bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cyclovirobuxine D Ameliorates Experimental Diabetic Cardiomyopathy by Inhibiting Cardiomyocyte Pyroptosis via NLRP3 in vivo and in vitro
Authors: Gao Ge , Fu Lingyun , Xu Yini , Tao Ling , Guo Ting , Fang Guanqin , Zhang Guangqiong , Wang Shengquan , Qin Ti , Luo Peng , Shen Xiangchun
Published: July 2022

Diabetic cardiomyopathy (DCM) is one of the common complications of diabetic patients, which can induce myocardial hypertrophy, cardiac fibrosis, and heart failure. Growing evidence has shown that the occurrence and development of DCM are accompanied by pyroptosis which is an NLRP3-mediated intense inflammatory cell death. Cyclovirobuxine D (CVB-D) has been shown to significantly ameliorate DCM and anti-inflammatory effects associated with cardiomyopathy, but it is unclear whether it has an effect on cardiomyocyte pyroptosis accompanying DCM. Therefore, the purpose of the present study was to explore the ameliorating effect of CVB-D on cardiomyocyte pyroptosis associated with DCM and its molecular regulation mechanism. Type 2 diabetes in C57BL/6 mice was reproduced by the high-fat and high-glucose diet (HFD) combined with low-dose streptozotocin (STZ). The characteristics of DCM were evaluated by cardiac ultrasonography, serum detection, and histopathological staining. The results suggested that CVB-D could significantly alleviate the cardiac pathology of DCM. Then, we explored the mechanism of CVB-D on primary neonatal rat cardiomyocyte (PNRCM) injury with high glucose (HG) in vitro to simulate the physiological environment of DCM. Preincubation with CVB-D could significantly increase cell viability, attenuate cytopathological changes and inhibit the expression levels of pyroptosis-related proteins. Further research found that the myocardial improvement effect of CVB-D was related to its inhibition of NLRP3 expression. In conclusion, our data suggest that CVB-D can ameliorate DCM by inhibiting cardiomyocyte pyroptosis via NLRP3, providing a novel molecular target for CVB-D clinical application.
Research on the Nonlinear Absorption Coefficient of 98% Deuterated DKDP Crystal at Fourth-Harmonic-Generation Wavelength
Authors: Wu Pengcheng , Zhang Lisong , Xu Mingxia , Liu Baoan , Wei Liening , Li Yang , Chai Xiangxu , Sun Xun
Published: July 2022

A series of 98% deuterated DKDP crystals were grown in solutions with different pD values (2.9, 3.3, 3.8, and 4.3) using the rapid growth method. Samples were cut along the z-direction and fourth-harmonic-generation (FHG) direction which contained both pyramidal and prismatic regions. The nonlinear absorption (NLA) coefficient β of 98% deuterated DKDP crystals was obtained using the Z-scan method operated at the FHG wavelength (266 nm) of a picosecond Nd:YAG laser. According to the results, the nonlinear absorption at 266 nm could be identified as two-photon absorption. The β values of crystal grown in the solution with 3.3 pD value were higher than those of crystals grown in solutions with other pD values under higher laser fluence. The results also indicated that FHG device samples should be prepared from the pyramidal region due to its lower β value. This work will help optimizing the application of 98% DKDP crystals as FHG elements in high-power laser systems.
Evaluation of Roholtiella sp. Extract on Bell Pepper (Capsicum annuum L.) Yield and Quality in a Hydroponic Greenhouse System
Authors: Bello Adewale Suraj , Saadaoui Imen , Ahmed Talaat , Hamdi Helmi , Cherif Maroua , Ben-Hamadou Radhouane
Published: July 2022

This study was carried out to investigate the impacts of cyanobacteria (Roholtiella sp.) high-value product extract (HVPE) and water resuspended biomass WRB treatments on bell pepper production using the hydroponic system under greenhouse conditions. Six cyanobacteria treatments (6 ml L−1, 4 ml L−1, and 2 ml L−1 – HVPE, 6 ml L−1, 4 ml L−1, and 2 ml L−1 – WRB, and TR0 as control) were evaluated using the foliar application method. The results showed that foliar application of HVPE with treatments of 2 ml L−1, 4 ml L−1, and 6 ml L−1 produced significantly higher values of physical growth parameters of bell pepper (BP) plants (shoot length, the number of leaves, plant leaf length, plant leaf width, and the diameter of the shoot), SPAD index, yield components (the fruit length, fruit width, the number of fruit per plant, and fresh weight per fruit), biochemical composition [ascorbic acid, phenolic acid, and total soluble solids (TSS)], and the total yield compared to the control group TR0. Also, significant higher values of growth parameters (shoot length, the number of leaves, plant leaf length, plant leaf width, the diameter of the shoot), SPAD index, yield components (the fruit length, fruit width, the number of fruits per plant, and fresh weight per fruit), biochemical composition [ascorbic acid, phenolic acid, and total soluble solids (TSS)], and the total yield were obtained with foliar spraying WRB at 2 ml L−1, 4 ml L−1, and 6 ml L−1 compared to the control group TR0. Consequently, the treated bell pepper with Roholtiella sp. HVPE and WRB were more efficient in enhancing production and chemical constituents compared with the control group.
The Detection Method of Potato Foliage Diseases in Complex Background Based on Instance Segmentation and Semantic Segmentation
Authors: Li Xudong , Zhou Yuhong , Liu Jingyan , Wang Linbai , Zhang Jun , Fan Xiaofei
Published: July 2022

Potato early blight and late blight are devastating diseases that affect potato planting and production. Thus, precise diagnosis of the diseases is critical in treatment application and management of potato farm. However, traditional computer vision technology and pattern recognition methods have certain limitations in the detection of crop diseases. In recent years, the development of deep learning technology and convolutional neural networks has provided new solutions for the rapid and accurate detection of crop diseases. In this study, an integrated framework that combines instance segmentation model, classification model, and semantic segmentation model was devised to realize the segmentation and detection of potato foliage diseases in complex backgrounds. In the first stage, Mask R-CNN was adopted to segment potato leaves in complex backgrounds. In the second stage, VGG16, ResNet50, and InceptionV3 classification models were employed to classify potato leaves. In the third stage, UNet, PSPNet, and DeepLabV3+ semantic segmentation models were applied to divide potato leaves. Finally, the three-stage models were combined to segment and detect the potato leaf diseases. According to the experimental results, the average precision (AP) obtained by the Mask R-CNN network in the first stage was 81.87%, and the precision was 97.13%. At the same time, the accuracy of the classification model in the second stage was 95.33%. The mean intersection over union (MIoU) of the semantic segmentation model in the third stage was 89.91%, and the mean pixel accuracy (MPA) was 94.24%. In short, it not only provides a new model framework for the identification and detection of potato foliage diseases in natural environment, but also lays a theoretical basis for potato disease assessment and classification.
Spatial-Temporal Distribution of Allelopathic Rice Roots in Paddy Soil and Its Impact on Weed-Suppressive Activity at the Seedling Stages
Authors: Li Jiayu , Lin Shunxian , Ma Huayan , Wang Yanping , He Haibin , Fang Changxun
Published: July 2022

Background

Allelochemicals secreted by allelopathic rice roots are transmitted to the receptor rhizosphere through the soil medium to inhibit the growth of the surrounding weeds. This research aimed to explore the relationships between the spatial-temporal distribution of rice roots in soil and weed-suppression ability at its seedling stage.

Results

This study first examined the root distribution of three rice cultivars in paddy soil in both vertical and horizontal directions at 3–6 leaf stage. Then, an experiment using rice–barnyardgrass mixed culture was conducted to analyze the allelopathic potential and allelochemical content secreted by rice roots in different lateral soil layers. The results showed that allelopathic rice had a smaller root diameter and larger root length density, root surface area density, and root dry weight density than those of non-allelopathic rice, in the top 5 cm at 5- and 6-leaf stages. In particular, there were significant differences in root distribution at the horizontal distance of 6–12 cm. Besides, allelopathic rice significantly inhibited the above-ground growth of barnyardgrass co-cultured at 12 cm lateral distance in situ, and the content of benzoic acid derivatives in allelopathic rice in a 6–12 cm soil circle was higher than that observed at 0–6 cm distance. Moreover, correlation analysis confirmed that the distribution of roots in the horizontal distance was significantly correlated with weed inhibition effect and allelochemical content.

Conclusion

These results implied that spatial distribution of allelopathic rice roots in paddy soil, particularly at the lateral distance, appears to have important impact on its weed-suppressive activity at the seedling stage, suggesting that modifying root distribution in soil may be a novel method to strengthen the ability of rice seedlings to resist paddy weeds.
Humble Leadership Benefits Employee Job Performance: The Role of Supervisor–Subordinate Guanxi and Perceived Leader Integrity
Authors: Yang Bin , Shen Yimo , Ma Chenlu
Published: July 2022

Although humility is a hallmark of many beloved and respected leaders, yet little is known about the impact of humble leadership on employee job performance. Drawing on social exchange theory and attribution theory, the current study suggests a moderated mediation model to elucidate how and when humble leadership encourages follower job performance. Analyses of multilevel, multisource data from 204 subordinates and 68 supervisors showed that humble leadership and employee job performance via supervisor–subordinate guanxi is moderated by perceived leader integrity, such that the indirect and positive relationship between humble leadership and employee job performance via supervisor–subordinate guanxi would be strengthened when perceived leader integrity is high rather than low. Theoretical and practical implications as well as limitations and future directions are discussed.
Mitigating Students’ Anxiety: The Role of Resilience and Mindfulness Among Chinese EFL Learners
Authors: Shen Yanfei
Published: July 2022

To manage the undesirable effect of anxiety on students, a wide scope of research has been dedicated to determining the triggers of anxiety and pedagogical interferences that can assist students with mitigating anxiety. Mindfulness is a relaxation strategy that has been related to constructive impacts when utilized as a managing technique for stress and anxiety. Originating from the construct of mindfulness, there is a multidimensional conception acknowledged as resilience as one of the notions in the Positive Psychology (PP) literature, which highlights the organizations and individuals’ strengths and self-control to comply with accidental states. Given the eminence of mindfulness and resilience in learning situations, the present study sets forth to examine the role of these constructs in alleviating English as a foreign language (EFL) learners’ anxiety. To meet this objective, 502 Chinese EFL learners took part in this research. They were asked to respond to the three questionnaires, namely resilience, mindfulness, and anxiety. To answer the research question of the study, a linear multiple regression was run and the findings demonstrated that mindfulness and resilience together could significantly predict anxiety. Consistent with the findings, some recommendations are presented concerning the implications of the present research.
An Investigation Into the Effects of Destination Sensory Experiences at Visitors’ Digital Engagement: Empirical Evidence From Sanya, China
Authors: Ai Jin , Yan Ling , Hu Yubei , Liu Yue
Published: July 2022

This study investigates the mechanism of how sensory experiences influence visitors’ digital engagement with a destination through establishing a strong bond and identification between a destination and tourist utilizing a two-step process. First, visitors’ sensory experiences in a destination are identified through a content analysis of online review comments posted by visitors. Afterward, the effects of those sensory experiences on visitors’ digital engagement through destination dependence and identification with that destination are examined. Findings suggest that sensory experiences are critical antecedents of visitors’ bond and identification with a destination. Visitors’ positive destination-related sensory experiences increase their dependence on and identification with the destination, and this dependence and identification positively influence their digital engagement behavior on social media.
Coordination of Caregiver Naming and Children’s Exploration of Solid Objects and Nonsolid Substances
Authors: Perry Lynn K. , Custode Stephanie A. , Fasano Regina M. , Gonzalez Brittney M. , Valtierra Adriana M.
Published: July 2022

When a caregiver names objects dominating a child’s view, the association between object and name is unambiguous and children are more likely to learn the object’s name. Children also learn to name things other than solid objects, including nonsolid substances like applesauce. However, it is unknown how caregivers structure linguistic and exploratory experiences with nonsolids to support learning. In this exploratory study of caregivers and children (n = 14, 8 girls; M = 20.50 months) we compare caregiver-child free-play with novel solid objects and novel nonsolid substances to identify the linguistic and exploratory experiences associated with children’s word learning. We found systematic differences in interactions with novel objects, such that children performed more manual actions on solids than nonsolids and caregivers named solids more than nonsolids. Additionally, there was less synchrony between caregivers’ naming and children’s manual and visual exploration of nonsolids than solids. Consistent with prior work, we found that synchronous naming was associated with accurate recognition of solid object names. However, naming synchrony was not associated with recognition of nonsolid substance names or with generalization. Together these findings, though exploratory, suggest the coordination of caregiver-child play can shape what children remember about novel word-object associations for solid objects, but not nonsolid substances.
Shaping Future Directions for Breakdance Teaching
Authors: Wei Ming Tao , Yang Zhi , Bai Yu Jie , Yu Ning , Wang Chun Xia , Wang Nan , Cui Yan Shuo
Published: July 2022

This article reports on the evolution of breakdance. Given the inclusion of breakdancing in the 2024 Olympic Games in Paris, France, scholars have generated substantial international research related to breakdance teaching in recent years. However, few researchers have focused on the impact of formal formative assessment on breakdance teachers’ teaching and students’ learning. We wish to contribute to the quality of breakdance teaching and learning by identifying the positive impact of recent research on formative assessment on student learning and designing a formal formative assessment task related to breakdance. This article lays out a framework of formal formative assessment tasks and identifies the positive impact of formative assessment on dance education. Although our work is far from perfect, it does provide a general methodological framework for assessing breakdance students’ abilities in formal educational settings.
Evaluating Coaching Intervention for Financial Risk Perception and Credit Risk Management in a Nigerian Sample
Authors: Ugwoke Robinson Onuora , Onyeanu Edith Ogomegbunam , Ugwoke Obioma Vivian , Ajayi Tijani Ahmed
Published: July 2022

There is no doubt that a negative perception of financial risk and a lack of credit risk management adversely impact business growth and business owners’ wellbeing. Past studies suggest that most Nigerian traders have poor risk perceptions and manage risk poorly. A business coaching program within rational-emotive behavior therapy framework (REBT-based business coaching) was evaluated in order to determine its effects on financial risk perception and credit risk management among Nigerian traders. This study used an open-label parallel randomized control design. This 8-weeks coaching program had 60 traders in the REBT-based business coaching group and 59 traders in the control group. The mixed-model repeated measures ANOVA was utilized for analysis of the study data. Results show that relative to a control group, traders’ financial risk perception [F(1.09,127.15) = 637.29, p < 0.001, ω2 = 0.69] and credit risk management [F(1.55,181.22) = 795.51, p < 0.001, ω2 = 0.80] significantly improved after participating in REBT-based business coaching program. This study shows that REBT-based business coaching program is integral to increasing financial risk perception and credit risk management among Nigerian traders. This study contributes to the advancement of business coaching program within the rational-emotive behavior therapy framework for market traders, and its application in similar situations. The study considered the benefits of business coaching program for market traders from a developing country, which is a rarely studied group. It is highly recommended that professionals study the relationship between REBT-based business coaching and economic decision-making within various organizational contexts.
Purpose in Life and Character Strengths as Predictors of Health Sciences Students’ Psychopathology During the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Echeverria Iván , Peraire Marc , Penadés Danaide , Quintero Valentina , Benito Ana , Almodóvar Isabel , Haro Gonzalo
Published: July 2022

Background

Health sciences students experience high levels of psychopathology conditioned by psychosocial, financial, and academic factors. However, COVID-19 pandemic might even have worsened their mental health. Thus, this article aims to evaluate how the exposure to COVID-19 pandemic has affected these students’ mental health and to determine the effect of purpose in life and character strengths on this psychopathology.

Methods

A cross-sectional study of unpaired samples was carried out in Spain during the first and third waves of the pandemic in 70 medical and 52 nursing students.

Results

The risk factor that most determined the appearance of anxiety was the exposure of family and friends to COVID-19 (OR = 4.01; p < 0.001), while the most protective factors were honesty (OR = –1.14; p = 0.025) and purpose in life (OR = –0.18; p < 0.001). Purpose in life also protected against the onset of depression and total psychopathology. In addition, we observed studying medicine was a protective factor against total psychopathology while being a nursing student was associated with high levels of acute stress.

Conclusion

Exposure of the students’ family and friends to SARS-CoV-2 favored the appearance of symptoms of anxiety. Honesty had a preventing role in the onset of anxiety and a high purpose in life was protective against the appearance of anxiety, depression, and total psychopathology.
Social Media Disorder, Mental Health, and Validation of the Chinese Version of 27-Item Social Media Disorder Scale in Chinese College Students
Authors: Lei Hui , Huang Yaqing , Chai Ya , Zhang Xiaocui
Published: July 2022

Objective

With the widespread use of social media, excessive use of social media may lead to problematic behaviors such as social media disorder, which has a negative impact on teenagers' mental health. Thus, it is an urgent need to provide a measurement tool to assess social media addiction in different cultures. The aim of this study was to assess the psychometric properties of the Chinese version of 27-item Social Media Disorder (SMD) Scale (developed using the diagnostic criteria of DSM-V Internet Gaming Disorder) in college students, and to verify its impact on mental health.

Methods

Two online surveys were conducted among a total of 1,539 Chinese college students, including 1,316 subjects in sample 1 and 223 subjects in sample 2. The discrimination, criterion validity, construct validity and reliability of the Chinese version of SMD-27 scale were examined.

Results

The Chinese version of SMD-27 scale showed excellent psychometric properties. The item-total correlation coefficients of the scale ranged from 0.31 to 0.56, and the item-dimension correlations of the scale ranged from 0.459 to 0.834. Findings from confirmatory factor analysis indicated a great fit of the model of the Chinese version of SMD-27, with CFI = 0.956, TLI = 0.951, RMSEA = 0.036 in sample one and CFI = 0.970, TLI = 0.967, RMSEA = 0.040 in sample two, thus confirming the second-order factor structure of the scale. The SMD-27 scale showed good internal consistency between two different samples with their respective Cronbach's alpha of 0.87 and 0.92, and good test-retest reliability over a period of 1 month. In addition, multiple regression results generally supported the impact of social media addiction on mental health.

Conclusion

This study provides evidence that the Chinese version of SMD-27 scale is applicable to Chinese college populations, and it is a promising tool for the study of social media addiction in China.
Women and Leadership: How Do Women Leaders Contribute to Companies' Sustainable Choices?
Authors: Pierli Giada , Murmura Federica , Palazzi Federica
Published: July 2022

The current political, economic and social scenario is characterized by continuous and rapid changes. Companies are therefore called to face a significant change, which requires the definition of policies and strategies strongly oriented toward sustainable development, becoming fundamental for long-term success and competitiveness. In this perspective, female leadership plays a key role. Over time, women have demonstrated the ability to successfully manage the challenges imposed by social dynamics and environmental change. Despite the growing number of studies on women as sustainable development leaders, there is still little empirical evidence on how women contribute to the to the companies' sustainable development. The paper aims to address this gap by developing a qualitative multiple case study based on the administration of questionnaires to five Italian companies characterized by the presence of women in leadership positions. Therefore, the objectives of the research work are: (i) to analyze how female leadership facilitates the company's transition toward sustainability; (ii) to define a “typical profile” of sustainable woman leader in terms of main characteristics, actions and challenges. Findings suggest that female leadership contributes to the promotion and implementation of environmental and social practices through several characteristics intrinsic to their nature, such as the ability to emphasize and listen and the predisposition to sharing and collaboration. In addition, sustainable women leaders exhibit the following main traits: thinking systematically/holistically, managing complexity, and inclusive approach to leadership. This study allows to enrich the literature related to the relationship between sustainability and female leadership, providing empirical evidence on the topic.
Study of Meat Species Adulteration in Indonesian Commercial Beef Meatballs Related to Halal Law Implementation
Authors: Siswara Hamzah Nata , Erwanto Yuny , Suryanto Edi
Published: July 2022

Meatballs are processed meat products that are susceptible to adulteration. Indonesia enforces a halal product guarantee regulation so that all products in circulation are free from non-halal ingredients. This study aimed to detect with the PCR method the contamination by pork and chicken of commercial beef meatballs. The samples of commercial meatballs were obtained from 36 meatball shops in Bojonegoro Regency, East Java, and Boyolali Regency, Central Java Province, Indonesia. Reference meatballs as a positive control were prepared in the laboratory. DNA isolation was performed on commercial sample meatballs, reference meatballs, and 13 species of fresh meat for specificity tests. DNA concentrations were measured using a spectrophotometer, and visualization of the isolation and PCR results was conducted using agarose gel electrophoresis and a UV transilluminator. DNA isolates were amplified by PCR using gene targets 1.711B bovine repeat for identifying bovine species, CR1 SINE repeat element for identifying chicken species, and mitochondrial gene subunit ND1 for identifying pork species. The results showed that there was contamination by chicken meat in meatballs labeled as beef meatballs in 30 of 36 samples in Bojonegoro Regency and 33 of 36 samples in Boyolali Regency. The results also showed that 22 samples of commercial beef meatballs in the Boyolali Regency contained pork. The implementation of the PCR method using the three specific primers proved the presence of meat contamination that did not match the label on the meatballs circulating in the Indonesian market. The contamination by pork if beef meatballs has violated the regulation on halal product guarantees.
Ectopic Breast Tissue in the Inguinal Region: A Case Report and Suggestion of Indications for Excision
Authors: Choi Jangyoun , Yang Young Bin , Oh Deuk Young
Published: July 2022

We report a rare case of ectopic breast tissue situated in a unique location. A 50-year-old female patient came to our institution complaining of a bulge in the inguinal area. CT was unremarkable other than a benign-looking conglomeration of lymph nodes around the inguinal canal. However, excisional biopsy proved otherwise, with strong expression of breast-related immunohistochemical markers on pathology. Based on histological findings, the diagnosis of ectopic breast tissue was made. Since the vast majority of ectopic breast tissue is found around the breast mound, axilla, and along the milk line, this case is peculiar in its location. This report shares our experience and provides indications for excision of incidental ectopic breast tissue.
The Investigation of Plume-Regolith Interaction and Dust Dispersal during Chang’E-5 Descent Stage
Authors: Zhang Haiyan , Li Cunhui , You Jilin , Zhang Xiaoping , Wang Yi , Chen Liping , Fu Qingfei , Zhang Baogui , Wang Yuming
Published: July 2022

The plume-surface interaction that occurs as a result of a variable-thrust engine exhaust plume impinging on soil during landings is critical for future lunar mission design. Unique lunar environmental properties, such as low gravity, high vacuum, and the regolith layer, make this study complex and challenging. In this paper, we build a reliable simulation model, with constraints based on landing photos, to characterize the erosion properties induced by a low-thrust engine plume. We focus on the low-thrust plume-surface erosion process and erosion properties during the Chang’E-5 mission, aiming to determine the erosion difference between high- and low-thrust conditions; this is a major concern, as the erosion process for a low-thrust lunar mission is rarely studied. First, to identify the entire erosion process and its relative effect on the flat lunar surface, a one-to-one rocket nozzle simulation model is built; ground experimental results are utilized to verify the simulated inlet parameters of the vacuum plume flow field. Following that, plume flow is considered using the finite volume method, and the Roberts erosion model, based on excess shear stress, is adopted to describe plume-surface interaction properties. Finally, a Lagrangian framework using the discrete phase model is selected to investigate the dynamic properties of lunar dust particles. Results show that erosion depth, total ejected mass, and the maximum particle incline angle during the Chang’E-5 landing period are approximately 0.2 cm, 335.95 kg, and 4.16°, respectively. These results are not only useful for the Chang’E-5 lunar sample analysis, but also for future lunar mission design.
Structural Polymorphisms of Chromosome 3Am Containing Lr63 Leaf Rust Resistance Loci Reflect the Geographical Distribution of Triticum monococcum L. and Related Diploid Wheats
Authors: Noweiska Aleksandra , Bobrowska Roksana , Kwiatek Michał Tomasz
Published: July 2022

Wheat is one of the world’s crucial staple food crops. In turn, einkorn wheat (Triticum monococcum L.) is considered a wild relative of wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) and can be used as a source of agronomically important genes for breeding purposes. Cultivated T. monococcum subsp. monococcum originated from T. monococcum subsp. aegilopoides (syn. T. boeticum). For the better utilization of valuable genes from these species, it is crucial to discern the genetic diversity at their cytological and molecular levels. Here, we used a fluorescence in situ hybridization toolbox and molecular markers linked to the leaf rust resistance gene Lr63 (located on the short arm of the 3Am chromosome—3AmS) to track the polymorphisms between T. monococcum subsp. monococcum, T. boeticum and T. urartu (A-genome donor for hexaploid wheat) accessions, which were collected in different regions of Europe, Asia, and Africa. We distinguished three groups of accessions based on polymorphisms of cytomolecular and leaf rust resistance gene Lr63 markers. We observed that the cultivated forms of T. monococcum revealed additional marker signals, which are characteristic for genomic alternations induced by the domestication process. Based on the structural analysis of the 3AmS chromosome arm, we concluded that the polymorphisms were induced by geographical dispersion and could be related to adaptation to local environmental conditions.
Enhancing Zinc Biofortification of Wheat through Integration of Zinc, Compost, and Zinc-Solubilizing Bacteria
Authors: Khalid Shah , Amanullah  , Ahmed Iftikhar
Published: July 2022

Zinc (Zn) deficiency is a fairly widespread agronomic constraint in many of the world’s cereal (wheat, rice, corn, barley, etc.) production regions. Zinc is an imperative micronutrient required for optimum plant growth and development. Low Zn availability in about 50% of global land has resulted in Zn deficiency in cereal grains. A two-year field experiment was conducted at the Agronomy Research Farm, The University of Agriculture, Peshawar, during Rabi season 2018–19 (Y1) and 2019–20 (Y2) to study the impact of Zn levels (0, 5, 10 and 15 kg Zn ha−1), compost types (control, composted sheep manure (SMC), composted poultry manure (PMC) and farmyard manure compost (FYMC), and Zn-solubilizing bacteria (ZnSB) (with (+) and without (-) on Zn biofortification in order to overcome Zn deficiency. The experiment was set up in three replications in a randomized complete block design. The wheat variety “Pirsabak-2013” was planted in a 30 cm row-to-row spacing. The plot size was kept at 9 cm2, with 10 rows plot−1, and the seed was sown at a rate of 100 kg ha−1. The results showed that ZnSB application increased ShZnC (shoot Zn concentration) to a maximum level of 29.3 mg kg−1, ShZnUp (shoot Zn uptake) to 176.0 g ha−1, SZnUp (straw Zn uptake) to 116.67 g ha−1, and TZnUp (total Zn uptake) to 230.3 g ha−1. In the case of compost types, PMC resulted in maximum grain Zn uptake (GZnUp) (28.9 mg kg−1), ShZnUp (192.9 g ha−1), GZnC (33.4 mg kg−1), GZnUp (125.06 g ha−1), SZnUp (125.26 g ha−1), and TZnUp (250.3 g ha−1). In the case of Zn levels, higher ShZnC (31.5 mg kg−1), ShZnUp (191.3 g ha−1), GZnC (34.4 mg kg−1), SZnC (23.5 mg kg−1), GZnUp (128.98 g ha−1), SZnUp (129.29 g ha−1), and TZnUp (258.3 g ha−1) were calculated with the use of the highest rate of 15 kg Zn ha−1, which was either statistically similar to or followed by 10 kg Zn ha−1. A strong positive correlation was found among uptake by different plant parts (ZnG, ZnS, ShZnUp, GZnUp, SZnUp, and TZnUp). It was concluded that the combined application of PMC and 10 kg Zn ha−1 along with ZnSB (+) improved Zn biofortification and uptake in wheat crop under Zn-deficient soils.
Host-Defense Peptides as New Generation Phytosanitaries: Low Toxicity and Low Induction of Antimicrobial Resistance
Authors: Lobo Fernando , Boto Alicia
Published: July 2022

Host-defense peptides (HDP) are emerging as promising phytosanitaries due to their potency, low plant, animal and environmental toxicity, and above all, low induction of antimicrobial resistance. These natural compounds, which have been used by animals and plants over millions of years to defend themselves against pathogens, are being discovered by genome mining, and then produced using biofactories. Moreover, truncated or otherwise modified peptides, including ultra-short ones, have been developed to improve their bioactivities and biodistribution, and also to reduce production costs. The synergistic combination of HDP and other antimicrobials, and the development of hybrid molecules have also given promising results. Finally, although their low induction of antimicrobial resistance is a big advantage, cautionary measures for the sustainable use of HDPs, such as the use of precision agriculture tools, were discussed.
Physical Clogging Characteristics of Labyrinth Emitters under Low-Quality (Sand-Laden Water) Irrigation
Authors: Wang Hui , Ling Gang , Hu Mingyu , Wang Wene , Hu Xiaotao
Published: July 2022

Drip irrigation technology has obvious advantages in solving the shortage of agricultural water. The demand for using low-quality water sources for irrigation is becoming urgent. Research on the physical blockage formation has become the main part of solving the emitter blockage in China. The purpose of this study is to investigate the blockage characteristics of the emitters in the drip irrigation system with a low-quality water source and to provide some basis for the anti-clogging measures. Therefore, we configured different concentrations (1.8 g/L, 2.8 g/L, 3.8 g/L) and different particle sizes (0–0.054 mm, 0.054–0.075 mm, 0.075–0.1 mm) of low-quality water sources and carried out drip irrigation tests. The holistic and local characteristics of the physical blockage occurrence and distribution were compared under the sand-laden water source irrigation, then the structure and element composition of the blockage material were analyzed. The results show that the clogging characteristics are related to the emitter types, sediment content, and sediment particle size. The higher sediment concentration means that the single emitter is more likely to be blocked completely, and the whole clogging development is short and quick. However, at lower sediment concentration treatments, the probability of complete clogging decreases, and the clogging process is uniform and slow. The blockage position of large flow channel emitters (E1) appears at the head and middle of the drip irrigation tape, and the internal blockage usually occurs at the inlet. The small size channel emitters (E2 and E3) are concentrated in the head and end of drip irrigation tape, and the internal blockage usually occurs in the low-speed zone of the labyrinth channel such as the inlet fence. The internal blocked material is the accumulation structure formed by sediment particles and the coupled precipitation aggregate formed by the reaction of various chemical ions. Among them, the mixing of large and small sediment particles is more inclined to form a stable blocking skeleton structure.
Responses of Bacterial Communities in Soils under Winter Wheat to Nightly Warming and Nitrogen Addition
Authors: Wei Dongxian , Wei Shengbao , Peng Anchun , Yang Chaoran , Chen Changqing
Published: July 2022

Understanding soil bacterial diversity under global warming is necessary because of its crucial role in soil nitrogen cycling. However, the interaction effect of warmer temperatures and nitrogen application on bacterial communities in the soils of winter wheat fields is unclear. In this study, the air temperature was increased with infrared heating, and this heating treatment was combined with nitrogen fertilizer application. The two-year continuous temperature increase significantly decreased the soil’s pH and nitrate nitrogen content, but significantly increased the content of soil available nutrients. Warming changed the community structure of the soil bacteria, and significantly increased the bacterial richness and diversity by 17.77% and 3.52%, respectively. The changes in the physical and chemical properties of the soil caused by the increased nighttime temperature decreased the percentage abundance of Pseudomonadota, which is the largest bacterial phylum, and plays an important role in the global carbon, sulfur, and nitrogen cycles. The structural equation model demonstrated that the influence of soil temperature on bacterial diversity was mediated through soil moisture. Nitrogen application rate directly affected soil bacterial diversity and was the most significant parameter influencing bacterial diversity.
Chemical Characteristics of Two-Phase Olive-Mill Waste and Evaluation of Their Direct Soil Application in Humid Mediterranean Regions
Authors: Podgornik Maja , Bučar-Miklavčič Milena , Levart Alenka , Salobir Janez , Rezar Vida , Butinar Bojan
Published: July 2022

Over the last decade, the two-phase centrifugation system for olive-oil extraction has become dominant in Slovenia. There are many suggestions for the exploitation of two-phase OMW, but among the suggested methods, direct spreading on agricultural land appears to be operationally simple and economically feasible for Slovenia. As there is little information available about two-phase OMW produced in the northern Mediterranean regions, the aim was to determine its composition and evaluate its use as a soil amendment in olive groves. This study shows that the characteristics of two-phase olive-mill waste produced in northern Mediterranean regions are similar to those of other countries. In addition, the calcareous characteristics of the Mediterranean soil can reduce its phytotoxic effects and might thus represent a natural system for olive-mill waste treatment. Phenolic compounds in the two-phase olive-mill waste are rapidly decomposed, and the soil has a high buffering capacity. Furthermore, the results of the soil analysis also showed some effects on the soil properties, such as a significant increase in K2O and soil organic carbon. The combined application of two-phase olive-mill waste and mineral fertilizer to olive groves on eutric cambisols has positive effects on the physical, chemical and biochemical properties of the soil.
Nanomechanical, Structural and Antioxidant Characterization of Nixtamalized Popcorn Pericarp
Authors: Rojas-Candelas Liliana Edith , Díaz-Ramírez Mayra , Rayas-Amor Adolfo Armando , Cruz-Monterrosa Rosy Gabriela , Méndez-Méndez Juan Vicente , Villanueva-Carvajal Adriana , Cortés-Sánchez Alejandro de Jesús
Published: July 2022

Expanded popcorn grain is widely consumed as a healthy snack all around the world; however, the study of the behavior of its components by processes such as nixtamalization is scarce. Therefore, the aim of this work was to characterize the nanomechanical, structural, and antioxidant properties of nixtamalized popcorn grain pericarp. FT-IR results showed that the secondary structure of proteins of the nixtamalized pericarp was α-helix with 42.10%, the turn was 21.5% and 36.33% β-sheet, and proteins of the pericarp did not present the random coil structure. Pericarp showed antioxidant activity, as their values were 550.1 ± 2.9 and 44.2 ± 1.6 (TE)/mL for ABTS and DPPH, respectively; total phenols content was 0.21 ± 0.008 (TE)/mL; reducing power values were around 29 to 31%; hydroxyl radical scavenging ranged from 36 to 55% and iron chelation around 115 to 140% compared to the standard acids. Thickness values of the nixtamalized pericarp by SEM image analysis were 0.15 ± 0.1 mm near the pedicel inferior tip, 0.07 ± 0.01 mm at middle, and 0.03 ± 0.02 mm at upper of the grain. Young’s modulus value was 261.72 ± 23.58 MPa with a Gaussian function fitting at the distribution of all values. This research provides novel and valuable information for understanding the nanomechanical and protein arrangement, as well as and the antioxidant activity of nixtamalized popcorn grain pericarp in order to promote other processes and uses for this kind of pericarp maize.
Evolutionary Game Analysis of Shared Manufacturing Quality Synergy under Dynamic Reward and Punishment Mechanism
Authors: Zhang Ziming , Wang Xinping , Su Chang , Sun Linhui
Published: July 2022

Quality improvement is crucial for manufacturing, and existing research has paid less attention to the influence of regulatory factors and irrational factors of decision makers. Considering the impact of the reward and punishment strategy of the shared platform on quality decision-making, this paper introduces prospect theory and mental account theory into the process of multi-agent evolutionary game of shared manufacturing, constructs a co-evolutionary game model of shared manufacturing quality synergistic improvement under the dynamic reward and punishment mechanism, and analyzes the dynamic evolution law of each game agent. The research results show that: (1) The synergistic improvement of shared manufacturing quality is the consequence of the combined action of numerous interrelated and interacting factors, rather than the linear effect of a single element. (2) Although the combination of multiple incentive and punishment methods can significantly alter the effect of shared manufacturing quality synergy, there are certain effectiveness gaps. (3) The subsidy mechanism can effectively compensate for the effectiveness gap of the reward and punishment mechanism, and it can also strengthen the internal driving force of shared manufacturing quality coordination. The main management insights are as follows: (1) Consider strong external regulation to be the framework constraint, and positive internal control to be the detail specification. (2) Create a reliable reward and punishment mechanism and dynamically alter the intensity of rewards and penalties. (3) To close the effectiveness gap, strengthen the subsidy mechanism as an essential addition to the incentive and punishment mechanisms. This study can give a new reference path for quality improvement of shared manufacturing, allowing shared manufacturing to play a more constructive role in supporting the transformation and development of the manufacturing industry.
Nanomaterials in Bone Regeneration
Authors: Babuska Vaclav , Kasi Phanindra Babu , Chocholata Petra , Wiesnerova Lucie , Dvorakova Jana , Vrzakova Radana , Nekleionova Anna , Landsmann Lukas , Kulda Vlastimil
Published: July 2022

Nanomaterials are promising in the development of innovative therapeutic options that include tissue and organ replacement, as well as bone repair and regeneration. The expansion of new nanoscaled biomaterials is based on progress in the field of nanotechnologies, material sciences, and biomedicine. In recent decades, nanomaterial systems have bridged the line between the synthetic and natural worlds, leading to the emergence of a new science called nanomaterial design for biological applications. Nanomaterials replicating bone properties and providing unique functions help in bone tissue engineering. This review article is focused on nanomaterials utilized in or being explored for the purpose of bone repair and regeneration. After a brief overview of bone biology, including a description of bone cells, matrix, and development, nanostructured materials and different types of nanoparticles are discussed in detail.
Structural and Behaviour Optimization of Tubular Structures Made of Tailor Welded Blanks by Applying Taguchi and Genetic Algorithms Methods
Authors: Ciubotariu Vlad Andrei , Radu Maria Crina , Herghelegiu Eugen , Zichil Valentin , Grigoras Cosmin Constantin , Nechita Elena
Published: July 2022

Even though they initially appeared as a method of using waste from other production processes, tailored welded blanks (TWB) presented several advantages by combining materials with different characteristics. On the one hand, this study focuses on minimizing the adverse effects caused by the springback of TWB parts. The proposed method is based on the Taguchi technique using orthogonal type 23 networks. On the other hand, genetic algorithms were applied to obtain maximum performance parameters within the dynamic loadings of tubular structures made of TWB by advantageous positioning of the weld line. The obtained data were compared and evaluated through software platforms such as MATLAB, Design Expert, and Dynaform, and experimental validation. By generating an objective function, the construction of thin-walled tubular structures can be controlled for a predetermined deformation and maximum energy absorption. The data obtained has an error rate of less than 3%, thus considering that this method can be used successfully in the qualitative and quantitative estimation of dynamically loaded TWB tubular structures.
Comparative Evaluation of Bond Strength and Microleakage of Three Ion-Releasing Restorative Materials at Various pH Levels
Authors: Kim Hyun-Jung
Published: July 2022

The aim of this study was a comparison of the micro-tensile bond strength (μTBS) to dentin and microleakage of in vitro class V restorations of three different ion-releasing restorative materials under various pH conditions: giomer, a resin-modified glass ionomer (RMGI), and a new alkasite material. A μTBS test was performed using a universal testing machine, immediately and after storage at different pH (4, 7, and 10) buffer solutions (n = 15) over 24 h, and the failure mode was analyzed. For microleakage analysis, class V restorations were performed on extracted premolars, which were sectioned and stored in pH 4-, 7-, and 10-buffered fluorescent 0.02% rhodamine B dye. The specimens were observed under a confocal laser scanning microscope (CLSM) and scored using the acquired images. There were no significant differences in the μTBS according to the type of material (p = 0.518). The giomer showed a decreased bond strength under the pH 4 condition compared with the immediately tested or pH 7-stored specimens (p ≤ 0.043). In the microleakage analysis, the class V restoration with giomer showed a higher microleakage than RMGI or alkasite (p = 0.001). For RMGI and alkasite, the specimens stored at pH 4 showed a significantly lower microleakage than those stored at pH 7 (p = 0.028). RMGI and alkasite can be adopted as restorative materials in generalized or localized low-pH conditions.