bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Growth, Nitrogen Uptake, and Nutritional Value of a Diverse Panel of Shrub Willow (Salix spp.) Genotypes in Response to Nitrogen Fertilization
Authors: Muklada Hussein , Fabio Eric S. , Smart Lawrence B.
Published: October 2022

Riparian buffers are a practical strategy to reduce N runoff. Shrub willows (Salix spp.) are a well-suited natural means to manage water quality due to dense aboveground biomass growth, diffuse root systems at a shallow depth, and low water- and nutrient-use efficiencies that will maximize uptake. Perennial forage crops in the margins of agricultural lands could provide biomass for fodder. The response of fifty genotypes to a single N level of fertilizer under standard conditions at a very high nutrient loading level (500 ppm N, delivered weekly) was compared with water-only controls. Irrigation with excess N caused greater aboveground growth measured as biomass, stem length, and diameter, as well as morphological properties that varied significantly by genotype, indicating a potential for selection in a breeding program. SPAD was a reliable indicator of the effect of fertilizer on foliar crude protein and showed different effects of fertilizer on N uptake and nutritional value among genotypes. We identified genotypes that display high N uptake and good relative feed value. This intentional design for environmental benefits could have a dual purpose should this potentially nutrient-dense biomass by used as fodder for small ruminants.
Evaluation of Diode Laser Treatments to Manage Weeds in Row Crops
Authors: Mwitta Canicius , Rains Glen C. , Prostko Eric
Published: October 2022

Herbicides have been the primary weed management practice in agriculture for decades. However, due to their effects on the environment in addition to weeds becoming resistant, alternative approaches to weed control are critical. One approach is using lasers, particularly diode lasers because of their portability, low power demand, and cost effectiveness. In this research, weeds’ response to diode laser treatments was investigated. Three experiments were conducted. The first experiment involved treating two species of weeds with four different laser powers to determine the time it takes to sever the weed stem. The second experiment involved monitoring the status of two species of weeds for a week after treating them with two lasers at constant application times of 1 s, 2 s, and 3 s. The third experiment was a repeat of the second with higher laser powers and shorter treatment times. The results showed diode lasers have a potential to be an effective weed controlling tool. Weed stem diameter, laser power, treatment duration, and distance between laser and weed were all statistically significant in weed mortality, with weed species having no significance. Furthermore, it was found that weed management is possible by exposing the stem of the two weed species between 0.8 and 2.65 mm diameter to a laser beam dosage without necessarily severing it, with 80% effectiveness at 0.5 s treatment time, and 100% effectiveness using a 6.1 W laser for 1.5 s.
Design and Testing of an Intelligent Multi-Functional Seedling Transplanting System
Authors: Zhao Shengyi , Liu Jizhan , Jin Yucheng , Bai Zongchun , Liu Jianlong , Zhou Xin
Published: October 2022

Transplanting is a core part of factory nurseries and is a key factor in determining the healthy growth of seedlings. While transplanting has a single operational function, the complete process of sorting, transplanting and replanting is complex. This paper innovatively proposes an intelligent multi-functional seedling transplanting system, where the sorting, transplanting and replanting functions can be achieved with a single machine. This paper proposes the key strategies of seedling dynamic detection during transplanting and performing transplanting and replanting within the same tray, thus realizing the integration and miniaturization of the all-in-one machine. Then, through the flat design of the transplanting–replanting mechanism and the construction of a multi-module cooperative control strategy, a stable and reliable multi-functional synchronous operation is realized. Finally, the integrated operation experiment shows that the transplanting efficiency of the whole machine is 5000 plants/h, and the qualification rate after replanting is as high as 99.33%, which meets the operational needs of factory nurseries.
The Effect of Paraffin Oil Spraying and Powdery Mildew Infection on Leaf Gas Exchange and Yield of Chardonnay and Kékfrankos (Vitis vinifera L.) in Hungary
Authors: Pálfi Xénia , Villangó Szabolcs , Karácsony Zoltán , Kátai János , Zsófi Zsolt
Published: October 2022

Various oils can efficiently control a wide range of pests and pathogens on plants. In this study, we tested the effectiveness solely applied paraffin oil (PFO) spraying against Erysiphe necator, the causal agent of grape powdery mildew (GPM). Its effects on gas exchange and yield at harvest were also investigated. Experiments were conducted in Eger between 2013 and 2014 with two cultivars (Kékfrankos and Chardonnay) showing differing susceptibility to GPM. Treatments with 2.2 and 3.3 v/v% PFO spraying inhibited GPM; however, this effect was influenced by the individual resilience of the variety and the infection pressure of the vintage. The PFO treatment caused decreased leaf gas exchange parameters compared to conventional treatment. The berry yield was also lower in PFO-treated parcels, although yield may be affected by numerous factors and requires further investigation. The mineral oils may have a phytotoxic effect on the grapevine through impairment of the photosynthetic performance, although this effect cannot be connected to a particular PFO concentration according to our research results. This negative effect of PFO highly depends on the ampelographic characteristics of the examined cultivars and vintage. In addition, the physical properties of the spraying agent may also play an important role.
Assessing the Impact of Different Irrigation Levels on Starch Potato Production
Authors: Wenzel Jan Lukas , Conrad Christopher , Piernicke Thomas , Spengler Daniel , Pöhlitz Julia
Published: October 2022

In the view of increasing water demands in agriculture, efficient water use is a key factor in potato production. The aim of this study was to compare two deficit (80% and 90%) and one abundant (120%) gun sprinkler irrigation levels with the longtime used irrigation level of a farmer (100%). Irrigation was supplied during the 2021 growing season on a loamy sand site in Mecklenburg–Western Pomerania, Germany. Yield and tuber quality of the high-amylopectin potato (HAPP) variety “Waxy/Henriette” were assessed in a three-grade tuber size distribution. Five economic indicators were used to assess the suitability of the investigated irrigation levels to secure economic responses. Yield and starch yield did not significantly differ between the 90% (561.1 dt ha−1 and 102.0 dt ha−1) and the 100% irrigation levels (559.1 dt ha−1 and 102.3 dt ha−1), with total production increasing by 2.0 dt ha−1 and starch production decreasing by 0.4 dt ha−1 at the 90% irrigation level. Tuber lesions decreased the economic responses at all irrigation levels. Potentially, 87,469 m3 of irrigation water (125.8 m3 ha−1) could have been saved on the loamy sand starch potato sites of the local farm (695.3 ha) in 2021.
Metabolome and Transcriptome Analysis Reveal the Accumulation Mechanism of Carotenoids and the Causes of Color Differences in Persimmon (Diospyros kaki Thunb.) Fruits
Authors: Ye Lingshuai , Mai Yini , Wang Yiru , Yuan Jiaying , Suo Yujing , Li Huawei , Han Weijuan , Sun Peng , Diao Songfeng , Fu Jianmin
Published: October 2022

To explore the mechanisms of the color formation of different colored persimmon fruits, we used two different colored persimmon cultivars (yellow-peeled persimmon fruit ‘Zhongshi No.6’ and red-peeled persimmon fruit ‘Hongdenglong’) as materials to study the synthesis and accumulation of carotenoids in three stages (full green, color transition, and full yellow or red) using targeted metabolomic and transcriptomic methods. A total of 14 carotenoids and 30 carotenoid lipids were identified in the peel of the two persimmon cultivars. After analysis, it was found that the total carotenoid content of the red persimmon cultivar was higher than that of the yellow persimmon cultivar. The contents of lycopene, α-carotenoid, β-carotenoid, (E/Z)-phytoene, and β-cryptoxanthin are the main reasons for the difference in total carotenoid content between the two persimmon cultivars, especially lycopene. Twelve structural genes involved in the metabolism of carotenoids were also found in this study. In comprehensive metabolome and transcriptome analysis, we found that, between the two persimmon cultivars, lycopene was the key metabolite responsible for the color difference, and PSY, LCYE, and ZDS were the key genes that regulated the differences in lycopene accumulation. The results of this study provide us with new information regarding persimmon fruit synthesis and accumulation. In addition, they also provide a theoretical foundation for improving persimmon fruit germplasm.
Using the Nematode, Steinernema carpocapsae, to Control Peachtree Borer (Synanthedon exitiosa): Optimization of Application Rates and Secondary Benefits in Control of Root-Feeding Weevils
Authors: Wong Colin , Oliveira-Hofman Camila , Blaauw Brett R. , Chavez Dario , Jagdale Ganpati , Mizell Russell F. , Shapiro-Ilan David
Published: October 2022

The peachtree borer, Synanthedon exitiosa (Say) (Lepidoptera: Sesiidae), is a major pest of stone fruits including the peach Prunus persica (L.) Batsch. The entomopathogenic nematode, Steinernema carpocapsae, was previously shown to be an effective tool for controlling S. exitiosa. In orchards where irrigation is not available, a sprayable gel (Barricade®) can be used to maintain soil moisture which can facilitate nematode efficacy. However, rates of nematode and Barricade® application had not been optimized for their maximum economic and biocontrol efficiency. Therefore, our objective was to compare rates of S. carpocapsae and Barricade® in field trials. Nematodes were tested at per-tree application rates of 1.5 million, 1 million and 0.5 million infective juveniles. The sprayable gel was used at two rates, 4% and 2%. A reduction in the used nematodes from 1.5 million to 0.5 million per tree showed no difference in efficacy. Similarly, using the gel at half rate also did not impact the efficacy, and treatments containing nematodes controlled the S. exitiosa better than the chlorpyrifos control in several of the tests (p < 0.05). As an added benefit, the nematode treatments were also able to reduce the prevalence of weevil (Coleoptera: Curculionidae) populations as secondary pests of the peach trees. The lower rates of grower inputs will reduce costs, making the nematode biocontrol of the peachtree borer more likely to be adopted by commercial growers of peach.
Ant Diversity Is Enhanced by Ecological Infrastructures in Agroecosystems: A Case Study in Irrigated Mediterranean Farmland
Authors: Zina Vera , Fonseca André , Duarte Gonçalo , Conde Sofia , Fernandes Maria Rosário , Ferreira Maria Teresa , Franco José Carlos
Published: October 2022

We aimed at assessing the role of ecological infrastructures (EI) in promoting ant biodiversity in floodplain Mediterranean agricultural crops. We examined and compared ant communities at the interface between EI (remnant vegetation patches) and adjoining agricultural matrix (maize, rice, others) in irrigated farmland. The study was conducted in 2019, in two agricultural landscapes in the valleys of the rivers Tagus and Sorraia, Central Portugal. We used the Akaike information criterion for model selection and to distinguish among a set of possible models describing the relationship between: the ant richness in the agricultural matrix and drivers associated with the surrounding landscape and crop type; the ant richness in EI and the habitat quality of EI patches, the characteristics of the surrounding landscape, and the presence of invasive ant species. We found that: EI patches supported a higher ant diversity and an overall specialized ant community, distinctive from the agricultural matrix; location but not vegetation physiognomy influenced ant diversity; ant richness within the agricultural matrix decreased with the distance to the EI, and that this relationship was influenced by the crop type; and that ant richness in the EI was associated with the absence of the invasive Argentine ant and the area of terrestrial EI in the surrounding landscape.
Autonomous Mobile Robot with Attached Multispectral Camera to Monitor the Development of Crops and Detect Nutrient and Water Deficiencies in Vertical Farms
Authors: Avgoustaki Dafni Despoina , Avgoustakis Ioannis , Miralles Carlos Corchado , Sohn Jonas , Xydis George
Published: October 2022

This study demonstrates the potential of using low-altitude multispectral imagery data to assess irrigation and fertilization techniques and the relative degree of plant water and nutrient stress. This study aims to create a methodology that can be widely used by vertical farms. Techniques were used for early water and nitrogen stress detection using multispectral reflectance systems in an indoor environment with artificial lighting. The methodology focuses on irrigation and nutrition, that sets schedules, and automatically updates a decision-making system based on crop reflectance data and simplified reflectance indices. The experimental process took place on the premises of CphFarmHouse in Denmark. The results showed that crop reflectance increased due to water and nitrogen deficiencies. The detected reflectance increase was significant on the third day of the experiment when irrigation and fertilization were not applied. It should be noted that during the experimental period, the researchers did not detect water or nitrogen deficiencies visible to the naked eye. More specifically, the Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI) and the Photochemical Reflectance Index (PRI) showed statistically significant differences between the control treatment and the two stress treatments with limited water and nitrogen. Additionally, based on the reflectance measurements and the measured physiological crop parameters, significant correlations (p < 0.01) were observed mainly between the PRI and the chlorophyll content, the photosynthetic efficiency and the stomatal conductance (r = 0.84/0.90, 0.73/0.66, 0.61/0.66 among the nitrogen and water treatments). The research provides data analysis results on sensors and approaches for crop reflectance measurements as well as spectral indices for remote water and nitrogen detection. Finally, the results provide a feasibility analysis, suggesting that multispectral images could be used as a rapid tool to estimate the physiological status of plants, which is indicative of the spatial variation in the vertical farm.
Characterization of Different Magnesium Fertilizers and Their Effect on Yield and Quality of Soybean and Pomelo
Authors: Zhang Weiqiang , Liu You , Muneer Muhammad Atif , Jin Dian , Zhang Hao , Cai Yuanyang , Ma Changcheng , Wang Chunsen , Chen Xiaohui , Huang Chengdong , Tang Yafu , Wu Liangquan
Published: October 2022

Fertilizer application, especially their physical and chemical composition, substantially regulates crop growth and development. The form in which fertilizers are applied to the soil has always been regarded as a crucial factor regulating nutrient availability. However, the properties and release characteristics of Mg fertilizers, i.e., fast-release Mg (F-Mg) and slow-release Mg (S-Mg), have not been fully elucidated in acidic soils. This study characterized the different Mg fertilizers, and their release characteristics were verified through pot (using soybean) and field (using pomelo) experiments. The results showed that, despite the differences between different Mg fertilizers, the same functional group peaks were recorded among them. F-Mg fertilizers had a low pH and low Mg purity, while S-Mg fertilizers had a high pH and high Mg purity. The release rate and leaching characteristics of the F-Mg fertilizers were higher than the S-Mg fertilizers. The pot experiment showed that the yield and growth of soybean were higher under the S-Mg fertilizer than the F-Mg fertilizer. However, MgSO4·7H2O and MgO had the best effect among the F-Mg and S-Mg fertilizers, respectively. The effects of these two fertilizers were further validated using field experiments, and it was found that MgSO4·7H2O and MgO fertilizers substantially improved the yield and quality of pomelo. However, MgO showed a better effect than MgSO4·7H2O. This study can provide a sound theoretical basis for selecting the most efficient type of Mg fertilizer for acid soils. It can contribute valuable information regarding farmland management strategies and may result in sustainable agricultural productivity.
Survey Reveals Frequency of Multiple Resistance to Tribenuron-Methyl, Bensulfuron-Methyl and Halosulfuron-Methyl in Cleavers (Galium aparine L.)
Authors: Lou Tiancheng , Wang Ke , Chen Junmin , Cao Jingjing , Gu Tao , Jiang Liben , Lou Yuanlai , Cao Rongxiang , Wang Hongchun
Published: October 2022

Tribenuron-methyl-resistant (TmR) cleavers (Galium aparine L.) have been reported around the major winter wheat farming region in China. From 2017 to 2020, cleavers seeds were collected from wheat production fields across Jiangsu Province to evaluate the frequency and distribution of tribenuron-methyl-, bensulfuron-methyl- and halosulfuron-methyl-resistant cleavers, and to assess the frequency of multiple resistance. Here we report resistance frequency as percent resistance within a population, and resistance distribution as the percentage and locations of populations classified as resistant to a discriminating herbicide dose. From 2017 to 2020, cleavers populations were screened with tribenuron-methyl, bensulfuron-methyl and halosulfuron-methyl. The percentages of tribenuron-methyl-resistant cleavers populations from 2017 to 2020 were 53.33%, 51.52%, 52.38% and 47.17%, respectively; and the percentages of cleavers populations with low tribenuron-methyl resistance were 23.33%, 26.67%, 30.00% and 36.67%, respectively. The percentages of bensulfuron-methyl-resistant cleavers populations from 2017 to 2020 were 36.67%, 39.39%, 35.71% and 33.96%, respectively; and the percentages of cleavers populations had low tribenuron-methyl resistance were 30.00%, 40.00%, 53.33% and 23.33%, respectively. The percentages of halosulfuron-methyl-resistant cleavers populations from 2017 to 2020 were 26.67%, 27.27%, 50.00% and 41.51%, respectively; and the percentages of cleavers population with low tribenuron-methyl resistance were 50.00%, 53.33%, 33.33% and 40.00%, respectively. Finally, 26.67%, 22.22%, 19.05% and 20.75% of cleavers populations had resistance to 2-methyl-4-chlorophenoxyacetic acid sodium (MCPA-Na) from 2017 to 2020, respectively; however, all populations were sensitive to fluroxypyr and carfentrazone-ethyl. This confirmation of multiple resistance in cleavers populations emphasizes the importance of diversity in herbicide sites of action as critical to extending the usefulness of remaining effective herbicides such as MCPA-Na, fluroxypyr and carfentrazone-ethyl for the management of this weed.
Limited Influence of Abiotic and Biotic Factors on the Efficacy of Soil Insecticides and Entomopathogenic Nematodes when Managing the Maize Pest Diabrotica v. virgifera (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae)
Authors: Toth Szabolcs , Toepfer Stefan , Szalai Mark , Kiss Jozsef
Published: October 2022

Diabrotica virgifera virgifera (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae) is a serious pest that infects maize. Insecticides or entomopathogenic nematodes are used to control the root-damaging larvae. However, such treatments are reportedly inconsistent in terms of efficacy under farming conditions. To better understand the reasons behind these inconsistencies, we studied the control efficacy of seed coatings, such as clothianidin; granular soil insecticides, such as cypermethrin and tefluthrin; and fluid-applied entomopathogenic nematodes, such as Heterorhabditis bacteriophora (Rhabditida: Heterorhabditidae). We assessed the influence of 12 biotic and 20 abiotic factors on the reduction of Diabrotica v. virgifera populations and on the prevention of root damage in 20 field-scale experiments in Hungary between 2010 and 2020. Results confirmed that all treatment types are able to control pest populations and prevent root damage, but with high variability. Our analyses showed that most investigated factors, for example, air temperature, most soil parameters, and pest infestation levels, did not influence the efficacy of the treatments. The efficacy of clothianidin in preventing root damage decreased slightly with increasing soil bulk density but improved with late maize sowing, and therefore late treatment, as well as with increasing soil moisture in July. The efficacy of cypermethrin in preventing damage improved slightly with increasing clay content in the soil. Tefluthrin was slightly less effective in reducing D. v. virgifera with increasing soil moisture in June. However, all these factorial influences were minor in their absolute effects. Surprisingly, none of the investigated factors seemed to influence the efficacy of H. bacteriophora. In conclusion, the efficacy of chemical and biological treatments against this soil pest remains difficult to predict under farming conditions.
Strip Tillage Improves Grain Yield and Nitrogen Efficiency in Wheat under a Rice–Wheat System in China
Authors: Xu Dongyi , Ding Jinfeng , Yang Didi , Jiang Wenyue , Li Fujian , Zhu Min , Zhu Xinkai , Li Chunyan , Guo Wenshan
Published: October 2022

To characterize the adaptability of strip tillage for wheat production in a rice–wheat rotation system in China, a two-year experiment was conducted. Three methods of tillage and sowing were designed, including broadcast and drill sowing following full tillage (TS1 and TS2) as well as drill sowing following strip tillage (TS3), under two planting densities. Compared to TS2, TS1 only increased seedling tiller number (by 17%–54%) at the beginning of the over-wintering stage, while TS3 improved tiller number, leaf area, and shoot weight (by 17%–39%, 14%–15%, and 19%–27%, respectively), achieving individual seedlings with improved growth vigor. An increased planting density (300 vs. 225 plants m−2) significantly promoted culms, leaf area, and shoot weight per m2 seedlings (by 8%–14%, 7%–23%, and 11%–19%, respectively) under TS3, improving seedling growth quality. The present results indicate that vigorous seedling growth promoted the potential and synergy of the source and sink (maximum leaf area, grains per m2, and sink–source ratio), thereby increasing grain yield. Furthermore, TS3 promoted nitrogen (N) uptake (by 7%–9%) compared with TS1 and TS2. The present study highlights the good adaptability and applicability of strip tillage for the environmentally conscious and efficient production of wheat in rice–wheat rotation systems.
Anomalous Work Hardening Behavior of a Single Crystalline Co-Base Superalloy
Authors: Bezold Andreas , Volz Nicklas , Xue Fei , Göken Mathias , Neumeier Steffen
Published: October 2022

The defect evolution associated with an anomalous work hardening behavior of a single crystalline quaternary Co-Al-W-Ta superalloy at 950 °C was investigated by transmission electron microscopy. As plastic deformation is initially confined to the γ matrix channels, a plateau arises in the stress-strain curve after yielding. At about 1% plastic strain, extensive shearing of the γ′ precipitates under superlattice stacking fault formation occurs leading to extreme work hardening rates up to 12 GPa and a total increase in stress of about 200 MPa. Additional investigations on the temperature and strain-rate dependence of the anomalous work hardening behavior reveal the significance of diffusion and segregation processes on the stress-strain curve and the work hardening behavior.
Effects of New Seal Introductions on Conspecific and Visitor Activity
Authors: Northey Emily J. , Craft Baine B. , Fernandez Eduardo J.
Published: October 2022

Modern zoos and aquariums are defined by several primary goals, which include improving the welfare of their animals, public education, and inspiring visitors to develop an interest in conservation. Animal-Visitor Interactions (AVIs) (i.e., the impact of captive animals and visitors on each other) are a primary means to study these goals. The introduction of new animals into two seal exhibits—the harbor and northern fur seals—at the Seattle Aquarium presented a valuable opportunity to assess the impacts of introductions on the currently exhibited animals and aquarium visitors. The impacts of animal introductions were measured through direct observations of seal activity (i.e., ethogram behavioral observations) and visitor activity (i.e., crowd size and visitor length of stay) before and after new seal introductions. This study consisted of two experiments: Experiment 1 (Harbor seal exhibit) and Experiment 2 (Northern fur seal exhibit). In Experiment 1, we found that the introduction had few impacts on the existing harbor seals or on visitor activity. In Experiment 2, the introduction of a new fur seal had significant positive impacts on the existing fur seal, as was seen through increased social behaviors and decreased stereotypic behaviors, as well as a significant increase in crowd size post-introduction. Based on these findings, new animal introductions were associated with neutral to positive changes in both seal and visitor activity. Findings from this study suggest that studying new animal introductions can result in better understanding and promoting positive interactions with existing animals (introduction effects) and likewise positive experiences for zoo and aquarium visitors (introduction experiences).
Current and Future Approaches to Mitigate Conflict between Humans and Asian Elephants: The Potential Use of Aversive Geofencing Devices
Authors: Cabral de Mel Surendranie Judith , Seneweera Saman , de Mel Ruvinda Kasun , Dangolla Ashoka , Weerakoon Devaka Keerthi , Maraseni Tek , Allen Benjamin Lee
Published: October 2022

Asian elephants are a principal cause of human-wildlife conflict. This results in the death/injury of elephants and humans and large-scale crop and property damage. Most current human-elephant conflict (HEC) mitigation tools lack the flexibility to accommodate the ecological needs of elephants and are ineffective at reducing HEC in the long-term. Here we review common HEC mitigation tools used in Asia and the potential of Aversive Geofencing Devices (AGDs) to manage problem elephants. AGDs can be configured to monitor animal movements in real-time and deliver auditory warnings followed by electric stimuli whenever animals attempt to move across user-specified virtual boundaries. Thus, AGDs are expected to condition elephants to avoid receiving shocks and keep them away from virtually fenced areas, while providing alternative routes that can be modified if required. Studies conducted using AGDs with other species provide an overview of their potential in conditioning wild animals. We recommend that the efficacy and welfare impact of AGDs be evaluated using captive elephants along with public perception of using AGDs on elephants as a means of addressing the inherent deficiencies of common HEC mitigation tools. If elephants could be successfully conditioned to avoid virtual fences, then AGDs could resolve many HEC incidents throughout Asia.
Equine Stomach Development in the Fetal Period: An Anatomical, Topographical, and Morphometric Study
Authors: Poradowski Dominik , Chrószcz Aleksander
Published: October 2022

Studies of equine stomach prenatal development are very rare, and descriptions usually focus on the processes taking place in the embryonic period. Only general information about gastric organogenesis in the fetal period is available in embryology textbooks on domestic mammals. The material for our study included twenty half-breed horse fetuses divided into three age groups on the basis of known fetal age (verified using the CRL method). Our study consists of the topographical, morphological, and morphometrical description of stomach development between the 4th and 11th months of gestation. Even though the skeletotopy, syntopy, and holotopy of the stomach in the fetal period seems to be relatively unchanged, the organ shape and the proportions between its anatomical parts differed in fetuses from the three age groups. The achieved results were statistically elaborated to estimate the dynamics of the stomach shape. This can be described as changing from medium-wide to wide and from slightly bent to sharply bent. A nonlinear correlation of all metric values with CRL in all age groups was observed. A positive allometric growth rate of different intensity was seen in all metric parameters. All the values increased as the fetal period progressed. Only the parietal surface growth rate gradually changed from strongly positive allometric in the first age group to strongly negative allometric in the third age group. A difference between the non-glandular and glandular mucosa of the stomach was visible in the first group. Development of a well-distinguishable plicated edge margin began in the second age group together with gastric pits and gastric areas. The third age group showed a well-developed gastric groove and angular incisura.
Development of a Rapid Sex Identification Method for Newborn Pigeons Using Recombinase Polymerase Amplification and a Lateral-Flow Dipstick on Farm
Authors: Lai Fang-Yu , Chang Kuang-Chih , Chang Chi-Sheng , Wang Pei-Hwa
Published: October 2022

According to pigeon racing rules in Taiwan, the pigeon raiser must decide which juveniles will be chosen as soon as possible. Differentiating the sex of young pigeons based on appearances, and other traditional methods, can be time-consuming and require several pieces of equipment. Recombinase polymerase amplification (RPA) combined with a lateral-flow dipstick (LFD) could further simplify the presentation of amplification results. A designed reverse primer and probe were labeled with biotin and FAM (fluorescein), respectively, to serve as ligands in the LFD. With the addition of a designed forward primer, the RPA-LFD can be used to perform sex identification of pigeon DNA. The optimal conditions were determined to require at least 6.3 pg of the DNA template, a temperature of 37 °C, and a reaction time of at least 20 min. Under these conditions, the test band area on the strip appeared as a dark color if the sample contained female template DNA, whereas the male DNA samples did not produce any test signal in any of the conditions. The results of random samples using RPA-LFD under the optimal conditions agreed with the results of the same samples determined by PCR-agarose gel electrophoresis. The approach in this study represents a rapid and accurate method for pigeon sexing.
Effect of Animal Stocking Density and Habitat Enrichment on Survival and Vitality of Wild Green Shore Crabs, Carcinus maenas, Maintained in the Laboratory
Authors: Wilson Charlotte H. , Wyeth Russell C. , Spicer John I. , McGaw Iain J.
Published: October 2022

The wide geographic distribution, large size and ease of capture has led to decapod crustaceans being used extensively in laboratory experiments. Recently in the United Kingdom decapod crustaceans were listed as sentient beings, resulting in their inclusion in animal care protocols. Ironically, little is known about how captive conditions affect the survival and general condition of wild decapod crustaceans. We used the green shore crab, Carcinus maenas, to investigate the effects of stocking density and shelter on survival and vitality indices during a 6 month period in the laboratory. Neither stocking density nor the presence of shelter affected survival. Stocking density also had no effect on the vitality indices (limb loss, claw strength, BRIX, righting time, leg flare and retraction). The presence of shelter did affect the number of limbs lost and the leg retraction response, but had no effect on the other vitality indices. All vitality indices changed, and mortality increased over time, independent of treatment: this became most apparent after 8 to 11 weeks storage in the laboratory. This decline in condition may have been due to repeated handling of the crabs, rather than the stocking conditions. In support of this, untracked, non-handled (control) individuals sustained a 4% mortality rate compared with 67% mortality in experimental crabs during the 6 month period. Although simple experimental monitoring of crabs with biweekly vitality tests only produced transient short-term stress events, the repeated handling over time apparently led to a cumulative stress and a deterioration in animal health. Bringing wild crustaceans into the laboratory and holding them, even with modest experimental manipulation, may result in high mortality rates. Researchers and animal care committees need to be aware that wild captive invertebrates will respond very differently to laboratory-bred vertebrates, and plan experiments accordingly.
YPEL3 Negatively Regulates Endometrial Function via the Wnt/β-Catenin Pathways during Early Pregnancy in Goats
Authors: Liu Jianguo , Qiu Rendong , Liu Ran , Song Pengjie , Lin Pengfei , Chen Huatao , Zhou Dong , Wang Aihua , Jin Yaping
Published: October 2022

In ruminants, the establishment of pregnancy requires a series of structural and functional changes in the endometrium under the action of hormones, thereby providing an optimal environment for the implantation of the embryo. In this study, we explored the molecular mechanism by which YPEL3 regulates endometrial function during gestation in goats. We found YPEL3 expression was significantly downregulated during early gestation and that YPEL3 overexpression inhibited the expression of ISG15, but had no significant effects on the expression of RSAD2 and CXCL10 in goat endometrial epithelial cells (gEECs). In addition, YPEL3 silencing significantly inhibited PGF2α secretion and the expression of the prostaglandin synthesis-related rate-limiting enzyme-encoding genes PGFS and PTGES, with no significant effect on the expression of PTGS1 and PTGS2. Moreover, YPEL3 inhibited the expression of vimentin and β-catenin and pretreatment of gEECs with the β-catenin activator CHIR99021 prevented a YPEL3-induced decrease in vimentin expression. Collectively, our findings confirm that, as a hormone-regulated factor, YPEL3 regulates endometrial function by inhibiting the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway and provide new insights for further clarification of the mechanism by which YPEL3 functions during early pregnancy in ruminants.
In Vivo Efficacy of Echinops spinosus Decoction as a Therapeutic for Cows at Risk of Clinical Endometritis
Authors: Boudelal Saleh , Adnane Mounir , Niar Abdelatif , Chapwanya Aspinas
Published: October 2022

Clinical endometritis (CE) is a multifactorial disease of dairy animals. Retained fetal membranes (RFM) and metritis are the major risk factors of CE in dairy cows. Because uterine inflammation affects the profitability of the dairy industry, antibiotics and hormonal therapies are commonly used to mitigate against the disease. However, the One-Health concept aims to reduce antibiotic use in food animals to avoid the emergence of drug resistance or residues in milk or meat. Thus, phytotherapy may represent a good alternative to antibiotics in food animals. Echinops spinosus (E. spinosus) is a natural plant known to have therapeutic, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and wound-healing properties in vitro. The aim of the present study was to investigate the efficacy of E. spinosus as a preventive strategy for CE in dairy cows with other postpartum complications. Holstein–Friesian cows (n = 36) diagnosed with RFM or metritis enrolled in the study were allocated into three groups. One group received antibiotic treatment. Another group received prostaglandin injection (PG). The experimental group received E. spinosus decoction orally. As a control group, eutocic cows (n = 36), without RFM and metritis were included in the study. The efficiency of the treatment was based on the occurrence of CE and improved reproductive outcomes. At 30 ± 2 DPP, CE was diagnosed in 25%, 58.34%, and 75% in antibiotic, PG, and E. spinosus groups, respectively (p < 0.05). There were no differences between the groups at 55 ± 5 DPP (16.67%, 33.44%, and 41.67% in antibiotic, PG and E. spinosus groups, respectively, p > 0.05). The E. spinosus group had the longest open days, lowest conception rate at 150 DPP, and highest number of services per conception. Oral E. spinosus extract is ineffective as a therapeutic for cows at risk of CE. These findings may pave the way for future innovative strategies employing E. spinosus to protect cattle against endometritis.
Bibliometric Analysis of Research on the Main Genes Involved in Meat Tenderness
Authors: Gonzales-Malca Jhony Alberto , Tirado-Kulieva Vicente Amirpasha , Abanto-López María Santos , Aldana-Juárez William Lorenzo , Palacios-Zapata Claudia Mabel
Published: October 2022

Tenderness is one of the main characteristics of meat because it determines its price and acceptability. This is the first bibliometric study on the trend of research on the role of genes in meat tenderness. A total of 175 original and English-language articles published up to 2021 were retrieved from Scopus. The bibliometric analysis was carried out with VOSviewer (version 1.6.18, Eck and Waltman, Leiden, Netherlands) and complemented with the Analyze search results service from Scopus. Erroneous and duplicate data were eliminated, and incomplete information was added to standardize the results. Scientific production was evaluated by means of quantity, quality and structure indicators. As a first glance, 8.816% of authors have published more than 50% of papers mainly related to genes encoding the calpain (CAPN)-calpastatin (CAST) system and single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs). Among other findings, a strong link was found between the contribution of the main countries (led by the United States with) and their institutions (led by the USDA Agricultural Research Service with) to their gross domestic product. Most studies on the topic are published in the Journal of Animal Science, and other journals with high impact according to the number of citations and different metrics. Finally, when evaluating the most cited articles, the occurrence and association of the main keywords, it was confirmed that research is focused on the role of CAPN and CAST genes and of SNPs in beef tenderness. The change in science was emphasized; although marker-assisted selection is still used, genes have an infinitesimal effect on complex traits. Therefore, since about 2010, new research groups adopted genomic selection to evaluate dense panels of SNPs and better explain genetic variation in meat tenderness.
Effect of Additional Iron Injection to Suckling Pigs on Hematocrit Level during the Suckling Period
Authors: Albers Sarah E. , Pintens Emily A. , Isensee Paige K. , Lemanski Clara M. , Jang Young Dal
Published: October 2022

Two experiments were conducted to evaluate the effects of additional iron injection to suckling piglets on hematocrit level during the suckling period. In Experiment 1, a total of 24 piglets were allotted into 3 treatments within litter based on body weight and sex at d 1 of age. Treatments were: (1) Control: a 200 mg iron-dextran intramuscular injection only at d 0 of experiment (d 1 of age), (2) Iron100: intramuscular iron-dextran injections at d 0 (200 mg iron) and 15 (11 d before weaning) of experiment (100 mg iron), and (3) Iron200: intramuscular iron-dextran injections at d 0 (200 mg iron) and 15 of experiment (200 mg iron). In Experiment 2, a total of 20 piglets were allotted into 2 treatments within litter based on body weight and sex at d 1 to 2 of age. Treatments were: (1) Iron100b: 100 mg iron-dextran intramuscular injection at d 0 of experiment (d 1 to 2 of age), and (2) Iron200b: 200 mg iron-dextran intramuscular injection at d 0 of experiment. An additional 200 mg iron-dextran was injected to all piglets intramuscularly at d 14 of experiment (11 d before weaning). In Experiment 1, there was no difference in hematocrit levels among treatments at d 15 of experiment. Both iron treatments had greater hematocrit levels than the Control treatment at d 22 and 26 of experiment (p < 0.05). The Iron200 treatment had greater hematocrit level at d 26 of experiment (p < 0.05) and tended to have a greater increase of hematocrit levels in d 22 to 26 of experiment (p = 0.09) than the Iron100 treatment. In Experiment 2, the Iron200b treatment had greater hematocrit levels than the Iron100b treatment in d 14 and 25 (p < 0.05) of experiment. Hematocrit level changes tended to be greater in the Iron200b treatment in d 0 to 14 (p = 0.08) of experiment but lower in d 14 to 25 (p < 0.05) of experiment than the Iron100b treatment. The additional iron injection to suckling piglets increased hematocrit levels with greater values at weaning in the higher injection level whereas the increase was greater when the hematocrit level was low at the time of additional injection.
Changes in Management, Welfare, Emotional State, and Human-Related Docility in Stallions
Authors: Popescu Silvana , Lazar Eva Andrea , Borda Cristin , Blaga Petrean Anamaria , Mitrănescu Elena
Published: October 2022

Despite an increase in awareness of their essential needs, many stallions continue to be kept in conditions limiting their social interactions and movement. To supplement the studies which highlight the effects of these practices on selected aspects of equine mental and physical wellbeing, we aimed to monitor a group of 32 adult intact stallions during their transition from tethered housing with limited outdoor access to free group housing through the lens of their overall welfare, perceived emotional status, and docility toward humans. Over three visits (before the management change, two weeks, and three months after, respectively), their welfare, qualitative behavior, and docility were assessed. Analysis of the data collected showed an improvement in the stallions’ overall welfare and no decrease in their docility after their group-release, with a constant correlation between these two aspects. The evaluation of their emotional states was less relevant, lacking consistency between the assessments for most of the descriptors used, warranting further research in similar conditions. Although our study covered a relatively short period of time, our results provide encouraging support for stallion owners in deciding on a similar management change for the welfare of their animals.
Thrombin as a Potential Proxy to Select for Horn Fly Abundance in Beef Cattle
Authors: Warner Amanda , Ling Ashley , Krause Taylor , Heins Bradley , Hinkle Nancy , Pringle Dean , Aggrey Samuel E. , Rekaya Romdhane
Published: October 2022

Horn flies are a major nuisance to cattle and induce significant economic losses. Fly abundance varies within and across breeds and genetic analyses have shown sufficient genetic variation to permit selection. A major bottleneck for selecting against horn fly abundance is the complexity of measuring fly attraction phenotypes. Easy-to-measure proxy phenotypes could be an attractive option to indirectly estimate fly abundance. In the current study, thrombin was investigated as a potential proxy to assess fly abundance. Fly counts and blood samples were collected on 355 cows. Pearson correlation between subjective fly count and thrombin was −0.13, indicating a decrease in fly abundance with the increase in thrombin concentration. When thrombin was discretized into three classes, there was a 22% difference in fly count between the top and bottom classes. Heritability estimates of thrombin were 0.38 and 0.39 using linear and threshold models, respectively. The correlation between estimated thrombin breeding values and fly count was around −0.18. There was a noticeably lower density of high fly counts among animals with high breeding values for thrombin. These results indicate that thrombin could be used in combination with other biological factors to estimate fly abundance and as a proxy for selection against fly abundance.
Ultrasound Description of Follicular Development in the Louisiana Pinesnake (Pituophis ruthveni, Stull 1929)
Authors: Oliveri Matteo , Sandfoss Mark R. , Reichling Steven B. , Richter Melanie M. , Cantrell Jessica R. , Knotek Zdenek , Roberts Beth M.
Published: October 2022

Accurate monitoring of reproductive activity is necessary for success of captive breeding and recovery of endangered species. Using ultrasonography, we aimed to describe the stages of follicle development of the endangered Louisiana pinesnake (Pituophis ruthveni). Ultrasound procedures were performed weekly for 11 females during the 2020 reproductive season by submerging the last half of an unanesthetized female in water and using a 3.0–10.0 MHz linear array transducer placed and moved along the gastrosteges to explore the whole reproductive tract. The presence of follicles, their size, echogenicity, and stage of development was assessed. We observed small, round, anechoic, linearly aligned previtellogenic follicles in the coelom at the beginning of the reproductive season and found that structures dramatically increased in size and shifted in echogenicity as follicles matured and developed before and after ovulation. We classified follicles according to ultrasonographic appearance into 7 different follicle categories: previtellogenic, early vitellogenic, vitellogenic, preovulatory, peri-ovulatory, post ovulatory, and shelled. Using ultrasound, we developed markers of progressive follicular maturation for the Louisiana pinesnake and identified signs of abnormal development and post ovulatory follicle reabsorption. Detailed description of follicular maturation will be useful to improve captive breeding successes, identify mechanisms of reproductive failure, and develop artificial insemination.
Investigating Unused Tools for the Animal Behavioral Diversity Toolkit
Authors: Brereton James Edward , Fernandez Eduardo J.
Published: October 2022

Behavioral diversity is a commonly used tool used to quantify the richness and evenness of animal behaviors and assess the effect of variables that may impact an animal’s quality of life. The indices used in behavioral diversity research, and the study subjects, have not been formally reviewed. This paper aims to identify which indices are being used in behavioral diversity research, and under which scenarios, and uncover novel indices from other disciplines that could be applied to behavioral diversity. To investigate the techniques and species investigated in behavioral diversity literature, a Web of Science literature search was conducted. Two methods: behavioral richness and the Shannon–Wiener index, were the most frequently used indices, whereas the Behavioral Variability index featured rarely. While a range of species appeared in the behavioral literature, mammals were the most frequently studied Class, whereas amphibians did not feature in any papers. There are several diversity indices which did not feature in behavioral diversity including Simpson’s index, and Chao. Such indices could be used to better understand animal behavioral study outputs or be used to estimate the number of ‘unobserved’ behaviors that an animal may express. Future studies could therefore extend beyond the Shannon–Wiener and richness indices.