bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Characteristics of adverse reactions of three anti-glioma drugs in WHO-VigiAccess
Authors: Ke Huadong , Zhang Zicheng , Yu Zhao , Zhang Baiquan , Chen Rui , Zhou Qiang , Guo Qian , Lou Xiaohui
Published: October 2024

Introduction

Antitumor medications such as Avastin, Berubicin, and Temozolomide have fundamentally transformed the treatment landscape for gliomas by exhibiting potent pharmacological effects on both high-grade and low-grade gliomas. This study aims to determine which anti-glioma medication presents the lowest risk for personalized use in clinical patients by assessing the adverse drug reactions (ADRs) associated with these medications as reported in the World Health Organization (WHO) VigiAcess database, and by comparing the characteristics of adverse responses among the three drugs.

Methods

This investigation employs a retrospective descriptive analysis method. We compiled ADR reports for three commercially available anti-glioma medications from WHO-VigiAccess, gathering data on the disease systems and symptoms associated with ADRs, as well as the age, gender, and geographic characteristics of the patients represented in the reports. To provide a reference for clinical treatment, we analyzed the similarities and differences in the adverse reactions of the three medications by calculating the proportion of adverse reactions recorded for each drug.

Results

A total of 132,471 adverse events (AEs) associated with three anti-glioma drugs were reported in VigiAccess. The analysis revealed that the ten most frequently reported AEs included bone marrow suppression, myalgia, leukopenia, thrombocytopenia, nausea, vomiting, death, rhabdomyolysis, disease progression, and a decrease in neutrophil count. The five most common categories of AEs related to anti-glioma drugs were blood and lymphatic system diseases (20,233 cases, 15.2%), general disorders and administration site conditions (26,973 cases, 20.3%), gastrointestinal dysfunction (22,061 cases, 16.7%), necessitating further investigations (18,285 cases, 13.8%), and musculoskeletal and connective tissue diseases (30,695 cases, 23.1%). Notably, the adverse events associated with Avastin were more pronounced in the category of musculoskeletal and connective tissue diseases compared to the other two drugs. Furthermore, Berubicin exhibited a particularly high proportion of blood and lymphatic system disease AEs, reaching 45.6%, which was significantly greater than those observed for the other two drugs.

Conclusion

There is limited correlation between antineoplastic medications and ADRs. Current comparative observational studies indicate that these inhibitors are associated with both common and specific adverse effects documented in the ADR reports submitted to the World Health Organization (WHO).
Effect of 5% lidocaine-medicated plaster in preventing chronic postsurgical pain after knee replacement: protocol for a randomized double-blind placebo-controlled trial
Authors: Yuan Junpeng , Xu Huichan , Guo Jiongjiong , Li Yan , Yu Youjia , Jin Xiaohong
Published: October 2024

Background

With an aging population, knee arthroplasty is increasingly common; however, chronic postsurgical pain (CPSP) affects up to 30% of patients. This study aims to evaluate the efficacy of 5% lidocaine-medicated plaster (LP5) in preventing CPSP among patients undergoing knee arthroplasty.

Methods

This is a dual-center, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial involving 128 adult patients scheduled for knee arthroplasty. Participants will be randomly assigned, stratified by center, to either the LP5 group or the placebo group (n = 64 per group). The LP5 or placebo group will apply the patch 1 day before surgery and on postoperative days 1–3, with multimodal analgesia administered postoperatively. Multimodal analgesia will include intraoperative flurbiprofen axetil and postoperative patient-controlled sufentanil. The primary outcome is the pain subscale of the Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC) at 3 months postoperatively. Secondary outcomes will include WOMAC stiffness, function, and total scales; Leeds Assessment of Neuropathic Symptoms and Signs (LANSS) Pain Scale; 36-Item Short Form Health Survey (SF-36); postoperative pain scores; Visual Analog Scale (VAS) sleep scores; postoperative sufentanil consumption; need for rescue analgesia; length of Post-Anesthesia Care Unit (PACU) stay; length of hospital stay; and 90-day mortality. Safety outcomes will include assessments of hypotension, hypertension, bradycardia, tachycardia, arrhythmia, interventions for haemodynamic events, headache, dizziness, nausea, vomiting, local skin allergy, wound infection, and toxic reaction. Data will be analyzed following a modified intention-to-treat approach.

Discussion

This study aims to provide high-quality evidence for the efficacy and safety of LP5 in preventing CPSP in patients undergoing knee arthroplasty.
Regular meta-analysis of the impact of sports activities intervention on some items of the national student physical health standards for adolescents
Authors: Sun Jikun , Sun Zhiyuan , Kong Jianda , Tian Xuewen , Wang Liping , Wang Qinglu , Xu Jun
Published: October 2024

Background

By using meta-analysis to evaluate the effects of exercise on adolescent body mass index (BMI), standing long jump, sit ups, lung capacity, sitting forward bending, 50 m running, and 800 m running, a large amount of literature will be reviewed to reveal the key role of exercise in the healthy development of adolescents. This study aims to promote the development of adolescent physical health and solve the common problem of declining physical fitness, comprehensively improve the physical fitness of adolescents, and provide decision-making support for policymakers. The research results will provide methodological references for precise and effective intervention practices, further improve adolescent physical fitness, and lay a solid physiological foundation for their comprehensive development.

Methods

A literature search was conducted on China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI) and PubMed, collecting randomized controlled trials (RCTs) that investigated the effects of physical activity on adolescent physical fitness according to predefined criteria. The quality of these studies was assessed, and their outcome data were analyzed using RevMan 5.4 software. The analysis encompassed 13 articles with a total of 4,633 participants, examining measures such as mean difference (MD) and heterogeneity, followed by subgroup analyses.

Results

The meta-analysis revealed that physical activity had a moderate to high effect on adolescent performance in sit-ups (MD = 4.91, 95% CI = 3.41–6.41), vital capacity (MD = 120.66, 95% CI = 48.67–194.46), sit-and-reach test (MD = 0.82, 95% CI = 0.09–1.56), 50-meter dash (MD = −1.05, 95% CI = −1.48 to −0.62), and 800-meter run (MD = −18.48, 95% CI = −24.98 to −11.97). Conversely, its influence on BMI (MD = −0.31, 95% CI = −1.87 to 1.24) and standing long jump (MD = 0.1, 95% CI = 0.05–0.15) was relatively low.

Conclusion

Engaging in physical activities significantly improves adolescent physical fitness. The most effective regimen involves a combination of aerobic and anaerobic exercises, with each session lasting 30 min, performed three times per week for at least 2 months. The extent of improvement in various fitness indicators, reflecting different aspects of physical fitness, is influenced by factors such as the nature of the physical activity, intervention duration, exercise frequency, and age.

Systematic Review Registration

PROSPERO, identifier CRD42024568197
Effects of bioformulation prototype and bioactive extracts from Agaricus bisporus spent mushroom substrate on controlling Rhizoctonia solani of Lactuca sativa L
Authors: Cignola Rudy , Carminati Gaia , Natolino Andrea , Di Francesco Alessandra
Published: October 2024

Introduction

Food security and waste management represent the main challenges that need to be addressed in the near future. The use of bioformulations and bioactive compounds obtained from agricultural wastes could represent some of the solutions for the management of soil-borne pathogens.

Methods

In the present study, Aureobasidium pullulans strain AP1, tested in oil dispersion (OD) formulation prototype and bio-extracts [hot water extract (HWE) and warm water extract (WWE)] derived from spent mushroom substrate (SMS) of Agaricus bisporus, was tested as sustainable strategies to manage Rhizoctonia solani of lettuce.

Results

By in vitro assays, AP1OD at 600 mg L−1 displayed an inhibition by 57% of pathogen mycelial growth, and the SMS extract WWE (40°C) showed a growth stimulation of lettuce seedling by 27%. By In vivo assays, AP1OD formulation used against R. solani reduced by 66.6% the soil-borne pathogen incidence on lettuce plants, and both bio-extracts significantly stimulated lettuce leaves and roots growth (>200%). AP1OD formulation and HWE treatments increased the lettuce genes expression levels (ggps and hppd pdx1) mainly imputed to plant antioxidant potential, vitamin E, and vitamin B6 biosynthesis.

Discussion

The present study reported the potential of a new formulation and two bio-extracts, derived from an agricultural waste, to use against R. solani of lettuce, respectively, with antifungal and biostimulant properties.
Meta-analysis: a tool for constructing theories or evaluating interventions or simply proving everyday assumptions?
Authors: Witte Erich H. , Ponocny Ivo
Published: October 2024

After a brief consideration of the development of meta-analyses as a joint discussion of results from a research area across development stages 0, 1, 2, it is concluded that the present form 2.0 is unsuitable to serve as a basis for theory building. Further development of this tool into a meta-analysis 3.0 is necessary for this purpose which requires the validity of the independent variables in the primary studies, the reduction of the error variance of the dependent variables, a stability of the effects over the primary studies and a quantitative comparison between observed and predicted effects in the primary studies. In the current meta-analyses 2.0, a concrete single-case approach creates the impression that mainly everyday ideas are investigated, which one would like to generalize to a population of other conditions. Furthermore, the results of the existing meta-analyses are either homogeneous and very small or heterogeneous. Meta-analysis 2.0 searches for the instability of the measurements under a specific topic with methods of induction. The procedure of a meta-analysis 3.0 is described in general and carried out hypothetically and with an empirical example. It searches for the stability of quantitative reconstructions of data over different topics with the method of abduction. The conclusion can be summarized as that meta-analysis 3.0 is indispensable as a tool for theorizing, and theorizing presupposes meta-analysis 3.0. The link between this interdependence is abduction in contrast to induction as a research strategy.
Osteoarthritis with depression: mapping publication status and exploring hotspots
Authors: Zhang Meng , Li Hao , Li Qingshan , Yang Zhen , Deng Haobin , Xu Yingying , Guo Quanyi
Published: October 2024

Depression is a common psychological complication in osteoarthritis (OA) patients, and its incidence gets more and more attention year by year worldwide. This study investigates the association between OA and depression through a bibliometric analysis of published studies. It aims to identify leading authors, institutions, and countries to highlight research hotspots and suggest potential future directions. We collected publications on OA and depression from 1994 to 2024 using the Web of Science Core Collection (WOSCC) database. Bibliographic information, including authorship, country of origin, citation frequency, and visualizations, was generated using VOSviewer, R software, and CiteSpace. A total of 2,342 articles were identified. The United States led in publications with 906 articles, Boston University was the most prolific institution with 56 publications, BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders was the top journal with 71 publications, and Stefania Maggi was the most productive author with 19 publications. The primary research hotspots identified were: “The relationship between depression and OA,” “Disability and prevalence,” and “Characteristics of older people suffering depression after OA.” Predicted future research frontiers include: “Treating depression in OA patients with multimorbidity,” “Psychometric properties of instruments for assessing depression and anxiety in OA patients,” “Depression or anxiety in patients with surgical intervention,” and “Other mental diseases in OA patients.” This bibliometric analysis underscores the importance of understanding the link between OA and depressive disorders, potentially guiding new research directions.
Effects of a mindfulness-based health promotion program on mindfulness, psychological capital, compassion fatigue, and affect in healthcare workers
Authors: Quiroz-González Eliana , Lupano Perugini María Laura , Delgado-Abella Leonor Emilia , Arenas-Granada Jaime , Demarzo Marcelo
Published: October 2024

Objective

This study aimed to examine the effects of the Mindfulness-Based Health Promotion program on mindfulness, psychological capital, compassion fatigue, and affect in a sample of healthcare workers at a hospital in Colombia.

Method

Randomized controlled study with pre-test and post-test measures, in which 33 workers participated (Mage = 35.01, SD = 10.0), assigned to the experimental group (EG, n = 16, Mage = 34.00, SD = 9.59) and the wait-list control group (CG, n = 17, Mage = 36.03, SD = 10.56). The contrast of the program effects was carried out through a mixed factorial ANOVA.

Results

We found significant effects on observing, non-reacting and mindfulness as a function of the group factor.

Conclusion

We concluded the Mindfulness-Based Health Promotion program showed positive effects on mindfulness, this was tested with a novel program designed for the Latin population. This study is pioneering in using this mindfulness program in Colombia. These findings offer valuable insights for leaders of healthcare institutions when developing intervention programs that promote the mental health in the workplace. Future studies with larger samples and mixed-methods are necessary to confirm our results and to identify factors that can predict these findings.
Confidence in mathematics is confounded by responses to reverse-coded items
Authors: Antoniou Faye , Alghamdi Mohammed H.
Published: October 2024

Introduction

This study investigates the confounding effects of reverse-coded items on the measurement of confidence in mathematics using data from the 2019 Trends in International Mathematics and Science Study (TIMSS).

Methods

The sample came from the Saudi Arabian cohort of 8th graders in 2019 involving 4,515 students. Through mixture modeling, two subgroups responding in similar ways to reverse-coded items were identified representing approximately 9% of the sample.

Results

Their response to positively valenced and negatively valenced items showed inconsistency and the observed unexpected response patterns were further verified using Lz*, U3, and the number of Guttman errors person fit indicators. Psychometric analyses on the full sample and the truncated sample after deleting the aberrant responders indicated significant improvements in both internal consistency reliability and factorial validity.

Discussion

It was concluded that reverse-coded items contribute to systematic measurement error that is associated with distorted item level parameters that compromised the scale’s reliability and validity. The study underscores the need for reconsideration of reverse-coded items in survey design, particularly in contexts involving younger populations and low-achieving students.
Psychiatric comorbidities of attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder in Japan: a nationwide population-based study
Authors: Okada Takashi , Sotodate Takuma , Ogasawara-Shimizu Mari , Nishigaki Nobuhiro
Published: October 2024

Introduction

This study aimed to estimate prevalence and incidence of attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and comorbid relationships between ADHD and other psychiatric disorders in Japan.

Methods

Using the real-world JMDC Claims Database, we conducted a cross-sectional study (analysis years 2017–2021) and retrospective cohort study (observation 2 years before/after the initial ADHD diagnosis; data collection 2005–2021; enrollment 2017–2019). Patients were male or female, aged 0–57 years. Cross-sectional study patients had an ADHD or other psychiatric disorder diagnosis (with or without medication) and were continuously registered in each analysis year; retrospective study patients had an ADHD diagnosis and ≥2 years’ observation before and after diagnosis. Endpoints were annual prevalence and incidence of ADHD in Japan, prevalence and risk ratio of each psychiatric comorbidity in patients with ADHD, prevalence and risk ratios of ADHD in patients with each psychiatric comorbidity, and prevalence of psychiatric disorders before/after the initial ADHD diagnosis.

Results

ADHD prevalence in children/adolescents and adults increased each year from 2017 to 2021. Prevalence in boys was 3.5–4.1 times higher than in girls. Prevalence in adults was lower than in children/adolescents, with a small sex difference. ADHD was highly comorbid with various psychiatric disorders. In 2019, the most common comorbidity in children/adolescents with ADHD was autism spectrum disorder (ASD; 54.4%); in adults, it was mood disorders (60.9%). ADHD prevalence in patients with various psychiatric disorders was higher than in the control population. ADHD prevalence was highest in patients with oppositional defiance disorder among both children/adolescents and adults (77.2% and 69.2%, respectively). In the retrospective cohort study (N = 14,940), the most common psychiatric disorders diagnosed prior to ADHD diagnosis were ASD in children/adolescents (33.9% of patients), and mood disorders and sleep disorders in adults (36.9% and 23.8% of patients, respectively).

Discussion

ADHD was comorbid with various psychiatric disorders in Japan. In children and adolescents with ADHD, ASD was often diagnosed prior to ADHD. Psychiatric disorders, especially mood disorders and sleep disorders, were frequently diagnosed prior to the initial ADHD diagnosis in adults. The likelihood of comorbid ADHD should be considered when diagnosing adult patients with psychiatric disorders.
Assessment of knowledge, attitude, and practice toward first aid among female school educators in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Abdelrahman Doaa , Aleyeidi Nouran Abdullah , Alqahtani Huda Turki , Aldosari Falak Nasser , Al Shammari Tmadher Ghanam , Alrusaini Norah Khalid , Almahfouz Rnda Fahad , Altamimi Sarah Ali , Alshehri Shatha Abdulwahab , Alsubaie Rahaf Muqbel , Almuzaini Raghad Abdulrahman , Innab Jazil Abdulrahman , Alsuhaibani Yara Abdulaziz
Published: October 2024

Objectives

School-age children are constantly at risk of unintentional injuries. School educational staff are the primary group responsible for maintaining student welfare and responding to emergency situations. The present study aims to evaluate the knowledge and attitudes, practice level, and contextual factors related to first aid among female educational staff in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.

Methods

A cross-sectional study was conducted with a convenience sampling of 1,060 female school staff at all educational levels in Riyadh. Participants completed a self-administered online questionnaire that contained items assessing sociodemographic data, knowledge, attitudes, and practice regarding first aid.

Results

Most of the 1,060 participants reported above average knowledge level, with a mean score of 21 (max 35). On the other hand, positive attitude toward first aid was high (μ = 22.9; max 25). Approximately 33.4% of staff had previous first aid training, and 79.2% were willing to participate in future trainings. First aid knowledge was highest for choking and lowest for seizures.

Conclusion

The attitudes toward first aid were generally positive, and the knowledge of first aid was above average among most participants but still unsatisfactory. Mandatory first aid courses are necessary to support children’s health during their education.
Predicting habitat suitability for the co-occurrence of an estuarine mesopredator and two top predatory fishes
Authors: Fontaine Paco , Jensen Christine C. , Matich Philip , Rooker Jay R. , Wells R. J. David
Published: October 2024

Determining habitat associations and co-occurrence patterns among species can provide insight into their behavior and shared roles in ecosystem function. This study used a long-term gill-net survey to investigate habitat associations and co-occurrence patterns of three predatory fishes in a large estuarine complex in the northwestern Gulf of Mexico including two top predators alligator gar (Atractosteus spatula) and bull shark (Carcharhinus leucas) and a mesopredator Atlantic stingray (Hypanus sabina). Habitat suitability models were used to assess habitat conditions under which multiple conspecifics or species co-occurred. Environmental drivers of habitat suitability differed within and across species, but salinity and temperature were the most influential variables. Intraspecific co-occurrence of both alligator gars and bull sharks were primarily observed between conspecifics of similar size in low-salinity waters, but intraspecific co-occurrence was higher for alligator gars than for bull sharks. Although sample size was low, intraspecific co-occurrence of Atlantic stingrays was frequent in open-water regions of the estuary and consisted of both juveniles and adults. Interspecific co-occurrence between alligator gars and bull sharks was primarily observed in habitats commonly used by both species, particularly in low-salinity regions of the estuary. Even though there may be confounding effects of sampling gear, interspecific co-occurrence of Atlantic stingrays with either alligator gars or bull sharks was limited, suggesting there was limited overlap in estuarine habitats or environmental conditions used by Atlantic stingrays relative to the two other species investigated. These results clarify the influence of abiotic and biotic variables on the distribution and abundance of these species and suggest potential areas where interactions between them may shape their roles as predators.
Navigating algorithm bias in AI: ensuring fairness and trust in Africa
Authors: Pasipamire Notice , Muroyiwa Abton
Published: October 2024

This article presents a perspective on the impact of algorithmic bias on information fairness and trust in artificial intelligence (AI) systems within the African context. The author's personal experiences and observations, combined with relevant literature, formed the basis of this article. The authors demonstrate why algorithm bias poses a substantial challenge in Africa, particularly regarding fairness and the integrity of AI applications. This perspective underscores the urgent need to address biases that compromise the fairness of information dissemination and undermine public trust. The authors advocate for the implementation of strategies that promote inclusivity, enhance cultural sensitivity, and actively engage local communities in the development of AI systems. By prioritizing ethical practices and transparency, stakeholders can mitigate the risks associated with bias, thereby fostering trust and ensuring equitable access to technology. Additionally, the article explores the potential consequences of inaction, including exacerbated social disparities, diminished confidence in public institutions, and economic stagnation. Ultimately, this work argues for a collaborative approach to AI that positions Africa as a leader in responsible development, ensuring that technology serves as a catalyst for sustainable development and social justice.
High-accuracy polarization measurements of the white-light corona during the 2023 total solar eclipse
Authors: Hanaoka Yoichiro , Sakai Yoshiaki , Masuda Yukio
Published: October 2024

This study measured the polarization of the white-light corona during the total solar eclipse on 20 April 2023, which occurred under high solar activity. The same instrument that was used for the 2017 and 2019 eclipse observations was employed, and despite the short duration of totality, the obtained data could be used for high-accuracy polarization analysis. We derived the brightness and polarization of the K + F corona and estimated the brightness distributions of the K- and F-coronae using polarization information. The polarization data of the corona are the key to estimating the amount of coronal hot plasma and its electron density distribution. Therefore, we examined the consistency between the eclipse data and those taken by the C2 coronagraph of the Large Angle Spectrometric Coronagraph (LASCO) on board the Solar and Heliospheric Observatory. Consequently, a systematic difference was observed; the polarization measured by LASCO-C2 was approximately 30% smaller than the results from the eclipse. Data from eclipses, which are captured under low background sky brightness and no scattered light due to the Sun’s disk, can be a good calibration source of the brightness and polarization of the white-light corona.
Proportion of land transfer proceeds for rural development, the rural household income, and the debt risk of the rural households in China
Authors: Zhu Liya , Ma Zhida , Liu Jianxu , Gao Lemin
Published: October 2024

From the perspective of rural household income, this paper discusses the relationship between the proportion of land transfer proceeds for rural development and the debt risk of rural households and carries out the empirical testing by using a two-way fixed-effects model based on the data from the Chinese Household Finance Survey (CHFS) and the data matching the prefecture-level city data. The study suggests that the debt risk of rural households can be inhibited significantly in case of an increase in the proportion of proceeds from land transfer supporting rural development, and there is a “U”-shaped relationship between the proportion and the risk, which indicates that the proportion should be controlled reasonably to maximum the use efficiency of land transfer fund, and according to the system analysis, the increase in the proportion can enhance the debt-repayment ability of the rural households and reduce their debt risk by increasing their transfer income and agriculture income. Moreover, thus, this paper is of great importance for resolving the debt risk of rural households, consolidating the achievements of poverty alleviation, preventing large-scale relapse into poverty, and promoting rural revitalization.
Culicoides biting midges among cattle in France: be wary of data in the literature
Authors: Millot Christine , Hadj-Henni Leila , Augot Denis
Published: October 2024

Culicoides are vectors that can transmit many different pathogens to mammals — including humans, and domestic and wild animals — and birds. In order to take preventive measures against any vector-borne disease, it is important to gather information on both the host and vector species. Culicoides species are mainly mammalophilic, ornithophilic or ornithophilic/mammalophilic, but females have also been found to occasionally feed on engorged insects. A recent systematic review based on three groups of key words investigated Culicoides on farms, and asserted that 92 species (including four not present species) have been reported among cattle in mainland France and Corsica. We have re-evaluated the presence of Culicoides species in cattle in France using the same data of the review. Our data show that only 18 species are reported among cattle. Furthermore, our research used molecular and indirect investigations to analyse Culicoides species that had been feeding on cattle. Our results demonstrate that 45 species feed on cattle out of 92 species present in France. The paper discusses the relevance of data in the literature when investigating hosts of Culicoides species.
Genome-wide association studies for milk production traits and persistency of first calving Holstein cattle in Türkiye
Authors: Erdoğan Metin , Çinkaya Samet , Brenig Bertram , Çelikeloğlu Koray , Demirtaş Mustafa , Sarıibrahimoğlu Suat , Tekerli Mustafa
Published: October 2024

The study presents a comprehensive investigation into the genetic determinants of 100-day milk yield (100DMY), 305-day milk yield (305DMY), total milk yield (TMY), and persistency using first lactation records of 374 Holstein heifers reared in a private farm at Çanakkale province of Türkiye, employing a genome-wide association study (GWAS) approach. The research underscores the substantial genetic component underlying these economically important traits through detailed descriptive statistics and heritability estimations. The estimated moderate to high heritabilities (0.32–0.54) for milk production traits suggest the feasibility of targeted genetic improvement strategies. By leveraging GWAS, the study identifies many significant and suggestively significant single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNP) associated with studied traits. Noteworthy genes have identified in this analysis include BCAS3, MALRD1, CTNND2, DOCK1, TMEM132C, NRP1, CNTNAP2, GPRIN2, PLEKHA5, GLRA1, SCN7A, HHEX, KTM2C, RAB40C, RAB11FIP3, and FXYD6. These findings provide valuable understandings of the genetic background of milk production and persistency in Holstein cattle, shedding light on specific genomic regions and candidate genes playing pivotal roles in these traits. This research contributes valuable knowledge to the field of dairy cattle genetics and informs future breeding efforts to improve milk production sustainability and efficiency in Holstein cattle populations.
A Review on Resource-Constrained Embedded Vision Systems-Based Tiny Machine Learning for Robotic Applications
Authors: Beltrán-Escobar Miguel , Alarcón Teresa E. , Rumbo-Morales Jesse Y. , López Sonia , Ortiz-Torres Gerardo , Sorcia-Vázquez Felipe D. J.
Published: October 2024

The evolution of low-cost embedded systems is growing exponentially; likewise, their use in robotics applications aims to achieve critical task execution by implementing sophisticated control and computer vision algorithms. We review the state-of-the-art strategies available for Tiny Machine Learning (TinyML) implementation to provide a complete overview using various existing embedded vision and control systems. Our discussion divides the article into four critical aspects that high-cost and low-cost embedded systems must include to execute real-time control and image processing tasks, applying TinyML techniques: Hardware Architecture, Vision System, Power Consumption, and Embedded Software Platform development environment. The advantages and disadvantages of the reviewed systems are presented. Subsequently, the perspectives of them for the next ten years are present. A basic TinyML implementation for embedded vision application using three low-cost embedded systems, Raspberry Pi Pico, ESP32, and Arduino Nano 33 BLE Sense, is presented for performance analysis.
Exploring the Potential of Using Fertilizers to Condition the Metabolism and Physiology of Dual-Yield Crops in a Water Deficit Environment: A Review
Authors: Ncama Khayelihle , Sithole Nkanyiso J. , Dada Oyeyemi A.
Published: October 2024

Research on the production of field crops in semi-arid regions mainly focuses on irrigation and climate change adaptation because these are emphasized as the practices determining yields of field crops in these regions. The need to evolve research in this direction is important because general crop production systems in all regions can adopt the findings from this kind of research during unforeseen drought conditions. Research on fertilizers is usually treated as a secondary factor or neglected despite it being an important practice for crops growing in semi-arid regions. Fertilization affects parameters that are responsible for metabolism, physiology, morphology, and subsequent crop yields under drought conditions. This literature review focused on dual-yield crops’ response to fertilization and the potential for researchers to employ these responses for the improvement of cultivations and yields in semi-arid regions. These findings indicated that the application of various nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), or potassium (K) fertilizers is common and based on broadcasting and banding techniques. The split application of N, P, and K fertilizers is mostly employed to adjust the metabolism, physiology, and morphology of crops at different growth stages so that the crops can be exposed to water shortages. These adjustments can be used to increase or decrease the water use efficiency of the crops, which is highly associated with biological and economic yields. Research on micro-elements in dual-yield crops is currently very limited. Multidimensional future research based on the effects of micro-elements on the metabolism, physiology, and morphology of dual-yield crops is recommended. This research must be conducted with the aim of enhancing water use efficiency.
Study on Operating Vibration Characteristics of Different No-Tillage Planter Row Units in Wheat Stubble Fields
Authors: Gao Yuanyuan , Yang Yifei , Hu Yongyue , Han Xing , Feng Kangyao , Li Peiying , Wei Xinhua , Zhai Changyuan
Published: October 2024

The complex field environment under conservation tillage aggravates the vibration during a planter’s operation, affecting the sowing quality and fertilization depth. Studying its vibration characteristics can help to realize active vibration reduction control of planter row units. To this end, this paper took a four-row no-till planter as the research object. By establishing a field vibration model of the planter row unit, the factors affecting the vibration of the unit were clarified, and stubble height, working speed and the additional weight of the planter were used as experimental factors in carrying out field orthogonal experiments. In our experiment, we collected and analyzed vibration data on the four-row planter row units and the frame at different positions to explore the influence of various factors on the vibration characteristics of the planter. The experimental results showed that the working speed was the most important factor affecting the vibration of the planter, and the impact of stubble height and additional weight on the amplitude of the planter was more significant at low speed (1.5 m/s) than that at high speed (2.5 m/s). The difference in amplitude of each planter unit in the lateral direction was the largest, the average amplitude range of which was 1.898 m/s2. The vibration energy of each planter row unit under different working conditions was mainly concentrated in the range of 10–50 Hz. However, the three-point hitch of the planter transmitted the vibration excitation of the tractor, causing 110–120 Hz high-frequency vibration of the inner row units, while the outer row units were less affected, with the vibration energy, in the range above 100 Hz, being 2.5 dB smaller than that on the inner side. The right ground wheel transmission device was abnormal, which worked together with the excitation transmitted by the three-point hitch, making the average vibration acceleration amplitude of the planter row units on the right side in the lateral direction more than 0.522 m/s2 higher than that of the units on the left side. Therefore, different vibration reduction forces need to be applied according to the position of the planter row unit, so that the units can avoid the natural frequency of the frame (115 Hz) when vibrating. This study can provide a reference for active vibration reduction control and improvements in sowing quality for high-speed no-till planters.
The Synergistic Effect of Plant Growth-Promoting Rhizobacteria and Spent Mushroom Substrate Improves Ginseng Quality and Rhizosphere Nutrients
Authors: Fan Siyao , Hu Qian , Liu Qi , Xu Wenman , Wang Zixin , Huang Yu , Zhang Yang , Ji Wenxiu , Dong Weiwei
Published: October 2024

The ginseng industry’s reliance on chemicals for fertilizer and pesticides has adversely affected the environment and decreased the quality of ginseng; therefore, microbial inoculum is an effective way to restore the damaged soil in ginseng fields. To investigate the effects of plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR) and spent mushroom substrate (SMS) on soil and plant quality in ginseng, high throughput sequencing was performed to examine the microbial community structures in ginseng rhizosphere soil. All treatments significantly increased soil nutrient, enzyme activity, and ginseng biomass compared to control (p < 0.05). The combination of PGPR and SMS notably enhanced soil enzyme activities: urease (7.29%), sucrase (29.76%), acid phosphatase (13.24%), and amylase (38.25%) (p < 0.05). All treatments had different effects on ginseng rhizosphere soil microbial diversity. Significantly, the combination treatments enhanced microbial diversity by increasing the abundance of beneficial bacteria such as Allorhizobium-Neorhizobium-Pararhizobium-Rhizobium and Plectosphaerella, meanwhile suppressing harmful Klebsiella. The relative abundance of Fusarium was reduced to some extent compared with the application of SMS alone. The soil organic matter, available potassium, available phosphorus, and alkaline nitrogen, as key factors, influenced microbial community structures. Overall, the combination of PGPR and SMS positively impacted the rhizosphere environment and ginseng plant quality.
Effect of Dietary Inclusion of Brown Seaweed (Macrocystis pyrifera) on Oxidative Stress of Grass-Fed Dairy Cows
Authors: Cartes Daniel , Beltrán Joaquín , Luna Daniela , Beltrán Ignacio
Published: October 2024

Macrocystis pyrifera is a brown seaweed widely distributed on the coast of Chile, with a high content of polyphenolic compounds with antioxidant properties. The effects of its inclusion in the diet on oxidative stress in dairy cows have not been evaluated. Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate the effect of two doses of inclusion of Macrocystis pyrifera on pro-oxidant and antioxidant indicators in grazing dairy cows. Thirty-six mid-lactating and clinically healthy Holstein-Friesian cows were randomly assigned to one of three diets: Control (75% perennial ryegrass and 25% commercial concentrate); Treatment 1 (control diet and 1.5% inclusion of seaweed); and Treatment 2 (control diet and 3% inclusion of seaweed). Blood samples were taken by coccygeal venipuncture on days 18, 45, and 61 to determine the plasma concentration of malondialdehyde (MDA), Trolox equivalent antioxidant capacity (TEAC), and oxidant stress index (OSI). No significant differences were observed between groups regarding MDA, TEAC, and OSI. However, an interaction was observed, where at 45 and 61 days, the OSI of the cows was lower in Treatment 2 compared to the Control. Including 1.5% and 3% of Macrocystis pyrifera in the diet of grass-fed cows did not affect the oxidative stress indicators during mid-lactation.
Soybean Drought Tolerance and Escape: Field Trial Assessment of Yield, Maturity Groups and Smooth-Wrinkled Seed Coats in Kazakhstan
Authors: Yerzhebayeva Raushan , Didorenko Svetlana , Bastaubayeva Sholpan , Amangeldiyeva Aigul , Maikotov Bekzhan , Kassenov Rinat , Shavrukov Yuri
Published: October 2024

Soybean is a major legume and oilseed crop with enormous economic importance, but its production is highly dependent on optimal rainfall or ample irrigation. In Kazakhstan, soybean production is highly vulnerable to drought and irrigation shortages. The aim of this study was to assess the level of drought escape and tolerance of soybean genotypes in different maturity groups, grown in well-watered conditions or without irrigation. Field trials were conducted in the very dry conditions of Kazakhstan with the hydrothermal coefficient 0.46–0.67. Nineteen soybean cultivars from five maturity groups were tested over four seasons under two conditions, with and without irrigation. The main indicators of drought tolerance were seed yield, seed weight per plant, percentage of seeds with smooth coats compared to wrinkled and shriveled ones, and 1000 seed weight. Under drought, seed yield of the studied genotypes decreased by 45.5–69.5% compared to well-watered controls. The most optimal genotypes for cultivation without irrigation were soybean cultivars from medium maturity group MG I (Vilana, Cheremosh, Xin-D11-252, and Desna) with a vegetation period of 115–128 days when avoiding drought during flowering, and the average yield for the group (1.7 t/ha) was slightly below that of those in drought-tolerant genotypes from medium–late/late maturity groups MG II–III (1.9–2.0 t/ha). Based on yield under drought, the best cultivars were identified as follows: Ivushka (1.2 t/ha) for MG 00 group; Ustya (1.3 t/ha) for MG 0; Vilana (1.8 t/ha) for MG I; Zen (2.3 t/ha) for MG II; and Sponsor (2.5 t/ha) for MG III. The identified genotypes can be used in breeding programs to reduce drought effects on soybean crops.
Sustainable Approaches to Alleviate Heavy Metal Stress in Tomatoes: Exploring the Role of Chitosan and Nanosilver
Authors: Krupa-Małkiewicz Marcelina , Ochmian Ireneusz
Published: October 2024

This study investigates the impact of copper (Cu) stress on tomato plants (Solanum pimpinellifolium) and explores the potential of chitosan and nanosilver (nAg) in mitigating its effects. Copper, while essential for plant growth, can be toxic at elevated levels, leading to oxidative stress and reduced plant productivity. This research focuses on determining how chitosan and nAg treatments influence plant growth, fruit yield, and biochemical responses under Cu-induced stress. A greenhouse experiment was conducted, where tomato plants were treated with Cu, chitosan, nAg, and their combinations. The results revealed that chitosan improved root growth, and enhanced antioxidant properties, including increased ascorbic acid and lycopene content. Nanosilver treatments, while reducing shoot growth, significantly increased fruit yield and potassium uptake. The combination of Cu with chitosan or nAg provided synergistic benefits, improving plant resilience and fruit quality. Specifically, copper+chitosan (Cu+Ch) increased dry matter and delayed ripening, while Cu+nAg enhanced potassium uptake and overall fruit yield. Additionally, Cu accelerated the ripening of tomatoes. These findings suggest that chitosan and nanosilver are effective strategies to mitigate copper toxicity in tomato plants, offering a sustainable approach to improve crop productivity and quality under heavy metal stress conditions.
Calcium Uptake Pattern and Its Transport Pathway in ‘Shixia’ Longan Fruit
Authors: Song Wenpei , Huang Siqi , Kurniadinata Odit F. , Yang Ziqin , Huang Xuming
Published: October 2024

Calcium plays an irreplaceable role as an essential mineral nutrient in plants, particularly in the formation of calcium pectinate, which is critical for cell wall construction. Fruits deficient in calcium are more susceptible to cell wall disintegration, bacterial infections, and the development of various physiological disorders and fungal diseases. Despite its importance, limited research has focused on calcium nutrition in longan, and the pathways and regulatory mechanisms underlying calcium uptake in this fruit remain unclear. In this study, we investigated calcium uptake in longan at different developmental stages, examined its variation patterns, analyzed the correlations between calcium concentrations in the pedicel and the fruit, and explored the distribution of calcium in the pedicel. We also studied the functions of xylem/apoplastic and symplastic pathways using dye tracers. Our findings contribute to a deeper understanding of calcium nutrition in longan and clarify the transportation characteristics of calcium within longan fruit.
Response of Chlorophyllase and Magnesium Dechelatase Enzymes in Yellow- and Green-Fleshed Kiwifruit to Degreening at Different Temperatures
Authors: Labra Angeli , Zoffoli Juan Pablo
Published: October 2024

Kiwifruit cultivars include fruit having a diversity of flesh colors in the range red to yellow to green, associated with specific pigment accumulations. In the yellow-fleshed cultivars, chlorophyll degradation is necessary to unmask the underlying carotenoid pigments, which are responsible for the yellow color. This study aimed to confirm the enzyme activity involved in chlorophyll degradation using different degreening temperatures in the yellow-fleshed kiwifruit (cv. ‘Kiss’, Actinidia chinensis var. chinensis) and in the contrasting green-fleshed kiwifruit (cv. ‘Hayward’, Actinidia chinensis var. deliciosa). Cultivar ‘Kiss’ was harvested at hue angle 106.9° and degreening was carried out at 0, 5, 10 or 15 °C for 41 d. Additionally, one week later, a second batch of the same cultivar was subsequently treated at 30 °C for one week to explore the inhibitory effect on degreening and to elucidate the roles of chlorophyllase and magnesium dechelatase enzymes in the process. Fruit degreened at 30 °C was maintained at 15 °C for 23 d afterward and was compared with fruit stored at 0 °C or at 15 °C for 30 d. Similar degreening treatments were applied to cv. ‘Hayward’ at commercial maturity. Every seven days, flesh color, pigment concentrations and the activities of chlorophyllase and magnesium dechelatase in the flesh were evaluated. Degreening of ‘Kiss’ kiwifruit was enhanced by 15 °C treatment or by 30 °C treatment for seven days and was associated with increasing carotenoids and decreasing chlorophyll a. The magnesium dechelatase activity was greater in fruit degreening at 15 °C, which was consistently maintained throughout the degreening period; however, the activity remained low at very high temperature (30 °C). Regardless of the above, degreening at 30 °C was not inhibited, showing faster color change and high chlorophyllase activity during the exposure time. In contrast, ‘Hayward’ maintained its green color with high concentrations of chlorophylls and carotenoids. However, the high chlorophyllase and the low magnesium dechelatase activities found in ‘Hayward’, suggest that chlorophyllase enzymes are not the only ones involved in flesh degreening.