Feline Atopic Skin Syndrome (FASS) is a common dermatological condition in cats, linked to oxidative stress and variable skin lesions. While glucocorticoids and antihistamines are standard treatments, the inconsistent feasibility of allergen avoidance and immunotherapies necessitates the use of anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressive agents like prednisolone or cyclosporine. However, their side effects can limit long-term use, driving research into alternative therapies to mitigate these drawbacks.This study aimed to evaluate the effects of quercetin on oxidative stress parameters and clinical findings in cats with FASS. Thirty-six cats were included in the study and divided into two groups: cats diagnosed with FASS (n = 27) and healthy cats (n = 9). Additionally, cats diagnosed with FASS were grouped according to their clinical presentations, which included Head-and-Neck Pruritus (HNP), Self-Induced Alopecia (SIA), Miliary Dermatitis (MD), Eosinophilic Granuloma Complex (EGC), and Dermatitis. Quercetin treatment (3 mg.kg-1) was administered orally for 14 days in both groups. Clinical findings were assessed on days 0, 7, and 14 using SCORFAD, FEDESI, and VAS scoring systems, alongside blood analyses for thiol-disulfide balance. Significant reductions in clinical scores (FEDESI, SCORFAD, VAS) were observed in the HNP and MD groups, while improvement was limited to one cat in the SIA group. Although no significant differences in thiol-disulfide balance were detected between groups, slight reductions in total thiol and disulfide levels were noted. These results indicate that quercetin may alleviate oxidative stress and improve clinical outcomes in FASS treatment.
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This paper provides an overview of advances in the analysis of the genetic structure of populations, focusing on the evolution of statistical approaches and their applications in conservation genetics. Understanding genetic relationships among populations is crucial for assessing evolutionary processes such as gene flow, genetic drift, and selection, which fundamentally affect genetic diversity over time. Traditionally, studies relied on a limited number of genetic markers and summary statistics; however, the advent of high-throughput genomic technologies has dramatically enhanced both the resolution and accuracy of these analyses. Whole-genome sequencing and dense SNP arrays now provide unprecedented insights into neutral and adaptive variations, enabling fine-scale detection of population subdivisions and historical demographic trends. In parallel, the development of advanced statistical models has refined genetic analyses, allowing for more precise estimations of genetic differentiation, admixture, and ancestral relationships. These innovations are particularly valuable in conservation genetics, where robust assessments are essential for optimising strategies to maintain genetic diversity, identify populations at risk, and mitigate the effects of inbreeding and effective population size decline. Despite these improvements, challenges remain, including computational demands and the need to account for complex demographic histories and selection pressures. Given the continuous evolution of analytical techniques, selecting appropriate methods tailored to specific research questions is critical for producing reliable insights into population structure and effectively guiding conservation efforts. In conclusion, the continuous advancement of genomic analysis tools enhances the ability to study population dynamics in greater detail and supports more effective conservation planning.
The observed increase in global average air temperature has a profound effect on the climate, and the effects of this phenomenon are expected to be more significant in the next 30–50 years. As a result, their physiological condition deteriorates, and their defenses and productivity decrease. This fact emphasizes the relevance and feasibility of the study, which is aimed at determining the drought and heat tolerance of plants of the Moraceae family. The work uses generally accepted methods for determining the resistance of breeding samples to heat and drought. The research established that mulberry plants of Victoria, Halyna, Merefyanska, Slobozhanska, Maclura varieties showed increased adaptive resistance to high temperatures (heat and drought). In particular, damage to leaf plates in the 40–80 °C temperature range did not exceed 50%. Scoring scales were developed for evaluating plants of the Moraceae family for drought and heat resistance, which increased the accuracy and informativeness of their determination. It is emphasized that the general level of physiological processes in germinated seeds under conditions of drought indicates the high resistance of adult plants, which ensures the possibility of preserving and growing valuable species for further breeding. From a practical point of view, the complex diagnostic assessment of Moraceae plants for adaptive resistance by various methods provided a comprehensive assessment and selection of breeding material with high adaptive potential to stressful growing conditions.
The presented mini review examines phytoliths in plants and microorganisms, focusing on their formation, physico-chemical properties, content in plant, and effects on livestock and human health. Phytoliths are primarily inorganic solid materials – biominerals, often formed by organic acids within plant tissues. They are relatively insoluble, enduring diverse environmental conditions (pH 3–9). Phytolith content in plant tissue varies significantly – from 2.5% to 70% – influenced by plant species, fertilizer use, climate, and agronomic practices. Two main types, oxalates, and silicon dioxides in opal form, are most commonly studied. Oxalates, found in both animal and human diets, can bind essential cations like calcium and magnesium, reducing their bioavailability and potentially increasing toxicity risks. When ingested, these oxalates may form insoluble compounds linked to physiological effects leading to risks associated with kidney failure. Phytolith research is interdisciplinary, spanning fields like archaeology, medicine, agriculture, nanotechnology, ecology, and environmental science. The Part I of this mini review explores the basic principles of the biomineral formation and their diversity. It goes into more detail about oxalates, their typical properties and occurrence in plants with risks for human and animal health after ingestion. The Part II of the mini review will discuss phytolith classifications, their utility, and factors influencing the formation of the second most common phytoliths made of silicon dioxide.
To maintain adequate dairy productivity in sheep, it is important to focus on establishing appropriate husbandry conditions. Currently, breeders are increasingly confronted with extreme weather fluctuations during the grazing season, which significantly impact pasture quality and the milk produced. Therefore, it is crucial to seek suitable breeding systems with breed representation tailored to various climatic and geographical conditions in order to exploit their productive potential fully. This study compares the dairy productivity and milk quality of three sheep farms in the vicinity of Banská Bystrica, Slovakia, which employ different farming systems and feature different breed compositions under changing climatic conditions with increased heat stress during the summer months. Farm 1, located at 1,200 m above sea level (ASL), follows an extensive grazing system with 350 Tsigai ewes. Farm 2, situated at 500 m ASL, houses 456 Lacaune ewes in a semi-intensive system. Farm 3, at 400 m ASL, manages 470 mixed dairy and combined-breed ewes under a semi-extensive system. The results indicate that Farm 2, employing a semi-intensive system, recorded the highest milk yield (246.7 kg·ewe-1); however, it also exhibited the most pronounced decline in the lactation curve, with lower average milk production and qualitative parameters (fat, not fat solids) for the Lacaune breed during the warm months (June – August) compared to Farms 1 and 3, which focus on raising combined breeds. In conclusion, the most suitable breeding method for the climatic and geographical conditions of the observed region appears to be a semi-extensive system with combined sheep breeds, as the variability in dairy productivity parameters during the hottest months with reduced pasture quality is not as marked as it is in specialized dairy breeds.
Purpose of theretrospective, present study was to determine whether fecal microbiota transplantation (fMt) from well known, otherwise healthy lean donor dogs could be capable of substituting disease condition from disease to health status, reverting to factory settings and further might improve thelife quality of dogs with several different diseases. Taking into account study design, setting and enrollment (along with accompanying archive data) this clinical trial was conducted between 2011 to 2024 among 1,885 diseased dogs with several different system involvement were treated with fMt at median number of 2 to 6 occasions. To those of solely eligible dogs (with witten owner consent, triage position, without systemic inflammatory respond syndrome orother hazardous condition) were recruited for thestudy. Data were analyzed from March 2011 to June 2024. All fMt interventions from each lean donor (heterologous) were administered either by gastroduodenoscopy (n = 112 into theduodenum) orby rectal enema (n = 1,773 into thecolon). Available cure rates ranged from 41.42% to 93.61% regarding entire enrolled dogs. Forest plot denoted an overall response rate of 76%. Highest cure rates (nearly 94%) were deemed available for gastroentero-dermatological disorders to those of satisfactory clinical recovery for each cases enrolled. Lowest cure rates were observed for endocrinological and cardiovascular disease conditions exhibiting 41 and 47%, respectively. Available results were establishing futuremeta-analysis source inwhich data is lacking. This study should highlighten theefficacy and possible treatment switching modalities to those ofuncurable diseases.
The colostrum consumed by newborn ruminants immediately after birth plays a crucial role in ensuring their long and healthy lives. It is their first nutrition, supporting growth, development, and immunity against diseases. The study involved eight goat crossbreeds of Saanen × Makatia and Saanen × Alpine goats, raised in the Ghardaia region, known for its arid climate. Colostrum samples were collected during four days after kidding. Each sample was subjected to the evaluation of the microbiological quality and the key physicochemical properties, including fat and protein content, pH, titratable acidity, density, conductivity, appearance, and colour. The results showed a decrease in fat and protein content from day one to day four in both goat populations, although the differences in the four-day averages were not significant. Acidity and density also followed a decreasing trend, with the difference in four-day averages being significant in the Saanen × Makatia group. In terms of pH, variation over the four days was not significant. Conductivity values increased consistently in both populations. Microbiological analysis revealed the absence of sulphite-reducing Clostridium, Salmonella, and yeasts in all samples. The counts of Staphylococcus aureus, total aerobic mesophilic flora, and total and faecal coliforms remained within acceptable limits for raw milk, indicating that the colostrum was of satisfactory microbiological quality.
To process the purpose of reduction of the maturation process of pork meat, the bio-preservation of meat products, and the prevention of microbial contamination, Lactobacillus rhamnosus and Lactobacillus plantarum strains were used. The application of lactic acid bacteria (LAB) strains proved to impact the duration of the maturation process of salt-cured pork by shortening the process, as opposed to samples of pork salt-cured in a traditional way and containing a commercial BactoFlavor® culture used in production. The maturation process of pork was accompanied by decreased glycogen levels and increased lactic acid, dominant in samples containing L. plantarum and L. rhamnosus strains. The maturation also triggered a shift in pH, making it more acidic. The tendency towards glycogenolysis in samples containing LAB strains, prior to the formation of lactic acid, is determined by LAB strains producing lactic acid too, which helps explain the low level of pyruvate. The application of LAB strains as protective starter cultures with bactericidal activity during the in situ fermentation of meat demonstrates that the use of strains leads to the decrease of total contamination by 2 Log CFU·ml⁻¹, while using a commercial starter brings about a decrease of 1 Log CFU·ml⁻¹. After 4 days of meat maturation, L. rhamnosus and L. plantarum inhibited the growth of E. coli by 2 Log CFU·ml⁻¹; after 8 days, the use of LAB and BactoFlavor® led to the absence of E. coli. The broad antimicrobial and bacteriocin spectrum of LAB stimulated their application in the food industry as natural preservatives.
This study investigated genetic diversity, population structure, and selection footprints across 16 local sheep breeds from the Danube region using high-density SNP data. The diversity status was derived from the overall heterozygosity and genomic-based inbreeding coefficients (FHOM and FIS). Population stratification was assessed using principal component analysis, phylogenetic networks, and admixture estimation. Selection footprints were identified based on the genome-wide Wright's fixation index (FST) distribution. Moderate observed and expected heterozygosity levels were found, with the highest values in the Improved Valachian breed (Ho = 0.44±0.10, He = 0.44±0.08) and the lowest in the East Friesian (Ho = 0.37±0.16) breed. Inbreeding coefficients aligned with heterozygosity patterns, indicating an increase in inbreeding in geographically or historically separated breeds and reduced inbreeding in recently developed composite breeds, particularly the Improved Valachian and Slovak Dairy sheep. All approaches testing population structure confirmed breed stratification corresponding to geographic and phylogenetic backgrounds, while admixture analysis revealed the highest proportion of genetic admixture in the composite breeds. A genome-wide scan revealed 24 candidate regions under selection pressure across 15 autosomes, encompassing 48 protein-coding genes, including those related to reproduction (TNP1, AMHR2) and immune response (SLC11A1, IL9, JAK3). Functional enrichment analysis identified overrepresented GO terms related to protein binding, spermatogenesis, hypoxia response, and KEGG pathways such as TGF-beta and VEGF signalling. This study provides insights into breed-specific selection pressures driven by diverse breeding goals and environmental adaptation in sheep breeds in the Danube region. The study also highlights the importance of genomic tools for preserving genetic diversity and supporting sustainable breeding strategies in local populations.
This study initiates DNA barcoding and phylogenetic investigations of Pseudoleptonema quinquefasciatum Martynov 1935, aiming to enhance species identification, assess genetic diversity, and clarify its evolutionary relationships. By analysing mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (COI) gene sequences from specimens collected in the Northwest Himalaya, we successfully generated the first DNA barcode for P. quinquefasciatum from India. Our findings establish a foundational framework for future taxonomic, ecological, and conservation studies on the genetic structure of P. quinquefasciatum. The generated DNA barcode data can facilitate precise species identification, aiding in resolving cryptic diversity and potential misidentifications in closely related taxa. Furthermore, our phylogenetic analyses shed light on the evolutionary affinities of P. quinquefasciatum within Hydropsychidae, reinforcing the significance of molecular approaches in taxonomy.
Liquid waste from the dairy industry becomes an environmental problem if it is not processed properly, so several technologies have been created from this waste, one of them is sludge organic fertilizer. The aim of this research is to determine the combination of organic and inorganic fertilizers to support the growth, nutrient uptake and yield of mustard. The factors of this research include S0 = NPK 100% (300 kg.ha-1), S1 = 25% sludge organic fertilizer + 75% NPK (6.25 ton.ha-1+ 225 kg.ha-1), S2 = 50% sludge organic fertilizer + 50% NPK (12.5 ton.ha-1+ 150 kg.ha-1), S3 = 75% sludge organic fertilizer + 25% NPK (18.75 ton.ha-1 + 75 kg.ha-1) and S4 = sludge organic fertilizer 100% (25 ton.ha-1). The research result shows that the combination treatment of sludge organic fertilizer with NPK inorganic fertilizer can increase the uptake of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium nutrients and enhance mustard growth and yield. Treatment of sludge organic fertilizer 25% + NPK 75% being the best in nutrient uptake, growth, and yield of mustard. Meanwhile 75% sludge organic fertilizer + 25% NPK treatment produces better soil chemical properties. This research reveals that mustard still need organic and inorganic fertilizers.
Mung bean (Vigna radiata L.) is the major source of protein and an important pulse crop in Afghanistan. Low soil fertility in Afghanistan is the main cause of the lower productivity of mung beans. The present investigation was carried out at the agriculture research farm of Kabul University to evaluate the effects of different organic and inorganic soil amendments on yield and yield components of mung beans. The study was conducted during two consecutive years – 2022 and 2023. With various organic and inorganic soil amendments such as farmyard manure, biochar, diammonium phosphate + urea, and urea alone, 120 kg nitrogen per hectare was applied into the soil. Different crop agronomic traits, including plant height, number of branches per plant, number of leaves per plant, number of pods per plant, grains per pod, and total grain yield, were studied in the experiment. The experiment was conducted in Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD), and the data were analyzed with Statistical Tools for Agricultural Research (STAR 2.0.1) software. The results indicated that urea improved the mung bean's growth and yield components. The maximum plant height, number of branches per plant, number of leaves per plant, number of pods per plant, grains per pod, and total grain yield were recorded under the urea treatment. For increased productivity of mung beans, the farmers are recommended to apply a proper dose of urea fertilizer.
The aim of the study was to compare the chemical composition of two types of floral honey (rapeseed and sunflower) obtained from sites in Dohňany and Tekovský Hrádok with honey from other locations. Rapeseed and sunflower honey are the most common honey types associated with agricultural production. Among the physicochemical properties, the honey samples were analyzed and evaluated for parameters such as glucose and fructose content, sucrose, percentage of water mass, content of water insoluble substances, free acid and heavy metal content. By comparing the obtained results with the analyses of honey from other Slovak and international locations, we found that our honey samples met the criteria set by Decree No. 41/2012 on honey in all monitored indicators. Based on this, it can be concluded that the impact of intensive agricultural production in these sites did not result in a deterioration in the quality of either rapeseed or sunflower honey.
Purpose – As the usage of online social networks increases, so does the volume of research addressing them. The aim of this research study is to explore the relationship between the popularity of online social networks and their prevalence in scientific literature. Design / methodology / approach – This study conducts a bibliometric analysis, analysing publications related to the fifteen most popular online social networks worldwide, including Douyin, Facebook, Instagram, Kuaishou, Pinterest, QQ, Reddit, Snapchat, Telegram, TikTok, WeChat, Weibo, WhatsApp, X (formerly Twitter), and YouTube. The objective is to identify current trends in online social networks research and assess whether these trends align with user engagement levels. Results – The findings highlight substantial discrepancies with the most notable in case of Twitter, which, despite being only the 12th largest network by monthly active users count, is prominently featured in approximately 40% of publications. In contrast, Facebook, despite its leading user base, is featured in about 30% of studies. The representation of other networks in scholarly discourse shows considerable variation, with some networks scarcely mentioned despite significant public usage. Originality / value – This research offers a comprehensive analysis of how the popularity of various online social networks correlates with their academic research coverage, highlighting discrepancies and exploring underlying factors. Future research should extend beyond selected platforms to understand the unique social, cultural, economic or political impacts of each online social network. Additionally, there is a critical need for ongoing adaptation in research methodologies in response to the rapid evolution of online social networks to ensure that academic inquiries remain pertinent and responsive to real-world changes.
Účel – Cieľom štúdie je preskúmať vzťahy medzi informačnou tvorivosťou a akademickým písaním a informovať o výsledkoch dvoch prieskumov v rámci projektu zameraného na informačnú tvorivosť v digitálnom prostredí. Sumarizujú sa novšie výskumy v oblasti informačnej gramotnosti doktorandov a informačnej tvorivosti pri písaní akademických prác. Metodológia / dizajn – Analyzujú sa súvisiace výskumy zamerané na informačnú tvorivosť, využívanie umelej inteligencie (AI) pri digitálnom akademickom písaní, a kognitívne modely akademického písania. Prezentujú sa dva kvalitatívne prieskumy využívajúce skupinový rozhovor a písomné eseje doktorandov (17) a kvalitatívny experiment so študentmi (8) zameraný na akademické písanie s využitím AI. Dáta boli analyzované induktívnou kvalitatívnou analýzou, obsahovými analýzami, konceptuálnym modelovaním. Výsledky – Výsledky kvalitatívnych štúdií sa interpretujú z aspektov vnímania nástrojov AI študentmi aj praktickej skúsenosti s akademickým písaním (ChatGPT a iné nástroje AI). Výsledky konceptuálnych analýz sú ilustrované v tabuľkách a potvrdzujú vzájomné tvorivé interakcie doktorandov (študentov) a AI v princípoch ko-kreativity, od inšpirácií, cez interakcie a formulovanie výziev, štruktúru tém, po tvorbu a revízie. Z analýz vyplynul nelineárny konceptuálny model informačnej tvorivosti pri akademickom písaní s využitím AI. Originalita / hodnota – Výsledky umožňujú pochopiť informačnú tvorivosť pri digitálnom akademickom písaní v kontexte AI gramotnosti a spoluprácu človeka a AI systému (ko-kreativitu) ako súčasť kreatívnych informačných ekológií. Formulujú sa odporúčania pre stratégie univerzít a kurzy informačnej tvorivosti a AI gramotnosti v akademickom písaní a tvorbe. Odporúča sa rozvoj AI gramotnosti v kontexte informačnej tvorivosti a tvorby akademických produktov.