bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Design and Experiment of Feeding Device for Hairy Vetch Harvesting
Authors: Wang Wei , Li Jiahang , Wang Shuoming , Li Lei , Yuan Lin , Yv Shiqiang , Zhang Jun , Hou Junming , Zhang Ren
Published: February 2023

In order to solve the problem of low mechanization level of hairy vetch harvesting, a feeding device for an anti-winding hairy vetch harvester was designed. Firstly, the physical properties of hairy vetch stalk were studied. According to the mechanical properties of hairy vetch stalk, the key components of the feeding device were designed and analyzed, the structure and working principle of the feeding device were described. Secondly, the discrete element method was used to simulate and analyze the movement performance of the feeding device. On this basis, the ternary quadratic regression orthogonal rotation combination test was established with the vertical drum, the machine forward speed, and the spiral conveyor speed as the test factors and the stem loss rate as the test index. The simulation results showed that when the vertical drum was 1037.5 r/min, the machine forward speed was 2.76 m/s, the spiral conveyor speed was 348.88 r/min, and the straw loss rate was 2.38%, and the feeding device performs best at this time. Finally, the on-site performance test of the feeding device was carried out. The results showed that: all the test indicators met the requirements of the national standard; the actual cutting width was 1.66 m; the cutting stubble height was 6.41 mm; the over stubble loss rate was 0.45%; the missed cutting loss rate was 0.20%; and the stem loss rate was 3.00%, which verified the rationality of the design of the feeding device. In order to solve the problem of low mechanization level of hairy vetch, which easily becomes entangled in the working process, an anti-winding feeding device for hairy vetch harvesting was designed.
Borated Fertilizations via Foliar and Soil for Peanut Production during the Sugarcane Reform
Authors: Betiol Ruan Aparecido Biagi , Ferraz-Almeida Risely , Otto Rafael , Cesar Vitti Godofredo
Published: February 2023

The sugarcane area expansion is promoting peanut production where the peanut is planted during the sugarcane reform in soils with low boron (B) content. This study aimed to monitor: (i) the efficiency of B application via soil and foliar on peanut yield parameters; (ii) the right B rate and source to increase peanut production; and (iii) the B leaching in the tropical soil. Methods: Two experiments were run in an area of sugarcane reform in São Paulo, Brazil. Study 1 applied foliar B (Bm, source: monoethanolamine) using rates from 250 to 1500 g ha−1, while study 2 applied soil B (Boct, source: sodium octaborate; rates) using rates of 0.5 (Boct0.5) to 1.0 kg ha−1 (Boct1.0), associated with foliar B (Bba, boric acid) with rates from 250 to 1500 g ha−1. Peanut yield parameters were measured, and an incubation study monitored soil B leaching. In both studies, isolated foliar Bba and Bm rates improved linearly the 100-grains yield of peanuts with an average of 74 g, while foliar Bba rates increased the grain yield. When there was an association between soil and foliar B, the optimal rates of Bba ranged from 700 to 900 g ha−1 at Boct0.5, while the optimal rates ranged from 400 to 700 g ha−1 at Boct1.0. Soil B leaching was lower in Boct < Bm < Bba with 19%, 24%, and 22% of leached-B, respectively. All sources increased leaf B indicating the B was absorbed by plants with a positive effect on leaf contents of calcium, potassium, nitrogen, and phosphorus. Based on the results, we conclude that the association of Bba (foliar) + Boct (soil) was shown to be the better alternative for increasing the peanut yield parameters and nutrient balance in leaves.
The Influence of Newly Developed Spray Drift Reduction Agents on Drift Mitigation by Means of Wind Tunnel and Field Evaluation Methods
Authors: Jomantas Tadas , Lekavičienė Kristina , Steponavičius Dainius , Andriušis Albinas , Zaleckas Ernestas , Zinkevičius Remigijus , Popescu Catalin Viorel , Salceanu Calin , Ignatavičius Jonas , Kemzūraitė Aurelija
Published: February 2023

Pesticide spray drift has been a worldwide concern in terms of potential environmental pollution and ecosystem damage. This study defined the main drift reduction agent (DRA) characteristics that help to understand the drift formation process in agricultural spraying. Seven various DRAs and water were evaluated. Three solutions were created based on the following materials: calcium dodecylbenzenesulfonate, benzenesulfonic acid, C10-13-alkyl derivatives, and calcium salt. Drift measurements were performed by means of the open circuit-type wind tunnel and in the field under conditionally controlled conditions. Air-injector flat spray nozzles and standard flat spray nozzles were used during trials. The spray pressure was 4.0 bar. Solutions were sprayed at different wind speeds (from 2 m s−1 to 10 m s−1, increasing every 2 m s−1). Studies have shown that wind speed and nozzle design have the greatest influence on spray drift. For all DRA solutions studied, the standard flat spray nozzles resulted in ground spray drift, both in the wind tunnel and in the field, which was about two times higher than that of air-injector flat spray nozzles. The spraying of water and all DRA solutions with the air-injector flat spray nozzle showed that all new solutions statistically significantly reduced the drift both in the tunnel and in the field. Ground-drift studies in the wind tunnel showed a trend towards a less intense drift reduction in DRA droplets with increasing wind speed. With DRA7e, the drift can be reduced by up to 56% (at a wind speed of 4 m s−1) and up to 30% (at 10 m s−1). The effect of the solutions on the reduction in spray drift is significantly lower when spraying with standard flat spray nozzles. Spray drift can then be reduced by up to 30% (at a wind speed of 4 m s−1) and up to 12% (at 10 m s−1) for DRA7e.
Numerical Simulation and Analysis of Feeding Uniformity of Viscous Miscellaneous Fish Bait Based on EDEM Software
Authors: Yuan Hao , Cai Yu , Liang Shifei , Ku Jinsheng , Qin Yun
Published: February 2023

The feeding characteristics of viscous miscellaneous fish bait were studied in order to place the bait into existing equipment. Through the feeding experiment and discrete element numerical simulation of miscellaneous fish pellet feed, the feeding characteristics of the sticky miscellaneous fish pellet feed in the silo were analyzed. The main factors affecting the uniform feeding of miscellaneous fish pellet bait were obtained, including the size of the feeding mouth of the silo, the size of the inclination angle of the silo, and the effect of external forces. According to the simulation and experiment results, the optimum design of the discharging device was carried out, including the optimization of the structure of the bin, the design of the agitation device and the optimization of the rotating parameters of the agitation device. The research and development of the stirred discharging device was completed, realizing the uniform, continuous and complete discharging of the mixed fish particle bait. Its feasibility was verified through the simulation and prototype experiment.
Spatio-Temporal Semantic Data Model for Precision Agriculture IoT Networks
Authors: San Emeterio de la Parte Mario , Lana Serrano Sara , Muriel Elduayen Marta , Martínez-Ortega José-Fernán
Published: February 2023

In crop and livestock management within the framework of precision agriculture, scenarios full of sensors and devices are deployed, involving the generation of a large volume of data. Some solutions require rapid data exchange for action or anomaly detection. However, the administration of this large amount of data, which in turn evolves over time, is highly complicated. Management systems add long-time delays to the spatio-temporal data injection and gathering. This paper proposes a novel spatio-temporal semantic data model for agriculture. To validate the model, data from real livestock and crop scenarios, retrieved from the AFarCloud smart farming platform, are modeled according to the proposal. Time-series Database (TSDB) engine InfluxDB is used to evaluate the model against data management. In addition, an architecture for the management of spatio-temporal semantic agricultural data in real-time is proposed. This architecture results in the DAM&DQ system responsible for data management as semantic middleware on the AFarCloud platform. The approach of this proposal is in line with the EU data-driven strategy.
Mucilage Yield, Composition, and Physicochemical Properties of Cultivated Cactus Pear Varieties as Influenced by Irrigation
Authors: Luna-Zapién Edén A. , Zegbe Jorge A. , Meza-Velázquez Jorge Armando , Contreras-Esquivel Juan Carlos , Morales-Martínez Thelma K.
Published: February 2023

Opuntia spp. plants occupy an important socioeconomic role in arid and semiarid zones where water is scarce. Irrigation increases the productivity of these plants; however, its effect on the yield, composition, and physicochemical properties of the mucilage is unknown. Three irrigation regimens were tested: non-irrigated (rainwater), supplemental irrigation (irrigation between field capacity (0.28 m3 m−3) and permanent wilting point (0.14 m3 m−3)), and full irrigation (100% of crop evapotranspiration), on the four cactus pear varieties (‘Amarilla Olorosa’ (Opuntia spp.), ‘Cristalina’ (Opuntia albicarpa Scheinvar), ‘Dalia Roja’ (Opuntia spp.), and ‘Roja Lisa’ (O. ficus-indica (L.) Mill)). Irrigation regimens were applied during the dry season (March to June in the northern hemisphere). Composite samples of cladodes per replicate and treatment were collected for mucilage extraction. The mucilage was characterized for yield, color, chemical composition, infrared spectroscopy, viscosity, and molar mass. The combination with the greatest yield was ‘Amarilla Olorosa’ with no irrigation (22.2%), while the least yield was from ‘Cristalina’ undergoing full irrigation (12.2%). In general, non-irrigated plants yielded more mucilage, their color was brighter and less green, and they had more protein and fiber. The viscosity and molar mass were greatest in non-irrigated plants. Total carbohydrate content was similar between non-irrigated and supplementally irrigated plants. Thus, for the cactus pear varieties studied here, either no irrigation or supplemental irrigation could be a feasible strategy to produce mucilage with good characteristics for agro-industrial and pharmaceutical use.
Greek Agricultural Processing Industries: Relationships between Critical Success Factors and Enterprise Resource Planning implementation
Authors: Kouriati Asimina , Moulogianni Christina , Bournaris Thomas , Dimitriadou Eleni , Nastis Stefanos A.
Published: February 2023

This study aims to identify the relationships between critical factors and successful Enterprise Resource Planning implementation in the agricultural processing companies of Central Macedonia’s (Greece) region. Therefore, critical factors are taken into account collectively, as aspects of ERP implementation and its life cycle. Based on that, two versions of the particular information system’s management were presented, aiming to its success in the Greek agricultural processing field. The methodology which was used in order for the purposes of this analysis to be served, was that of Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling. Through the answers given, it was determined whether the importance shown to the two different versions of critical factors is related to the degree of ERP systems’ success—or not—and in which way. Based on that, two management versions of ERP system are provided but also the scientific literature regarding the Greek and Central Macedonian field, is enriched. Lastly, helpful guidelines are developed in order for professionals and managers to understand the ways in which critical factors can be taken into account so as for the successful implementation of ERP in agribusinesses -specialized in the field of agricultural products processing- to be feasible.
Patterns of Influence of Meteorological Elements on Maize Grain Weight and Nutritional Quality
Authors: Wang Liqing , Yu Xiaofang , Gao Julin , Ma Daling , Guo Huaihuai , Hu Shuping
Published: February 2023

Meteorological factors are one of the important factors that determine maize kernel weight and grain nutritional quality. Analyzing the influence of meteorological factors before and after anthesis on maize kernel weight and nutritional quality components is of great significance for improving corn yield and quality. Therefore, five different maize hybrids and conducted continuous experiments from 2018 to 2021 were selected in this study, to explore the response of maize kernel weight and grain nutritional quality to meteorological factors in different growth periods, and to quantify the linear relationship between grain nutritional quality parameters, grain weight, and meteorological factors. The main results were as follows: the 100-grain weight reached the maximum value of 39.53 g in 2018; the contents of crude protein, total starch, and crude fat in grains reached the maximum in 2018, 2020, and 2018, respectively, which were 9.61%, 69.2%, and 5.1%. Meteorological factors significantly affected the maize grain weight (p < 0.05). Before anthesis, total sunshine duration, average temperature, relative humidity, and the accumulated temperature had strong effects on grain weight. After anthesis, average daily temperature, total rainfall, temperature difference, accumulated temperature, average daily highest temperature, and total sunshine hours had strong effects on grain weight. There was also a significant correlation between grain weight and grain nutritional quality components (p < 0.05). The multivariate polynomial equation analysis revealed that further potential for maize grain weight could be exploited by adjusting the content of each quality component of the kernels under the current test conditions. Meteorological elements can indirectly affect the 100-grain weight through their relationship with the nutritional quality of the grains, with accumulated temperature before anthesis, average temperature after anthesis, and accumulated temperature after anthesis having the greatest indirect effect on the 100-grain weight. Therefore, the effects of pre-anthesis accumulation temperature, post-anthesis average temperature, and post-anthesis accumulation temperature on the nutritional quality of the grains can be harmonized by the application of hybrids of different lengths of vegetation and by adjusting the sowing time in agricultural production. Ultimately, maize grain weight can be increased on the basis of optimizing the content of various quality components in the grains.
Current Agronomic Practices, Harvest & Post-Harvest Processing of Soybeans (Glycine max)—A Review
Authors: Toomer Ondulla T. , Oviedo Edgar O. , Ali Muhammad , Patino Danny , Joseph Michael , Frinsko Mike , Vu Thien , Maharjan Pramir , Fallen Ben , Mian Rouf
Published: February 2023

Globally, soybeans are grown to meet the needs for animal and human nutrition, oil extraction, and use in multiple industrial applications. Decades of soybean research, innovative farming methods, and the use of higher yielding resistant seed varieties have led to increased crop yields. Globally, soybean producers have utilized enhanced processing methods to produce nutritious high-quality meal and extracted oil for use in animal feed and within the food industry. Soybeans contain highly digestible proteins and are processed using various mechanical and chemical techniques to produce high quality animal feed ingredients. Defatted soybean meal (DSM) is usually prepared by the solvent extraction process of soybeans, whereby almost all oil content is removed. When oil is not extracted, full-fat soybean meal (FFSBM) is created. This form provides an excellent source of dietary energy by retaining the lipid component and is very useful in animal feeds by reducing the need for adding exogeneous lipids. However, some anti-nutritional factors (ANF) are present in FFSBM if not properly heat treated before inclusion in the finished feed. These ANF adversely affect the internal organ function and overall growth performance of the animal. Among these ANF, protease inhibitors are most important, but can be readily destroyed with optimal thermal processing. However, if the process protocols are not followed precisely, excessive heat treatment may occur, resulting in both reduced protein quality and amino acid bioavailability in the meal. Conversely, insufficient heat treatment may result in the retention of some ANF in the meal. Thermally resistant ANF can be greatly reduced in the bean and meal when dietary enzyme supplementation is included in the finished feed. This approach is cost-effective and most commonly utilized commercially. After processing, the soybean meal quality is often measured using in vitro methods performed at commercial analytical laboratories to assess the nitrogen solubility index (NSI), protein dispersibility index (PDI), urease activity (UA), and protein solubility in potassium hydroxide. Once properly processed, FFSBM or DSM can be utilized optimally in the diets of poultry and aquaculture to enhance the economic viability, animal nutrition, production performance, and the quality and nutritional value of the meat and/or eggs produced.
Genome-Wide Characterization of HSP90 Gene Family in Chinese Pumpkin (Cucurbita moschata Duch.) and Their Expression Patterns in Response to Heat and Cold Stresses
Authors: Hu Yanping , Zhang Tingting , Wang Peng , Li Yuxin , Wang Min , Zhu Baibi , Liao Daolong , Yun Tianhai , Huang Wenfeng , Chen Yisong , Zhang Wen , Zhou Yang
Published: February 2023

Heat shock protein 90 (HSP90) plays critical roles in plant growth and development, as well as in response to abiotic stresses such as heat and cold. To comprehensively analyze the HSP90 gene family and determine the key HSP90 gene responsive to temperature stress in pumpkin (Cucurbita moschata Duch.), bioinformatics and molecular biology techniques were used in this study. A total of 10 CmoHSP90 genes were identified from the pumpkin genome, encoding amino acids of 567–865, with protein molecular weight of 64.32–97.36 kDa. Based on the phylogenetic analysis, they were classified into four groups. The members in each group contained similar conserved motifs and gene structures. The 10 CmoHSP90 genes were distributed on the 9 chromosomes of C. moschata. Four pairs of segmental duplication genes (CmoHSP90-1/CmoHSP90-10, CmoHSP90-2/CmoHSP90-7, CmoHSP90-3/CmoHSP90-6, and CmoHSP90-4/CmoHSP90-9) were detected. Synteny analysis revealed that 10 C. maxima HSP90 genes and 10 C. moschata HSP90 genes were orthologous genes with 17 syntenic relationships. Promoter analysis detected 23 cis-acting elements including development-, light-, stress-, and hormone-related elements in the promoter regions of pumpkin HSP90 genes. Further analysis showed that the transcript levels of CmoHSP90-3 and CmoHSP90-6 were remarkably up-regulated by heat stress, while CmoHSP90-6 and CmoHSP90-10 were significantly up-regulated by cold stress, suggesting that these HSP90 genes play critical roles in response to temperature stress in pumpkins. The findings will be valuable for understanding the roles of CmoHSP90s in temperature stress response and should provide a foundation for elucidating the function of CmoHSP90s in C. moschata.
Net Primary Productivity Estimation Using a Modified MOD17A3 Model in the Three-River Headwaters Region
Authors: Liu Wei , Yuan Yecheng , Li Ying , Li Rui , Jiang Yuhao
Published: February 2023

Remote sensing (RS) models can easily estimate the net primary productivity (NPP) on a large scale. The majority of RS models try to couple the effects of temperature, water, stand age, and CO2 concentration to attenuate the maximum light use efficiency (LUE) in the NPP models. The water effect is considered the most unpredictable, significant, and challenging. Because the stomata of alpine plants are less sensitive to limiting water vapor loss, the typically employed atmospheric moisture deficit or canopy water content may be less sensitive in signaling water stress on plant photosynthesis. This study introduces a soil moisture (SM) content index and an alpine vegetation photosynthesis model (AVPM) to quantify the RS NPP for the alpine ecosystem over the Three-River Headwaters (TRH) region. The SM content index was based on the minimum relative humidity and maximum vapor pressure deficit during the noon, and the AVPM model was based on the framework of a moderate resolution imaging spectroradiometer NPP (MOD17) model. A case study was conducted in the TRH region, covering an area of approximately 36.3 × 104 km2. The results demonstrated that the AVPM NPP greatly outperformed the MOD17 and had superior accuracy. Compared with the MOD17, the average bias of the AVPM was −9.8 gCm−2yr−1, which was reduced by 91.8%. The average mean absolute percent error was 57.0%, which was reduced by 68.2%. The average Pearson’s correlation coefficient was 0.4809, which was improved by 30.0%. The improvements in the NPP estimation were mainly attributed to the decreasing estimation of the water stress coefficient on the NPP, which was considered the higher constraint of water impact on plant photosynthesis. Therefore, the AVPM model is more accurate in estimating the NPP for the alpine ecosystem. This is of great significance for accurately assessing the vegetation growth of alpine ecosystems across the entire Qinghai–Tibet Plateau in the context of grassland degradation and black soil beach management.
Development of Superabsorbent Polymer (SAP) Seed Coating Technology to Enhance Germination and Stand Establishment in Red Clover Cover Crop
Authors: Amirkhani Masoume , Mayton Hilary , Loos Michael , Taylor Alan
Published: February 2023

Drought conditions after sowing threaten the seedling establishment of all seeds, including cover crops. Cover crops are commonly broadcast and, thus, are often susceptible to drought stress after sowing. Our hypothesis was that seed coating with superabsorbent polymers (SAPs) would enhance germination in the lab and stand establishment in the field by increasing water availability to single seeds. Red clover (Trifolium pratense L.) seeds were coated with the following selected SAP formulations at 2% of their seed weight: cross-linked potassium polyacrylate (PAL), cross-linked polyacrylamide-based polymer (PAM), PAM with graphite (PAM+G), and Starch-g-2-Propenoic acid (potassium salt) (STR). The water absorbency of each SAP formulation was >200 g water/g of polymer; STR had the greatest absorbency, at 352 g water/g of polymer. A seed coating method was developed, resulting in the uniform application of SAP from seed to seed. All SAP coating treatments increased germination compared to the 0% SAP coating in controlled environment studies in the lab. Three field trials were conducted for each seed coating treatment, providing a range of climatic soil conditions. Within each field trial, the STR with the greatest water absorbency had a higher stand for treatments sown by broadcasting followed by raking to incorporate seeds. The first two trials were conducted under more stressful conditions. PAM+G performed best in the first two trials by broadcasting seeds with no raking. Collectively, the selected SAP seed coating improved field stands compared to the non-treated controls.
Effect of Mycorrhizal Inoculation on Melon Plants under Deficit Irrigation Regimes
Authors: Miceli Alessandro , Vetrano Filippo , Torta Livio , Esposito Alessandro , Moncada Alessandra
Published: February 2023

The shortage of good quantity and quality of water for irrigated agriculture is a major problem in arid and semiarid regions. To deal with this problem, deficit irrigation (DI) or arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) inoculation have been proposed and adopted for many crops as a tool to save water, or to improve crop tolerance to drought stress. An experiment was conducted for two consecutive years to evaluate the effect of mycorrhizal inoculation on the physiological, morphological, yield, and quality characteristics of melon plants grown under deficit irrigation. Melon crop (Cucumis melo L. cv. Helios) was grown under field conditions adopting a split-plot design with four replications, where DI was the main factor and AMF inoculation was the secondary factor. DI treatments consisted of applying 60%, 80%, or 100% of crop evapotranspiration (ETc) on melon plants inoculated or not with a commercial biostimulant containing 50% of Rhizophagus irregularis, and 50% of Funneliformis mosseae. Moderate and severe deficit irrigation significantly reduced the relative water content, stomatal conductance, yield, nitrogen applied efficiency (NAE), and fruit firmness of the uninoculated plants, but significantly increased irrigation water use efficiency (IWUE) and the ascorbic acid content of the fruit. AMF had a positive effect on plant tolerance to moderate water stress, and on some fruit quality parameters (fruit length, firmness, and sugar content). The combined use of moderate deficit irrigation (80%) and soil inoculation with AMF on melon plants allows water savings without affecting fruit yield, and increases IWUE, NAE, and some fruit quality characteristics (firmness, SSC, and SSC/TA). Furthermore, the use of AMF plants could be worth it to reduce the yield loss and increase fruit quality, even with severe deficit irrigation (60%).
Inclusion of Red Macroalgae (Asparagopsis taxiformis) in Dairy Cow Diets Modulates Feed Intake, Chewing Activity and Estimated Saliva Secretion
Authors: Nyløy Emma , Prestløkken Egil , Eknæs Margrete , Eikanger Katrine Sømliøy , Heldal Hagen Live , Kidane Alemayehu
Published: February 2023

The current study assessed the effects of red macroalgae Asparagopsis taxiformis (AT)—included as an enteric methane inhibitor—in dairy cow diets on feed intake and eating–rumination behaviour. Fifteen early lactating Norwegian Red dairy cows were offered ad libitum access to drinking water and a total mixed ration (TMR) composed of 35% concentrate feed and 65% grass silage on a dry matter (DM) basis. The experiment lasted for 74 days with the first 22 days on a common diet used as the covariate period. At the end of the covariate period, the cows were randomly allocated into one of three dietary treatments: namely, 0% AT (control), 0.125% AT and 0.25% AT in the TMR. The TMR was offered in individual feed troughs with AT blended in a 400 g (w/w) water–molasses mixture. Eating–rumination behaviour was recorded for 11 days using RumiWatchSystem after feeding the experimental diets for 30 days. The 0.25% AT inclusion significantly reduced the DM intake (DMI). Time (min/d) spent on eating and eating in a head-down position increased with the increasing AT level in the diet, whereas rumination time was not affected. The greater time spent on eating head-down with the 0.25% AT group resulted in a significantly higher chewing index (min/kg DMI). Estimated saliva production per unit DMI (L/kg DMI, SE) increased from 10.9 (0.4) in the control to 11.3 (0.3) and 13.0 (0.3) in the 0.125% and 0.25% AT groups, respectively. This aligned with the measured ruminal fluid pH (6.09, 6.14, and 6.37 in the control, 0.125% AT and 0.25% AT groups, respectively). In conclusion, either the level of the water–molasses mixture used was not sufficient to mask the taste of AT, or the cows used it as a cue to sort out the AT. Studies with relatively larger numbers of animals and longer adaptation periods than what we used here, with varied modes of delivery of the seaweed may provide novel strategies for administering the additive in ruminant diets.
Wind Speed and Landscape Context Mediate Campylobacter Risk among Poultry Reared in Open Environments
Authors: Smith Olivia M. , Cornell Kevin A. , Crossley Michael S. , Crespo Rocio , Jones Matthew S. , Snyder William E. , Owen Jeb P.
Published: February 2023

Foodborne pathogens cause over 9 million illnesses in the United States each year, and Campylobacter from chickens is the largest contributor. Rearing poultry outdoors without the use of antibiotics is becoming an increasingly popular style of farming; however, little is understood about how environmental factors and farm management alter pathogen prevalence. Our survey of 27 farms in California, Oregon, Washington, and Idaho, USA, revealed a diversity of management practices used to rear poultry in the open environment. Here, we assess environmental and management factors that impact Campylobacter spp. prevalence in 962 individual chicken fecal samples from 62 flocks over a three-year period. We detected Campylobacter spp. in 250/962 (26.0%) of fecal samples screened, in 69.4% (43/62) of flocks, and on 85.2% (23/27) of farms. We found that Campylobacter spp. prevalence was predicted to increase in poultry on farms with higher average wind speeds in the seven days preceding sampling; on farms embedded in more agricultural landscapes; and in flocks typified by younger birds, more rotations, higher flock densities, and the production of broilers. Collectively, our results suggest that farms in areas with higher wind speeds and more surrounding agriculture face greater risk of Campylobacter spp. introduction into their flocks.
Serological Investigation on the Presence of Feline Coronavirus (FCoV) and Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) in Domestic Cats Living with COVID-19 Positive Owners in the UAE, 2022
Authors: El-Tholoth Mohamed , Hussein Mahmoud , Mohammed Dina , Al-Rasheedi Majed , Al-Qubaisi Hamad , Al-Blooshi Abdullah , Al-Ahbabi Mohammed , Al-Dhaheri Zayed , Al-Blooshi Khalifa , Al-Herbawi Majd , Abo Elfadl Eman A. , Seboussi Rabiha
Published: February 2023

Feline coronavirus (FCoV) is widely circulating among domestic cats (Felis catus). The zoonotic origin of the emerged severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) and the biological characteristics of CoVs, including the ability to cross interspecies barriers, facilitate its emergence in different animals, including cats’ populations. The current study is the first to report the serological investigation on the presence of FCoV and SARS-CoV-2 in domestic cats living with COVID-19-positive owners in the UAE. A total of 83 sera were collected from domestic cats living with COVID-19-positive owners (by RT-qPCR). The cats were sampled during the period between February and May 2022 in Al-Ain and Abu Dhabi Cities, UAE. Detection of FCoV and SARS-CoV-2 was carried out by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). FCoV antibodies were detected in 54 samples (65%). The frequencies of FCoV were significantly higher in purebred cats (48%; 40/83) and in the cat group with outdoor access (49.4%; 41/83). SARS-CoV-2 seroprevalence in collected sera revealed 8 samples (9.6%) with positive results. Four samples (4.8%) showed positive results for both FCoV and SARS-CoV-2 antibodies. In conclusion, FCoV is widely circulating within cats’ populations involved in the study. The antibodies for SARS-CoV-2 were detected in cats’ populations but at a low prevalence rate. COVID-19-positive people should avoid close contact with their cats. Future serological testing of large cats’ populations is crucial for providing a good understanding of COVID-19 dynamics in cats.
Gastrointestinal Parasites of Dogs in Egypt: An Update on the Prevalence in Dakahlia Governorate and a Meta-Analysis for the Published Data from the Country
Authors: Abbas Ibrahim , Baghdadi Hanadi B. , Rizk Mohamed Abdo , El-Alfy El-Sayed , Elmishmishy Bassem , Gwida Mayada
Published: February 2023

Since the last survey on gastrointestinal (GIT) parasites infecting dogs in Dakahlia governorate, Egypt, was published 40 years ago, the present study detected various GIT parasites in feces of 78 stray dogs in this governorate. Twenty-one dogs (35.9%) had eggs/oocysts of eight different parasites including Toxocara canis (19.2%), Toxascaris leonina (2.6%), hookworms (1.3%), Taenia species (5.1%), Dipylidium caninum (2.6%), Cystoisospora canis (5.1%), Cystoisospora ohioensis (2.6%), and Neospora caninum-like oocysts (1.3%). These results were combined in various meta-analyses with findings of all published surveys on GIT parasites of dogs in Egypt to underline the potential parasitic zoonoses from dogs in the country. Feces and/or gastrointestinal tracts of 19,807 dogs from various Egyptian governorates, but particularly Cairo, have been microscopically tested in 182 datasets published between 1938 and 2022, revealed during our systematic database search. Toxocara canis, interestingly, displayed a twofold higher pooled prevalence (24.7%) when compared to the published global pooled prevalence for T. canis, indicating that dogs represent a major risk for toxocariasis in humans from Egypt. Dipylidium caninum (25.4%) as well as various Taenia species (17.1%) also displayed high pooled prevalences. On the contrary, lower pooled prevalence was estimated for the most important zoonotic taeniid “Echinococcus granulosus” (2.4%) as well as for hookworms (1.8%) in comparison to what has been published from other countries in the region. Relatively high prevalences were estimated for three protozoa detected in dogs and are common to infect children in Egypt; Cryptosporidium (5.5%), Giardia (7.4%), and Entamoeba histolytica (9.8%). In general, the pooled prevalence estimated for various parasites detected in dogs from Egypt has decreased in the recent years, sometimes by as much as one-fifth, but this great decline is statistically insignificant, which should alert the veterinary and public health authorities to continue their efforts for controlling these parasites in a “One Health” approach.
New Insights into the Origin and Evolution of Mysmenid Spiders (Araneae, Mysmenidae) Based on the First Four Complete Mitochondrial Genomes
Authors: Liu Shiliang , Wang Shuqiao , Chen Qian , Zhou Chuang , Lin Yucheng
Published: February 2023

The mitochondrial genome (mitogenome) is recognized as an effective molecular marker for studying molecular evolution and phylogeny. The family Mysmenidae is a group of widely distributed and covert-living spiders, of which the mitogenomic information is largely unclear. In this study, we obtained the first four complete mitogenomes of mysmenid spiders (one aboveground species: Trogloneta yuensis, and three cave-dwelling species: T. yunnanense, Yamaneta kehen and Y. paquini). Comparative analyses revealed that their lengths ranged from 13,771 bp (T. yuensis) to 14,223 bp (Y. kehen), containing a standard set of 37 genes and an A + T-rich region with the same gene orientation as other spider species. The mitogenomic size of T. yunnanense was more similar to that of Yamaneta mitogenomes than that of T. yuensis, which might indicate the convergent evolution of cave spiders. High variability was detected between the genera Trogloneta and Yamaneta. The A + T content, the amino acid frequency of protein-coding genes (PCGs) and the secondary structures of tRNAs showed large differences. Yamaneta kehen and Y. paquini contained almost identical truncated tRNAs, and their intergenic spacers and overlaps exhibited high uniformity. The two Yamaneta species also possessed a higher similarity of start/stop codons for PCGs than the two Trogloneta species. In selective pressure analysis, compared to Yamaneta, Trogloneta had much higher Ka/Ks values, which implies that selection pressure may be affected by habitat changes. In our study, the phylogenetic analysis based on the combination of 13 PCGs and two rRNAs showed that Mysmenidae is a sister clade to the family Tetragnathidae. Our data and findings will contribute to the better understanding of the origin and evolution of mysmenid spiders.
The Energy and Nutritional Value of Meat of Broiler Chickens Fed with Various Addition of Wheat Germ Expeller
Authors: Goluch Zuzanna , Słupczyńska Maja , Okruszek Andrzej , Haraf Gabriela , Wereńska Monika , Wołoszyn Janina
Published: February 2023

The study concerns the effect of wheat germ expeller (WGE) as a feed additive given to male Ross-308 broiler chickens on their meat’s energy and nutritional value, and coverage of nutrient reference values-requirements (NRV-R) of consumers for particular minerals. The chickens in the control group (CT—Control Treatment) were fed a standard complete mix. The experimental groups (EX5, EX10, EX15) were given a feed in which wheat middling was replaced with 5, 10, and 15% WGE. The breast and thigh muscles of 32 randomly selected chickens (8 in each group) were analyzed. More water, crude protein, P, Mg, Fe, Cu, and Mn were determined in the breast muscles, and more crude fat, crude ash, Ca, and Zn in the thigh muscles. Chickens from the CT group consumed significantly (p ≤ 0.01) less feed per body weight than those from groups EX5 to EX15, but achieved the highest body weight per 100 g of consumed feed. A higher (p ≤ 0.01) feed, energy, crude protein, and crude fat intake was observed in groups EX5 to EX15 compared to CT. The higher (p ≤ 0.01) value of protein efficiency ratios was indicated in the CT group. The WGE additive did not impact the muscles’ energy values but affected the nutritional value. The daily consumption of 100 g of breast muscles to a large extent covers the consumer NRV-R for P, Mg Fe, Cu, and Mn. However, thigh muscles cover the NRV-R to a greater extent for Ca and Zn. The EX15, EX5, and EX10 muscles covered most of the NRV-R for P, Ca, and Mg, while the CT muscles did the same for Zn and Mn. Adding 5% WGE to broiler feed is optimal as it does not impair the nutritional value of the muscles.
Evaluation of the Thermal Response of the Horns in Dairy Cattle
Authors: Algra Marijke , de Keijzer Lara , Arndt Saskia S. , van Eerdenburg Frank J. C. M. , Goerlich Vivian C.
Published: February 2023

Dairy cattle are typically disbudded or dehorned. Little is known, however, about the biological function and role of horns during thermoregulatory processes in cattle, and thus about the potential physiological consequences of horn removal. Anecdotal evidence suggests that dairy cow horns increase in temperature during rumination, and few studies on other bovid species indicate that horns aid thermoregulation. The objective of this study was, therefore, to elucidate a possible thermoregulatory function of the horns in dairy cattle. Using non-invasive infrared thermography, we measured the superficial temperature of the horns, eyes, and ears of 18 focal cows on three different farms in a temperate climate zone under various environmental circumstances. Observations of social and non-social behaviours were conducted as well. Based on environmental temperature, humidity, and wind speed, the heat load index (HLI) was calculated as a measure of the heat load experienced by a cow. The temperature of the horns increased by 0.18 °C per unit HLI, indicating that horns serve the dissipation of heat. Dehorned cows had higher eye temperatures than horned cows, though this result should be interpreted with caution as the low sample size and experimental setup prevent casual conclusions. We did not, however, find changes in horn temperature during rumination, nor with any other behaviours. Our study thus supports a role of horns in thermoregulation, but not related to rumination. These results should be considered when assessing the potential consequences of horn removal, a painful procedure.
Defining the Characteristics of Successful Biosecurity Scent Detection Dogs
Authors: Moser Ariella Y. , Brown Wendy Y. , Bennett Pauleen , Taylor Peta S. , Wilson Bethany , McGreevy Paul
Published: February 2023

To perform their role effectively, scent detection dogs require certain characteristics. Identifying these characteristics will inform the selection of prospective dogs and preferred approaches to their training. The current study drew upon the perspectives of industry stakeholders to identify the behavioural traits considered relevant for detection dogs in biosecurity screening roles. Dog handlers, trainers, and supervisors (n = 25) in Australian biosecurity operations participated in focus group interviews to determine the perceived characteristics that, in their experience, influence detection performance. Their descriptions were used to create a questionnaire which was then administered to handlers to assess the working behaviours of current biosecurity dogs. Responses were collected for 88% of the operational dogs (n = 36). An exploratory factor analysis revealed seven tentative dimensions: search motivation, emotional stability, search arousal, food motivation, play motivation, search independence, and search focus. Search motivation and search arousal were both positively associated with handler ratings of detection performance (p ≤ 0.006). In general, biosecurity dogs were scored consistently high in ratings of search motivation, emotional stability, and food motivation. Our approach has advanced our understanding of the working behaviours and characteristic profile of biosecurity detector dogs and will be used to inform candidate selection processes.
Diet of the Insular Lizard, Podarcis lilfordi (Günther, 1874): Complementary Morphological and Molecular Approaches
Authors: Alemany Iris , Pérez-Cembranos Ana , Castro José A. , Picornell Antònia , Pérez-Mellado Valentín , Ramon Cori
Published: February 2023

The diets of insular lizards are extremely varied, depending on the different environmental characteristics of each island population. This is particularly evident in the case of the populations of small coastal islets of the Balearic Islands, where the Balearic lizard, Podarcis lilfordi, is found. The study of trophic ecology carried out by means of traditional tools, such as morphological analysis of feces, has made it possible to detect numerous prey and nutritional elements. However, these methods are clearly insufficient, as some rare groups are not detected. It is also difficult to identify remains of marine subsidies or of foods contributed to these small islands by other predators, such as seabirds. The current study demonstrates the advantages of combining morphological diet analysis with the molecular study of individual feces samples obtained from the same populations. We obtained a greater diversity of prey groups using the combined methodologies, with each method identifying prey items that were not detected using the other method. Particularly, the study of diets at the molecular level identified plant species consumed by lizards that were, occasionally, not identified in morphological analyses. Conversely, the traditional morphological study of an equivalent number of fecal samples allowed for the identification of several prey groups that had not been detected in the molecular study. From this viewpoint, the advantages and disadvantages of each methodology are discussed.
Association between Days Open and Parity, Calving Season or Milk Spectral Data
Authors: Nan Liangkang , Du Chao , Fan Yikai , Liu Wenju , Luo Xuelu , Wang Haitong , Ding Lei , Zhang Yi , Chu Chu , Li Chunfang , Ren Xiaoli , Yu Hao , Lu Shiyu , Zhang Shujun
Published: February 2023

Milk spectral data on 2118 cows from nine herds located in northern China were used to access the association of days open (DO). Meanwhile, the parity and calving season of dairy cows were also studied to characterize the difference in DO between groups of these two cow-level factors. The result of the linear mixed-effects model revealed that no significant differences were observed between the parity groups. However, a significant difference in DO exists between calving season groups. The interaction between parity and calving season presented that primiparous cows always exhibit lower DO among all calving season groups, and the variation in DO among parity groups was especially clearer in winter. Survival analysis revealed that the difference in DO between calving season groups might be caused by the different P/AI at the first TAI. In addition, the summer group had a higher chance of conception in the subsequent services than other groups, implying that the micro-environment featured by season played a critical role in P/AI. A weak linkage between DO and wavenumbers ranging in the mid-infrared region was detected. In summary, our study revealed that the calving season of dairy cows can be used to optimize the reproduction management. The potential application of mid-infrared spectroscopy in dairy cows needs to be further developed.
Exploring the Relationship between Spontaneous Sister Chromatid Exchange and Genome Instability in Two Cryptic Species of Non-Human Primates
Authors: Nieves Mariela , Puntieri Fiona , Bailey Susan M. , Mudry Marta D. , Maranon David G.
Published: February 2023

There are extensive studies on chromosome morphology and karyotype diversity in primates, yet we still lack insight into genomic instability as a key factor underlying the enormous interspecies chromosomal variability and its potential contribution to evolutionary dynamics. In this sense, the assessment of spontaneous sister chromatid exchange (SCE) frequencies represents a powerful tool for evaluating genome stability. Here, we employed G-banding, fluorescence plus Giemsa (FPG), and chromosome orientation fluorescence in situ hybridization (CO-FISH) methodologies to characterize both chromosome-specific frequencies of spontaneously occurring SCE throughout the genome (G-SCE) and telomere-specific SCE (T-SCE). We analyzed primary fibroblast cultures from two male species of Ateles living in captivity: Ateles paniscus (APA) and Ateles chamek (ACH). High frequencies of G-SCEs were observed in both species. Interestingly, G-SCEs clustered on evolutionary relevant chromosome pairs: ACH chromosomes 1, 2, 3, 4, and 7, and APA chromosomes 1, 2, 3, 4/12, 7, and 10. Furthermore, a statistically significant difference between the observed and expected G-SCE frequencies, not correlated with chromosome size, was also detected. CO-FISH analyses revealed the presence of telomere-specific recombination events in both species, which included T-SCE, as well as interstitial telomere signals and telomere duplications, with APA chromosomes displaying higher frequencies, compared to ACH. Our analyses support the hypothesis that regions of Ateles chromosomes susceptible to recombination events are fragile sites and evolutionary hot spots. Thus, we propose SCE analyses as a valuable indicator of genome instability in non-human primates.
Molecular Identification of Asian Hornet Vespa velutina nigrithorax Prey from Larval Gut Contents: A Promising Method to Study the Diet of an Invasive Pest
Authors: Stainton Kirsty , McGreig Sam , Conyers Chris , Ponting Sally , Butler Lee , Brown Paul , Jones Eleanor P.
Published: February 2023

The Asian hornet, Vespa velutina nigrithorax (Hymenoptera: Vespidae), is an invasive hornet that was accidentally introduced into Europe in 2004. It mainly preys on other invertebrates and arthropod species, and often targets honey bee (Apis mellifera) colonies. The introduction of these hornets may damage indigenous fauna and apiculture. Knowledge of V. velutina prey preference and the species composition of their diet is relatively limited. In this study, we assessed methodologies for the molecular identification of prey using dissected larvae from destroyed nests. Ten larval samples were taken from five nests in areas where the hornets had not yet established: two from the Channel Islands and three in the mainland UK. DNA was extracted from the gut contents and sequenced and analysed by metabarcoding with Oxford Nanopore Technologies’ Flongle and MinION devices. Numerous taxa were detected in each larval sample with the species composition varying by individual and by nest. Between 15 and 26 species were found per nest, with wasps (Vespula spp.), spiders, honey bees and blow flies being the most abundant taxa. These results demonstrate that metabarcoding larval gut contents can be used to study the Asian hornet diet and give a first snapshot of the prey items captured by V. v. nigrithorax in the UK. This method could be used for future large-scale testing of the gut contents of hornet nests, in order to provide a greater insight into the foraging behaviour of this predator across Europe and elsewhere.