bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effects of elevated carbon dioxide on plant growth and leaf photosynthesis of annual ryegrass along a phosphorus deficiency gradient
Authors: Li Fei , He Chunlin , Chang Zhijie , Ma Chao , Yu Jingjin , Liu Liang , Zhang Yunxin , Hao Lihua
Published: November 2023

Introduction

Soil phosphorus (P) deficiency limits plant growth and productivity in grassland ecosystems and may moderate the growth-promoting effects of “carbon dioxide (CO2) fertilization effect”.

Methods

To evaluate the interactive effects of these two factors on the growth and physiology for annual ryegrass (Lolium multiflorum Lam.), plants were grown in controlled growth chambers with a range of P supply (0.004, 0.012, 0.02, 0.06, 0.1 and 0.5 mM) under two levels of CO2 (400 and 800 μmol mol-1, respectively).

Results

Elevated [CO2] dramatically increased the aboveground biomass and net photosynthetic rates of annual ryegrass by 14.5% and 25.3% under sufficient P supply (0.5 mM), respectively, whereas decreased the belowground biomass and net photosynthetic rates under lower P supply of P0.004, P0.02, and P0.06. Two-way ANOVA results showed that CO2 × P (p < 0.001) significantly affected stomatal traits, leaf photosynthesis and biomass. The stimulation of growth and photosynthesis by elevated CO2 concentration (e[CO2]) was reduced or highly suppressed, indicating that the sensitivity of annual ryegrass to P deficiency was enhanced under e[CO2].

Discussion

These results indicated that P limitation may offset the positive effects of e[CO2] on plant growth by altering stomatal traits, leaf photochemical processes and biochemical composition in annual ryegrass.
Transcriptional regulatory cascade of LcMYB71 and LcNAC73 affects low-temperature and drought stress response in Lonicera caerulea
Authors: Zang Dandan , Sun Yan , Zhao Hengtian
Published: November 2023

The development of stress tolerance is regulated via the transcriptional regulatory networks involving regulatory homeostasis mediated by protein–DNA interactions. LcNAC73 from Lonicera caerulea was characterized to understand the underlying mechanism of low-temperature and drought stress response in L. caerulea. To better understand the transcription pathway of LcNAC73, we cloned the promoter and screened proteins that could interact with the promoter. Using Yeast one-hybrid, electrophoretic mobility shift, and chromatin immunoprecipitation assays, we found that the LcMYB71 protein specifically bound to the promoter of LcNAC73. The transient transformation and stable transgenic system were used to produce transgenic L. caerulea plants with overexpressed and silenced LcNAC73, elucidating the effect of LcNAC73 on low-temperature and drought stress tolerance. LcNAC73 positively regulated the proline content and enhanced the scavenging of reactive oxygen species, thus improving tolerance to low-temperature and drought stress. Further studies revealed that LcMYB71 and LcNAC73 had similar functions and could improve plant low-temperature and drought tolerance. It is necessary to identify the upstream regulators of a specific gene to characterize gene functions and the associated transcriptional pathways.
A comparative study of gender differences in healthy office building strategies
Authors: Xie Xiaohuan , Wang Ruobing , Gou Zhonghua , Chen Shan
Published: November 2023

Background

The health of office workers has become a major concern under the pressure of increasingly fierce job competition. As countries have gradually promoted healthy buildings, there is an urgent need to create and construct healthy office environments. Although the WELL Building Standard proposed management and design strategies based on the principles of health and medicine, it does not consider group characteristics or gender differences.

Purpose

This study aims to apply the theory of planned behavior to healthy building design and supplement the important role of gender and group characteristics in behavioral guidance based on architectural strategies and user behaviors to improve the relevant building evaluation system.

Methods

This study adopted a questionnaire survey and structural equation model. Four WELL-certified healthy office buildings in Nanshan District, Shenzhen, were selected for the survey. Based on the theory of planned behavior, structural equation models for men and women were established, compared, and analyzed. The factors affecting the health behaviors of the two groups and the actual effectiveness of various building optimization strategies were discussed, and an optimization direction for gender differences was proposed.

Results

The findings indicated differences between male and female staff in their individual characteristics and implementation of health behaviors. Management strategies, subjective design strategies in assistance and guidance, and objective design strategies in spatial planning can promote the health behaviors of the two groups. However, the design strategies of result feedback and detail optimization only appeared to have a significant positive effect on female staff, whereas the intelligent automation design strategies only had an obvious intervention effect on men’s health behaviors.

Significance

This study found that the theory of planned behavior in the field of social psychology could be applied to relevant research on architectural design and emphasized the influence of gender. It can not only provide the optimization direction for the evaluation standards of relevant healthy buildings but also promote the implementation of health behaviors in office groups and provide new ideas for promoting the development of healthy buildings.
Expanding the dimensions of knowledge hiding: testing a moderated mediation model and analyzing the mediating role of psychological distress using PLS-SEM
Authors: Jin Xiu , Jin Shanyue , Qing Chenglin
Published: November 2023

This study sheds light on the literature on knowledge-hiding behavior in organizations and highlights a better and deeper understanding of the reasons for giving rise to knowledge hiding. In recent decades, knowledge hiding has been subjected to numerous studies in systematic literature reviews and organizational management regarding its impact on outcomes such as individual and organizational performance; however, the mechanism by which knowledge hiding is influenced by antecedents and the process of leading knowledge hiding has not been actively verified. In addition, most previous studies have classified knowledge hiding into one-factor or three-factor dimensions: evasive hiding, playing dumb, and rationalized hiding. To address these issues and limitations, we aimed to conduct empirical research, which have focused on four new dimensions (playing dumb, evasive hiding, rationalized hiding, and procrastination) of knowledge-hiding behavior. Unlike previous research, we provide a research framework for the process of hiding knowledge and verify the significance of the research model, drawing on the social exchange theory and conservation of resources theory to explore and verify the process of hiding knowledge. Specifically, we argue that knowledge hiding is caused by exploitative leadership, and psychological distress as mediators in the relationship between these two variables. Moreover, the moderating and mediating effects of leader incivility were verified. To empirically test the research model, a survey was conducted with 287 employees from small- and medium-sized enterprises in China. Partial least squares structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM), SPSS PROCESS, and AMOS software were used for statistical analyzes. The findings provide evidence that exploitative leadership positively influences both psychological distress and the four dimensions of knowledge hiding. In addition, the mediating effect of psychological distress and the moderating effect of leader incivility were verified and shown to be statistically significant. Based on these findings, the theoretical and practical implications, limitations, and directions for future research are discussed. Overall, the most important contribution is expanding the research field, as this is the first empirical study on the four dimensions of knowledge hiding.
Cariprazine augmentation in patients with treatment resistant unipolar depression who failed to respond to previous atypical antipsychotic add-on. A case-series
Authors: Pessina Enrico , Martini Azzurra , Raffone Fabiola , Martiadis Vassilis
Published: November 2023

Among individuals receiving an adequate pharmacological treatment for Major Depressive Disorder (MDD), only 30% reach a full symptom recovery; the remaining 70% will experience either a pharmacological response without remission or no response at all thus configuring treatment resistant depression (TRD). After an inadequate response to an antidepressant, possible next step options include optimizing the dose of the current antidepressant, switching to a different antidepressant, combining antidepressants, or augmenting with a non-antidepressant medication. Augmentation strategies with the most evidence-based support include atypical antipsychotics (AAs). Few data are available in literature about switching to another antipsychotic when a first augmentation trial has failed. We present a case-series of patients with unipolar treatment resistant depression who were treated with a combination of antidepressant and low dose of cariprazine after failing to respond to a first augmentation with another AA. We report data about ten patients affected by unipolar depression, visited at the outpatients unit of Mental Health Department of ASL CN2 of Bra and NA1 of Napoli (Italy). All patients failed to respond to conventional antidepressant therapy. A low dose of AA (aripiprazole, risperidone or brexpiprazole) was added for one month to the ongoing antidepressant treatment without clinical improvement. A second augmentation trial was then made with cariprazine. Seven out of ten patients were responders at the end of period, of them 1 patient reached responder status by week 2. HAM-D mean scores decreased from 23.9 ± 3.9 (baseline) to 14.8 ± 5.3 (4 weeks). Cariprazine was well tolerated, no severe side effect was observed during the trial. Our sample of treatment resistant unipolar patients showed good response to augmentation with cariprazine. Failure to a first AA-augmentation trial does not preclude response to a second one. This preliminary result requires confirmation through more rigorous studies conducted over greater samples.
Physical activity, physical frailty and depressive symptoms among Chinese male and female older adults: do different indicators make a difference?
Authors: Wang Ying , Wang Xue , Zhu Xinyu , Sun Yawen , Han Buxin , Chen Tianyong
Published: November 2023

Objectives

Older adults become more inactive and frailer with aging. Physical status is closely linked to mental health, but it is unclear which physical indicator is more strongly associated with depressive symptoms in older adults. The present study aimed to compare relationships between self-reported physical activity, physical frailty (muscle mass, muscle strength, and gait ability) and depressive symptoms in community male and female older adults.

Methods

A total of 1,180 adults aged 60 years and older were recruited to participate in this study from a Chinese community receiving annual check-up service from September 2018 to May 2019. Physical activity was assessed by the International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ). The Bio-electrical Impedance Analyzer was used to determine the muscle mass. As the indicators of muscle function, grip strength and gait ability were assessed by the dynamometer and Timed Up and Go Test (TUGT), respectively. The 15-item version of Geriatric Depression Scale (GDS-15) was used to examine depressive symptoms. Demographic variables, health status and sleep quality were collected using questionnaire.

Results

11.8% men and 11.9% women reported depressive symptoms. Logistic regression showed that depressive symptoms was associated with low grip strength (OR = 2.42, 95% CI: 1.04–5.63), slow gait ability (OR = 3.60, 95% CI: 1.28–10.13) in older males, and associated with low level of self-reported physical activity (OR = 3.85, 95% CI: 2.00–7.42) in older females. No significant association was found between muscle mass and depressive symptoms.

Conclusion

There were gender differences in the relationship between physical activity, physical frailty, and depressive symptoms. Grip strength and gait ability may be a better indicator of frailty for predicting depressive symptoms in older men while physical activity may be useful in predicting depressive symptoms in older women.
3D indoor modeling and game theory based navigation for pre and post COVID-19 situation
Authors: Singh Jaiteg , Tyagi Noopur , Singh Saravjeet , Shah Babar , Ali Farman , AlZubi Ahmad Ali , Alkhanifer Abdulrhman
Published: November 2023

The COVID-19 pandemic has greatly affected human behavior, creating a need for individuals to be more cautious about health and safety protocols. People are becoming more aware of their surroundings and the importance of minimizing the risk of exposure to potential sources of infection. This shift in mindset is particularly important in indoor environments, especially hospitals, where there is a greater risk of virus transmission. The implementation of route planning in these areas, aimed at minimizing interaction and exposure, is crucial for positively influencing individual behavior. Accurate maps of buildings help provide location-based services, prepare for emergencies, and manage infrastructural facilities. There aren’t any maps available for most installations, and there are no proven techniques to categorize features within indoor areas to provide location-based services. During a pandemic like COVID-19, the direct connection between the masses is one of the significant preventive steps. Hospitals are the main stakeholders in managing such situations. This study presents a novel method to create an adaptive 3D model of an indoor space to be used for localization and routing purposes. The proposed method infuses LiDAR-based data-driven methodology with a Quantum Geographic Information System (QGIS) model-driven process using game theory. The game theory determines the object localization and optimal path for COVID-19 patients in a real-time scenario using Nash equilibrium. Using the proposed method, comprehensive simulations and model experiments were done using QGIS to identify an optimized route. Dijkstra algorithm is used to determine the path assessment score after obtaining several path plans using dynamic programming. Additionally, Game theory generates path ordering based on the custom scenarios and user preference in the input path. In comparison to other approaches, the suggested way can minimize time and avoid congestion. It is demonstrated that the suggested technique satisfies the actual technical requirements in real-time. As we look forward to the post-COVID era, the tactics and insights gained during the pandemic hold significant value. The techniques used to improve indoor navigation and reduce interpersonal contact within healthcare facilities can be applied to maintain a continued emphasis on safety, hygiene, and effective space management in the long term. The use of three-dimensional (3D) modeling and optimization methodologies in the long-term planning and design of indoor spaces promotes resilience and flexibility, encouraging the adoption of sustainable and safe practices that extend beyond the current pandemic.
Factors affecting the labelling accuracy of brain MRI studies relevant for deep learning abnormality detection
Authors: Benger Matthew , Wood David A. , Kafiabadi Sina , Al Busaidi Aisha , Guilhem Emily , Lynch Jeremy , Townend Matthew , Montvila Antanas , Siddiqui Juveria , Gadapa Naveen , Barker Gareth , Ourselin Sebastian , Cole James H. , Booth Thomas C.
Published: November 2023

Unlocking the vast potential of deep learning-based computer vision classification systems necessitates large data sets for model training. Natural Language Processing (NLP)—involving automation of dataset labelling—represents a potential avenue to achieve this. However, many aspects of NLP for dataset labelling remain unvalidated. Expert radiologists manually labelled over 5,000 MRI head reports in order to develop a deep learning-based neuroradiology NLP report classifier. Our results demonstrate that binary labels (normal vs. abnormal) showed high rates of accuracy, even when only two MRI sequences (T2-weighted and those based on diffusion weighted imaging) were employed as opposed to all sequences in an examination. Meanwhile, the accuracy of more specific labelling for multiple disease categories was variable and dependent on the category. Finally, resultant model performance was shown to be dependent on the expertise of the original labeller, with worse performance seen with non-expert vs. expert labellers.
Mechanisms linking economic potential of European cities to housing inequalities of young people
Authors: Gerőházi Éva , Katona Nóra , Kollár Sándor György
Published: November 2023

This study aims to identify and present mechanisms through which the economic potential of European urban areas is converted into social inequalities among the young population in the field of housing. The role of national and local housing systems in this conversion is analyzed through the examples of Amsterdam, Tallinn, Chemnitz, and Pécs. These four cities represent four major ideal types with different levels of economic power and housing welfare structures. The article, through these case studies, initially delineates the ramifications of increasing housing demand arising from population growth and varied wage structures in cities experiencing economic prosperity. It also delves into the repercussions of population decline and financial constraints in cities with weaker economic foundations. Subsequently, it evaluates the efficacy of local housing policies in addressing housing affordability and spatial segregation, considering the presence of either a unitary or dual public housing sector. The article's conclusion underscores that local housing policies are tightly bound to national housing concepts, legislation, and resources, which constrains their capacity to adapt measures to the changing dynamics of economic development. The primary source of information underpinning this analysis is derived from research conducted in these urban areas as part of the UPLIFT project, funded by the European Commission within the framework of Horizon 2020.
Biophysical and textural attributes as selection indices for replacing the adopted cassava variety with the improved genotype to produce fufu
Authors: Awoyale Wasiu , Maziya-Dixon Busie , Oyedele Hakeem , Adesokan Michael , Alamu Emmanuel O.
Published: November 2023

The use of the biophysical and textural qualities of fufu to choose the possible substitution of an adopted cassava variety (TMEB419-V1) with improved genotypes from the breeding program was assessed in this study. Standard methods were used for the biophysical and textural attributes of the fufu produced from different cassava roots. The outcomes portray that the means of the biophysical attributes of the fufu flour from different cassava genotypes are swelling power (SWP) of 13.59%, solubility index (SI) of 3.41%, dispersibility of 26.77%, bulk density (BD) of 54.46%, water absorption capacity (WAC) of 149.44%, peak viscosity of 693.97 RVU, trough viscosity of 319.76 RVU, breakdown viscosity of 374.21 RVU, final viscosity of 433.84 RVU, setback viscosity of 114.08 RVU, peak time of 4.49 min, and pasting temperature of 78.52°C, as well as moisture content of 4.92%, ash content of 0.52%, sugar content of 2.85%, starch content of 76.24%, amylose content of 31.68%, and cyanogenic potential content (CNP) of 3.03 mg HCN/kg. The sensory texture attributes depict that the cooked fufu dough was stretchable, slightly hard, sticky, and mouldable. The instrumental texture attribute of the cooked fufu dough is hardness 27.18 N/m2, adhesiveness −62.04 N/m2, moldability 0.93, stretchability 0.89, and gumminess 25.26 N/m2. Similar functional (BD) and pasting (peak and breakdown viscosities) properties and chemical composition (amylose content) to that of the control sample (V1 variety) were produced from the V6 genotype. However, the cooked fufu dough prepared from the V7 and V8 genotypes was comparable to that of the V1 variety in terms of the sensory (stretchability) and instrumental (moldability) texture attributes; therefore, most of the genotypes may be suitable for producing fufu flour like the control sample (V1 variety) based on attributes preferred by the consumers.
Differential transcriptomic alterations in nasal versus lung tissue of acrolein-exposed rats
Authors: Alewel Devin I. , Jackson Thomas W. , Rentschler Katherine M. , Schladweiler Mette C. , Astriab-Fisher Anna , Gavett Stephen H. , Evansky Paul A. , Kodavanti Urmila P.
Published: November 2023

Introduction: Acrolein is a significant component of anthropogenic and wildfire emissions, as well as cigarette smoke. Although acrolein primarily deposits in the upper respiratory tract upon inhalation, patterns of site-specific injury in nasal versus pulmonary tissues are not well characterized. This assessment is critical in the design of in vitro and in vivo studies performed for assessing health risk of irritant air pollutants.

Methods: In this study, male and female Wistar-Kyoto rats were exposed nose-only to air or acrolein. Rats in the acrolein exposure group were exposed to incremental concentrations of acrolein (0, 0.1, 0.316, 1 ppm) for the first 30 min, followed by a 3.5 h exposure at 3.16 ppm. In the first cohort of male and female rats, nasal and bronchoalveolar lavage fluids were analyzed for markers of inflammation, and in a second cohort of males, nasal airway and left lung tissues were used for mRNA sequencing.

Results: Protein leakage in nasal airways of acrolein-exposed rats was similar in both sexes; however, inflammatory cells and cytokine increases were more pronounced in males when compared to females. No consistent changes were noted in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid of males or females except for increases in total cells and IL-6. Acrolein-exposed male rats had 452 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in nasal tissue versus only 95 in the lung. Pathway analysis of DEGs in the nose indicated acute phase response signaling, Nrf2-mediated oxidative stress, unfolded protein response, and other inflammatory pathways, whereas in the lung, xenobiotic metabolism pathways were changed. Genes associated with glucocorticoid and GPCR signaling were also changed in the nose but not in the lung.

Discussion: These data provide insights into inhaled acrolein-mediated sex-specific injury/inflammation in the nasal and pulmonary airways. The transcriptional response in the nose reflects acrolein-induced acute oxidative and cytokine signaling changes, which might have implications for upper airway inflammatory disease susceptibility.
Development of a Controlled Dynamics Simulator for Reusable Launcher Descent and Precise Landing
Authors: De Oliveira Alice , Lavagna Michèle
Published: November 2023

This paper introduces a Reusable Launch Vehicle (RLV) descent dynamics simulator coupled with closed-loop guidance and control (G&C) integration. The studied vehicle’s first-stage booster, evolving in the terrestrial atmosphere, is steered by a Thrust Vector Control (TVC) system and planar fins through gain-scheduled Proportional–Integral–Derivative controllers, correcting the trajectory deviations until precise landing from the reference profile computed in real time by a successive convex optimisation algorithm. Environmental and aerodynamic models that reproduce realistic atmospheric conditions are integrated into the simulator for enhanced assessment. Comparative performance results were achieved in terms of control configuration (TVC-only, fins-only, and both) for nominal conditions as well as with external disturbances such as wind gusts or multiple uncertainties through a Monte Carlo analysis to assess the G&C system. These studies demonstrated that the configuration combining TVC and steerable planar fins has sufficient control authority to provide stable flight and adequate uncertainties and disturbance rejection. The developed simulator provides a preliminary assessment of G&C techniques for the RLV descent and landing phase, along with examining the interactions that occur. In particular, it paves the way towards the development and assessment of more advanced and robust algorithms.
Investigations of the Atomization Characteristics and Mechanisms of Liquid Jets in Supersonic Crossflow
Authors: Zhou Donglong , Chang Jianlong , Shan Huawei
Published: November 2023

In the combustion chamber of scramjets, fuel jets interact with supersonic airflow in the form of a liquid jet in crossflow (LJIC). It is difficult to achieve adequate jet–crossflow mixing and the efficient combustion of fuel in an instant. Large eddy simulation (LES), the coupled level-set and volume of fluid (CLSVOF) method, and an adaptive mesh refinement (AMR) framework are used to simulate supersonic LJICs in this article. This way, LJIC atomization characteristics and mechanisms can be further explored and analyzed in detail. It is found that the surface waves of the liquid column exist in a two-dimensional form, including vertical and spanwise directions. Column breakup occurs when all the spanwise surface waves between adjacent vertical surface waves break up. Bow shock waves, composed of multiple connected arcuate shock waves, are dynamic and will change with the evolution of the liquid column. The vortex ring movement of supersonic LJICs, whose trends in the vertical and spanwise directions are different, is relatively complex, which is due to the complex and time-dependent shape of liquid columns.
Nitrogen Fertilization Boosts Maize Grain Yield, Forage Quality, and Estimated Meat Production in Maize–Forage Intercropping
Authors: Gilli Bruno R. , Grassmann Camila S. , Mariano Eduardo , Rosolem Ciro A.
Published: November 2023

Crop–livestock integrated systems such as intercropping and crop rotation have been critical for sustainable agriculture, promoting land use intensification throughout the year. The success of these systems under no-till depends on numerous factors, and the choice of forage grass is paramount. In this study, maize grain yield, forage dry matter yield, bromatological quality, and estimated meat production were assessed in a field experiment where maize (Zea mays L.) was intercropped with Guinea grass (Megathyrsus maximus cv. Tanzania) and palisade grass (Urochloa brizantha cv Marandu) under N rates from 0 to 270 kg ha−1. Nitrogen fertilization resulted in the highest forage dry matter yield, on average, 2.9-fold higher than the N-unfertilized treatments. The highest maize grain yield was obtained with 270 kg ha−1 of N, 48% higher than all other treatments. Guinea grass intercropped with maize and fertilized with 270 kg ha−1 of N resulted in an estimated meat production 27% higher than palisade grass at the same N rate. However, at the final cut, Guinea grass fertilized with 270 kg ha−1 of N led to the highest neutral detergent fiber, acid detergent fiber, and cellulose. While palisade grass seems to impose lower competition with maize, Guinea grass increases estimated meat production.
Characterization of Wheat Yellow Rust and Stem Rust Virulence in Southern Spain
Authors: Rodríguez-Vázquez Jaime Nolasco , Ammar Karim , Solís Ignacio , Martínez-Moreno Fernando
Published: November 2023

Effective mitigation of the current threat from yellow rust and the potential threat from stem rust to wheat production in the south of Spain requires the characterization of the lineages/races currently present in the region. Results from this study clearly indicated that the main yellow rust lineages currently present in the south of Spain are PstS10, PstS13, and PstS14, to which several widely grown commercial cultivars are resistant. Even though stem rust is not yet present during the regular cropping season, the main lineages/races Clade IV-B and Clade IV-F, were identified, much like in most of Europe and parts of North Africa. The evaluation of differential series and special breeding lines with known genes under local conditions has indicated the availability of several genetic options that could be used in breeding/selection programs to provide effective levels of resistance to either disease in the future. However, in undertaking these efforts, it is important to consider not only the lineages currently present locally but also resistance options effective against lineages/races that are rapidly developing elsewhere and could very likely reach the south of Spain in the near future.
Optimal Planting Density and Nutrient Application of Soybeans: A Case Study in Northeastern China
Authors: Hao Huicheng , Lv Shixin , Wang Fulin
Published: November 2023

In the context of the Chinese government’s policy guidance, there is black soil protection and ecological environment protection. The purpose of this paper is to solve the problem that the soil ecology of the black soil in Northeast China is changing year by year, and it is necessary to explore the sowing and fertilization strategy under the new situation; most Chinese growers rely excessively on their personal experience in the process of soybean sowing and fertilization. In this study, we used “Heihe 43” soybeans and used regression experimental design methods to analyze the effects of planting density, nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium fertilizer application on soybean yield and to determine the optimal planting density and fertilizer ratios. The study reveals that the optimal soybean planting density in Northeast China is 45.37 × 104 plants/ha, with nitrogen at 98.4 kg/ha, phosphorus at 218.96 kg/ha, and potash at 47.62 kg/ha. Under these conditions, soybean yields can reach 3816.67 kg/ha. This study can provide a theoretical method for decision-making to obtain the optimal planting density and fertilizer ratio for different regions of the farming system.
Effects of Organic Liquid Waste Derived from Bioethanol Fermentation on Corn Production
Authors: Morita Nobuki , Toma Yo , Kato Yasuhiko , Izumiya Tooru , Ueno Hideto
Published: November 2023

The liquid waste (LW) discharged during bioethanol production needs treatment. In this study, LW was applied to corn, and its effects on corn growth, yield, and nitrogen (N) content, as well as on soil chemical properties, were evaluated. Five treatments were applied during corn cultivation: no fertilizer (NF), chemical fertilizer (CF), LW at a standard application rate (LW1.0), LW at 1.7 times the rate of LW1.0 (LW1.7), and split application of LW1.7 (S-LW1.7) in six replications. The amount of N applied was 30 kg 10a−1 for CF and LW1.0, and 51 kg 10a−1 for LW1.7 and S-LW1.7. N was applied separately three times in CF, LW1.0, and LW1.7 and six times in S-LW1.7. A higher corn yield, corn ear weight, and number of leaves was observed in LW treatments than in CF. N content of the corn plant top was higher in S-LW1.7 than in LW1.7; N availability was 56.9% and 40.5% higher, respectively, indicating that split application improved N availability. Soil total N content increased significantly in LW treatments, and soil total carbon content tended to increase in S-LW1.7. Therefore, application of LW could increase corn yield and soil fertility, and its effect could be enhanced by split application.
Effects of Nitrogen Fertilizer on Nitrospira- and Nitrobacter-like Nitrite-Oxidizing Bacterial Microbial Communities under Mulched Fertigation System in Semi-Arid Area of Northeast China
Authors: Yuan Yuhan , Wang Meng , Feng Xuewan , Li Qian , Qin Yubo , Sun Bo , Li Cuilan , Zhang Jinjing , Liu Hang
Published: November 2023

The accumulation of nitrite is frequently overlooked, despite the fact that nitrification is the most essential phase of the entire nitrogen (N) cycle and that nitrifying bacteria play a significant role in nitrification. At present, the effects of different N application rates on soil nitrite-oxidizing bacteria (NOB) abundance, community composition, diversity, and its main influencing factors are still unclear. In this study, five N fertilizer application rates under film mulching and a drip irrigation system were studied in the semi-arid area of Northeast China. The treatments were 0 kg ha−1 (N0), 90 kg ha−1 (N1), 150 kg ha−1 (N2), 210 kg ha−1 (N3), and 270 kg ha−1 (N4). Fluorescent quantitative PCR and Illumina Miseq sequencing were used to analyze the abundance and community structure of NOB under different amounts of N application. The results showed that the increase in amounts of N application was strongly accompanied by an increase in the content of soil organic matter (SOM), total nitrogen (TN), nitrate nitrogen (NO3−-N), and ammonium nitrogen (NH4+-N), while the pH significantly reduced with an increase in N fertilization. N fertilization significantly increased soil nitrite oxidoreductase (NXR) activity, soil nitrification potential (PNR), and soil nitrite oxidation potential (PNO). A high N application rate significantly heightened the abundance of Nitrospira- and Nitrobacter-like NOB. N fertilizer considerably raised the Shannon index of Nitrospira-like NOB. The N application amount was the key factor affecting the community structure of Nitrospira-like NOB, and available nitrogen (AN) had the dominant influence on the community structure of Nitrospira-like NOB. N fertilizer can cause soil acidification, which affects NOB abundance and diversity. Nitrospira-like NOB may promote nitrite oxidation in different N application rates under a mulched fertigation system. The findings offered a crucial scientific foundation for further investigation into how nitrite-oxidizing bacteria respond to N fertilizer management strategies in farmland soil under film mulching drip irrigation in Northeast China.
Effect of Reduced Nitrogen Fertilization on the Chemical and Biological Traits of Soils under Maize Crops
Authors: Wolińska Agnieszka , Banach Artur , Kruczyńska Anna , Sochaczewska Anna , Goraj Weronika , Górski Andrzej , Podlewski Jacek , Słomczewski Andrzej , Kuźniar Agnieszka
Published: November 2023

The European Commission’s “Farm to Folk” strategy recommends reducing fertilizers by at least 20% by 2030. In this context, the aim of this study was to verify whether a 20 and 40% reduction of nitrogen (N) fertilization rate will be sufficient to maintain soil chemical features, fertility, and yields in monoculture maize cultivation in the no-tillage (NT) system versus the traditional plowing (PL) system. We also examined which tillage system (PL, NT) allows the reduction of fertilization while maintaining good yields of the tested soils. Two fields (10 ha each) were established for PL and NT maize cultivation, and soils (0–20 cm) were sampled twice per year—before maize sowing and after maize harvesting. A broad range of chemical and biological parameters were monitored (i.e., pH, forms of nitrogen, phosphorus and carbon, content of selected macronutrients and humic substances, and respiration activity). It was concluded that the 20% reduction in N fertilization (after 4 years of use) did not have an adverse effect on the soil’s chemical and biological features, which mainly depended on the season of the year. The maize yield seemed to be higher in the PL system, which was mostly the result of the tillage system rather than the N dose. The study will be continued in the next vegetation season to further verify our findings, especially with regard to the maize tillage system and yields.
Tolerance of Brazilian Bean Cultivars to S-Metolachlor and Poaceae Weed Control in Two Agricultural Soils
Authors: da Silva Borges Maiara Pinheiro , Trezzi Michelangelo Muzell , Mendes Kassio Ferreira , Fuzinatto Eliziane , Pilatti Gabriela , da Silva Antônio Alberto
Published: November 2023

Brazil stands out in the world for being one of the largest producers and consumers of common beans and cowpeas. However, the cultivation of this agricultural species is exposed to competition with weeds for water, light and nutrients. One of the management methods for weed control is the use of pre-emergent herbicides. Although pre-emergence herbicides are beneficial in controlling weeds, it is important to know the dynamics of these products in the soil, especially their residual effect. Two experiments were carried out to assess the tolerance of bean genotypes to the pre-emergent herbicide S-metolachlor in two Brazilian soils. Bean genotypes have differential tolerance to S-metolachlor when grown in soils with different characteristics. The Vigna spp. were the most affected by S-metolachlor, especially the red Adzuki. Plant growth was more sensitive when grown in sandy soil for most species. Total chlorophyll content was not affected for most genotypes in the two soils evaluated. The differential tolerance of the genotypes in both soils confirms the potential of S-metolachlor to cause damage to the bean crop, especially in sandy soil. The S-metolachlor was efficient in controlling sourgrass and selective to the bean cultivars (Pérola and Talismã) in both soils evaluated. Alexandergrass behaved differently in the soils evaluated, showing tolerance to the application of S-metolachlor when in Oxisol and sensitivity in Ultisol.
Comparison of Uterine Involution and the Resumption of Ovarian Cyclicity between Lame and Sound Holstein Cows
Authors: Praxitelous Anastasia , Katsoulos Panagiotis D. , Tsaousioti Angeliki , Brozos Christos , Schmicke Marion , Boscos Constantin M. , Tsousis Georgios
Published: November 2023

The aim of the study was to examine the effect of lameness and energy status on the involution of the uterus and the resumption of ovarian cyclicity in dairy cows. Lame (lameness score of four and the presence of hoof lesions, n = 22) and sound (normal gait and the absence of hoof lesions, n = 25) multiparous cows with healthy puerperium were enrolled simultaneously in the study and were monitored from day 10 antepartum (ap) to day 50 post-partum (pp). Ultrasonography of the cervix, the formerly gravid uterine horn and the ovarian structures was performed on d 8, 11, 14, 23, 30, and 42 pp. Blood sampling for progesterone, β-hydroxybutyrate (BHBA), and non-esterified fatty acids (NEFAs) was used to assess cyclicity and energy status. Lame compared to sound cows had higher NEFA concentrations on day 14 pp (0.54 ± 0.05 vs. 0.37 ± 0.05, respectively, p = 0.005), delayed involution of the cervix and the formerly pregnant uterine horn (p = 0.0003 and p = 0.02, respectively), lower ovulation rates within the experimental period (63.6% vs. 88%, respectively, p = 0.05), and higher rates of atresia or cyst formation on day 50 pp (36.4% vs. 12%, respectively, p = 0.05). Independently of lameness status, cows with high NEFA concentrations had lower ovulation rates within the experimental period (65.5% vs. 94.4%, p = 0.02), lower normal ovarian activity on day 50 pp (58.6% vs. 88.9%, p = 0.03), and higher rates of atresia or cyst formation on day 50 pp (34.5% vs. 5.6%, p = 0.02) compared to cows with optimal NEFA concentrations. Furthermore, an interaction between lameness and increased NEFA concentrations was observed regarding the ovulation rate within the experimental period and the percentage of atresia or cyst formation on day 50 pp. Sound cows with low NEFA levels had the lowest mean cervical diameter compared to cows with lameness (both with elevated and optimal NEFA concentrations, p = 0.009 and p = 0.002, respectively). Conclusively, lameness during puerperium negatively affected ovarian function and uterine involution. These effects were exacerbated (through interaction or cumulation) in relation to elevated NEFA concentrations.
Usefulness of Tissue Doppler Imaging for the Evaluation of Pulmonary Hypertension in Canine Heartworm Disease
Authors: Matos Jorge Isidoro , García-Rodríguez Sara Nieves , Costa-Rodríguez Noelia , Caro-Vadillo Alicia , Carretón Elena , Montoya-Alonso José Alberto
Published: November 2023

Background: Dirofilaria immitis is a nematode that produces proliferative pulmonary endarteritis in dogs due to direct contact of the adult parasites with the intima layer of the pulmonary arteries, leading to irreversible severe structural damage and sustained pulmonary hypertension (PH), which can produce severe cardiorespiratory disorders. The purpose of this study was to assess the diagnostic value of the echocardiography tissue Doppler imaging (TDI) in determining the presence of PH in dogs with heartworm disease. Methods: There were 116 heartworm-infected dogs with PH and 33 healthy dogs included in the study. Based on the right pulmonary artery distensibility index (RPADi) < 29.5%, PH was present in 47.4% of infected dogs. Additionally, the animals were evaluated using other standard alternative echocardiographic measures to estimate PH. Moreover, a total of eight echocardiographic measurements were analysed using the TDI to determine its usefulness in diagnosing PH (E′, A′, S, E′:A′, global TDI, HRI-IVCT, HRI-IVRT, R-TEI). Results: The TDI measurements showed significant differences between dogs with and without PH, demonstrating a positive correlation with respect to the RPADi. In addition, cut-off values for the detection of PH with excellent sensitivity and specificity were found for E′:A′, global TDI, HRI-IVCT, HRI-IVRT and R-TEI. Conclusions: The TDI mode may be useful as an adjunct diagnostic method for the determination of PH in dogs with Dirofilaria immitis.
Dietary Curcumin Modulating Effect on Performance, Antioxidant Status, and Immune-Related Response of Broiler Chickens Exposed to Imidacloprid Insecticide
Authors: Eleiwa Naglaa Z. , El-Shabrawi Ahmed A. , Ibrahim Doaa , Abdelwarith Abdelwahab A. , Younis Elsayed M. , Davies Simon J. , Metwally Mohamed M. M. , Abu-Zeid Ehsan H.
Published: November 2023

Birds appear to be especially vulnerable to adverse impacts from insecticides. This is especially true for imidacloprid (IMI), which is considered the most toxic to avian species. Recently, prospective studies aimed at including natural alternative products to alleviate the toxic impact that comes from insecticides have been increased. Focusing on herbal growth promoters and antioxidative medicament for the poultry industry, this ongoing experiment was conducted to examine the curcumin role (CUR) in mitigating IMI-prompted detrimental effects on broilers’ performance, immunity, and antioxidant status. A total number of one hundred and fifty commercial meat-type Ross 308 broilers chicks (one-day-old) were randomly allocated into equal five groups (30 chicks/group and 10 birds/replicate). The first group (C) was the control; the second group (CUR) was fed a diet containing CUR at the level of 450 mg/kg; the third group (IMI) was fed control diet for 14 days and then was fed a diet containing IMI at the level of 50 mg/kg; the fourth group (CUR+IMI co-treated) was fed a diet containing CUR+IMI; and the fifth group (CUR+IMI pro/co-treated) was fed a diet containing CUR for 14 days as protective and then a diet containing CUR+IMI for the rest of the trial. CUR supplementation either in the (CUR pro/co-treated) or (CUR co-treated) groups significantly (p < 0.05) improved final body weight and total body weight gain while decreasing the total feed intake and feed conversion ratio when compared to the IMI-exposed and non-treated birds. CUR induced a significant (p < 0.05) enhancement in hematological indices, phagocytosis %, phagocytic index, intracellular killing capacity, total proteins, globulin, liver function enzymes, lysozyme activity, and immunoglobulin-G levels compared to IMI-exposed and non-treated birds. In addition, dietary supplementation of CUR significantly (p < 0.05) modulated oxidative stress-related biomarkers in splenic tissues (total antioxidant capacity, superoxide dismutase, catalase, and glutathione peroxidase) and decreased malondialdehyde levels (p < 0.05) when compared to IMI-exposed and non-treated birds. CUR significantly down-regulated mRNA levels expression of IL-1β, TNF-α, and TLR4 and up-regulated IL-10 mRNA expression levels in spleens of birds when compared to those exposed to IMI-and non-treated. Finally, our results provided new insight into IMI-induced immuno-toxicity in broiler chickens. Furthermore, for the first time, our study informed that CUR can cause an in vivo protective effect against IMI toxicity, principally as a protective and/or as concurrent supplementation during the exposure to IMI toxicity.
Salivary Cystatin-L2-like of Varroa destructor Causes Lower Metabolism Activity and Abnormal Development in Apis mellifera Pupae
Authors: Zhou He , Duan Xinle , Sun Chaoxia , Huang Hongji , Yang Mei , Huang Shaokang , Li Jianghong
Published: November 2023

Varroa destructor injects a salivary secretion into honeybees during their feeding process. The salivary secretion plays a vital role in mite–bee interactions and is the main cause of honeybee illness. To determine the biological function of cystatin-L2-like, one of the components of V. destructor salivary secretion, its gene expression in mites during the reproductive phase and dispersal phase was quantified using RT-qPCR, respectively. Moreover, the E. coli-expressed and -purified cystatin was injected into the white-eyed honeybee pupae, and its effects on the survival, the weight of the newly emerged bee, and the transcriptome were determined. The results showed that cystatin was significantly upregulated in mites during the reproductive phase. Cystatin significantly shortened the lifespan of pupae and decreased the weight of the newly emerged bees. Transcriptome sequencing showed that cystatin upregulated 1496 genes and downregulated 1483 genes in pupae. These genes were mainly enriched in ATP synthesis, the mitochondrial respiratory chain, and cuticle structure and function. Cystatin comprehensively downregulated the metabolism of carbohydrates, fatty acids, and amino acids, and energy production in the pupae. The downregulation of metabolic activity could save more nutrients and energy for V. destructor, helping it to maximize its reproduction potential, implying that the mite could manipulate the metabolism of host bees through the injected salivary secretion. The results provide new insights into mite–bee interactions, providing a basis for related studies and applications.
Developing Communication Competency in the Veterinary Curriculum
Authors: van Gelderen (Mabin) Ingrid , Taylor Rosanne
Published: November 2023

Veterinary graduates require effective clinical communication skills for a successful transition to practice. The ways of teaching and assessing veterinary communication skills have developed and are increasingly supported by research. However, some students have difficulty applying the skills learned in a simulated consultation to working with real clients, particularly in the second part of a standard consultation, where the student communicates the reasons for their clinical decision making and assists the client’s treatment decisions. The authors explore three key developments in communication skills training in the Doctor of Veterinary Medicine program since 2015 at the University of Sydney: (1) Workshops were designed to include communication scenarios that were contextualised in ways that embraced a spectrum of care. These were facilitated within a clinical skills laboratory, and student surveys were used to evaluate this teaching and learning activity; (2) student and facilitator perceptions of the value of online communication skills training were evaluated using surveys; and (3) perceptions of the gap between pre-clinical training and the demonstration of communication competency in authentic clinical settings were evaluated using a survey. We conclude that the communications curriculum can be made more engaging and effective by student-centred design, which increases the realism and authenticity of the student’s experience.