Warsaw University of Life Sciences - SGGW

The genus amaranth is comprised of 60–70 species. This climate hardy plant is grown as a vegetable as well as cereal crop in many areas of the world. Current study multivariate analysis was used to characterize the exotic vegetable amaranth genotypes. The experiment was conducted in the research area of Muhammad Nawaz Shareef University of Agriculture, Multan under RCBD design with three replications of 50 exotic amaranth genotype. 22 different variables were investigated for the principal component and cluster analysis using different software packages in R studio. According to the results of principal component analysis the first five PCs had eigenvalues greater than one and they explained the 84.59% diversity in exotic vegetable amaranth accessions. First two principal components explained 57.31% of variation. Traits that loaded highly for first PC include moisture (-0.892), carbohydrates (0.938), energy (0.920), stomatal conductance (0.803), net photosynthesis (0.795) and dry weight (0.770). The traits which impacted the second PC highly include protein (0.692), fat (-0.571), nitrogen (0.692), calcium (0.545), phosphorus (0.908), zinc (0.960), iron (0.826) and potassium (0.872). For future breeding program the selection based on these results will be effective for crop enhancement drive in exotic vegetable amaranth genotypes. Hierarchical clustering was done and dendrogram split the 50 genotypes into 5 groups using silhouette method. The pairwise clustering revealed that intra cluster distance is smaller than inter cluster distance. The maximum inter cluster distance was observed between cluster I and II (9.88); between cluster I and III (9.47); between cluster II and IV (9.27). Clinical trial number Clinical trial number not applicable.

The objective of this study was to evaluate the physicochemical characteristics of surface waters near an old landfill, to assess water quality using the Water Quality Index (WQI) and the Comprehensive Pollution Index (CPI), and to identify factors influencing surface water composition using multivariate statistical analysis. The analysis of temporal changes of 15 surface water parameters (pH, EC, Cl⁻, NH4⁺, SO4²⁻, BOD5, CODCr, TOC, Zn, Cd, Pb, Cu, Cr, Hg, and PAH) was complemented by the investigation of surface water flow, ambient temperature, and precipitation. A twelve-year monitoring period was considered, focusing on monitoring sites located along a watercourse in the area of the Radiowo landfill (Poland). No significant correlations were found between precipitation and surface water quality parameters in the outflow direction. The results showed that the average WQI values ranged from 63.06 to 96.86, while the average CPI values ranged from 0.56 to 0.88, indicating good water quality or low pollution, respectively. The temperature had a greater influence on the physicochemical parameters than the precipitation, especially on the parameters of contamination by organic compound (correlations between temperature and BOD5, CODCr, and TOC of 0.40, 0.50, and 0.38, respectively). Significant correlations were observed between EC, Cl⁻, NH4, BOD5, CODCr, and TOC in the outflow direction of the landfill. In addition, surface water flow showed a significant moderate negative correlation with pH (r = -0.44) and a moderate positive correlation with Cu concentration (r = 0.47) downstream of the landfill. The analysis of surface water quality monitoring, coupled with the critical evaluation of global research, has made it possible to understand the variation in surface water quality and the factors that influence it. The study confirmed that given the complex nature of Municipal Solid Waste (MSW) landfills, understanding the dynamics and factors affecting water quality is essential for effective water protection and management and achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Microbial transglutaminase (MTG) is an enzyme widely used in the food industry because it creates cross-links between proteins, enhancing the texture and stability of food products. Its unique properties make it a valuable tool for modifying the functional characteristics of proteins, significantly impacting the quality and innovation of food products. In this study, response surface methodology was employed to optimize the fermentation conditions for microbial transglutaminase production by the strain Streptoverticillium cinnamoneum KKP 1658. The effects of nitrogen dose, cultivation time, and initial pH on the activity of the produced transglutaminase were investigated. The significance of the examined factors was determined as follows: cultivation time > nitrogen dose > pH. The interaction between nitrogen dose and cultivation time was found to be crucial, having the second most significant impact on transglutaminase activity. Optimal conditions were identified as 48 h of cultivation with a 2% nitrogen source dose and an initial medium pH of approximately 6.0. Under these conditions, transglutaminase activity ranged from 4.5 to 5.5 U/mL. The results of this study demonstrated that response surface methodology is a promising approach for optimizing microbial transglutaminase production. Future applications of transglutaminase include the development of modern food products with improved texture and nutritional value, as well as its potential use in regenerative medicine for creating biomaterials and tissue scaffolds. This topic is particularly important and timely as it addresses the growing demand for innovative and sustainable solutions in the food and biomedical industries, contributing to an improved quality of life.

The aim of this study was to develop yeast-based microcapsules (YBMCs) containing vegetable oil blends with n3/n6 fatty acids in a ratio of 5:1. The oil blends, as well as YBMCs with these oils, were analyzed in nitrogen and oxygen. The shape and course of the TG and DTG curves were observed for yeast cells with all types of oil blends. No differences were observed in shape because of the microencapsulation curves with all oil blends between YMBCs prepared using native and autolyzed yeast. The results show that the yeast cells could be used as efficient microcarriers for the encapsulation of cold-pressed oils in order to provide thermal stable ingredients for the food industry.

Background Infectious keratoconjunctivitis (IKC) is a common ocular disease of ruminants worldwide. Recently, an outbreak of infectious keratoconjunctivitis was observed in the European bison in Poland. Hundreds of animals show conjunctival congestion, corneal opacity, and ulceration, leading to total blindness. The present study aimed to examine the ocular changes of European bison and patterns of the disease occurrence with special emphasis on the role of Thelazia nematodes in the development of IKC. Results The eyes of 131 European bison, showing ocular signs and clinically healthy, were collected in Poland in 2021 – 2022 and subjected to parasitological and histopathological examination. Histopathology showed varying lesions, including corneal erosions or ulcers, diffuse purulent infiltrates to lymphocytic infiltration in the cornea, and lymphocytic or mixed conjunctivitis with CALT stimulation. The severity of ocular changes was higher in European bison from mountain areas and during the winter season. Two species of Thelazia nematodes – T. skrjabini and T. gulosa have been isolated from eyes. Prevalence of infection reached over 66.4%, and the infection intensity ranged from 1 to 16 nematodes per individual. Although nematodes of the genus Thelazia were prevalent in European bison, their occurrence did not correspond with the severity of ocular changes. Conclusions The results of our studies allowed to identify patterns related to the first outbreak of infectious keratoconjunctivitis in European bison. Living in mountain areas and winter season were the most predisposing factors for the development of ocular changes. Despite the high prevalence of Thelazia nematodes in the present study, their role in forming ocular lesions was not confirmed.

This study examines the impact of airborne particulate matter (PM) and associated trace elements (TEs) on deciduous and coniferous trees at the edge of Wigry National Park in northeast Poland, focusing on pollution levels and the potential for phytoremediation. Researchers measured PM concentrations in the air and on the leaves of Picea abies, Quercus robur, and Corylus avellana, along with photosynthetic indicators (Fv/Fm ratio and performance index). The study found significant differences in pollution intensity across areas with varying levels of human activity. P. abies, an evergreen species, accumulated the highest PM levels (>200 μg/cm2), while Q. robur had the highest accumulation among deciduous trees (>50 μg/cm2). Trace elements such as Fe, Cu, Zn, Sr, and Cd were detected, with C. avellana being the most efficient in accumulating Cd (up to 7.5 mg/kg). The accumulation of pollutants correlated with reduced photosynthetic efficiency in trees closest to pollution sources. The findings suggest that strategically planting specific tree species can help mitigate air pollution in national parks and protect sensitive vegetation. Future research should explore the long-term effects of PM on forest health and the role of different species in phytoremediation.

Introduction and Objective Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) enters the nasal cavity, penetrates the nasal epithelial cells through the interaction of its spike protein with the host cell receptor angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) and then triggers a cytokine storm. We aimed to assess the biocompatibility of fullerenol nanoparticles C60(OH)40 and ectoine, and to document their effect on the protection of primary human nasal epithelial cells (HNEpCs) against the effects of interaction with the fragment of virus - spike protein. This preliminary research is the first step towards the construction of a intranasal medical device with a protective, mechanical function against SARS-CoV-2 similar to that of personal protective equipment (eg masks). Methods We used HNEpCs and the full-length spike protein from SARS-CoV-2 to mimic the first stage of virus infection. We assessed cell viability with the XTT assay and a spectrophotometer. May–Grünwald Giemsa and periodic acid–Schiff staining served to evaluate HNEpC morphology. We assessed reactive oxygen species (ROS) production by using 2′,7′-dichlorofluorescin diacetate and commercial kit. Finally, we employed reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction, Western blotting and confocal microscopy to determine the expression of angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) and inflammatory cytokines. Results There was normal morphology and unchanged viability of HNEpCs after incubation with 10 mg/L C60(OH)40, 0.2% ectoine or their composite for 24 h. The spike protein exerted cytotoxicity via ROS production. Preincubation with the composite protected HNEpCs against the interaction between the spike protein and the host membrane and prevented the production of key cytokines characteristic of severe coronavirus disease 2019, including interleukin 6 and 8, monocyte chemotactic protein 1 and 2, tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinases 2 and macrophage colony-stimulating factor. Conclusion In the future, the combination of fullerenol and ectoine may be used to prevent viral infections as an intranasal medical device for people with reduced immunity and damaged mucous membrane.

The decline in pollinator populations is partly due to human practices that have contributed to the loss of wild and flower‐rich habitats. In cities, especially city centres, urban green spaces, which are usually small, are often sown with wildflower meadows. The study compared the number and species richness of three main groups of pollinating insects (wild bees, butterflies and hoverflies) for two types of meadows in Warsaw: sown wildflower meadows and the natural meadows. The research results showed that there was no difference in the composition of insect‐pollinated plants between the meadow types. There was also no difference between the meadow types concerning the species richness of butterflies, bees and hoverflies. However, it was confirmed that the number of butterflies was twice as high in natural meadows than it was in sown floral meadows, while in the case of wild bees and hoverflies, no such differences were found. The study confirmed that areas sown with wildflowers, usually of small area, concentrate pollinating insects and have a similar value for pollinators as larger areas of natural meadow. Sown wildflower meadows, if properly cared for, can ensure the richness of melliferous plant species and thus positively affect the diversity and number of pollinators. Sown meadows can compensate insects for the absence of large, natural meadows, especially in the fragmented spaces in cities.

The vaginal bacteria are critical for neonatal immunity, as well as for further infections and pathologies in foals and mares during the postpartum period. The vaginal microbiota was examined in six mares. Swabs were taken from the vaginal caudal wall within 12 h after natural delivery. Next-generation sequencing was used to analyze the composition of the vaginal microbiota and identify shared bacterial taxa. The post-delivery vaginal microbiome of mares included 18 identified families, 25 genera, and 33 species. The core families of the mares’ microbiome comprised Leptotrichiaceae (21.72%), Peptostreptococcaceae/Tisserellales (15.54%), Corynebacteriaceae (13.32%), Aerococcaceae (10.84%), and Campylobacteraceae (4.26%). Shared bacterial species included Corynebacterium kutsheri, Campylobacter spp., Facklamia spp., and Oceanivirga uncultured bacteria. We found the presence of various Corynebacterium and Streptococcus species that could be involved in uterine disorders. Further research should focus on the possible pathogenicity of these bacteria for mares in the postpartum period and newborn foals.

Edible insects may solve the current problem of the greater demand for food for the world’s growing human population. This work aimed to examine the impact of blanching (BL) and ultrasound (US) at 20 and 50 °C as a pretreatment method on the chemical composition, mineral composition, FTIR spectra, presence of allergens and microorganisms, and properties of the isolated oil of freeze-dried superworm larvae. The US treatment resulted in significantly lower protein content (31.65–33.34 g/100 g d.m.) compared to untreated (36.38 g/100 g d.m.) and BL (37.72 g/100 g d.m.) samples. The study demonstrated that the US-treated insects exhibited a lower content of crustacean and mollusk allergens than the BL insects, and the lowest content of tested allergens was found in the US_50°C superworm larvae. Furthermore, oil isolated from US_50°C insects exhibited the lowest SFA and the highest PUFA content and the best prospective nutritional properties expressed through theoretical health indices. The presence of Enterobacteriaceae and anaerobic spore-forming bacteria was not detected in the tested insects, proving suitable microbiological quality. It appears that using US treatment is a promising alternative to traditional blanching of insects before drying.

Urban greening can reduce concentrations of particulate matter (PM). However, most of the PM is deposited temporarily on foliage and can be removed by precipitation. Due to the unpredictability and randomness of natural rain and the complexity of environmental conditions, the effect of rainfall on PM removal from foliage is usually examined using simulated rain. The aim of this study was to compare the effects of natural and simulated rain on washing off PM deposited on the foliage of seventeen plant species (evergreen/deciduous trees and shrubs, herbaceous plants). Regardless of the PM fraction studied, simulated rain washed off a larger fraction of the PM than natural rain. A novel finding is the differential role played by various plant characteristics in determining the effectiveness of PM wash off under natural and simulated rain conditions, with their influence being more pronounced under natural rainfall. The type of rainfall and PM size fraction influenced the effectiveness of the PM wash-off from different plant groups. Natural rain was more effective at removing PM from evergreen trees, while simulated rainfall was more effective at removing PM from deciduous shrubs and herbaceous plants. The results obtained from this study suggest that simulated rain does not reflect the effects of natural precipitation on the processes removing PM from leaves, and therefore should not be used to explain phenomena that occur in realistic conditions.

This paper presents the results of studies on the effects of four types of aerosols containing an aqueous dispersed suspension of graphene oxide (GO) and an aqueous dispersed suspension of graphene oxide with the addition of curcumin (GO + C), silver nanoparticles (GO + Ag), and hypochlorous acid (GO + HClO) on selected structural and biological properties. Structural studies were carried out using electron microscopy, including a scanning electron microscope (SEM), scanning transmission electron microscopy (STEM), laser emission spectroscopy (LIBS), and absorption spectra in the infrared range attuned total reflectance (FTIR-ATR). The growth inhibition zone and viability of Staphylococcus aureus and Pseudomonas aeruginosa bacteria were studied. Studies have shown that the addition of silver nanoparticles and hypochlorous acid to the nanostructures of graphene oxide suspension improves bactericidal properties. In addition, it was observed that the application of a dispersed graphene oxide suspension in the form of an aerosol enriched with hypochlorous acid and silver nanoparticles results in the formation of a fairly uniform layer of graphene flakes, characterized by the presence of admixtures used.

Background/Objectives: Positive body image is linked to improved mental and physical well-being, healthier lifestyles, and fewer unhealthy weight control behaviors. Cultural factors also play a role in influencing body appreciation. This study investigated the associations between body appreciation, body weight, lifestyle factors, and subjective health among bachelor’s students in Lithuania and Poland. Methods: A cross-sectional online survey was conducted with 1290 students from universities in both countries. The Body Appreciation Scale-2 (BAS-2) measured body appreciation, while participants provided self-reported data on their dietary habits, physical activity, sleep, health perceptions, and body weight and height. Linear regression models explored associations between BAS-2 scores, actual and perceived body weight, lifestyle habits, and subjective health. Results: Gender and country-based differences in body appreciation were observed. Lithuanian female students reported a higher median BAS score of 33 compared to 32 among Polish female students (p = 0.02), despite having a higher median BMI (22.3 kg/m² vs. 21.1 kg/m², p = 0.001). Positive body appreciation was linked to healthier dietary behaviors, such as higher consumption of fruits, vegetables, fish, and regular breakfasts. Additionally, greater physical activity and sufficient sleep were associated with higher body appreciation, while higher intake of sweets, sugary drinks, and fast food correlated with lower BAS-2 scores. Both BMI and perceived weight were negatively associated with body appreciation, particularly among females. Conclusions: Body appreciation is closely linked to body weight, healthier lifestyle, and positive health perceptions, suggesting that promoting healthier habits may improve body appreciation.

Wildlife that use anthropogenic resources often come into conflict with humans, e.g. due to damaged property, habituation or transmission of pathogens, amongst them Sarcoptes scabiei, the aetiological agent of sarcoptic mange, an emerging panzootic skin disease. This study examines the use of haystacks intended for supplementary feeding of European bison (Bison bonasus) by wolves (Canis lupus) with sarcoptic mange and the potential role of this behaviour in skin parasite transmission and human-wolf conflict. Hay samples from the beds used by wolves were found to harbour S. scabiei mites, even several days after the last use. Our data demonstrate an unforeseen link between wild ungulate supplementary feeding and wolf behaviour that may lead to conflict, namely approaching human settlements. However, no negative interactions were observed between wolves and humans or domestic animals. The presence of S. scabiei mites in haystacks provides a potential for its human-facilitated environmental transmission among wildlife and to domestic animals.

To date, seven novel parvoviruses have been identified in pigs and designated as porcine parvovirus 2–7 (PPV2–7). The presence of these emerging viruses has been reported in several countries around the world, although their pathogenic role and clinical and economical relevance are largely unknown. Here, we report the estimated prevalence and genetic diversity of novel PPV2–7 in Hungarian pig herds and the detection of these viruses in two Slovakian pig farms. For the comparative prevalence estimation, 2505 serum samples from different age groups, 218 oral fluid samples, and 111 processing fluid samples were collected from 26 large-scale Hungarian farms according to a systematic, cross-sectional sampling protocol. All samples were tested by real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR), and the presence of at least one PPV was detected in 24 of the 26 (92%) Hungarian and both Slovakian farms, suggesting high levels of subclinical circulation in most herds. The estimated PPV2–7 prevalence in Hungary varied from 50% to 89%, with PPV4 being the least and PPV2 being the most prevalent virus. The highest detection rates were observed in oral fluid samples, indicating that this sample type is most suitable for screening PPVs, but all viruses were also detected in serum samples and processing fluids. All novel PPVs were most frequently detected in the serum samples of weaned pigs and fatteners, with slightly higher viral burden in the younger age groups. These results may suggest an age-related susceptibility, which could play a significant role in the epidemiology of these viruses, impacting herd health and productivity.

Humidity influences the life table parameters and foraging behaviours of various terrestrial arthropods. The soil mite, Blattisocius mali Oudemans is a potential biological control agent of some acarid mites, moths, and nematodes. In the current study, we investigated the functional response of B. mali preying on the eggs of the mould mite Tyrophagus putrescentiae Schrank (Acari: Acaridae) at different humidity levels between 33% and 92%. To determine the type of functional response, we used logistic regression and a generalized functional response equation suggested by Real. The functional response parameters were estimated using models proposed by Hassell and Cabello et al. Blattisocius mali exhibited Type II functional response at 33% and Type III at other tested humidities (52%, 72%, 82%, and 92%). The potential for prey mortality (α) was the highest, i.e., 0.05923, and the handling time was the shortest, i.e., 0.00463 day, at 92% humidity, indicating the highest efficiency of B. mali at this humidity. Our findings revealed that B. mali was more efficient at higher humidity levels as compared to lower humidity levels. Humidity affected the predation rate and might have played an important role in stabilizing the predator–prey system by shifting the functional response with humidity.

Astaxanthin due to its strong antioxidant activity is believed to reduce oxidative stress and therefore is considered as feed additive in pathological conditions and also for the athletes. It is promoted by several equine web portals, however, data supporting that concept in horses is limited. Thus, the aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of astaxanthin supplementation on the parameters of oxidative status in 3 years old, racing Arabian horses during long term observation and the changes related to a single training session of high intensity. Six horses were supplemented with astaxanthin at a dose of 0.52–0.58 mg/kg BW and 7 received no supplementation. Astaxanthin supplementation resulted in the increase in total antioxidant status by 31.5%, accompanied by decreases in the amount of total thiobarbituric acid-reactive substances -TBARS and glutathione reductases - GR values by 34.5% and 45.4%, respectively, after 1 month and this effect persisted until the end of the observation. After individual training session the activities of glutathione peroxidases and GR were lower by 69% and 46%, respectively, and TBARS lower by 38% in supplemented horses. These results directly confirmed the beneficial effects of astaxanthin supplementation on the antioxidant status of race horses. Astaxanthin partially counterbalance the training-related oxidative stress, save the horse natural antioxidant defense, and shift the redox status towards a more reducing environment. At the same time, exercise-induced reactive oxygen species production at certain level was maintained and so that contributed to training progress.

Objectives: This study investigated metabolic changes associated with bovine leukemia virus (BLV) infection in dairy cows, focusing on pre-parturition alterations. Methods: Metabolite identification in serum and urine samples was performed using a targeted metabolomics method, employing the TMIC Prime kit in combination with flow injection analysis and liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry. Results: Of 145 cows examined, 42 (28.9%) were BLV-seropositive. Around 38% of infected cows showed high somatic cell counts indicative of subclinical mastitis, with 15 experiencing additional health issues such as ketosis, milk fever, and lameness. Despite these conditions, no significant differences in milk yield or composition were observed between the infected and control groups. Metabolomic analysis conducted at −8 and −4 weeks prepartum revealed significant metabolic differences between BLV-infected and healthy cows. At −8 weeks, 30 serum metabolites were altered, including sphingomyelins, lysophosphatidylcholines, amino acids, and acylcarnitines, suggesting disruptions in membrane integrity, energy metabolism, and immune function indicative of early neoplastic transformations. By −4 weeks, the number of altered metabolites decreased to 17, continuing to reflect metabolic disruptions in cows with leukemia. Multivariate analysis highlighted distinct metabolic profiles between infected and control cows, identifying key discriminating metabolites such as choline, aspartic acid, phenylalanine, and arginine. Urine metabolomics revealed significant prepartum shifts in metabolites related to glucose, asymmetric dimethylarginine, and pyruvic acid, among others. Conclusions: The research confirmed metabolomics’ efficacy in defining a BLV infection metabolic profile, elucidating leukosis-associated metabolic disruptions. This approach facilitates the identification of BLV-infected cows and enhances understanding of infection pathophysiology, providing a foundation for advanced management and intervention strategies in dairy herds. The study underscores the profound impact of leukosis on metabolic processes and highlights urine metabolomics’ utility in non-invasively detecting BLV infection, offering the potential for improved herd health management.

Tropical Animal Health and Production is a journal founded 55 years ago. It is dedicated to the publication of results of original research, investigation, and observation in all fields of animal health, welfare and production which may lead to improved health and productivity of livestock and better utilization of animal resources in tropical, subtropical and similar environments. Research is in strong alignment with the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals, particularly No Poverty, Zero Hunger, and Good Health and Well-being. To celebrate its 55th anniversary, the editorial board has composed this Editorial article in an effort to address the major challenges that animal and veterinary scientists in the tropics and adjacent regions will address over the next 55 years. The task is accomplished in a systematic fashion addressing the topic species by species (cattle, small ruminants, pigs, poultry, camelids, etc.) and in the context of different groups of health challenges encompassing production, vector-borne, parasitic and transboundary diseases. Challenges are difficult and complex, and the solutions herein proposed may be difficult to implement. It aims to be an informed overview of the major difficulties the sector will experience in the near future, ultimately suggesting tools to address them. Only time will tell if they are accurate, effective or implementable. Nevertheless, Tropical Animal Health and Production Editorial Board, secretariat, reviewers and authors will certainly do their best to contribute to the advancement of animal health and production in the Tropics and the Mediterranean.