bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Double-Track Pathway to Fast Strategy in Humans and Its Personality Correlates
Authors: Gutiérrez Fernando , Peri Josep M. , Baillès Eva , Sureda Bárbara , Gárriz Miguel , Vall Gemma , Cavero Myriam , Mallorquí Aida , Ruiz Rodríguez José
Published: June 2022

The fast–slow paradigm of life history (LH) focuses on how individuals grow, mate, and reproduce at different paces. This paradigm can contribute substantially to the field of personality and individual differences provided that it is more strictly based on evolutionary biology than it has been so far. Our study tested the existence of a fast–slow continuum underlying indicators of reproductive effort—offspring output, age at first reproduction, number and stability of sexual partners—in 1,043 outpatients with healthy to severely disordered personalities. Two axes emerged reflecting a double-track pathway to fast strategy, based on restricted and unrestricted sociosexual strategies. When rotated, the fast–slow and sociosexuality axes turned out to be independent. Contrary to expectations, neither somatic effort—investment in status, material resources, social capital, and maintenance/survival—was aligned with reproductive effort, nor a clear tradeoff between current and future reproduction was evident. Finally, we examined the association of LH axes with seven high-order personality pathology traits: negative emotionality, impulsivity, antagonism, persistence-compulsivity, subordination, and psychoticism. Persistent and disinhibited subjects appeared as fast-restricted and fast-unrestricted strategists, respectively, whereas asocial subjects were slow strategists. Associations of LH traits with each other and with personality are far more complex than usually assumed in evolutionary psychology.
How Coaches Can Improve Their Teams’ Match Performance—The Influence of In-Game Changes of Tactical Formation in Professional Soccer
Authors: Forcher Leon , Forcher Leander , Jekauc Darko , Wäsche Hagen , Woll Alexander , Gross Timo , Altmann Stefan
Published: June 2022

The tactical formation has been shown to influence the match performance of professional soccer players. This study aimed to examine the effects of in-game changes in tactical formation on match performance and to analyze coach-specific differences. We investigated three consecutive seasons of an elite team in the German Bundesliga which were managed by three different coaches, respectively. For every season, the formation changes that occurred during games were recorded. The match performance was measured on a team level using the variables “goals,” “chances,” and “scoring zone” entries (≙successful attacking sequence) for the own/opposing team. Non-parametric tests were used to compare the 10 min before with the 10 min after the formation change, as well as games with and without formation change. In the 10 min after the formation change, the team achieved more goals/chances/scoring zone entries than in the 10 min before the formation change (mean ES = 0.52). Similarly, the team conceded fewer opposing goals/chances/scoring zone entries in the 10 min after the formation change (mean ES = 0.35). Furthermore, the results indicate that the success of the respective formation change was dependent on the responsible coach. Depending on the season, the extent of the impacts varied (season 1: mean ES = 0.71; season 2: mean ES = 0.26; and season 3: mean ES = 0.22). Over all three seasons, the formation changes had a positive effect on the match performance of the analyzed team, highlighting their importance in professional soccer. Depending on the season, formation changes had varying impacts on the performance, indicating coach-specific differences. Therefore, the quality of the formation changes of the different coaches varied. The provided information can support coaches in understanding the effects of their in-game decisions.
Development and Internal Validation of a Model for Predicting Internet Gaming Disorder Risk in Adolescents and Children
Authors: Hong Jiangyue , Wang Jinghan , Qu Wei , Chen Haitao , Song Jiaqi , Zhang Meng , Zhao Yanli , Tan Shuping
Published: June 2022

Background

The high prevalence of Internet gaming disorder among children and adolescents and its severe psychological, health, and social consequences have become a public emergency. A high efficiency and cost-effective early recognition method are urgently needed.

Objective

We aim to develop and internally validate a nomogram model for predicting Internet gaming disorder (IGD) risk in Chinese adolescents and children.

Methods

Through an online survey, 780 children and adolescents aged 7–18 years who participated in the survey from June to August 2021 were selected. The least absolute shrinkage and selection operator regression model was used to filter the factors. Multivariate logistic regression analysis was used to establish the prediction model and generate nomograms and a website calculator. The area under the receiver operating characteristic curve, calibration plot, and decision curve analysis were used to evaluate the model's discrimination, calibration, and clinical utility. Bootstrapping validation was used to verify the model internally.

Results

Male sex and experience of game consumption were the two most important predictors. Both models exhibited good discrimination, with an area under the curve >0.80. The calibration plots were both close to the diagonal line (45°). Decision curve analyses revealed that two nomograms were clinically useful when the threshold probability for the intervention was set to 5–75%.

Conclusion

Two prediction models appear to be reliable tools for Internet gaming disorder screening in children and adolescents, which can also help clinicians to personalize treatment plans. Moreover, from the standpoint of simplification and cost, Model 2 appears to be a better alternative.
Decrease in Social Zeitgebers Is Associated With Worsened Delayed Sleep-Wake Phase Disorder: Findings During the Pandemic in Japan
Authors: Otsuki Rei , Matsui Kentaro , Yoshiike Takuya , Nagao Kentaro , Utsumi Tomohiro , Tsuru Ayumi , Ayabe Naoko , Hazumi Megumi , Fukumizu Michio , Kuriyama Kenichi
Published: June 2022

Background

Delay in sleep-wake rhythms was observed in the general population during the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. Patients with delayed sleep-wake phase disorder (DSWPD) may have also experienced exacerbation of symptoms, but no studies have investigated this topic. In this study, we aimed to retrospectively examine the changes in symptoms of outpatients with DSWPD both before and during the pandemic and to identify the factors associated with the exacerbation of sleep-wake rhythms.

Methods

We included outpatients with DSWPD aged 16 years or older who visited the outpatient clinic due to sleep disorders between January and September 2020. Decreased social zeitgebers was defined as a reduction of 50% or more in the frequency of commuting to school or work during the COVID-19 pandemic. The severity of DSWPD was assessed using the clinical global impressions - severity of illness (CGI-S) at two points: before and during the pandemic. We defined the worsened, unchanged, and improved groups as those whose CGI-S scores worsened by at least one point, remained unchanged, and improved by at least one point, respectively. Multivariate logistic regression analysis was performed to determine the factors associated with worsened DSWPD symptoms.

Results

Sixty patients with DSWPD were eligible for this study. Even before the pandemic, patients who were unemployed or did not attend school tended to show more severe DSWPD symptoms. During the pandemic, 27 patients belonged to the worsened group; 28 patients, unchanged group; and 5 patients, improved group. Decreased social zeitgebers (odds ratio [OR] = 6.668, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.653–26.891, p < 0.05) and comorbid mood disorders (OR = 8.876, 95% CI: 1.714–45.974, p < 0.05) showed independent significant associations with the worsening of DSWPD symptoms.

Conclusions

During the pandemic, the symptoms of DSWPD tended to worsen. The obtained findings emphasize the importance of social zeitgebers, suggesting the need for external motivation in DSWPD treatment.
Association Between Depressive Symptoms and Serum Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor Levels in Patients With First-Episode and Drug-Naïve Schizophrenia
Authors: Wu Yuxuan , Du Xiangdong , Yang Ruchang , Yue Yan , Peng Ruijie , Wu Siqi , Wang Haitao , Zhou Yue , Fang Xiaojia , Yuan Nian , Li Ronghua , Zhang Jun , Zou Siyun , Zhao Xueli , Lyu Xiaoli , Li Zhe , Zhang Xiaobin , Zhang Xiangyang
Published: June 2022

Previous studies have revealed that brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) levels are inversely associated with the severity of depressive symptoms. In addition, serum BDNF levels tend to increase with improvement in depressive symptoms. There is also evidence that BDNF has a possible role in the pathophysiology of schizophrenia. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to determine whether BDNF levels correlated with depressive symptoms in patients with first-episode and drug-naïve (FEDN) schizophrenia. In this study, 90 patients with FEDN schizophrenia and 60 healthy controls were recruited. The Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale (PANSS) and the 17-item Hamilton Depression Scale (HAMD-17) were used to gage psychopathological and depressive symptoms, respectively. All participants had their BDNF levels measured using a sandwich enzyme-linked immunosorbent test. Serum BDNF levels were lower in patients with FEDN schizophrenia compared with healthy controls. Moreover, patients with depressive symptoms exhibited a higher PANSS total score and a higher general psychopathology score than those without depressive symptoms (p < 0.05). For patients with depressive symptoms, serum BDNF levels were higher than in those without depressive symptoms (p < 0.05). An association between BDNF levels and the positive subscore was also observed (p < 0.01). However, there was no significant association between BDNF levels and HAMD scores (p > 0.05). In conclusion, BDNF levels were shown to be higher in the serum of patients with FEDN schizophrenia with depressive symptoms than in those without. Additionally, low levels of serum BDNF may contribute to the positive symptoms of FEDN schizophrenia but not to depressive symptoms.
Seroprevalence of Anti-S1-RBD Antibodies in Pre-pandemic and Pandemic Subjects From Hail Region, KSA
Authors: Sherwani Subuhi , Khan Mohd Wajid Ali , Mallik Arshi , Khan Mahvish , Saleem Mohd , Raafat Mohamed , Shati Ayed A. , Alam Noor
Published: June 2022

Background

Two years into the pandemic, yet the threat of new SARS-CoV-2 variants continues to loom large. Sustained efforts are required to fully understand the infection in asymptomatic individuals and those with complications. Identification, containment, care, and preventative strategies rely on understanding the varied humoral immune responses.

Methods

An in-house ELISA was developed and standardized to screen for serum IgG antibodies against the SARS-CoV-2 S1-RBD protein as an antigen. This study aims to investigate the seroprevalence of serum antibodies against S1-RBD antigen in pre-pandemic (n = 120) and during the early pandemic period (n = 120) in subjects from the Hail region, KSA and to correlate it with clinical and demographic factors.

Results

Samples collected from both male (n = 60) and female (n = 60) subjects during the pandemic in the age groups of 20–40 (0.31 ± 0.029 and 0.29 ± 0.024, respectively) and 41–60 years (0.35 ± 0.026 and 0.30 ± 0.025, respectively) showed significantly higher levels of serum antibodies against S-RBD antigen than the age-matched pre-pandemic samples [male (n = 60) and female (n = 60)]. Pandemic subjects exhibited significantly (p < 0.01) higher inhibition (80–88%) than age-matched pre-pandemic subjects (32–39%). Antibodies against S1-RBD antigen were detected in approximately 10% of the total pre-pandemic population (males and females). However, subjects > 60 years did not show antibodies.

Conclusion

Antibody levels increased in samples collected during the pandemic, even though these subjects were not clinically COVID-19 positive. A small number of pre-pandemic subjects showed serum antibodies, suggesting prior exposure to other coronaviruses in the region. With dwindling neutralizing antibody levels and reduced vaccine efficacy against newer variants, it remains crucial to develop better assays for surveillance, management, and future research.
“The Rodney Dangerfield of Stylistic Devices”: End-to-End Detection and Extraction of Vossian Antonomasia Using Neural Networks
Authors: Schwab Michel , Jäschke Robert , Fischer Frank
Published: June 2022

Vossian Antonomasia (VA) is a well-known stylistic device based on attributing a certain property to a person by relating them to another person who is famous for this property. Although the morphological and semantic characteristics of this phenomenon have long been the subject of linguistic research, little is known about its distribution. In this paper, we describe end-to-end approaches for detecting and extracting VA expressions from large news corpora in order to study VA more broadly. We present two types of approaches: binary sentence classifiers that detect whether or not a sentence contains a VA expression, and sequence tagging of all parts of a VA on the word level, enabling their extraction. All models are based on neural networks and outperform previous approaches, best results are obtained with a fine-tuned BERT model. Furthermore, we study the impact of training data size and class imbalance by adding negative (and possibly noisy) instances to the training data. We also evaluate the models' performance on out-of-corpus and real-world data and analyze the ability of the sequence tagging model to generalize in terms of new entity types and syntactic patterns.
Daily Fluid Intake Behaviors and Associated Health Effects Among Australian and United States Populations
Authors: Sims Jesse N. L. , Holland Justin J. , Anderson Travis , Adams William M.
Published: June 2022

Minimal data exist exploring intercontinental differences in fluid intake (FI) beliefs and behaviors and the impact on fluid intake practices (i.e., fluid intake volume, beverage type, and timing of fluid intake). Therefore, this study explored the impact that FI beliefs and behaviors had on FI practices among emerging adults living in the United States (USA) and Australia (AUS). A total of 489 individuals (74.5% female; USA, 79.4%; age, 25 ± 6 years completed a 23-item survey between November 2020 and June 2021). Participants detailed their FI practices. FI beliefs were evaluated to determine their contribution to FI behaviors across the day. Multinomial and multiple linear regression analyses explored the association of daily FI beliefs and behaviors across multiple domains. Independent sample t-tests and chi-square analyses were conducted to compare FI practices, beliefs, and behaviors between individuals in the USA and AUS. FI behaviors were significantly different between countries, with the USA more likely to consume fluids to meet a total target volume (β = 1.150, p = 0.036) and consume fluid at the same time as structured daily activities (β = 0.773, p = 0.046) compared to FI alongside food intake. However, there were no differences in the types of beverage consumed (juice, sugar-sweetened beverages, tea, and coffee), total fluid volume, and physical activity (PA) between countries (p > 0.05). Beverage consumption was higher among USA than AUS residents for water, beer, and wine (p < 0.05). Total fluid consumption was greater among males (3,189 ± 2,407 ml) than females (2,215 ± 1,132 ml; β = 3.61, p < 0.001), individuals who regularly consumed fluid during the day to meet a targeted volume (β = 1,728.5, p < 0.001), and those who regularly consumed fluid as a habitual behavior (β = 3.97, p < 0.001) compared to those individuals who only consumed fluid alongside mealtimes (β = 1,041.7, p < 0.001). FI behaviors differed between the USA and AUS; however, total volume consumed, type of beverage consumed, and FI beliefs were similar. FI practices and behaviors appear to be individualized and context-specific among the studied populations.
Cryopreservation of Animals and Cryonics: Current Technical Progress, Difficulties and Possible Research Directions
Authors: Ekpo Marlene Davis , Boafo George Frimpong , Gambo Suleiman Shafiu , Hu Yuying , Liu Xiangjian , Xie Jingxian , Tan Songwen
Published: June 2022

The basis of cryonics or medical cryopreservation is to safely store a legally dead subject until a time in the future when technology and medicine will permit reanimation after eliminating the disease or cause of death. Death has been debunked as an event occurring after cardiac arrest to a process where interjecting its progression can allow for reversal when feasible. Cryonics technology artificially halts further damages and injury by restoring respiration and blood circulation, and rapidly reducing temperature. The body can then be preserved at this extremely low temperature until the need for reanimation. Presently, the area has attracted numerous scientific contributions and advancement but the practice is still flooded with challenges. This paper presents the current progression in cryonics research. We also discuss obstacles to success in the field, and identify the possible solutions and future research directions.
Comparison of Effects of an Endotracheal Tube or Facemask on Breathing Pattern and Distribution of Ventilation in Anesthetized Horses
Authors: Moreno-Martinez Fernando , Byrne David , Raisis Anthea , Waldmann Andreas D. , Hosgood Giselle , Mosing Martina
Published: June 2022

Equine respiratory physiology might be influenced by the presence of an endotracheal tube (ETT). This experimental, randomized cross-over study aimed to compare breathing pattern (BrP) and ventilation distribution in anesthetized horses spontaneously breathing room air via ETT or facemask (MASK). Six healthy adult horses were anesthetized with total intravenous anesthesia (TIVA; xylazine, ketamine, guaiphenesin), breathing spontaneously in right lateral recumbency, and randomly assigned to ETT or MASK for 30 min, followed by the other treatment for an additional 30 min. During a second anesthesia 1 month later, the treatment order was inversed. Electrical impedance tomography (EIT) using a thoracic electrode belt, spirometry, volumetric capnography, esophageal pressure difference (ΔPoes), venous admixture, and laryngoscopy data were recorded over 2 min every 15 min. Breaths were classified as normal or alternate (sigh orcrown-like) according to the EIT impedance curve. A mixed linear model was used to test the effect of treatment on continuous outcomes. Cochran-Mantel-Haenszel analysis was used to test for associations between global BrP and treatment. Global BrP was associated with treatment (p= 0.012) with more alternate breaths during ETT. The center of ventilation right-to-left (CoVRL) showed more ventilation in the non-dependent lung during ETT (p= 0.025). The I:E ratio (p= 0.017) and ΔPoes (p< 0.001) were smaller, and peak expiratory flow (p= 0.009) and physiologic dead space (p= 0.034) were larger with ETT. The presence of an ETT alters BrP and shifts ventilation toward the non-dependent lung in spontaneously breathing horses anesthetized with TIVA.
When Digitalization Meets Omnichannel in International Markets: A Case Study from the Agri-Food Industry
Authors: Ciasullo Maria Vincenza , Montera Raffaella , Mercuri Francesco , Mugova Shame
Published: June 2022

Digitalization is prompting small and medium-sized enterprises to structural and strategic transformations, also providing new opportunities to expand and succeed in foreign markets. However, relatively few studies have investigated emergent digital technologies in international business management. Contextually, there is still a dearth of research on the multi-faceted impacts of digitalization on omnichannel strategy characterizing most of the global business environment today. This paper, therefore, aims to examine the impact of digitalization on omnichannel choices adopted by internationalized SMEs. A qualitative approach, based on a single case study methodology, is adopted. An Italian agri-food SME is chosen as this industry is considered a key and distinctive pillar of Made in Italy in the international markets. Findings reveal the potential of digital technologies’ applications in an omnichannel environment, blurring the boundaries between channels, through a synergetic integration of them. This evidence contributes to the existing literature on technology management and omnichannel strategies in the international context by rereading these phenomena through a smart ecosystem lens. In addition, this study provides practical insights on how multiple channels adopted by Made in Italy SMEs can be integrated, managed, and operated synergistically on international markets to sustain a digitalized value creation.
Local and Regional Management Approaches for the Redesign of Local Development: A Case Study of Greece
Authors: Kalogiannidis Stavros , Loizou Efstratios , Kalfas Dimitrios , Chatzitheodoridis Fotios
Published: June 2022

The efforts of different local and regional administrations are increasingly seen as very important drivers of the economic vitality and well-being of territories in a world where subnational government levels continue to gain levels of authority. This study sought to investigate the efficacy of revamping local and regional development through local and regional management practices with a key focus on Greece. A mixed-methods research design was utilized; data were collected using a questionnaire from 200 entrepreneurs and investors from the local community in Kozani and through interviews with six local government leaders in Kozani city, Greece. The study shows that effective local–regional management practices normally function within the constraints provided by local contextual circumstances and traits as well as the possibilities offered by them. In this case, localized techniques may be used in areas with varying degrees of ex ante favorability, economic structures, and different resource endowments, as well as capacities that are essential for regional and local development. Any barriers that may affect the effectiveness of local–regional management practices can be eliminated through proper decision making, the proper allocation of resources, and participatory leadership at the local government level.
Applying Different Magnetic Water Densities as Irrigation for Aeroponically and Hydroponically Grown Strawberries
Authors: Mohamed Tarek Mahrous Korany , Gao Jianmin , Abuarab Mohamed E. , Kassem Mohamed , Wasef Essam , El-Ssawy Wessam
Published: June 2022

Due to the scarcity of water, it is necessary to develop an environmentally friendly method for increasing water productivity and crop production. An experiment was conducted to assess the effects of different magnetic levels (magnetic water level 1 (MWL 1) = 3800 Gauss, magnetic water level 2 (MWL 2) = 5250 Gauss, and magnetic water level 3 (MWL 3) = 6300 Gauss, as well as normal water (NW) as a control) in combination with three soilless culture systems (a nutrient film technique (NFT) hydroponics system, a tower aeroponics system, and a pyramidal aeroponics system. The results showed that the utilization of magnetic water had significant effects on the yield and growth of strawberry plants The tower aeroponic system under MWL 3 produced the highest yield and water productivity, with increases of 80.9% and 89%, respectively, over the control. The tower aeroponic system under MWL 3 produced the highest yield and water productivity, with increases of 80.9% and 89%, respectively, over the control. In addition, as compared to the NW, the NFT system increased yield and water productivity by 71.1% and 79.3%, respectively, whilst the pyramidal system increased yield and water productivity by 66.87% and 82%, respectively. Furthermore, when compared to the control, the combination of the NFT system and magnetic water level 3 (MWL 3) resulted in the most leaves, largest stem diameter, and largest leaf area of the strawberry plants resulted in the most leaves, stem diameter, and leaf area of strawberry plants. In comparison to all other treatments, this combination produced the best fruit quality and yield, as well as its constituents, such as titratable acidity, total soluble solids, and fruit hardness. This study found that combining magnetic therapy with soilless culture techniques resulted in increased yield and water productivity. In addition, water and fertigation solution usage in the NFT, tower, and pyramidal systems dropped by 4.8%, 6%, and 4.8%, respectively. Furthermore, it enhanced plant morphology and plant quality.
Genome-Wide Identification and Expression Analysis of WRKY Genes during Anthocyanin Biosynthesis in the Mango (Mangifera indica L.)
Authors: Shi Bin , Wu Hongxia , Zhu Wencan , Zheng Bin , Wang Songbiao , Zhou Kaibing , Qian Minjie
Published: June 2022

The WRKY family is one of the largest transcription factor (TF) families in plants and is involved in the regulation of plant physiological processes, such as anthocyanin accumulation. However, little information is known regarding the WRKY genes in the mango. In this study, a total of 87 mango WRKY genes were identified and named MiWRKY1 to MiWRKY87. Phylogenetic results showed that the 87 MiWRKYs could be divided into three groups (I, II, III) and five subgroups of group II (II-a, II-b, II-c, II-d, II-e), with high similarity in exon–intron structures and WRKY domain and motif compositions within the same group and subgroup. One tandem duplication (MiWRKY76 and MiWRKY82) and 97 pairs of segmental duplicates were identified in the mango genome. Syntenic analysis showed that mango MiWRKY genes had 52 and 69 orthologous pairs with Arabidopsis and citrus, respectively. Promoter cis-acting element analysis revealed that MiWRKYs contain a large number of elements associated with light signaling, hormonal response, environmental stress, and plant development. Tissue specific expression profiles showed that the expression of MiWRKY genes displayed tissue preference. Quantitative-PCR analysis showed that high expression levels of MiWRKY1, MiWRKY3, MiWRKY5, MiWRKY81, and MiWRKY84 were detected in the skin of red mango cultivar, and the expressions of MiWRKY1 and MiWRKY81 were up-regulated during light-induced anthocyanin accumulation in the mango, indicating these genes might regulate anthocyanin biosynthesis in the mango. This study provides comprehensive genetic information on the MiWRKYs in mango fruit.
Identification and Validation of Quantitative Trait Loci for Grain Size in Bread Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.)
Authors: Hu Wenjing , Liao Sen , Zhao Die , Jia Jizeng , Xu Weigang , Cheng Shunhe
Published: June 2022

Grain width (GW) and grain length (GL) are crucial components affecting grain weight. Dissection of their genetic control is essential for improving yield potential in wheat breeding. Yangmai 12 (YM12) and Yanzhan 1 (YZ1) are two elite cultivars released in the Middle and Lower Yangtze Valleys Wheat Zone (MLYVWZ) and the Yellow-Huai River Valleys Wheat Zone (YRVWZ), respectively. One biparental population derived from YM12/YZ1 cross was employed to perform QTL mapping based on the data from four environments over two years to detect quantitative trait loci (QTL) for GW and GL. A total of eight QTL were identified on chromosomes 1B, 2D, 3B, 4B, 5A, and 6B. Notably, QGW.yz.2D was co-located with QGL.yz.2D, and QGW.yz.4B was co-located with QGL.yz.4B, respectively. QGW.yz.2D and QGL.yz.2D, with the increasing GW/GL allele from YZ1, explained 12.36–18.27% and 13.69–26.53% of the phenotypic variations for GW and GL, respectively. QGW.yz.4B and QGL.yz.4B, with the increasing GW/GL allele from YM12, explained 10.34–11.95% and 10.35–16.04% of the phenotypic variation for GW and GL, respectively. QGL.yz.5A, with the increasing GL allele from YM12, explained 10.04–12.48% of the phenotypic variation for GL. Moreover, the positive alleles of these three QTL regions could significantly increase thousand-grain weight, and QGW.yz.4B/QGL.yz.4B and QGL.yz.5A did not show significant negative effects on grain number per spike. QGL.yz.2D, QGW.yz.4B/QGL.yz.4B, and QGL.yz.5A have not been reported. These three QTL regions were then further validated using Kompetitive Allele-Specific PCR (KASP) markers in 159 wheat cultivars/lines from MLYVWZ and YRVWZ. Combining the positive alleles of the major QTL significantly increased GW and GL. Eleven candidate genes associated with encoding ethylene-responsive transcription factor, oleosin, osmotin protein, and thaumatin protein were identified. Three major QTL and KASP markers reported here will be helpful in developing new wheat cultivars with high and stable yields.
Composition of Equine Manure as Influenced by Stall Management
Authors: Chastain John P.
Published: June 2022

A study was conducted to compare the composition of equine manure as removed from the stall, and bedding-free manure on six horse farms. The farms ranged from a pleasure horse stable with poorly managed stalls to an intensively managed stable for racehorses. The manure characteristics measured included: moisture content, total nitrogen, total ammoniacal nitrogen, nitrate nitrogen, organic nitrogen, total phosphorous (expressed as P2O5), total potassium (expressed as K2O), calcium, magnesium, sulfur, zinc, copper, manganese, iron, total carbon, electrical conductivity (index of soluble salts), and pH. Statistical analysis indicated that stall management had a significant impact on the dry basis concentrations of all plant nutrients, carbon, organic matter, pH, and EC. It was also determined that the C:N of stall manure ranged from 23.4:1 to 48.5:1 depending on the amount of bedding used and daily management. The C:N value of equine manure was used as an indicator of the level of stall management (high, medium, low). It was determined that the concentrations of nitrogen, phosphorous, calcium, magnesium, zinc, copper, and sodium were negatively correlated with the C:N of horse manure. Average EC measurements ranged from 1.86 to 3.46 mmhos/cm. A correlation analysis, that included all metals that could be in salt form, indicated that EC was significantly correlated with the K2O content but not with sodium, calcium, or magnesium. The high C:N values of horse manure indicated that composting may be a preferred method of treatment prior to land application. However, spreading equine manure based on the agronomic rate for P2O5 for a pasture and adding fertilizer nitrogen sufficient to reduce the C:N of applied manure to 10:1 to overcome induced nitrogen deficiency may provide another alternative.
Using Smoke Condensed Liquids from Pruned Fruit-Tree Branches for Aedes Mosquito Larva Control
Authors: Yang Dun-Sheng , Shen Meng-Wei , Chen Shyi-Tien
Published: June 2022

Some mosquitos are disease-causing vectors. Their widespread existence poses a great threat to disease control worldwide. Finding an effective, low-cost solution for mosquito population control is desperately needed. Pruned branches from three fruit trees of date, pomelo, and guava were chopped, dried, and smoldered to form biochar and smoke. The smoke was condensed at 6 °C to form a smoke condensed liquid (SCL) to be used as a larvicide for mosquito larva control. The SCL had a smoky smell, minimal nutrients, and little metal contents, yet contained plenty of phenolic molecules commonly used as biocides. Via bacterial inhibition zone tests, ten percent of the date, pomelo, and guava SCLs had 1.44, 1.13, and 0.83 times higher bactericidal effects, respectively, than the use of 75% ethanol. The effectiveness of bacterial inhibition was positively related to the amounts of volatile compounds in the SCL liquids. As for larvicidal effects, a ten percent solution of the date and pomelo SCLs killed all tested larvae within 2 hrs. The reactive time versus each SCL’s LC50 was determined and fitted with a first-order mathematic model. The adopted model and its estimated parameters showed satisfactory results in presenting the dose–effect relationships in larval mortality of all the tested SCLs. Finally, the liquid pHs and dissolved oxygen (DO) over time were examined for their effectiveness and variation, respectively, and the SCL addition was concluded as the sole key factor in the mortality of the tested larvae.
Effects of Selenium-Methionine against Heat Stress in Ca2+-Cytosolic and Germination of Olive Pollen Performance
Authors: Del Pino Alberto Marco , Regni Luca , Di Michele Alessandro , Gentile Alessandra , Del Buono Daniele , Proietti Primo , Palmerini Carlo Alberto
Published: June 2022

Climate change (CC), which causes temperatures to rise steadily, is causing global warming. Rising temperatures can reduce plant yield and affect pollen characteristics. In particular, heat stress strongly influences pollen viability for its sensitivity to this extreme environmental condition. This work evaluated the effect of heat stress on olive pollen after in vitro incubation at different temperatures (20, 30, and 40 °C). Furthermore, the potential of selenium-methionine (Se-met) in mitigating the detrimental effects of heat stress on olive pollen was investigated. In particular, how thermal stress can affect pollen was evaluated by testing the effect of temperature on pollen germinability and morphology and cytosolic Ca2+ content. The results suggest that the heat stress at 40 °C caused a marked reduction in the germination rate, changes in the morphology of the external pollen wall, and a decreased response to Ca2+-agonist agents. On the contrary, in vitro treatment of pollen with Se-met improved the germination rate and Ca2+-cytosolic homeostasis under heat stress conditions and confirmed the protective role of this compound in containing the hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) toxicity. Therefore, this study revealed that organic selenium could play a crucial role in promoting heat tolerance in olive tree pollen.
Genome-Wide Survey and Expression Analysis of B-Box Family Genes in Cucumber Reveal Their Potential Roles in Response to Diverse Abiotic and Biotic Stresses
Authors: Zhu Chuxia , Xiao Lingdi , Hu Yaqi , Liu Liu , Liu Haoju , Hu Zhaoyang , Liu Shiqiang , Zhou Yong
Published: June 2022

As a class of zinc finger transcription factors, B-box (BBX) proteins play diverse roles in numerous biological processes, and they have been identified in a series of plant species in recent years. However, the roles of BBX genes in regulating cucumber growth regulation and stress response have not yet been established. Here, a total of 22 BBX family genes were identified via an analysis of the latest cucumber genome data, which were classified into five groups (I–V) on the basis of their phylogenetic features and number of B-box domains and CCT domains. The CsBBX genes were unevenly distributed across the seven cucumber chromosomes, and segmental duplication was found to play a significant role in the expansion of the cucumber BBX gene family. Gene structure and motif composition analysis suggested that the evolutionarily close CsBBXs have similar conserved motif composition and gene structure. Most CsBBX genes possessed 1–3 introns, and intron gain rather than intron loss could contribute to the different structures of CsBBX genes across different groups during their evolution. Promoter analysis revealed the presence of 13 kinds of hormone-related and nine kinds of stress-related cis-regulatory elements in the promoter regions of these CsBBX genes. Expression analysis via RNA-seq and qRT-PCR suggested that the CsBBX genes exhibit differential expression in different tissues and in response to various abiotic and biotic stresses. This work constitutes a starting point for further revealing the function of the CsBBX genes and sheds light on the potential molecular mechanism of stress resistance in cucumber.
Investigating the Impact of International Markets on Imported and Exported Non-Cereal Crops in Bangladesh
Authors: Jannat Arifa , Aruga Kentaka , Furuya Jun , Iiyama Miyuki
Published: June 2022

To maintain a sustainable market for major non-cereal crops in Bangladesh, the present study evaluated the asymmetric effect of the key macroeconomic variables on the imported and exported non-cereal crops. In this connection, this study evaluated the nonlinear interactions and co-movements between the international market indicators such as the world prices, total trade amount, and gross domestic product per capita (GDPPC) and the market prices of potato and rapeseed in Bangladesh. Using yearly data from 1988 to 2019, we used the nonlinear autoregressive distributed lag (NARDL) model to investigate both short- and long-term market dynamics concerning the positive and negative shocks in the macroeconomic variables on imported and exported non-cereal crops. First, the study identifies that during the period investigated, the world potato and rapeseed prices led to an increase in the Bangladesh potato and rapeseed prices when they are increasing. Second, we find that the changes in the trade volume only have an influence on the potato price, both in the long-run and short-run. Finally, our findings revealed that domestic rapeseed prices tend to decrease when the GDPPC increases. Our empirical findings imply that it is important for market participants of potato and rapeseed in Bangladesh to take into consideration the sensitivity of the above-mentioned variables when designing resource allocation decisions in the event of positive and negative effects.
Evaluation of LiDAR for the Free Navigation in Agriculture
Authors: Reger Matthias , Stumpenhausen Jörn , Bernhardt Heinz
Published: June 2022

Driverless transport systems (DTS) or automated guided vehicles (AGV) have been part of intralogistics for over six decades. The uniform and structured environment conditions in industrial halls provided the ideal conditions for simple automation, such as in goods transport. Initially, implementing simply-designed safety devices, e.g., bumpers, could reduce risk to an acceptable level. However, these conditions are not present in an agricultural environment. Soiling and harsh weather conditions are anticipated both indoors and outdoors. The state of the art in intralogistics are light detection and ranging (LiDAR) scanners, which are suitable for both navigation and collision avoidance, including personal protection. In this study, the outdoor and navigation suitability of LiDAR is assessed in test series. The aim is to contribute advice on validation of LiDAR as a possible technology with respect to navigation and collision avoidance in freely navigating automatic feeding systems.
Effects of Faba Bean Strip Cropping in an Outdoor Organic Tomato System on Soil Nutrient Availability, Production, and N Budget under Different Fertilizations
Authors: Warren Raffa Dylan , Migliore Melania , Campanelli Gabriele , Leteo Fabrizio , Trinchera Alessandra
Published: June 2022

Crop diversification has been identified as a tool to improve both productive and environmental performances of organic horticulture. We tested the introduction of faba beans in a tomato cropping system—both as preceding crop and in strip cropping (SC)—under different fertilization strategies—faba residues, animal manure, and vegetable compost. We studied: (i) the tomato nutrient uptake and yield and quality; (ii) the soil-N and P, the N-budget, and the mycorrhizal colonization. SC did not provide consistent positive effects on tomato production and quality, namely the N-uptake, N in the tomato yield, the mean fruit weight, and the sugar accumulation in berries, regardless of the type of fertilizers applied. SC improved the tomato dry yield and P-uptake, especially in years when the faba growth and the subsequent yield were problematic. Faba residues could provide sufficient N to sustain tomato production but care should be given in balancing additional N-inputs. Organic fertilization increased the soil-N concentration but did not always translate into an increased yield and a higher quality production, with the risk of escalating N-losses. SC improved the soil-P availability and mycorrhizal colonization in tomato, due to the rhizobia–mycorrhiza-mycorrhiza association, especially when coupled with organic fertilization. Finally, introducing faba as SC holds potential to improve the productive and environmental performance of organic tomato production.
Utilization of Vertical Cordon System to Improve Source-Sink Balance and Wine Aroma under Water Shortage Conditions of Maturana Blanca
Authors: Puelles Miguel , Balda Pedro , Labarga David , Mairata Andreu , García-Escudero Enrique , Guadalupe Zenaida , Ayestarán Belén , Pou Alicia
Published: June 2022

In small-clustered vine cultivars, the conditions of success for a hanging form in order to guarantee a sufficient yield and quality level could go through establishing a permanent vertical cordon to enhance vine capacity and to retain a greater number of buds without making a canopy too compact. In this case, it is also important to quantify the main source–sink relationships within the vine in terms of the vine’s general responses to water shortage. The influence of two types of spur pruned vines (head-trained (HT) vs. vertical cordon trained (VCT)) was examined in field-grown vines in the local cultivar Maturana Blanca in order to achieve an optimal yield under two irrigation regimes (non-irrigated and irrigated at 30% of ET0). For this vegetative development, yield, fruit composition, and wine volatile compounds were measured. The VCT system has demonstrated to increase yield up to 1.8-fold as compared with the HT system independently of the irrigation regime. Although clear differences were observed in the source-sink ratios between the two training systems, these differences did not affect the ripening of the grapes nor their quality. However, a reduction in berry size and the more exposed clusters in VCT vines resulted in a higher concentration of aromatic compounds in the obtained wines as compared with those of HT vines. This study indicates the improvement of the source to sink ratio of the cv. Maturana Blanca through a change in the training system, which helps to increase light interception, leading to a higher yield potential, an optimization of the leaf area to fruit ratio, and an increase in the concentration of aromatic compounds.
Influence of the Density in Binderless Particleboards Made from Sorghum
Authors: Ferrandez-Garcia Antonio , Ferrandez-Garcia Maria Teresa , Garcia-Ortuño Teresa , Ferrandez-Villena Manuel
Published: June 2022

In order to fight climate change and decouple economic growth from material use, valorization of waste will be fundamental. Sorghum is one of the most important summer crops in the world. The non-edible parts of the plant, the stalks and leaves are left over and must be disposed of. This work proposes to use sorghum waste particles as a raw material to manufacture boards and analyze the influence of its density. Particles were sprayed with 10% wt of water and placed in a hot press at 2.1 MPa and 110 °C for 30 min. Eight types of panels were produced with densities ranging from 950 kg/m3 to 1250 kg/m3. The results indicated that the water absorption (WA), modulus of rupture (MOR), modulus of elasticity (MOE) and internal bounding strength (IB) depended on the density. With higher densities, the particleboards showed better physical and mechanical behavior. This study demonstrates that it is technically possible to manufacture adhesive-free particleboards from sorghum residues that comply with European standards and can be used as boards for general applications. The use of these particleboards could be beneficial in fighting climate change and in minimizing the use of natural wood.
Location of Pathogen Inoculum in the Potting Substrate Influences Damage by Globisporangium ultimum, Fusarium culmorum and Rhizoctonia solani and Effectiveness of Control Agents in Maize Seedlings
Authors: Koch Eckhard , Zink Petra , Bernhardt Tanja , Birr Tim , Linkies Ada
Published: June 2022

The aim of this study was to determine the impact of the location of the pathogen inoculum on damage caused by Globisporangium (syn. Pythium) ultimum, Fusarium culmorum and Rhizoctonia solani in pot tests with maize. For this purpose, pathogen inoculum was added to potting substrate, and the resulting mix was used to fill the whole pot volume, the upper half, or the lower half of pots. The remaining volume was filled with non-inoculated substrate. In a second experimental approach, maize seeds were germinated in non-inoculated potting substrate and the seedlings were transferred to inoculated substrate. The seeds were untreated, treated with the chemical thiram, or treated with a bacterial or a fungal biocontrol agent. With each of the pathogens, the damage to the developing maize seedlings was the strongest when the seeds germinated in the inoculated potting substrate. When only the roots were in contact with the inoculum, there was limited damage by R. solani and F. culmorum, and no damage by G. ultimum. This implies that in experiments with artificial inoculation, the seeds should always be in immediate contact with the inoculum if a strong pathogenic effect is desired. Conversely, seed treatments must, in the first place, be able to protect the spermosphere, while the requirement to protect the roots at a distance from the seed seems to depend on the pathogen.
Site-Specific Management Zones Delineation Based on Apparent Soil Electrical Conductivity in Two Contrasting Fields of Southern Brazil
Authors: Bottega Eduardo Leonel , Safanelli José Lucas , Zeraatpisheh Mojtaba , Amado Telmo Jorge Carneiro , Queiroz Daniel Marçal de , Oliveira Zanandra Boff de
Published: June 2022

Management practices that aim to increase the profitability of agricultural production with minimal environmental impact must consider within-field soil variability, and this site-specific management can be addressed by precision agriculture (PA). Thus, this work aimed to investigate which key soil attributes are distinguishable management zones (MZ) delineated based on the soil apparent electrical conductivity (ECa), using fuzzy k-means, in two fields with contrasting soil textures in southern Brazil. For this, a grid scheme (50 × 50 m) was applied to measure ECa, conduct soil sampling for analysis, and determine soybean yield. The MZ were delineated based on the ECa spatial distribution, and statistical non-parametric tests (p < 0.05) were employed to compare the soil chemical and physical attributes among MZ. The management zones were able to distinguish the average values of Clay, Silt, pH, Ca2+, Mg2+, SB, Al3+, H+ + Al3+, AS%, and BS%. In the field classified as sandy clay loam texture, management zones were able to differentiate the average values of soybean yield, Clay, Ca2+, Mg2+, SB, and CEC. Thus, this study supports the ECa as an efficient tool for delineating MZ of contrasting cropland soils in southern Brazil to understand the within-field soil variability and adjust the inputs according.