and better human-health and -nutrition provisioning. These three critical societal challenges are referred to collectively here as the “climate-biodiversity-nutrition nexus.” Despite the unparalleled potential of the provisions offered by legumes, this diverse crop group remains characterized as underutilized throughout Europe, and in many regions world-wide. This commentary highlights that integrated, diverse, legume-based, regenerative agricultural practices should be allied with more-concerted action on ex-farm gate factors at appropriate bioregional scales. Also, that this can be achieved whilst optimizing production, safeguarding food-security, and minimizing additional land-use requirements. To help avoid forfeiting the benefits of legume cultivation for system function, a specific and practical methodological and decision-aid framework is offered. This is based upon the identification and management of sustainable-development indicators for legume-based value chains, to help manage the key facilitative capacities and dependencies. Solving the wicked problems of the climate-biodiversity-nutrition nexus demands complex solutions and multiple benefits and this legume-focus must be allied with more-concerted policy action, including improved facilitation of the catalytic provisions provided by collaborative capacity builders—to ensure that the knowledge networks are established, that there is unhindered information flow, and that new transformative value-chain capacities and business models are established.
A Global Optimization Method to Determine the Complex Material Constants of Piezoelectric Bars in the Length Thickness Extensional Mode
Authors: Xiong Xiangming , Li Xiaotian
Published: July 2021

Optimization methods have been used to determine the elastic, piezoelectric, and dielectric constants of piezoelectric materials from admittance or impedance measurements. The optimal material constants minimize the difference between the modeled and measured admittance or impedance spectra. In this paper, a global optimization method is proposed to calculate the optimal material constants of piezoelectric bars in the length thickness extensional mode. The algorithm is applied to a soft PZT and a hard PZT and is shown to be robust.
Recognition Method of Digital Meter Readings in Substation Based on Connected Domain Analysis Algorithm
Authors: Zhang Ziyuan , Hua Zexi , Tang Yongchuan , Zhang Yunjia , Lu Weijun , Dai Congfei
Published: July 2021

Aiming at the problem that the number and decimal point of digital instruments in substations are prone to misdetection and missed detection, a method of digital meter readings in a substation based on connected domain analysis algorithm is proposed. This method uses Faster R-CNN (Faster Region Convolutional Neural Network) as a positioning network to localize the dial area, and after acquiring the partial image, it enhances the useful information of the digital area. YOLOv4 (You Only Look Once) convolutional neural network is used as the detector to detect the digital area. The purpose is to distinguish the numbers and obtain the digital area that may contain a decimal point or no decimal point at the tail. Combined with the connected domain analysis algorithm, the difference between the number of connected domain categories and the area ratio of the digital area is analyzed, and the judgment of the decimal point is realized. The method reduces the problem of mutual interference among categories when detecting YOLOv4. The experimental results show that the method improves the detection accuracy of the algorithm.
Public Value Co-Creation in Living Labs—Results from Three Case Studies
Authors: Haug Nathalie , Mergel Ines
Published: July 2021

Living Labs—innovation units established to introduce new methods and approaches into public sector organizations—have received a lot of attention as methods for experimentation and open innovation practices in public sector organizations. However, little is known so far about how they co-create public value and which conditions influence these co-creation practices. Therefore, the research questions are: which organizational factors influence the process of public value co-creation and which outcomes and values are produced as a result? The research questions were answered by employing a qualitative research approach conducting semi-structured interviews with employees and participants of three living labs in Germany and Austria. The results show top-level support and lab leadership as the most important context factors. Living labs produce tangible and intangible outcomes. The tangible outcomes are the products developed within the lab, and the intangible outcomes are created by the interaction between the lab’s participants. The main contributions are twofold: first, context factors are identified that lead to the success of co-creation processes within living labs. Second, the study contributes to the literature on public value because it is shown that participation in living labs itself leads to added value in addition to the tangible and intangible outcomes.
The Green Deal, National Energy and Climate Plans in Europe: Member States’ Compliance and Strategies
Authors: Maris Georgios , Flouros Floros
Published: July 2021

This paper analyses the EU’s policies for energy and climate, using Börzel’s theoretical framework on Europeanisation, and examines Member States’ Green Deal responses, strategies, and compliance. As expressed in their final NECPs, although Member States’ responses vary, most of the critical components were partially addressed, while the others were largely addressed. We observe a considerable variation in Member States’ strategies. Member States classified as foot-dragging beforehand are fence-sitting now, while those previously categorised as fence-sitting are now either foot-dragging or pace-setting. The root cause of these classification changes for the Member States within the EU can be traced back to their internal environments in which the involved stakeholders each have a different response pace regarding environment, climate, and energy. We present and analyse our theoretical context, discuss the EU’s energy policies and the NECPs, examine Member States’ responses and compliance with this new framework, and propose several challenges.
Poplar-Assisted Bioremediation for Recovering a PCB and Heavy-Metal-Contaminated Area
Authors: Ancona Valeria , Rascio Ida , Aimola Giorgia , Campanale Claudia , Grenni Paola , Lenola Martina Di , Garbini Gian Luigi , Uricchio Vito Felice , Barra Caracciolo Anna
Published: July 2021

A Monviso clone has been applied to promote PCB degradation in a soil historically contaminated by polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) and heavy metals (HMs). The multi-contaminated area is located in Southern Italy. PCBs, HMs, and the soil microbial community (abundance, viability, and structure) were analysed in selected plots of the poplar-treated area. At 900 days after poplar planting, chemical analyses showed that PCBs and most of HMs diminished under the Italian legal limits. The overall results suggest that the poplar clone was effective in promoting PCB rhizodegradation and HM phytostabilization. Organic carbon content increased strongly in the rhizosphere of the planted plots. Microbiological results highlighted an overall increase in microbial abundance, cell viability, and the presence of bacterial groups involved in PCB degradation. The poplar-based bioremediation technology is a nature-based solution able to promote the recovery of soil quality in terms of contaminant removal, increase in organic carbon, and stimulation of autochthonous bacterial groups able to transform PCBs.
Biological N Fixation and N Transfer in an Intercropping System between Legumes and Organic Cherry Tomatoes in Succession to Green Corn
Authors: Salgado Gabriela Cristina , Ambrosano Edmilson Jose , Rossi Fabrício , Otsuk Ivani Pozar , Ambrosano Gláucia Maria Bovi , Santana Cesar Augusto , Muraoka Takashi , Trivelin Paulo Cesar Ocheuze
Published: July 2021

The aim of this study was to investigate the transfer of N from different legumes to cherry tomatoes in the intercropping system under residual straw of the previous green corn crop using the 15N natural abundance method. We also investigated the temporal variation in nitrogen transfer to a cherry tomato, the biological nitrogen fixation (BNF) of legumes, and the N concentration of green corn cultivated in the intercrop succession. The experimental design was a complete randomized block with eight treatments and five replications, described as follows: two controls consisting of a monocrop of cherry tomato with or without residual straw, cherry tomato and jack bean, sun hemp, dwarf velvet bean, mung bean, and white lupine or cowpea bean in intercropping system. The BNF was responsible for more than half of the N accumulated in the legumes. The N of legumes was transferred to cherry tomato in similar quantities, and the leaves and fruits of cherry tomato received more N transfer than shoots. It was shown that N transfer increases with the growth/development of cherry tomatoes. The intercropping system with legumes did not affect the 15N natural abundance of leaves and the aboveground biomass of green corn cultivated in succession.
Substrate Stratification: Layering Unique Substrates within a Container Increases Resource Efficiency without Impacting Growth of Shrub Rose
Authors: Fields Jeb S. , Owen James S. , Altland James E.
Published: July 2021

Nurseries rely on soilless substrates to provide suitable growing media for container grown crops. These soilless substrates have been developed to readily drain water to prevent issues with waterlogging and associated soil-borne disease. A negative consequence of high porosity and subsequent drainage throughout the container profile is the required high or frequent irrigation rates with poor retention of applied nutrients. Substrates with relatively high levels of moisture and nutrient retention placed on top of a coarse and freely draining substrate could further optimize water and nutrient retention, while allowing for needed gas exchange for plant establishment and growth. Containerized Red Drift® rose (Rosa ‘Meigalpio’ PP17877) plants were grown under 16 mm or 12 mm daily irrigation, utilizing a traditional pine bark substrate or stratified substrates with either a conventional bark, bark fines, or a bark–peat mixture on top of a coarse bark within a container. The stratified substrates received 20% less controlled-release fertilizer; however, the fertilizer in the stratified treatments was concentrated in the upper strata only. During the first growing phase or season, plants grown in stratified substrates outperformed those grown in conventional, non-stratified bark substrates under normal irrigation. The stratified substrates did not reduce growth under reduced irrigation regimes. Overall, crop growth was equal or superior for stratified substrates when compared to the non-stratified controls, even with a 20% reduction of fertilizer. This research suggests that stratified substrate systems can be used to reduce fertilizer and irrigation rates while producing crops of similar or superior quality to conventionally grown containerized crops.
Biocontrol of Stemphylium vesicarium and Pleospora allii on Pear by Bacillus subtilis and Trichoderma spp.: Preventative and Curative Effects on Inoculum Production
Authors: Moragrega Concepció , Carmona Alba , Llorente Isidre
Published: July 2021

Trials under controlled and field conditions were conducted to establish the effect of strategies of application of biological control agents (BCAs) in the reduction of Stemphylium vesicarium and Pleospora allii inoculum production on pear leaf debris. Six BCAs based on different strains of Trichoderma spp. (Tr1, Tr2) and Bacillus subtilis (Bs1, Bs2, Bs3 and Bs4) were evaluated. Two strategies were tested in controlled experiments: application before (preventative strategy) or after (curative strategy) pear leaf debris colonization by S. vesicarium, evaluating the growth inhibition and sporulation of S. vesicarium and the pseudothecia production of P. allii. When the BCAs were applied preventatively, the efficacy of treatments based on B. subtilis was higher than those based on Trichoderma spp. in controlling the pathogen colonization, but that of controlling the inoculum production of S. vesicarium and P. allii was similar. However, when the BCAs were applied curatively, Trichoderma based products were more effective. In field trials, Trichoderma spp. Tr1 and B. subtlilis Bs1 produced a consistent 45–50% decrease in the number of S. vesicarium conidia trapped compared to the non-treated control. We conclude that Bacillus subtilis Bs1 and Trichoderma spp. Tr1 and Tr2 can be expected to reduce fungal inoculum during the pear vegetative period by at least 45–50%. Additionally, Trichoderma spp. Tr1 and Tr2 have the potential to reduce the fungal overwintering inoculum by 80% to 90%.
Physiological and Molecular Characterization of New Apricot Cultivars Grafted on Different Prunus Rootstocks
Authors: Irisarri Patricia , Errea Pilar , Pina Ana
Published: July 2021

In the last years, an important renewal of plant material from different breeding programs is taking place in apricot in order to improve resistance to biotic stresses, extension of the harvest season, fruit quality, and productivity. However, the graft compatibility of many of these cultivars with most popular Prunus rootstocks is unknown, and this is an essential agronomical trait for their better performance and longevity. Hence, the introduction of new cultivars requires knowledge of the extent and nature of incompatibility reactions before releasing these cultivars on the market. In this study, the determination of graft compatibility was carried out in 13 new apricot cultivars grafted on four Prunus rootstocks: ‘Marianna2624’ (P. cerasifera × P. musoniana), ‘Miragreen’ (P. cerasifera × P. davidiana), ‘Mirared’ (P. cerasifera × Nemared), and ‘Montclar’ (P. persica L. seedlings) at early stages of development. By combining cytomorphological, anatomical, and phenylalanine ammonia-lyase (PAL) gene expression analysis at the graft interface, as well as different vegetative parameters, the results highlighted ‘Miragreen’ and ‘Mirared’ as promising rootstocks for apricot, showing the highest degree of compatibility with more than 90% of the apricot cultivars. These results provide useful information for breeders and growers by selecting the most suitable scion-rootstock for efficient orchard design by planting compatible graft combinations.
Comparison of Two Different Management Practices under Organic Farming System
Authors: Antošovský Jiří , Prudil Martin , Gruber Milan , Ryant Pavel
Published: July 2021

Organic farmers usually do not have the opportunity to address the actual symptoms of deficiency through the foliar application of synthetic fertilization, therefore, the main treatment is realized by green manure crop cultivation and application of organic fertilizers. The aim of this long-term experiment was to compare two different production systems with and without livestock in terms of organic farming, and a control variant with no fertilization was also included (treatment 1). The production system without animal husbandry was based on solely the application of renewable external resources (compost or digestate) (treatment 2) and the same fertilization with the addition of auxiliary substances (AS) (treatment 3). The production system with animal husbandry included utilization of fertilizers produced on the farm (fermented urine or manure) using solely farm fertilizers (treatment 4) and in addition with AS (treatment 5). Each treatment had three replications. This work describes the average yields from four experimental years and five experimental localities. Winter wheat, potatoes, winter wheat spelt and legume-cereal mix with corn were used and examined as model crops during the first four years of this long-term research. The highest average yield of winter wheat grain and potato tubers during the first two years of the experiment were obtained after the treatments 2 (7.1 t/ha grain, 33.9 t/ha tubers) and 3 (7.0 t/ha grain, 34.1 t/ha tubers). The several times higher nitrogen content in applied digestate and compost in comparison with fermented urine and manure was probably the reason for such results. On the contrary, the results obtained from the third (spelt) and fourth (LCM and corn) experimental years favored treatment 4 (5.5 t/ha grain, 4.6 cereal unit/ha) and 5 (5.4 t/ha grain, 4.7 cereal unit/ha) from the long-term point of view. After four experimental years, the presented results supported the application of farm fertilizers as a preferable option. The treatments with additional application of AS did not provide a higher yield, therefore, such an application seems unnecessary.
Twenty Years of Research in Seabass and Seabream Welfare during Slaughter
Authors: de la Rosa Ignacio , Castro Pedro L. , Ginés Rafael
Published: July 2021

The behavioural responses of fish to a stressful situation must be considered an adverse reaction caused by the perception of pain. Consequently, the handling prior to stunning and the immediacy of loss consciousness following stunning are the aspects to take into account during the slaughtering process. The most common commercial stunning method in seabream and seabass is based on hypothermia, but other methods such as electrical stunning, carbon dioxide narcosis or anaesthetic with clove oil, are discussed in relation to the time to reach the unconsciousness stage and some welfare indicators. Although seawater plus ice slurry is currently accepted in some guidelines of fish welfare well practices at slaughter, it cannot be considered completely adequate due to the deferred speed at which cause loss of consciousness. New methods of incorporating some kind of anaesthetic in the stunning tank could be a solution to minimize the impact on the welfare of seabass and seabream at slaughtering.
The Dog–Owner Relationship: Refinement and Validation of the Italian C/DORS for Dog Owners and Correlation with the LAPS
Authors: Riggio Giacomo , Piotti Patrizia , Diverio Silvana , Borrelli Carmen , Di Iacovo Francesco , Gazzano Angelo , Howell Tiffani Josey , Pirrone Federica , Mariti Chiara
Published: July 2021

The Cat/Dog–Owner Relationship Scale (C/DORS) can be administered to both dog and cat owners. However, the scale as a whole has never been validated on a sample of dog owners. Furthermore, it has never been translated into Italian. The aim of this study was to translate the C/DORS into Italian, modify its response scale in order to improve the degree of response variability, and test its validity and reliability on a sample of dog-owners. Exploratory factor analysis revealed the same three-factor structure (Perceived Emotional Closeness = PEC, Pet–Owner Interactions = POI, Perceived Costs = PC) as the original English version, although some items had to be removed because of low- or cross-loadings. The validity of the construct was confirmed by confirmatory factor analysis, by the correlations between each of the subscales and the C/DORS total score, and by the correlations with the Lexington Attachment to Pets Scale. Cronbach’s α values for each subscale were above acceptable levels. Student owners scored higher on PEC and POI than owners with other occupations. Owners of dogs with behavioural problems scored lower on PEC and higher on PC. Keeping the dog outdoor was associated with lower POI. Finally, pet dog owners scored higher on PEC than AAI dog owners.
Effects of a Maternal Essential Fatty Acid and Conjugated Linoleic Acid Supplementation during Late Pregnancy and Early Lactation on Hematologic and Immunological Traits and the Oxidative and Anti-Oxidative Status in Blood Plasma of Neonatal Calves
Authors: Liermann Wendy , Uken Katrin Lena , Schäff Christine , Vogel Laura , Gnott Martina , Tuchscherer Armin , Trevisi Erminio , Stefaniak Tadeusz , Sauerwein Helga , Tröscher Arnulf , Hammon Harald Michael
Published: July 2021

Fatty acids are known for their regulatory role in inflammation and oxidative stress. The present study investigated 38 calves born from dams, abomasally supplemented with coconut oil, essential fatty acids (EFA), conjugated linoleic acid (CLA) or EFA + CLA, according to immunological traits and the oxidative and anti-oxidative status for the first 5 days of life. On day 2 of life, plasma total bilirubin, cholesterol, interleukin 1-β and ferric ion reducing anti-oxygen power (FRAP) were lower in calves with than without maternal EFA supplementation, and FRAP additionally on day 4. On day 3, the concentrations of reactive oxygen metabolites were higher in calves with than without maternal EFA supplementation and additionally on day 5 together of retinol. Total leucocyte counts were decreased in the EFA group compared to the CLA group on day 5. Lymphocyte proportions decreased from day 1 to 5 only in the EFA + CLA group. On day 2, plasma total protein was higher in CLA and EFA + CLA than in EFA calves. Similarly, CLA calves had higher interleukin 1-β concentrations compared to EFA + CLA calves. FRAP was decreased by CLA on day 4. Overall, the maternal fatty acid supply affected the inflammatory response and the oxidative and anti-oxidative status of the neonatal offspring.
Companion Animals as Buffer against the Impact of Stress on Affect: An Experience Sampling Study
Authors: Janssens Mayke , Janssens Erik , Eshuis Jannes , Lataster Johan , Simons Marianne , Reijnders Jennifer , Jacobs Nele
Published: July 2021

Companion animals have been identified as a unique source of social support and as contributors to mental wellbeing. This study uses the Experience Sampling Method to test whether this effect is due to stress-buffering. A total of 159 dog and cat owners responded to a series of randomly scheduled questionnaires on their smartphones. At each measurement moment, they reported in whether a pet is present at that moment and to what extent they have interacted with the pet. They also reported on stressful activities and events and on their current positive (PA) and negative (NA) affect. Multilevel regression analyses showed that when a companion animal was present (vs. absent) the negative association between stress and PA is less pronounced (event stress: B = 0.13, p = 0.002, 95% CI = 0.05; 0.21 activity stress: B = 0.08, p < 0.001, 95% CI = 0.04; 0.12). No additional main effect was revealed when tested in a subsample of records that reported low or no stress. Main effects were found for the presence of a companion animal on negative affect (B = 0.08, p < 0.001; 95% CI = 0.12; 0.05) and for interacting with a companion animal on positive affect (B = 0.06, p < 0.001; 95% CI = 0.04; 0.08). This shows that the presence of a companion animal buffers against the negative consequences of stress on positive affect, indicating stress-buffering as a mechanism behind the pet-effect. It is, however, not the only mechanism and more research is required to further elucidate how companion animals contribute to human wellbeing.
Identifying Behavioural Traits and Underlying Personality Dimensions in Domestic Ferrets (Mustela putorius furo)
Authors: Talbot Sarah , Freire Rafael , Wassens Skye
Published: July 2021

The aim of this study was to examine the personality structure of domestic ferrets (Mustela putorius furo) by using owner-based reporting of personality traits. A total of 743 ferret owners participated in an online questionnaire, with a total of 1029 ferrets being assessed. Respondents rated 67 adjectives based on their ferret(s) behavioural traits and personality. Principal component analysis (PCA) of these trait ratings identified four underlying personality dimensions, which accounted for 47.1% of the total variance. These were labelled according to the traits that they encompass: Extraversion, Sociability, Attentiveness, and Neuroticism. Details about ferret sex, de-sexing status, age, and coat colour were also sought, and General Linear Mixed Models were used to test the main effects of these characteristics on the personality dimensions. It was found that sex (p < 0.01) and age (p < 0.001) significantly influenced certain personality components, whereas de-sexing did not. Sociability, Attentiveness, and Neuroticism were found to differ based on sex, whereby males were rated as more sociable than females, but females were rated higher on the Attentiveness and Neuroticism subscales. Finally, Extraversion was found to generally decrease with age. We can use the findings of this study to make cross-species comparisons and further inform the discussion regarding the adaptive relevance of animal personality. Identifying differences in personality types can improve welfare by using this information to satisfy the different needs of individuals.
Are There Lessons from India about the Management of Cattle? A Review of ‘Cow Care in Hindu Animal Ethics’ by Kenneth R. Valpey
Authors: Phillips Clive J. C.
Published: July 2021

Cows are divine beings in Indian culture, a philosophy that is an important part of the Hindu faith. Although shared with other non-human animals, the focus on cows is well established in historical literature and is currently growing with a pattern of cow vigilantism in the country to try to enforce ethical standards in cattle keeping systems. The Indian attitudes to cows are considered in a new book by Kenneth Valpey, ‘Cow Care in Hindu Animal Ethics’. The content is highly relevant today, at a time when cattle farming is the subject of widespread concern in the West as a result of their contribution to environmental pollution; wasteful use of resources; and ethically questionable practices, such as male calf slaughter, reproduction control, and poor cow welfare. The contrast with systems predominating in the West, where cattle are essentially commodities from which products are obtained, is considered in this review of Valpey’s book. The development of a cow care culture, in which only cow milk surplus to her calf’s requirements is used for human consumption and cows are allowed to live out their natural life, is advocated. Whilst such a philosophy could usefully improve cattle care on a broad scale, the logical conclusion of extending human style citizenship to cows is that either human consumption of cattle products must reduce or more resources must be devoted to cows at the expense of other animals, including humans. There is evidence of the former, with a substitution of chicken meat for beef on a broad scale, and the prospect of laboratory-grown meat in the near future. In a small number of countries, meat consumption is already declining. These changes, coupled with a greater attention to cattle welfare practices, could herald a more ethical commensal relationship between cattle and humans in the future.
Active Yeast but Not Henhouse Environment Affects Dropping Moisture Levels in Egg-Laying Hens
Authors: Cheng Xue , Liu Yuchen , Wang Zhong , Qu Lujiang , Ning Zhonghua
Published: July 2021

Dropping moisture (DM) refers to the water content in feces. High DM negatively affects poultry production, environment, production costs, and animal health. Heredity, nutrition, environment, and disease may affect DM level. DM has medium inheritability and is related to cage height in henhouses. We examined the relationship among DM level, production performance, and environmental factors at different locations at the same henhouse height and effects of three types of additives. We measured the correlation between environmental factors including temperature, humidity, CO2 concentration, absolute pressure, and DM levels and laying performance of 934 Rhode Island Red hens. DM level was not significantly associated with environmental factors or production performance. We divided 64 persistently high DM hens into control and treatment groups supplied with different additives (probiotics, anisodamine, and antibiotics). DM levels, laying performance, egg quality, and serum biochemical indices were determined. Compared with the control and antibiotics, probiotics significantly reduced DM levels and eggshell strength while improving yolk color but did not significantly affect production performance. The additives reduced the b value of eggshell color; compared with probiotics, anisodamine decreased serum globulin levels. Exogenous active yeast supplementation can significantly reduce DM levels.
Hepatic Proteomic Analysis Reveals That Enhanced Carboxylic Acid Metabolism and Oxidoreduction Promote Muscle and Fat Deposition in Muscovy Duck
Authors: Yang Wanli , Chen Xingyong , Wei Congcong , Zhao Yutong , Liu Zhengquan , Geng Zhaoyu
Published: July 2021

Liver is responsible for 90% of lipid synthesis in poultry; thus, it plays an important role in the growth of Muscovy ducks, which have a high fat deposition ability in a time-dependent manner. Therefore, male Muscovy ducks at 14, 28, 42, and 56 days were selected for body weight (BW), carcass weight (CW), subcutaneous fat thickness (SFT), abdominal fat weight (AFW), intramuscular fat content (IMF), and breast muscle fiber (BMF) diameter and density determination. Two-dimensional electrophoresis (2-DE) combining liquid chromatography linked to tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) was used to analyze proteomic changes in liver at each stage. The BW, CW, AFW, SFT, and BMF diameter and density were significantly increased, while IMF content was significantly decreased at 28 to 42 days of age (p < 0.05). There were 57 differentially abundant protein (DEP) spots representing 40 proteins identified among the ages, in which 17, 41 and 4 spots were differentially abundant at 14 vs. 28, 28 vs. 42, and 42 vs. 56, respectively. Gene Ontology enrichment analysis found that DEPs were mostly enriched in the oxidation-reduction process, carboxylic acid metabolism, etc. Protein–protein interaction showed that catalase (CAT), triosephosphate isomerase (TPI), and protein disulfide-isomerase (PDI) were the key proteins responsible for the growth of Muscovy duck. In conclusion, 28 to 42 days of age is the crucial period for Muscovy ducks, and the ability of metabolism and antioxidants were significantly enhanced in liver.
Impact of Different Durations of Fasting on Intestinal Autophagy and Serum Metabolome in Broiler Chicken
Authors: Wang Youli , Xu Yanwei , Wu Yuqin , Mahmood Tahir , Chen Jing , Guo Xiaorui , Wu Wei , Wang Bo , Guo Yuming , Yuan Jianmin
Published: July 2021

Fasting-induced autophagy in the intestine is beneficial for body health. This study was designed to explore the relationship between the host metabolism and intestinal autophagy. Broilers were randomly assigned into 48 cages. At 0 (CT), 12 (FH12), 24 (FH24), 36 (FH36), 48(FH48), and 72 h (FH72) before 09:00 a.m. on day 25, eight cages of birds were randomly allotted to each fasting time point using completely random design, and their food was removed. At 09:00 a.m. on day 25, the blood and jejunum were sampled for serum metabolome and autophagy gene analyses, respectively. The results showed that the autophagy gene Atg7 has a good quadratic fit with fasting duration (R2 = 0.432, p < 0.001). Serum phosphatidylethanolamine (PE) and lyso-PE were decreased in the birds that were fasted for 24 h or longer. Conversely, the serum phosphatidylcholine (PC) and lyso-PC were increased in the birds that were fasted for 36 h or longer. Metabolism pathway analysis showed that the serum glycerophospholipid, phenylalanine, and GnRH signaling pathways were downregulated with the extended fasting duration. The serum metabolites involved in glycosylphosphatidylinositol anchor biosynthesis, autophagy, and ferroptosis were upregulated in all of the fasted groups. Correlation analysis showed that serum PE (18:3(9Z,12Z,15Z)/P-18:0) was a potential biomarker for intestinal autophagy. Our findings provide a potential biomarker related to intestinal autophagy.
Taxonomic Reassessment of the Izumo Lineage of Hynobius utsunomiyaorum: Description of a New Species from Chugoku, Japan
Authors: Sugawara Hirotaka , Iwata Takayuki , Yamashita Hitoshi , Nagano Masahiro
Published: July 2021

Here, we describe a new species of the genus Hynobius from Chugoku, Japan. In populations from central to eastern Shimane Prefecture, the Izumo Lineage of Hynobius utsunomiyaorum was clearly distinguished from the true Hynobius utsunomiyaorum based on morphological and molecular evidence. Thus, we describe the former lineage as a new species, Hynobius kunibiki sp. nov. Morphological comparisons revealed that H. utsunomiyaorum lacks a distinct yellow line on the ventral side of its tail, whereas the new species possesses this yellow line; most H. utsunomiyaorum individuals have distinct white spots on the lateral sides of their body and lack a fifth toe, whereas the new species largely lacks these spots, and all examined individuals had a fifth toe. The two species also differed significantly by several other morphological characteristics. The lentic species Hynobius setoi is morphologically similar to H. kunibiki sp. nov., but they differ significantly by various morphological characteristics. Despite their partial morphological similarity, these two species differed substantially in terms of their genetics. Finally, we show, in a phylogenetic tree including all Japanese Hynobius species, that the subgenus Hynobius can be divided into four genetic clades. Overall, this information will help develop conservation management strategies and policies for these species.
Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices (KAPs) of Farmers on Foot and Mouth Disease in Cattle in Baghlan Province, Afghanistan: A Descriptive Study
Authors: Osmani Arash , Habib Ihab , Robertson Ian Duncan
Published: July 2021

This study was performed to investigate the knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAPs) of farmers, animal traders, and veterinary professionals on FMD in Baghlan province, Afghanistan. Four structured questionnaires were administered to the respondents. Almost half (48.5%) of the farmers had heard of the occurrence of FMD in their neighbourhood or knew the name of the disease. The majority of farmers could recognise the clinical signs of FMD in their animals (salivation, 85.9%; tongue ulcers, 78.8%; gum lesions, 78.2%; hoof lesions, 76.8%). Most farmers stated that the “introduction of new animals” was the primary cause of FMD appearing on their farms and to control the spread of the disease, over half of the farmers (56%) preferred not to buy cattle from unknown or potentially infected sources. Animal traders’ knowledge was limited to recognising some clinical signs of the disease such as: salivation, and lesions in the mouth and on the feet. No animals were directly imported by the traders from outside Afghanistan. Over half of the local veterinary professionals (65%) kept record books of the animal diseases seen and/or treatment plans undertaken, and 80% of them reported the occurrence of FMD to the provincial, regional, and central veterinary authorities. No regular vaccination programme against FMD was implemented in the province. Poor import controls and quarantine were considered to be the main barriers to the control of FMD in the study area and the surrounding provinces. It can be concluded that, despite relatively good knowledge about FMD in the study area, there are gaps in farmers’ and traders’ knowledge that need to be addressed to overcome the burden of the disease in the province. These should focus on strengthening interprovincial quarantine measures and implementation of regular vaccination campaigns against the circulating FMDV within the area.
Batoid Abundances, Spatial Distribution, and Life History Traits in the Strait of Sicily (Central Mediterranean Sea): Bridging a Knowledge Gap through Three Decades of Survey
Authors: Geraci Michele Luca , Ragonese Sergio , Scannella Danilo , Falsone Fabio , Gancitano Vita , Mifsud Jurgen , Gambin Miriam , Said Alicia , Vitale Sergio
Published: July 2021

Batoid species play a key role in marine ecosystems but unfortunately they have globally declined over the last decades. Given the paucity of information, abundance data and the main life history traits for batoids, obtained through about three decades of bottom trawl surveys, are presented and discussed. The surveys were carried out in two areas of the Central Mediterranean (South of Sicily and Malta Island), in a timeframe ranging from 1990 to 2018. Excluding some batoids, the abundance trends were stable or increasing. Only R. clavata, R. miraletus, and D. oxyrinchus showed occurrence and abundance indexes notable enough to carry out more detailed analysis. In particular, spatial distribution analysis of these species highlighted the presence of two main hotspots in Sicilian waters whereas they seem more widespread in Malta. The lengths at first maturity (L50) were 695 and 860, 635 and 574, and 364 and 349 mm total length (TL), respectively, for females and males of D. oxyrinchus, R. clavata, and R. miraletus. The asymptotic lengths (L∞) and the curvature coefficients (K) were 1365 and 1240 (K = 0.11 and 0.26), 1260 and 1100 (K = 0.16 and 0.26), and 840 and 800 mm TL (K = 0.36 and 0.41), respectively, for females and males of D. oxyrinchus, R. clavata, and R. miraletus. The lack of detailed quantitative historical information on batoids of Sicily and Malta does not allow to analytically judge the current status of the stocks, although the higher abundance of some species within Malta raises some concern for the Sicilian counterpart. In conclusion, suitable actions to protect batoids in the investigated area are recommended.
Cannabis Extract Has a Positive–Immunostimulating Effect through Proteolytic System and Metabolic Compounds of Honey Bee (Apis mellifera) Workers
Authors: Skowronek Patrycja , Wójcik Łukasz , Strachecka Aneta
Published: July 2021

In the study, we assessed the effect of hemp extract on activities of resistance parameters and the metabolic compound concentration in adult workers’ hemolymph. Bees were divided into the following groups: (1) control group fed with mixture of sugar and water-glycerine solution, (2) experimental group with pure sugar syrup and inside with cotton strips soaked with hemp extract, (3) experimental group with a mixture of sugar syrup with hemp extract. Hemp extracts caused an increase in the protein concentrations and reduced the protease activities regardless of the administration method. The protease inhibitor activities were decreased only in the group that received hemp extract on the strips. The biomarker activities (ALP, ALT, AST) increased from the control group and workers feeding extract in syrup and decreased in workers supplemented with the extract on strips. In young, 2-day-old workers, the glucose concentration was higher in the groups feeding with the extract than in the control. Hemp extract influenced an increase in urea concentrations in workers’ hemolymph in comparison with the control. The hemp supplementation positively influences the immune system of workers, and the appropriate method of administration may be adapted to the health problems of bees.
Special Issue: The Role of Complement in Cancer Immunotherapy
Authors: Taylor Ronald P.
Published: July 2021

The complement system plays an important role in critical aspects of immune defense and in the maintenance of homeostasis in the bloodstream, as well as in essentially all tissues and organs [...]
Molecular Cloning and Functional Identification of the Antimicrobial Peptide Gene Ctri9594 from the Venom of the Scorpion Chaerilus tricostatus
Authors: He Dangui , Cao Zhijian , Zhang Ruhong , Li Wenhua
Published: July 2021

Scorpion venom is a mixture of bioactive peptides, among which neurotoxins and antimicrobial peptides serve especially vital functions. Scorpion venom peptides in Buthidae species have been well described, but toxic peptides from non-Buthidae species have been under-investigated. Here, an antimicrobial peptide gene, Ctri9594, was cloned and functionally identified from the venom of the scorpion Chaerilus tricostatus. The precursor nucleotide sequence of Ctri9594 is 199 nt in length, including a 43 nt 5′ UTR, 115 nt 3′ UTR and 210 nt ORF. The ORF encodes 69 amino acid residues, containing a 21 aa signal peptide, 14 aa mature peptide, 3 aa C-terminal posttranslational processing signal and 31 aa propeptide. Multiple sequence alignment and evolutionary analyses show that Ctri9594 is an antimicrobial peptide in scorpion venom. The mature peptide of Ctri9594 was chemically synthesized with a purity greater than 95% and a molecular mass of 1484.4 Da. Minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs) indicate that the synthesized mature peptide of Ctri9594 has inhibitory activity against Gram-positive bacteria (Bacillus thuringensis, Bacillus subtilis, Staphylococcus aureus and Micrococcus luteus) but not Gram-negative bacteria (Escherichia coli and Pseudomonas aeruginosa) or a fungus (Candida albicans). The antimicrobial mechanism of Ctri9594 is inferred to be related to its amphiphilic α-helix structure.
Biofilm Time-Kill Curves to Assess the Bactericidal Activity of Daptomycin Combinations against Biofilm-Producing Vancomycin-Resistant Enterococcus faecium and faecalis
Authors: Barber Katie E. , Shammout Zade , Smith Jordan R. , Kebriaei Razieh , Morrisette Taylor , Rybak Michael J.
Published: July 2021

Introduction: E. faecium and E. faecalis are responsible for 13.9% of hospital-acquired infections with frequent resistance to vancomycin (82.6% of E. faecium, 9.5% of E. faecalis). Medical device infections secondary to enterococci often require combination therapy due to impaired activity against biofilm embedded cells. In vitro data demonstrate synergistic activity of daptomycin combinations. Using a novel, biofilm time-kill approach, we evaluated whether daptomycin combinations maintained synergy against biofilm-producing E. faecium and E. faecalis. Methods: Broth microdilution (BMD) and biofilm MIC (bMIC) values for daptomycin, ampicillin, ceftriaxone, fosfomycin, and rifampin were determined against biofilm-producing E. faecium and E. faecalis. Daptomycin combination bMIC values were determined in the presence of biologic concentrations of other antimicrobials. Synergy was evaluated against two E. faecalis (R6981, R7808) and two E. faecium (5938 and 8019) using a previously described biofilm time-kill method. Synergy was defined as ≥2 log10 CFU/cm2 reduction over the most active agent alone. Bactericidal activity was defined as ≥3 log10 CFU/cm2 reduction. Results: Daptomycin bMICs were 2–8-fold higher than BMD. In the presence of other antimicrobials, daptomycin bMICs were reduced ≥ two-fold in dilutions. Ceftriaxone and ampicillin demonstrated the most potent combinations with daptomycin, yielding synergy against three of four strains. Daptomycin plus rifampin was synergistic against E. faecium 5938 and E. faecalis 6981 and produced bactericidal kill. The combination of daptomycin plus fosfomycin displayed synergy solely against E. faecalis 6981. Conclusions: Daptomycin combinations with beta-lactams demonstrated promising synergistic activity against both E. faecium and E. faecalis. While daptomycin plus rifampin yielded bactericidal results, the effect was not seen across all organisms. These combinations warrant further evaluation to determine the optimal dose and response.
N-Acetylcysteine Protects Bladder Epithelial Cells from Bacterial Invasion and Displays Antibiofilm Activity against Urinary Tract Bacterial Pathogens
Authors: Manoharan Arthika , Ognenovska Samantha , Paino Denis , Whiteley Greg , Glasbey Trevor , Kriel Frederik H. , Farrell Jessica , Moore Kate H. , Manos Jim , Das Theerthankar
Published: July 2021

Introduction: Urinary tract infections (UTIs) affect more than 150 million individuals annually. A strong correlation exists between bladder epithelia invasion by uropathogenic bacteria and patients with recurrent UTIs. Intracellular bacteria often recolonise epithelial cells post-antibiotic treatment. We investigated whether N-acetylcysteine (NAC) could prevent uropathogenic E. coli and E. faecalis bladder cell invasion, in addition to its effect on uropathogens when used alone or in combination with ciprofloxacin. Methods: An invasion assay was performed in which bacteria were added to bladder epithelial cells (BECs) in presence of NAC and invasion was allowed to occur. Cells were washed with gentamicin, lysed, and plated for enumeration of the intracellular bacterial load. Cytotoxicity was evaluated by exposing BECs to various concentrations of NAC and quantifying the metabolic activity using resazurin at different exposure times. The effect of NAC on the preformed biofilms was also investigated by treating 48 h biofilms for 24 h and enumerating colony counts. Bacteria were stained with propidium iodide (PI) to measure membrane damage. Results: NAC completely inhibited BEC invasion by multiple E. coli and E. faecalis clinical strains in a dose-dependent manner (p < 0.01). This was also evident when bacterial invasion was visualised using GFP-tagged E. coli. NAC displayed no cytotoxicity against BECs despite its intrinsic acidity (pH ~2.6), with >90% cellular viability 48 h post-exposure. NAC also prevented biofilm formation by E. coli and E. faecalis and significantly reduced bacterial loads in 48 h biofilms when combined with ciprofloxacin. NAC visibly damaged E. coli and E. faecalis bacterial membranes, with a threefold increase in propidium iodide-stained cells following treatment (p < 0.05). Conclusions: NAC is a non-toxic, antibiofilm agent in vitro and can prevent cell invasion and IBC formation by uropathogens, thus providing a potentially novel and efficacious treatment for UTIs. When combined with an antibiotic, it may disrupt bacterial biofilms and eliminate residual bacteria.
Time-Course Study of the Antibacterial Activity of an Amorphous SiOxCyHz Coating Certified for Food Contact
Authors: Di Cerbo Alessandro , Rosace Giuseppe , Rea Stefano , Stocchi Roberta , Morales-Medina Julio Cesar , Canton Roberto , Mescola Andrea , Condò Carla , Loschi Anna Rita , Sabia Carla
Published: July 2021

One of the most-used food contact materials is stainless steel (AISI 304L or AISI 316L), owing to its high mechanical strength, cleanability, and corrosion resistance. However, due to the presence of minimal crevices, stainless-steel is subject to microbial contamination with consequent significant reverb on health and industry costs due to the lack of effective reliability of sanitizing agents and procedures. In this study, we evaluated the noncytotoxic effect of an amorphous SiOxCyHz coating deposited on stainless-steel disks and performed a time-course evaluation for four Gram-negative bacteria and four Gram-positive bacteria. A low cytotoxicity of the SiOxCyHz coating was observed; moreover, except for some samples, a five-logarithm decrease was visible after 1 h on coated surfaces without any sanitizing treatment and inoculated with Gram-negative and Gram-positive bacteria. Conversely, a complete bacterial removal was observed after 30 s−1 min application of alcohol and already after 15 s under UVC irradiation against both bacterial groups. Moreover, coating deposition changed the wetting behaviors of treated samples, with contact angles increasing from 90.25° to 113.73°, realizing a transformation from hydrophilicity to hydrophobicity, with tremendous repercussions in various technological applications, including the food industry.