bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Transformative practice and its interactional challenges in COVID-19 telephone contact tracing in Flanders
Authors: Slembrouck Stef , Vandenbroucke Mieke , De Timmerman Romeo , Bafort Anne-Sophie , Van de Geuchte Sofie
Published: August 2023

This article focuses on transformative interactional practice in COVID-19 contact tracing telephone calls in Flanders (Belgium). It is based on a large corpus of recorded telephone conversations conducted by COVID-19 contact tracers with index patients in the period mid-2020 to mid-2022. The calls were conducted through government-contracted commercial call centers. For nearly 2 years and applied country-wide, this was the most prominent strategy in Belgium for breaking transmission chains. COVID-19 telephone contact tracing with infected patients counts as transformative professional work in two ways. First, in addition to the registration of recent contacts in a relevant time window, the work is oriented to awareness-raising about how patients and their co-dwellers can and should adjust their behavior by attending actively to critical aspects of the pandemic during an individual period of (potential) infection. This is the terrain of advice, interdictions and recommendations about quarantine, isolation, personal hygiene, etc. In addition, the focus on interactional attention indexes patients’ affect and emotions (e.g., anxiety, worry, or anger) in a period of health uncertainty and social isolation. The transformative work thus depends on successfully established rapport and empathetic, responsive behavior. Our analysis of the recorded conversational sequences focuses on the complexities of client-sensitive and responsive transformative sequences and highlights the constraints and affordances which surround the interactional task of ‘instructional awareness raising’ which is central to telephone contact tracing. Specifically, we detail the following dimensions of transformative sequences: (i) how do contact tracers deal with the knowledge status of clients, (ii) their use of upgrading/downgrading formulations, (iii) the use of humor and other mitigating strategies, and (iv) how contact tracers attend to interactional displays of affect and emotion. In a final section, we tie together our observations about the communication of particularized advice in a context of general measures through the twin notions of categorization/particularization-work. The findings in this paper are limited to the first step in the chain of contact tracing, i.e., telephone calls with tested and infected citizens.
Association of mindfulness on state-trait anxiety in choking-susceptible athletes: mediating roles of resilience and perceived stress
Authors: Tang Yiwei , Jing Longjun , Liu Yang , Wang Huilin
Published: August 2023

Introduction

It is a well-documented psychological phenomenon for athletes to experience abnormal performance on the field, often called choking. Negative emotions such as perceived stress and state-trait anxiety have been linked to this phenomenon. In an effort to delve into the intricate relationship between mindfulness and state-trait anxiety among athletes susceptible to choking, this study was conducted in Central China during the period from October to November 2022.

Methods

The sample selection process employed a combination of cluster sampling and random sampling, resulting in a total of 377 viable samples encompassing choking-susceptible athletes who frequently grapple with state-trait anxiety and demonstrate performance deviations. The data analysis was executed utilizing AMOS v.26.

Results

The results indicate a negative association between mindfulness and perceived stress (standardized coefficient = −0.224, p < 0.001), resilience and perceived stress (standardized coefficient = −0.237, p < 0.001), as well as perceived stress and state-trait anxiety (standardized coefficient = 0.510, p < 0.001). The positive impact of mindfulness on state-trait anxiety is mediated by resilience and perceived stress (standardized indirect effect = 0.237, p < 0.001). The explanatory power of this study is R2 = 0.35.

Discussion

Drawing from these substantial findings, a key recommendation is to implement mindfulness training programs for athletes prone to choking. This proactive measure, facilitated by sports departments, clubs, and coaches, could potentially alleviate state-trait anxiety, enhancing athletes’ mental well-being and optimizing their performance outcomes during competitions.
The prevalence of major depression and generalized anxiety disorder in patients with multiple sclerosis in Saudi Arabia: a cross-sectional multicentered study
Authors: Alswat Anas M. , Altirkistani Bsaim A. , Alserihi Anas R. , Baeshen Osama K. , Alrushid Eythar S. , Alkhudair Joud , Aldbas Abdulaziz A. , Wadaan Osama M. , Alsaleh Ahmad , Al Malik Yaser M. , Abulaban Ahmad A. , Makkawi Seraj
Published: August 2023

Background

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is an autoimmune disease characterized by chronic, progressive neurodegeneration of the central nervous system (CNS), and it is the most common inflammatory neurological disease affecting young adults. Given the chronic, progressive nature of the disease, psychiatric disorders are more prevalent among these patients, as reported in the literature; however, data in Saudi Arabia are limited. This study aimed to estimate the prevalence of major depression and generalized anxiety disorder in patients with MS and their association with different patient demographics.

Methods

This was a cross-sectional, multicentered study that included adult patients with MS from 30 June 2021 to 30 June 2022. Participants were interviewed in person and asked to complete a survey that included general demographics, the Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9), and the Generalized Anxiety Disorder-7 (GAD-7) questionnaire. Other variables related to the patients' conditions, such as MS type and Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS) score, were collected from the patient's electronic records. Descriptive statistics were performed, and associations were made using the chi-square, Fisher's exact, and analysis of variance tests, as appropriate.

Results

A total of 192 participants were included in this study. Based on a cutoff score of >10 on the GAD-7 and PHQ-9 scales, the prevalence of generalized anxiety disorder was 26.1% (50), with the majority of participants having minimal anxiety (40%); meanwhile, the prevalence of major depression was 42.7% (n = 82), and most of them had mild depression (30%). Female participants scored significantly higher compared to men on the GAD-7 scale (p = 0.0376), but not on the PHQ-9 scale (p = 0.1134). In addition, no statistically significant association was detected between functional disability (EDSS score) and prevalence of anxiety and depression.

Conclusion

This study demonstrated a high prevalence of generalized anxiety disorder and major depression among patients with MS compared with that in the general population, with women being more affected. As these comorbid disorders could negatively affect the disease course, screening is of paramount significance.
Gender differences in the association between anxiety symptoms and thyroid hormones in young patients with first-episode and drug naïve major depressive disorder
Authors: Zhao Ying , Liu Jia Cheng , Yu Feng , Yang Li Ying , Kang Chuan Yi , Yan Li Juan , Liu Si Tong , Zhao Na , Wang Xiao Hong , Zhang Xiang Yang
Published: August 2023

Objective

Gender differences are prevalent in major depressive disorder (MDD), but the gender differences in the relationship between comorbid anxiety and thyroid hormones in young first-episode and drug-naive (FEND) MDD patients are unknown.

Methods

A total of 1,289 young outpatients with FEDN MDD were recruited. Demographic and clinical data were collected for each patient. The patient’s blood glucose, blood pressure, thyroid hormone, and thyroid antibody levels were measured. The Hamilton depression scale (HAMD), Hamilton anxiety scale (HAMA), and Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale (PANSS) were used to assess patients’ depression, anxiety, and positive symptoms, respectively.

Results

The prevalence of comorbid anxiety disorders was 80.4 and 79.4% in male and female MDD patients, respectively. Patients with anxiety had higher HAMD and PANSS scores, higher serum thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH), anti-thyroglobulin antibody (A-TG), and thyroid peroxidase antibody (A-TPO) levels, higher blood glucose and blood pressure levels, and more patients with psychotic symptoms and suicide attempts. Male patients were younger and had a younger age of onset. Logistic regression analysis showed that HAMD score and comorbid suicide attempts were significant predictors of anxiety symptoms in both males and females, whereas A-TG predicted anxiety symptoms in female patients only. Limitations: No causal relationship could be drawn due to the cross-sectional design.

Conclusion

This study showed gender differences in factors associated with anxiety symptoms in patients with MDD. Some factors were associated with anxiety symptoms in both male and female patients, while A-TG was only associated with anxiety symptoms in female patients.
Health literacy in patients with pulmonary embolism: development and validation of the HeLP (Health Literacy in Pulmonary Embolism)-Questionnaire
Authors: Fischer Simone , Kalch Anja , Küchler Constanze , Albani Aliscia Rebecca , Bilandzic Helena , Horenkamp-Sonntag Dirk , Berghaus Thomas M. , Meisinger Christine , Kirchberger Inge
Published: August 2023

Background

Pulmonary embolism (PE) is a common cardiovascular disease and health literacy is necessary to deal with its consequences after the acute event. The aim of this study was to develop and validate a new questionnaire to measure PE-specific health literacy.

Methods

A mixed-methods design with qualitative and quantitative elements was used in the development process. A literature review about health literacy concepts and instruments and interviews with patients with PE and clinicians were conducted. Quantitative analyses included factor analyses, item response theory with a graded partial credit model, and reliability analyses in different test and validation samples. Furthermore, convergent and known-groups validity and responsiveness were assessed.

Results

The qualitative results supported a concept of PE-related health literacy with four main topics: dealing with PE-related health information, disease management, health-related selfcare, and social support. An initial item pool of 91 items was developed. Further interviews and an online survey with patients with PE (n = 1,013) were used to reduce the number of items and to confirm structural validity. Confirmatory factor analyses in the final evaluation study with patients with PE (n = 238) indicated a good model fit of the four-factor structure. The Health Literacy in Pulmonary Embolism (HeLP)-Questionnaire showed good reliability (Cronbach’s alpha: 0.82 to 0.90). All four subscales were responsive toward receiving a brochure with PE-related health information.

Conclusion

The newly developed German HeLP Questionnaire comprises 23 items in four domains and showed good psychometric properties. Further evaluation of the questionnaire in different samples of patients with PE is needed.
Coinfection and superinfection in ICU critically ill patients with severe COVID-19 pneumonia and influenza pneumonia: are the pictures different?
Authors: Chen Ziying , Zhan Qingyuan , Huang Linna , Wang Chen
Published: August 2023

Background

Similar to influenza, coinfections and superinfections are common and might result in poor prognosis. Our study aimed to compare the characteristics and risks of coinfections and superinfections in severe COVID-19 and influenza virus pneumonia.

Methods

The data of patients with COVID-19 and influenza admitted to the intensive care unit (ICU) were retrospectively analyzed. The primary outcome was to describe the prevalence and pathogenic distribution of coinfections/ICU-acquired superinfections in the study population. The secondary outcome was to evaluate the independent risk factors for coinfections/ICU-acquired superinfections at ICU admission. Multivariate analysis of survivors and non-survivors was performed to investigate whether coinfections/ICU-acquired superinfections was an independent prognostic factor.

Results

In the COVID-19 (n = 123) and influenza (n = 145) cohorts, the incidence of coinfections/ICU-acquired superinfections was 33.3%/43.9 and 35.2%/52.4%, respectively. The most common bacteria identified in coinfection cases were Enterococcus faecium, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Acinetobacter baumannii (COVID-19 cohort) and A. baumannii, P. aeruginosa, and Klebsiella pneumoniae (influenza cohort). A significant higher proportion of coinfection events was sustained by Aspergillus spp. [(22/123, 17.9% in COVID-19) and (18/145, 12.4% in influenza)]. The COVID-19 group had more cases of ICU-acquired A. baumannii, Corynebacterium striatum and K. pneumoniae. A. baumannii, P. aeruginosa, and K. pneumoniae were the three most prevalent pathogens in the influenza cases with ICU-acquired superinfections. Patients with APACHE II ≥18, CD8+ T cells ≤90/μL, and 50 < age ≤ 70 years were more susceptible to coinfections; while those with CD8+ T cells ≤90/μL, CRP ≥120 mg/L, IL-8 ≥ 20 pg./mL, blood glucose ≥10 mmol/L, hypertension, and smoking might had a higher risk of ICU-acquired superinfections in the COVID-19 group. ICU-acquired superinfection, corticosteroid administration for COVID-19 treatment before ICU admission, and SOFA score ≥ 7 were independent prognostic factors in patients with COVID-19.

Conclusion

Patients with COVID-19 or influenza had a high incidence of coinfections and ICU-acquired superinfections. The represent agents of coinfection in ICU patients were different from those in the general ward. These high-risk patients should be closely monitored and empirically treated with effective antibiotics according to the pathogen.
From research to daily clinical practice: implementation of orthogeriatric co-management in the trauma ward
Authors: Janssens Sigrid , Deschodt Mieke , Dejaeger Marian , Fagard Katleen , Cerulus Marie , Cosyns Heidi , Flamaing Johan , Herteleer Michiel , Sermon An
Published: August 2023

Introduction

Evidence strongly suggests that orthogeriatric co-management improves patient outcomes in frail older patients with a fracture, but evidence regarding how to implement this model of care in daily clinical practice is scarce. In this paper, we first describe the implementation process and selection of implementation strategies for an orthogeriatric co-management program in the traumatology ward of the University Hospitals Leuven in Belgium. Second, we report the results of a multi-method feasibility study. This study (1) measures the fidelity towards the program's core components, (2) quantifies the perceived feasibility and acceptability by the healthcare professionals, and (3) defines implementation determinants.

Methods

Implementation strategies were operationalized based on the Expert Recommendations for Implementing Change (ERIC) guidelines. In the feasibility study, fidelity towards the core components of the program was measured in a group of 15 patients aged 75 years and over by using electronic health records. Feasibility and acceptability as perceived by the involved healthcare professionals was measured using a 15-question survey with a 5-point Likert scale. Implementation determinants were mapped thematically based on seven focus group discussions and two semi-structured interviews by focusing on the healthcare professionals' experiences.

Results

We observed low fidelity towards completion of a screening questionnaire to map the premorbid situation (13%), but high fidelity towards the other program core components: multidimensional evaluation (100%), development of an individual care plan (100%), and systematic follow-up (80%). Of the 50 survey respondents, 94% accepted the program and 62% perceived it as feasible. Important implementation determinants were feasibility, awareness and familiarity, and improved communication between healthcare professionals that positively influenced program adherence.

Conclusions

Fidelity, acceptability, and feasibility of an orthogeriatric co-management program were high as a result of an iterative process of selecting implementation strategies with intensive stakeholder involvement from the beginning.

Clinical trial registration

[https://www.isrctn.com/ISRCTN20491828], International Standard Randomised Controlled Trial Number (ISRCTN) Registry: [ISRCTN20491828]. Registered on October 11, 2021.
Optimizing water-energy-food nexus: achieving economic prosperity and environmental sustainability in agriculture
Authors: Ansari Andrianto , Wuryandani Shafira , Pranesti Arin , Telaumbanua Mareli , Ngadisih  , Hardiansyah Muhammad Yusril , Alam Taufan , Supriyanta  , Martini Tri , Taryono
Published: August 2023

The increasing global population, rapid urbanization, and climate change are putting unprecedented pressure on limited water and energy resources for food production. It requires integrated management of the key resources to achieve economic and environmental sustainability. The water-energy-food (WEF) nexus, in conjunction with circular bioeconomy (CBE) principles, offer a promising approach to achieve sustainable agriculture. It provides the integration between interconnectedness and interdependencies of the resources through closing bio-resource loops. Using bio-based materials, renewable energy resources, and implementing energy-efficient practices and technologies can maximize synergistic among the resources and promote sustainable agriculture while minimizing negative environmental impacts. However, there are challenges and limitations, such as economic conditions, proper infrastructure and technology, policy and governance support, public awareness, and potential trade-offs and conflicts. Moreover, it also faces various social and cultural challenges in implementing this approach. Therefore, to overcome these challenges and limitations, the need for innovative and sustainable technologies, significant investments in research and development, infrastructure and training, environmental campaign, innovative financing mechanisms and policies that incentivize sustainable practices, and support from stakeholders and the public are essential.
Synergetic integration of vertical farms and buildings: reducing the use of energy, water, and nutrients
Authors: Blom Tess , Jenkins Andy , van den Dobbelsteen Andy
Published: August 2023

Vertical farms use some resources very efficiently. However, their electricity use is considerable, and a significant amount of waste heat is produced. This paper investigates how the integration of vertical farms in buildings could reduce the use of energy, water, and nutrients collectively across both entities by leveraging potential resource synergies. The paper considered the integration of vertical farms in apartments, offices, restaurants, swimming pools, and supermarkets located in the Netherlands. For each typology, the floor area heated and the amount of building users fed by one m2 of one production layer within the vertical farm was calculated, along with required outputs of water and nutrients from the building to sustain the vertical farm. The energy savings of different integration strategies were calculated for each building typology in comparison to a non-integrated approach. Results showed that the synergetic integration of vertical farms with buildings reduced the year-round energy use of the climate systems of both entities collectively by between 12 and 51%. The integration of vertical farms with buildings decreases the use of energy, water, and nutrients from external sources and offers great potentials to reduce the environmental impacts of both entities, whilst producing food in urban environments.
Investigation of risk factors for introduction of highly pathogenic avian influenza H5N1 infection among commercial turkey operations in the United States, 2022: a case-control study
Authors: Patyk Kelly A. , Fields Victoria L. , Beam Andrea L. , Branan Matthew A. , McGuigan Rachel E. , Green Alice , Torchetti Mia K. , Lantz Kristina , Freifeld Alexis , Marshall Katherine , Delgado Amy H.
Published: August 2023

Introduction

The 2022–2023 highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) H5N1 outbreak in the United States (U.S.) is the largest and most costly animal health event in U.S. history. Approximately 70% of commercial farms affected during this outbreak have been turkey farms.

Methods

We conducted a case-control study to identify potential risk factors for introduction of HPAI virus onto commercial meat turkey operations. Data were collected from 66 case farms and 59 control farms in 12 states. Univariate and multivariable analyses were conducted to compare management and biosecurity factors on case and control farms.

Results

Factors associated with increased risk of infection included being in an existing control zone, having both brooders and growers, having toms, seeing wild waterfowl or shorebirds in the closest field, and using rendering for dead bird disposal. Protective factors included having a restroom facility, including portable, available to crews that visit the farm and workers having access and using a shower at least some of the time when entering a specified barn.

Discussion

Study results provide a better understanding of risk factors for HPAI infection and can be used to inform prevention and control measures for HPAI on U.S. turkey farms.
A Phenomenological Model for the Unsteady Combustion of Solid Propellants from a Zel’dovich-Novzhilov Approach
Authors: Wang Zhuopu , Zhang Wenchao , Liu Yuanzhe
Published: August 2023

Solid rocket motors are prone to combustion instabilities, which may lead to various problems for the rockets, from unexpected oscillations, precision decreasing, to explosion. The unsteady combustion dynamics of the propellants play a crucial role in most solid rocket motors experiencing combustion instabilities. A modeling framework for the unsteady combustion of the solid propellant is constructed via the Zel’dovich-Novozhilov (ZN) phenomenological perspective. The overall unsteady combustion features of a quasi-steady homogeneous one-dimensional (QSHOD) model are investigated. The phenomenological ZN parameters are then calculated. Compared with the traditional ZN-QSHOD linear equivalence relation, the new calculated system yields better results for the pressure coupling response, especially in the non-linear regime. The proposed phenomenological modeling provides a new methodology for the model reduction of the complex flame models.
Estimation of Irrigation Water Use by Using Irrigation Signals from SMAP Soil Moisture Data
Authors: Zhu Liming , Wu Huifeng , Li Min , Dou Chaoyin , Zhu A-Xing
Published: August 2023

Accurate irrigation water-use data are essential to agricultural water resources management and optimal allocation. The obscuration presented by ground cover in farmland and the subjectivity of irrigation-related decision-making processes mean that effectively identifying regional irrigation water use remains a critical problem to be solved. In view of the advantages of satellite microwave remote sensing in monitoring soil moisture, previous studies have proposed a method for estimating irrigation water use using the satellite microwave remote sensing of soil moisture. However, the method is affected by false irrigation signals from soil moisture increases caused by non-irrigation factors, causing irrigation water use to be overestimated. Therefore, the purpose of this study is to improve the estimation of irrigation water use in drylands by using irrigation signals from SMAP soil moisture data. In this paper, the irrigation water use in Henan Province is estimated by using the irrigation signals from SMAP (soil moisture active and passive) soil moisture data. Firstly, a method for recognizing irrigation signals in soil moisture data obtained by microwave satellite remote sensing was used. Then, an estimation model of the amount of irrigation water (SM2Rainfall model) was built on each data pixel of the satellite microwave remote sensing of soil moisture. Finally, the amount of irrigation water utilized in Henan Province was estimated by combining the irrigation signals and irrigation water-use estimation model, and the results were evaluated. According to the findings, this study improved the estimation accuracy of irrigation water use by using the irrigation signals in Henan Province. The result of this study is of great importance to accurately obtain irrigation water use in the region.
Subsidies’ Impacts on Technical–Economic Indicators in Large Crop Farms
Authors: Paula Stoicea , Constanța Tudor Valentina , Elena Stoian , Mihai Micu Marius , Elena Soare , Ciprian Militaru Dan
Published: August 2023

The objective of the analysis is to quantify the impact of subsidies on the activity of two large farms of 600 ha and 3000 ha, respectively. The innovative solution from this analysis is to create a model that can be used at the macroeconomic level, showing the possible ways in which these large farms can secure their incomes. To study the use of these subsidies, the methods of technical–economic analysis, economic–financial analysis and statistical analysis of the data were used. Descriptive statistics, visual inspection and basic comparative methods were used to determine the statistical patterns of subsidy impact and variation for each crop. In this context, this is evidence of the possibility of probable expansion of crop income and profitability. The results were different for the two arable farms studied. The results for the 600 ha arable farm suggested that the statistical model was inconclusive due to the annual adjustment of the cropping plan and the impossibility of making viable forecasts, especially since the ecological performance fluctuated (in 2020 the farm was on the verge of profitability), although the positive impact of subsidies was evident in loss-making years. For the 3000 ha arable farm, the statistical model was relevant because it highlighted crops (corn and soybeans) that consistently contributed to good and increasing income and economic performance, as well as highlighting the significant impact of subsidies. The conclusions of the study emphasize the indispensability of subsidies for large farms and the contribution of crops to income generation. These conclusions provide a valuable source of information for relevant policy decisions and can guide future research aiming to increase the profitability of these farms and allocate resources appropriately and efficiently in the agricultural sector.
A Meta-Analysis Approach to Estimate the Effect of Cover Crops on the Grain Yield of Succeeding Cereal Crops within European Cropping Systems
Authors: Allam Mohamed , Radicetti Emanuele , Ben Hassine Mortadha , Jamal Aftab , Abideen Zainul , Mancinelli Roberto
Published: August 2023

Farming practices such as cover cropping, crop rotation systems, and soil tillage practices, along with climate conditions and soil type play important roles in determining final crop production. Numerous empirical studies have documented the heterogeneous effects of cover crops on the yield of successive crops, exhibiting variations across diverse regions, climate regimes, soil characteristics, cover crop types, and agricultural management practices. A meta-analysis was conducted to comprehensively summarize and evaluate the impact of cover crops (CCs) in the agroecosystem. The main goal of the study is to promote a transition towards more sustainable cereal crop production by exploring the potential of currently unexploited CCs in Europe. The study demonstrated that the incorporation of legume CCs resulted in the most pronounced and statistically significant increase in grain yield among cereal crops. CCs from the Brassicaceae family also demonstrated a positive impact on grain yield under southern European climates. Cover cropping had a positive effect on the subsequent cash crop under conventional tillage practice. A positive, but not significant impact, was detected under both conservation tillage practices, which include reduced tillage (RT) and no-till (NT). The result of the study suggests that NT practices are more suitable for Northern Europe, while RT practices are preferable for Southern Europe zones. This study indicates that the adoption of cover cropping represents a viable and effective agronomic strategy for enhancing grain yield in cereal crops cultivated across European agricultural systems.
Foliar Fertilization of Crop Plants in Polish Agriculture
Authors: Januszkiewicz Rafał , Kulczycki Grzegorz , Samoraj Mateusz
Published: August 2023

Foliar fertilization makes it possible to quickly supply plants with deficient nutrients, in case of both their deficiency in the soil and hindered uptake. Crops are characterized by varying nutrient requirements for micronutrients, as well as varying sensitivity to their deficiency. The paper presents practical aspects of the foliar feeding of plants with micronutrients using foliar fertilizers, and their general classification and characteristics. The requirements of basic crops (cereals, rapeseed and corn) for the application of micronutrient fertilization and the degree of their sensitivity to micronutrient deficiency were characterized. The market of foliar fertilizers and the directions of its development were evaluated. The possibilities of foliar fertilizers containing amino acids and silicon, and the possibility of using them for biofortification are presented. It was found that foliar fertilization is one of the most popular and effective methods for the biofortification of plants, as it allows the delivery of the right amount of specific elements in a specific stage of plant development and is thus an economical and environmentally safe procedure. In conclusion, the analysis of the foliar fertilizer market shows that its development is very dynamic, and foliar fertilization is becoming one of the basic elements in effective crop production. Further expansion of the range of foliar fertilizers produced should be expected in accordance with the growing expectations of agricultural producers.
Positioning Portugal in the Context of World Almond Production and Research
Authors: Campos Carolina Ribeiro , Sousa Beatriz , Silva Joana , Braga Megan , Araújo Susana de Sousa , Sales Hélia , Pontes Rita , Nunes João
Published: August 2023

Almond production plays a very significant role in the Portuguese socio-economic context, especially with regard to dried fruit production. Indeed, Portugal is the third largest almond producer in Europe, producing 41,450 t of almonds in shells in 2021. This is due to its edaphoclimatic conditions that are favorable for its production. Traditionally, the north region of “Trás-os-Montes” has stood out as one of the most relevant for Portuguese almond production and bioeconomy. However, production in “Alentejo“ and “Beira Interior” will surpass the northern region in a short time as a result of the installation of new orchards. Despite its importance, there is a need to uncover genetic traits underlying phenotypic desirable traits needed to improve yield and quality but also cope and mitigate the impacts of climate change on their production. To address this, it is important to characterize the genetic resources available and the germplasm collection since they are crucial players for conservation and breeding initiatives. In this review, we describe the main cultivars of almonds cultivated in Portugal and their productive challenges. We also provide an overview of the main genetic resources available, breeding goals, and accomplishments regarding their improvement towards biotic and abiotic constraints in both Portugal and the rest of the world.
Effects of the Dietary Replacement of Soybean Oil with Rubber Seed Oil on the Growth Performance, Carcass Trait, and Status of Lipid Metabolism in Pekin Ducks
Authors: Zhao Zitao , Guo Yanhong , Zhuang Lei , Wu Yongbao , Liu Jing , Cao Junting , Wu Zhanyue , Wen Zhiguo
Published: August 2023

The objective of this study is to determine the effects of the dietary replacement of soybean oil (SO) with rubber seed oil (RSO) on the growth performance, carcass trait, and lipid metabolism in Pekin ducks. A total of 160 1-day-old Pekin ducks were randomly allocated to four experimental treatments and fed diets with different ratios of SO to RSO as follows: 3:0 (control), 2:1, 1:2, and 0:3. Dietary RSO supplementation had no effect on their growth performance; however, it significantly decreased the yield of abdominal fat (p < 0.05). As the dietary RSO increased, the plasma TG, CHO, LDL-C, and HDL-C contents of ducks decreased (p < 0.05). Additionally, the contents of total fat, triglycerides, and cholesterol in the liver and breast reduced in the ducks fed RSO diets (p < 0.05). Liver n-3 PUFA levels linearly increased (p < 0.05), while the n-6/n-3 PUFA ratios reduced with increasing RSO levels (p < 0.05). Moreover, dietary RSO supplementation resulted in decreased gene expressions of FABP1, ME1, SREBP1c, FASN, DGAT2, and HMGCR (p < 0.05), while there was an increased expression of the ABCA1 gene (p < 0.05) in the liver of the ducks. In conclusion, dietary RSO supplementation reduced fat deposition and enhanced n-3 PUFA levels without affecting the growth performance of Pekin ducks.
Allelopathic Effects of Caffeic Acid and Its Derivatives on Seed Germination and Growth Competitiveness of Native Plants (Lantana indica) and Invasive Plants (Solidago canadensis)
Authors: Pan Linxuan , He Feng , Liang Qiuju , Bo Yanwen , Lin Xin , Javed Qaiser , Ullah Muhammad Saif , Sun Jianfan
Published: August 2023

Allelopathy has garnered considerable attention, but the effects of different allelochemicals on invasive plants remain unclear. This study addressed the knowledge gap surrounding allelopathy and its impact on native and invasive plant species. We focused on the impact of caffeic acid and its derivatives on the growth and competitiveness of the native Lantana indica and the invasive plant Solidago canadensis. We selected three allelochemicals, caffeic acid, methyl caffeic acid, and ethyl caffeic acid, for evaluation at two concentrations (0.1 mM and 1.0 mM). Three planting methods were employed: (1) a single species of S. canadensis, (2) a single species of L. indica, and (3) a combination of S. canadensis and L. indica. In addition, a control group was also included. Results revealed that high concentrations (1 mM) of methyl caffeate (MC) and ethyl caffeate (EC) significantly reduced seed germination rate, seed germination index, and seed germination speed index of L. indica compared to a low concentration (0.1 mM). Plant height, stem diameter, biomass, and root length in the control group (CK) of S. canadensis were significantly higher than those in the treated groups. However, with increasing allelochemical concentration, L. indica’s relative competitiveness gradually decreased. These findings provide insights into the concentration-dependent effects of allelopathic compounds on the growth of L. indica and S. canadensis. By analyzing how these allelochemicals influence the growth and competitiveness of native and invasive plants, the study sheds light on the dynamics of allelochemical interactions between these species. This knowledge can be pivotal for understanding plant competition dynamics in ecosystems and could inform strategies to control invasive species or promote native plant growth.
Pruning Boosts Growth, Yield, and Fruit Quality of Old Valencia Orange Trees: A Field Study
Authors: Al-Saif Adel M. , Abdel-Aziz Hosny F. , Khalifa Sobhy M. , Elnaggar Ibrahim A. , Abd El-wahed Abd El-wahed N. , Farouk Mohammed H. , Hamdy Ashraf E.
Published: August 2023

Pruning is an essential practice that helps control branch growth, optimize fruit size, and enhance fruit tree productivity. This study focused on ‘Valencia’ orange trees, which had experienced a decline in productivity after being cultivated on reclaimed lands for several years. The aim was to explore the impact of pruning intensity on vegetation growth, fruit yield, productivity, and fruit quality in these orange trees. The study involved 35-year-old ‘Valencia’ orange trees, which were subjected to four different levels of pruning. The pruning treatments included: T1—no pruning (control group), T2—light pruning (removal of 25% of main branches), T3—moderate pruning (removal of 50% of main branches), and T4—heavy pruning (removal of 75% of main branches). Each season, these pruning measures were consistently carried out on 15 February. The results indicated that the severity of pruning directly influenced vegetative growth parameters, such as shoot length and leaf area. As the pruning intensity increased, so did the growth of the vegetation. However, the overall volume of the tree’s canopy decreased compared to the control group. These findings provide insights into the relationship between pruning practices and the growth and productivity of ‘Valencia’ orange trees. The highest fruit yields were observed when pruning was carried out at a severity level of 75%, followed by 50 and 25%. These pruning treatments had a positive impact on various aspects of fruit quality, including weight, size, firmness, juice content, TSS (°Brix), TSS/acid ratio, and vitamin C content. Additionally, pruning contributed to a greater fruit yield per tree and an overall increase in the yield percentage. In essence, the findings suggest that pruning performed at different severity levels in February effectively promotes vegetation growth and enhances the physical and chemical properties of ‘Valencia’ orange trees. Notably, it resulted in a nearly 20% rise in fruit yield compared to the control group.
Genomic-Mediated Breeding Strategies for Global Warming in Chickpeas (Cicer arietinum L.)
Authors: Jain Shailesh Kumar , Wettberg Eric J. von , Punia Sumer Singh , Parihar Ashok Kumar , Lamichaney Amrit , Kumar Jitendra , Gupta Debjyoti Sen , Ahmad Sarfraz , Pant Naveen Chandra , Dixit Girish Prasad , Sari Hatice , Sari Duygu , Ma’ruf Amar , Toker Pelin , Toker Cengiz
Published: August 2023

Although chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.) has high yield potential, its seed yield is often low and unstable due to the impact of abiotic stresses, such as drought and heat. As a result of global warming, both drought and heat are estimated to be major yield constraints between one-quarter and one-third per annum. In the present review, genomic-mediated breeding strategies to increase resilience against global warming. Exacerbated drought and heat stresses have been examined to understand the latest advancement happening for better management of these challenges. Resistance mechanisms for drought and heat stresses consist of (i) escape via earliness, (ii) avoidance via morphological traits such as better root traits, compound leaves, or multipinnate leaves and double-/multiple-podded traits, and (iii) tolerance via molecular and physiological traits, such as special tissue and cellular abilities. Both stresses in chickpeas are quantitatively governed by minor genes and are profoundly influenced by edaphic and other environmental conditions. High-yield genotypes have traditionally been screened for resistance to drought and heat stresses in the target selection environment under stress conditions or in the simulacrum mediums under controlled conditions. There are many drought- and heat-tolerant genotypes among domestic and wild Cicer chickpeas, especially in accessions of C. reticulatum Ladiz., C. echinospermum P.H. Davis, and C. turcicum Toker, J. Berger, and Gokturk. The delineation of quantitative trait loci (QTLs) and genes allied to drought- and heat-related attributes have paved the way for designing stress-tolerant cultivars in chickpeas. Transgenic and “omics” technologies hold newer avenues for the basic understanding of background metabolic exchanges of QTLs/candidate genes for their further utilization. The overview of the effect of drought and heat stresses, its mechanisms/adaptive strategies, and markers linked to stress-related traits with their genetics and sources are pre-requisites for framing breeding programs of chickpeas with the intent of imparting drought tolerance. Ideotype chickpeas for resistance to drought and heat stresses were, therefore, developed directly using marker-aided selection over multiple locations. The current understanding of molecular breeding supported by functional genomics and omics technologies in developing drought- and heat-tolerant chickpea is discussed in this review.
The Impact of Environmental Regulation on Cultivated Land Use Eco-Efficiency: Evidence from China
Authors: Li Mengna , Tan Li , Yang Xi
Published: August 2023

In the context of tightening resource and environmental constraints, quantitative measurement and influencing factors of cultivated land use eco-efficiency (CLUE) have become hot topics in current academic research. Existing studies primarily focus on the influence of natural, social, and economic factors on CLUE but ignore exploring the impact mechanism and effect of environmental policies on CLUE. Therefore, this study aims to explore the impact of environmental regulations on CLUE. To achieve this objective, a super-efficiency slack-based measure (super-SBM) model is used to calculate the CLUE for 31 provinces (municipalities and autonomous regions) in China from 2000 to 2009. Additionally, the intermediary effect model and the threshold effect model are used to empirically investigate the transmission mechanism and nonlinear characteristics between environmental regulation and the CLUE. The results show that: (1) the temporal dynamics of CLUE exhibit a pattern of initial fluctuating decline followed by gradual growth in China as a whole and across its eastern, central, and western regions. (2) Environmental regulation has a significant negative impact on CLUE, and the effect exhibits a nonlinear characteristic of decreasing marginal effects. (3) Agricultural technological innovation and agricultural industrial structure play a mediating role between environmental regulation and CLUE, reducing the negative impact of environmental regulation on CLUE. This study provides some implications for formulating scientifically sound environmental policies to optimize land use and enhance resource utilization efficiency.
Influences of Exogenic Organic Materials Application on Soil Fertility Status and Paddy Growth under a Coastal Saline Soil Condition
Authors: Zuo Wengang , Zhou Yuxi , Yao Yutian , Chen Chao , Wang Fan , Peng Hao , Qin Tianyang , Li Yunlong , Chen Shuotong , Yao Rongjiang , Shan Yuhua , Bai Yanchao
Published: August 2023

Paddy cultivation in saline soil can rapidly reduce soil salinity, which is an important approach for managing, utilizing, and improving such soils. However, the high salinity of saline soil severely limits the sustainability of paddy production. Adding exogenic organic material to improve soil fertility in saline soil is a key measure for obtaining high-yield, efficient and sustainable cultivation of paddy. This study used a field experiment to explore the influences of different organic materials application on soil desalination and fertility improvement in saline paddy soil. The results showed that the application of dairy manure (DM), sludge vermicompost (SV), and vinegar residue (VR) reduced soil barrier factors, including electrical conductivity (EC) and pH, increased soil fertility, including soil organic carbon (SOC), nitrogen (N), and phosphorus (P), and promoted paddy growth in saline soil. Specifically, soil EC decreased by 29.0%, 32.9% and 49.4% and paddy biomass increased by 27.7%, 63.7% and 107.6% in DM, SV, and VR-treated soils with the highest application rates, respectively, compared to the control. At an equal carbon application rate, VR was more conducive to decreasing soil EC and pH and increasing paddy biomass. Compared to DM and SV, VR addition resulted in an average decrease of 20.7% and 19.1% in soil EC, respectively, and an average increase of 57.3% and 29.5% in paddy biomass. In addition, soil water-stable aggregates (WSA), SOC, N, and P contents in VR-treated soil were lower than those in DM and SV-treated soils. Correlation and path analysis revealed that there was a significant negative correlation between paddy biomass and soil barrier factors. However, EC in VR-treated soil had a direct negative effect on paddy biomass, while EC in DM and SV-treated soils had an indirect negative effect on paddy biomass. Additionally, the direct contribution of soil pH to paddy biomass was higher with VR (−1.49) than that with DM (−0.21) and SV (0.89). In contrast to DM and SV, the effect of soil WSA on paddy biomass in VR-treated soil was mainly an indirect positive effect, and the direct effect was negative. The corresponding results provided new options and ideas for the efficient utilization of saline soils and high-yield cultivation of paddy.
Metals Contained in Various Formulations of Mineral Nitrogen Fertilizers Determined Using Portable X-ray Fluorescence
Authors: Perčin Aleksandra , Zgorelec Željka , Karažija Tomislav , Kisić Ivica , Župan Nikolina , Šestak Ivana
Published: August 2023

According to the Scopus database, over the last five years, 91 scientific papers with the keyword “pXRF” (portable X-ray fluorescence) were published in indexed journals in the domain of environmental science and agricultural science, which indicates more frequent applications of this technique in scientific research. The pXRF method is characterized by speed, precision, accuracy, and the possibility of a simultaneous analysis of a large number of elements, albeit with higher limits of detection (LODs) as a major disadvantage. The presence of metals in certain phosphate fertilizers is well established, though not to the same extent as in mineral nitrogen fertilizers. The aim of this research was to determine the metal content (As, Cd, Co, Cr, Cu, Fe, Mn, Mo, Ni, Pb, Si, Sr, Th, U, Zn, Zr, and Y) in thirteen commercial mineral nitrogen fertilizers via the pXRF method. Six straight fertilizers (ammonium nitrate, ammonium sulphate nitrate, limestone ammonium, nitrate, and urea) and seven complex fertilizers (various NPK formulations), which are different even according to their production technology, produced in Croatia were analyzed using the handheld Vanta C (Olympus) XRF analyzer according to the loose powder method and “point and shoot” technique. Data quality control was performed by analyzing the reference fertilizer samples and certified and reference soil samples. The results revealed that the determined contents of Cd, Mn, and Th were relatively higher in the single-component fertilizers, while the contents of As, Cr, Fe, Ni, Si, Sr, Zn, Zr, Y, and U were relatively higher in the complex fertilizers. Due to the higher LODs of Co and Pb (3 mg/kg) and Mo (2 mg/kg), the pXRF method was not appropriate for the determination of these metals in the analyzed fertilizers. The quantified metal content in the analyzed fertilizers varied as follows: 2.0–8.0 mg As/kg; 11.5–31.3 mg Cd/kg; 29.8–118.5 mg Cr/kg; 7.8–26.3 mg Cu/kg; 16.5–2209 mg Fe/kg; 20.3–5290 mg Mn/kg; 6.2–27.8 mg Ni/kg; 1156–4581 mg Si/kg; 2.0–469.8 mg Sr/kg; 3.0–35.3 mg Th/kg; 2.0–82.8 mg U/kg; 1.4–166 mg Zn/kg; 9.7–15.3 mg Zr/kg; and 16.5–128.0 mg Y/kg. The results indicated that the pXRF method is particularly suitable for measurement and metal detection in complex nitrogen mineral fertilizers with higher amounts of metals, but it is not suitable for the detection and quantification of the lower amounts of As, Zr, Y, Cu, Ni, and Cr in single-component nitrogen fertilizers. Compared to all of the investigated fertilizers, the highest amounts of As, Cr, Cu, Fe, Ni, U, Zn, and Zr were quantified in the NPK 7-20-30 formulation.