bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The sensitivity of photosynthesis to magnesium deficiency differs between rice (Oryza sativa L.) and cucumber (Cucumis sativus L.)
Authors: Meng Xusheng , Bai Song , Wang Shiyu , Pan Yonghui , Chen Kehao , Xie Kailiu , Wang Min , Guo Shiwei
Published: April 2023

Magnesium is an essential macronutrient for plant photosynthesis, and in response to Mg deficiency, dicots appear more sensitive than monocots. Under Mg deficiency, we investigated the causes of differing photosynthetic sensitivities in a dicot and a monocot species. Rice (Oryza sativa L.) and cucumber (Cucumis sativus L.) were grown in hydroponic culture to explore their physiological responses to Mg deficiency stress. Both Mg-deficient rice and cucumber plants exhibited lower biomass, leaf area, Mg concentration, and chlorophyll content (Chl) compared with Mg-sufficient plants. However, a more marked decline in Chl and carotenoid content (Car) occurred in cucumber. A lower CO2 concentration in chloroplasts (Cc) was accompanied by a decrease in the maximum rate of electron transport (Jmax) and the maximum rate of ribulose 1,5-bisphosphate carboxylation (Vcmax), restricting CO2 utilization in Mg-deficient plants. Rice and cucumber photorespiration rate (Pr) increased under Mg deficiency. Additionally, for cucumber, Car and non-photochemical quenching (NPQ) were reduced under lower Mg supply. Meanwhile, cucumber Mg deficiency significantly increased the fraction of absorbed light energy dissipated by an additional quenching mechanism (Φf,D). Under Mg deficiency, suppressed photosynthesis was attributed to comprehensive restrictions of mesophyll conductance (gm), Jmax, and Vcmax. Cucumber was more sensitive to Mg deficiency than rice due to lower NPQ, higher rates of electron transport to alternative pathways, and subsequently, photooxidation damage.
Why time flies? The role of immersion in short video usage behavior
Authors: Yan Yurong , He Yingfei , Li Longfei
Published: April 2023

Background

Short videos are becoming increasingly popular globally, and users are devoting more time to viewing them. However, few studies have examined the characteristics of short video content and the technical features that are related to media use. The present study developed a model to explore the influence of technological affordances on short video usage and considered innovation in terms of format, setting, and content.

Method

A total of 496 viewers of short videos from China were surveyed. The participants completed 31 Likert-scale items. The study used maximum likelihood estimation modeling.

Results

The results revealed that perceived novelty and content value (entertainment and irritation) affected immersion positively, consequently influencing intentions for reuse and recommendation. The ease of navigating an application, narrative structure, and information value had no significant effect on immersion.

Conclusion

These findings have confirmed that perceived situation affordance and the affective affordance of short videos in digital environments that are managed by intelligent algorithms. It is necessary to analyze the potential impact of different affordances specifically.
Different facets of COVID-19-related stress in relation to emotional well-being, life satisfaction, and sleep quality
Authors: Saalwirth Christina , Leipold Bernhard
Published: April 2023

Introduction

As the COVID-19 pandemic has shown, it is of great importance to investigate how people can maintain their mental health during chronically stressful times. This study therefore investigated which facets of COVID-19-related stress (Fear of COVID-19, financial worries, and social isolation) impacted people the most during a third COVID-19 infection wave from March until May 2021 and how these facets relate to well-being (emotional well-being and life satisfaction) and sleep quality.

Methods

A study sample of 480 German participants (Mage = 43,SDage = 13.7, 20–69 years, 50.8% female) completed a cross-sectional online questionnaire.

Results

As predicted, social isolation was reported most often, followed by fear of COVID-19 and financial worries. In accordance with our expectations more social isolation and financial worries predicted lower emotional well-being and sleep quality. In contrast to our hypothesis, fear of COVID-19 only predicted emotional well-being and not sleep quality. Life satisfaction was solely predicted by financial worries and not by social isolation and fear of COVID-19, which only partly confirmed our hypotheses. These associations remained stable after controlling for age, gender, household income, and living alone.

Discussion

Financial worries, although reported the least often, were the strongest and most stable predictor for emotional well-being, sleep quality, and life satisfaction. Implications for future research and practice are discussed.
How personal values follow the societal lockdown due to COVID-19: Case of business students in Slovenia
Authors: Potocan Vojko , Nedelko Zlatko
Published: April 2023

We examined patterns of change and stability in four individual-level higher-order groups of Schwartz personal values among individuals during societal lockdown caused by COVID-19 epidemic. The study involves comparison of personal values of 85 business students during societal lockdown, with their personal values in pre- and post-pandemic periods. Sampled group of individuals includes undergraduate and graduate students from University of Maribor, Faculty of Economics and Business, Maribor, Slovenia. Contrary to previous publications, our results indicate a decrease of mean-level for all four higher-order groups of individuals’ values during societal lockdown of COVID-19. In the value hierarchy, self-transcendence values remain first, followed by conservation, openness to change, and self-enhancement values. In the period after the COVID-19, personal values again approached their pre-pandemic levels. Self-transcendence and conservation returned close to baseline levels, while openness to change and self-enhancement values exceeded initial pre-epidemic levels. In the value hierarchy, lead openness to change values, followed by the self-transcendence, self-enhancement, and conservation values. We discuss perceived changes in business students’ values due to the COVID-19 pandemic and present their capacities for dealing with potential unfavorable and threatening circumstances in the future.
Clinical Perception and Treatment Options for Behavioral and Psychological Symptoms of Dementia (BPSD) in Italy
Authors: D'Antonio Fabrizia , Tremolizzo Lucio , Zuffi Marta , Pomati Simone , Farina Elisabetta ,   Sindem BPSD Study Group
Published: April 2023

Background

Behavioral and psychological symptoms of dementia (BPSD) have a high prevalence, and their presence is associated with a severe impact in terms of social costs. However, dedicated clinical tools or biomarkers to detect these symptoms are lacking. Thus, BPSD management in clinical settings is challenging. The aim of this study was to investigate the perception and the treatment strategies for BPSD in Italian centers working in the dementia field.

Methods

A multicenter, national survey was developed by BPSD Study Group of the Italian Neurological Society for Dementia (SINDEM). The survey consisted of a semi-structured questionnaire that was e-mailed to SINDEM members, dementia centers part of the national network of memory clinics (Centers for Cognitive Deterioration and Dementia [CDCD]), and clinicians working in dementia care settings. The questions were focused on (1) perceived global frequency and relevance of BPSD; (2) tools used to assess BPSD; (3) pharmacological treatment for psychosis, apathy, agitation, aggression, depression, anxiety, sleep, and nutrition disturbances; (4) non-pharmacological treatments; (5) drugs side effects.

Results

One-hundred and thirty-six clinicians participated in this study. Seventy-nine participants worked in a CDCD and 57 in other settings. The perceived frequency of BPSD was 74%. BPSD are detected by means of a clinical assessment for 96.3% or a caregiver interview for 97%. For psychosis treatment the first choice was atypical antipsychotics (83.3%), followed by typical antipsychotic (8.9%) and antidepressants (4.8%). For agitation, atypical antipsychotics were the first-choice treatment in 64% of cases and antidepressants in 16.1%. For aggression, the most used drugs were atypical antipsychotics (82.9%). For anxiety, 55.2% use antidepressants, 17.9% use atypical antipsychotics, and 16.9% use benzodiazepines. Interestingly, most of the centers apply non-pharmacological treatments for BPSD. Some differences emerged comparing the responses from CDCD and other care settings.

Conclusion

The survey results revealed many differences in BPSD perception, treatment options, and observed side effect according to the clinical setting. This variability can be explained by the absence of clear guidelines, by differences in patients' characteristics, and by clinical practice based on subjective experience. These results suggest that producing guidelines for the pharmacological treatment of BPSD is a major need.
Perspectives on the therapeutic potential of MDMA: A nation-wide exploratory survey among substance users
Authors: Jones Jennifer L.
Published: April 2023

Background

Alcohol and other substance use disorders are commonly associated with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and the presence of these comorbidities is associated with worse treatment outcomes. Additionally, disparities in substance and PTSD prevalence have been associated with minority races and ethnicities, and minorities have been shown to be less likely to engage in treatment. Psychedelic-assisted treatments, including 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA), have shown preliminary trans-diagnostic effectiveness, however it is unknown how individuals with substance use disorders view the therapeutic potential of MDMA therapy. Previous studies have also shown that minority races and ethnicities are under-represented in the MDMA trials, leading to concerns about inequitable access to clinical treatment.

Methods

To explore demographic characteristics related to patient-level perspectives on the therapeutic potential of MDMA-assisted therapy, this study describes data from a nationwide, cross-sectional survey of 918 individuals self-reporting criteria consistent with alcohol or substance use disorders.

Results

Overall, a majority of individuals reported support for medical research of MDMA (68.1%), belief that MDMA-assisted therapy might be a useful treatment (70.1%), and willingness to try MDMA-assisted therapy if it were determined to be an appropriate treatment for them (58.8%). No race or ethnicity differences were found in support for further research or belief in effectiveness, however there were small disparities in terms of willingness to try MDMA-assisted therapy and concerns related to use of this treatment approach.

Conclusion

These results provide insights and future directions as the field of psychedelic-assisted therapy seeks to provide equitable access to clinical care and to diversify research participation.
Age-related changes in prepulse inhibition of the startle response
Authors: de Oliveira Yasmin Guedes , Poltronieri Bruno Costa , Woodruff Erica , da Costa Brunno Freitas , Panizzutti Rogerio Arena
Published: April 2023

Introduction

Acoustic prepulse inhibition of the startle response (PPI) is a phenomenon characterized by the reduction in the startle reflex caused by the presence of weak and brief stimulus before an intense and sudden stimulus (pulse). These phenomena can be observed in several species, but in humans it is commonly measured by the eyeblink using electromyography. PPI works as an operational measure of sensorimotor gating, which is the ability to suppress motor responses for sensory stimulus. Healthy aging is marked by several changes in neural processing, like inhibitory functioning decline. In this line, PPI measure can be a potential biomarker for changes related to the aging process.

Methods

In this research we aim to investigate if PPI is reduced with aging and if this reduction would be associated with cognitive functioning of older adults. To this aim, we compared PPI levels of older adults (over 60 years old) with PPI levels of young adults (from 18 to 28 years old).

Results

With that, we found, significantly lower PPI level (F[1,25] = 7.44 p = 0.01) and lower startle amplitude startle amplitude: (U = 26.000 p = 0.001) in older adults than in young adults. However, we did not find differences in levels of habituation (T = −1.1 p = 0.28) and correlation between PPI and cognition within the sample of healthy older adults.

Discussion

Our results demonstrate that aging is a factor that affects PPI and that it does not seem to predict cognition, however, future studies should explore the potential of using PPI for monitoring cognitive changes associated with techniques such as cognitive training.
Risk-Factors for Exposure Associated With SARS-CoV-2 Detection After Recent Known or Potential COVID-19 Exposures Among Patients Seeking Medical Care at a Large Urban, Public Hospital in Fulton County, Georgia — A Cross-Sectional Investigation
Authors: Smith-Jeffcoat Sarah E. , Sleweon Sadia , Koh Mitsuki , Khalil George M. , Schechter Marcos C. , Rebolledo Paulina A. , Kasinathan Vyjayanti , Hoffman Adam , Rossetti Rebecca , Shragai Talya , O'Laughlin Kevin , Espinosa Catherine C. , Bankamp Bettina , Bowen Michael D. , Paulick Ashley , Gargis Amy S. , Folster Jennifer M. , da Silva Juliana , Biedron Caitlin , Stewart Rebekah J. , Wang Yun F. , Kirking Hannah L. , Tate Jacqueline E. ,   CDC COVID-19 Emergency Response GA-10 Field
Published: April 2023

We aimed to describe frequency of COVID-19 exposure risk factors among patients presenting for medical care at an urban, public hospital serving mostly uninsured/Medicare/Medicaid clients and risk factors associated with SARS-CoV-2 infection. Consenting, adult patients seeking care at a public hospital from August to November 2020 were enrolled in this cross-sectional investigation. Saliva, anterior nasal and nasopharyngeal swabs were collected and tested for SARS-CoV-2 using RT-PCR. Participant demographics, close contact, and activities ≤14 days prior to enrollment were collected through interview. Logistic regression was used to identify risk factors associated with testing positive for SARS-CoV-2. Among 1,078 participants, 51.8% were male, 57.0% were aged ≥50 years, 81.3% were non-Hispanic Black, and 7.6% had positive SARS-CoV-2 tests. Only 2.7% reported COVID-19 close contact ≤14 days before enrollment; this group had 6.79 adjusted odds of testing positive (95%CI = 2.78–16.62) than those without a reported exposure. Among participants who did not report COVID-19 close contact, working in proximity to ≥10 people (adjusted OR = 2.17; 95%CI = 1.03–4.55), choir practice (adjusted OR = 11.85; 95%CI = 1.44–97.91), traveling on a plane (adjusted OR = 5.78; 95%CI = 1.70–19.68), and not participating in an essential indoor activity (i.e., grocery shopping, public transit use, or visiting a healthcare facility; adjusted OR = 2.15; 95%CI = 1.07–4.30) were associated with increased odds of testing positive. Among this population of mostly Black, non-Hispanic participants seeking care at a public hospital, we found several activities associated with testing positive for SARS-CoV-2 infection in addition to close contact with a case. Understanding high-risk activities for SARS-CoV-2 infection among different communities is important for issuing awareness and prevention strategies.
Effects of brief exposure to campus environment on students' physiological and psychological health
Authors: Ning Wei , Yin Jiahui , Chen Qiang , Sun Xiaogang
Published: April 2023

Experiences in natural environments can enhance human wellbeing and promote the recovery of physiological and psychological health. During the COVID-19 pandemic, university students' activity off-campus was limited, thus, the campus environment was particularly important for the recovery of students' physiological and psychological health. Although the benefits of sustained natural exposure are obvious for people's physiological and psychological health, the effects of brief exposure on physiological and psychological are unclear. In the present study, four types of campus environments, including square space, dense forest space, sparse forest space, and waterfront space, were selected to explore the transient recovery effects of different types of campus environments. Sixty university students were recruited, measuring their systolic blood pressure, diastolic blood pressure, and heart rate as physical parameters to assess stress recovery. Respondents also reported scores about their personal feelings in questionnaires to evaluate their psychological states. Both physiological and psychological indicators responded to the brief natural exposure (5 min), and physiological and psychological health was restored. However, only the recovery amounts of psychological indicators were significantly different in waterfront space, dense forest space, and sparse forest space. These results indicate that being compare with other spaces, the brief exposure in the waterfront space was the most beneficial to students' psychological health recovery. This recovery was attributed to the great role played by the sense of escape, but after the brief exposure, the attraction and compatibility of the environment would hinder the psychological health recovery. In conclusion, according to tests on both physiological and psychological aspects, the waterfront environment on campus is the best choice for students' transient health recovery.
Impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on perceived access and quality of care in German people with parkinsonism
Authors: van Munster Marlena , Printz Marcel R. , Crighton Eric , Mestre Tiago A. , Pedrosa David J. ,   iCARE-PD Consortium
Published: April 2023

Due to the heterogeneous clinical presentation, people with Parkinsonism (PwP) develop individual healthcare needs as their disease progresses. However, because of limited health resources during the COVID-19 pandemic, many patients were put at risk of inadequate care. All this occurred in the context of inequitable healthcare provision within societies, especially for such vulnerable populations. This study aimed to investigate factors influencing satisfaction and unmet need for healthcare among PwP during the COVID-19 pandemic in Germany. Analyses relied on an anonymous online survey with a 49-item questionnaire. We aimed at describing access to health services before and during the early stages of the pandemic. To this end, a generalized linear model was used to derive significant predictors and a stepwise regression to subsummarize the main factors of perceived inadequate care. In total, 551 questionnaires showed that satisfaction with Parkinsonism-related care decreased significantly during the pandemic (p < 0.001). In particular, factors such as lower educational level, lower perceived expertise of healthcare providers, less confidence in remote care, difficulties in obtaining healthcare, and restricted access to care before the pandemic but also lower densities of neurologists at residence and less ability to overcome barriers were indicative of higher odds to perceive unmet needs (p < 0.05). The results unveil obstacles contributing to reduced access to healthcare during the COVID-19 pandemic for PwP. These findings enable considerations for improved provision of healthcare services to PwP.
Engaging older adults with a migration background to explore the usage of digital technologies in coping with dementia
Authors: van Leersum Catharina M. , Konrad Kornelia E. , Siebrand Egbert , Malik Zohrah B. , den Ouden Marjolein E. M. , Bults Marloes
Published: April 2023

Background

Coping with dementia can imply particular challenges for people with a migration background due to diversity in their life course, personal characteristics, and living environment. Some of the services available for people with dementia include digital technologies for care, providing health services, and maintaining or increasing participation, independence, and safety. This study aimed to explore the role of digital technology in coping with dementia in the lives of older adults with a migration background, and the possibilities to engage and collaborate with older adults.

Methods

This study combined a qualitative interview-based approach with citizen science principles in the design and execution of a project studying the use of Anne4Care.

Results and discussion

Participants valued that technology should provide health benefits and fit into aspects of their daily lives. Anne4Care was considered helpful in staying independent and connecting to loved ones in their country of birth. The participants needed to learn new competencies to work with the device, and not all had the material prerequisites, such as an internet connection. Still, this learning process was considered purposeful in their life, and the virtual assistant could be integrated into care and daily practices. The involvement of the older adults with dementia as co-researchers made them feel valuable and as equal partners during this research. An important prerequisite for the involvement of older adults with a migration background was existing relations with carers and care organizations.

Conclusion

Digital care technologies to cope with dementia can become a valuable part of care practices in the lives of older adults with a migration background. Involving older adults in the development of technology, acknowledging their expertise and needs, and working together in short iterations to adapt the technology for their specific needs and situations were experienced as valuable by the researchers, older adults, and care professionals.
A snap-shot of a diarrheal epidemic in Dhaka due to enterotoxigenic Escherichia coli and Vibrio cholerae O1 in 2022
Authors: Tauheed Imam , Ahmed Tasnuva , Akter Afroza , Firoj Md Golam , Ahmmed Faisal , Rahman Sadia Isfat Ara , Afrad Mokibul Hassan , Islam Md Nazmul , Rahman Aninda , Khan Ashraful Islam , Alam Baharul , Bhuiyan Taufiqur Rahman , Chowdhury Fahima , Qadri Firdausi
Published: April 2023

Background

Enterotoxigenic Escherichia coli (ETEC) and Vibrio cholerae O1 are most common bacterial causes of diarrheal diseases in Bangladesh. This analysis projected distribution of ETEC and V. cholerae O1 among diarrheal patients of icddr,b, Dhaka hospital in two diarrheal peaks of 2022.

Methodology

Under the 2% systematic surveillance system, stool samples collected from diarrheal patients of icddr,b hospital were cultured and diagnostic testing was done for ETEC and V. cholerae O1. Comparison of positive cases was done between first peak (March–April) and second peak (October–November) in 2022.

Results

A total of 2,937 stool specimens were tested of which 12% were ETEC and 20% were V. cholerae O1. About 40% of the severe dehydration cases were infected with V. cholerae O1. Predominant ETEC enterotoxin type was ‘LT/ST’ (41%). The LT enterotoxin significantly increased from 13% to 28% in the second peak (p = 0.015). The predominant colonization factors (CFs) on ETEC were CS5 + CS6 (23%), followed by CS6 (15%). CF-positive isolates was significantly higher in the second peak (36%) than in the first peak (22%) (p = 0.043). Total 14% cases were co-infected with ETEC and V. cholerae O1. Significant differences in the distribution of enterotoxin types were observed (p = 0.029) among the co-infection cases.

Conclusion

Changing patterns of enterotoxin and CFs observed in ETEC pathogens should be taken into consideration for ETEC vaccine development. Considering cholera and ETEC biannual trends in causing diarrheal epidemics and outbreaks, emphasizes the need for thoughts on combination vaccine strategies for preventing acute watery diarrhea due to the two major bacterial pathogens.
Impact of community-driven interventions on dietary and physical activity outcomes among a cohort of adults in a rural Appalachian county in Eastern Kentucky, 2019–2022
Authors: Norman-Burgdolf Heather , DeWitt Emily , Gillespie Rachel , Cardarelli Kathryn M. , Slone Stacey , Gustafson Alison
Published: April 2023

Several environmental level factors exacerbate poor health outcomes in rural populations in the United States, such as lack of access to healthy food and locations to be physically active, which support healthy choices at the individual level. Thus, utilizing innovative place-based approaches in rural locations is essential to improve health outcomes. Leveraging community assets, like Cooperative Extension, is a novel strategy for implementing community-driven interventions. This prospective cohort study (n = 152), recruited in 2019 and surveyed again in 2020 and 2021, examined individual level changes in diet and physical activity in one rural Appalachian county. During this time, multiple community-driven interventions were implemented alongside Cooperative Extension and several community partners. Across the three-year study, the cohort indicated increases in other vegetables and water and reductions in fruits and legumes. There were also reductions in less healthy items such as French fries and sugar-sweetened beverages. The cohort also reported being less likely to engage in physical activity. Our findings suggest that key community-driven programs may have indirect effects on dietary and physical activity choices over time. Outcomes from this study are relevant for public health practitioners and community organizations working within rural Appalachian communities to address health-related behaviors.
Deploying hybrid quantum-secured infrastructure for applications: When quantum and post-quantum can work together
Authors: Fedorov Aleksey K.
Published: April 2023

Most currently used cryptographic tools for protecting data are based on certain computational assumptions, which makes them vulnerable with respect to technological and algorithmic developments, such as quantum computing. One existing option to counter this potential threat is quantum key distribution, whose security is based on the laws of quantum physics. Quantum key distribution is secure against unforeseen technological developments. A second approach is post-quantum cryptography, which is a set of cryptographic primitives that are believed to be secure even against attacks with both classical and quantum computing technologies. From this perspective, this study reviews recent progress in the deployment of the quantum-secured infrastructure based on quantum key distribution, post-quantum cryptography, and their combinations. Various directions in the further development of the full-stack quantum-secured infrastructure are also indicated. Distributed applications, such as blockchains and distributed ledgers, are also discussed.
Using augmented reality filters to display time-based visual cues
Authors: Stuart Jacob , Stephen Anita , Aul Karen , Bumbach Michael D. , Huffman Shari , Russo Brooke , Lok Benjamin
Published: April 2023

Introduction: Healthcare education commonly uses practices like moulage to represent visual cues (e.g., symptoms). Unfortunately, current practices have limitations in accurately representing visual symptoms that develop over time. To address this challenge, we applied augmented reality (AR) filters to images displayed on computer screens to enable real-time interactive visualizations of symptom development. Additionally, this study explores the impact of object and filter fidelity on users’ perceptions of visual cues during training, providing evidence-based recommendations on the effective use of filters in healthcare education.

Methods: We conducted a 2 × 2 within-subjects study that involved second-year nursing students (N = 55) from the University of Florida. The study manipulated two factors: filter fidelity and object fidelity. Filter fidelity was manipulated by applying either a filter based on a medical illustration image or a filter based on a real symptom image. Object fidelity was manipulated by overlaying the filter on either a medical manikin image or a real person image. To ensure that potential confounding variables such as lighting or 3D tracking did not affect the results, 101 images were pre-generated for each of the four conditions. These images mapped to the transparency levels of the filters, which ranged from 0 to 100. Participants interacted with the images on a computer screen using visual analog scales, manipulating the transparency of the symptoms until they identified changes occurring on the image and distinct symptom patterns. Participants also rated the severity and realism of each condition and provided feedback on how the filter and object fidelities impacted their perceptions.

Results: We found evidence that object and filter fidelity impacted user perceptions of symptom realism and severity and even affected users’ abilities to identify the symptoms. This includes symptoms being seen as more realistic when overlaid on the real person, symptoms being identified at earlier stages of development when overlaid on the manikin, and symptoms being seen as most severe when the real-image filter was overlayed on the manikin.

Conclusion: This work implemented a novel approach that uses AR filters to display visual cues that develop over time. Additionally, this work’s investigation into fidelity allows us to provide evidence-based recommendations on how and when AR filters can be effectively used in healthcare education.
One thousand soils for molecular understanding of belowground carbon cycling
Authors: Bowman Maggie M. , Heath Alexis E. , Varga Tamas , Battu Anil K. , Chu Rosalie K. , Toyoda Jason , Cheeke Tanya E. , Porter Stephanie S. , Moffett Kevan B. , LeTendre Brittany , Qafoku Odeta , Bargar John R. , Mans Douglas M. , Hess Nancy J. , Graham Emily B.
Published: April 2023

While significant progress has been made in understanding global carbon (C) cycling, the mechanisms regulating belowground C fluxes and storage are still uncertain. New molecular technologies have the power to elucidate these processes, yet we have no widespread standardized implementation of molecular techniques. To address this gap, we introduce the Molecular Observation Network (MONet), a decadal vision from the Environmental Molecular Sciences Laboratory (EMSL), to develop a national network for understanding the molecular composition, physical structure, and hydraulic and biological properties of soil and water. These data are essential for advancing the next generation of multiscale Earth systems models. In this paper, we discuss the 1000 Soils Pilot for MONet, including a description of standardized sampling materials and protocols and a use case to highlight the utility of molecular-level and microstructural measurements for assessing the impacts of wildfire on soil. While the 1000 Soils Pilot generated a plethora of data, we focus on assessments of soil organic matter (SOM) chemistryviaFourier-transform ion cyclotron resonance-mass spectrometry and microstructural propertiesviaX-ray computed tomography to highlight the effects of recent fire history in forested ecosystems on belowground C cycling. We observed decreases in soil respiration, microbial biomass, and potential enzyme activity in soils with high frequency burns. Additionally, the nominal oxidation state of carbon in SOM increased with burn frequency in surface soils. This results in a quantifiable shift in the molecular signature of SOM and shows that wildfire may result in oxidation of SOM and structural changes to soil pore networks that persist into deeper soils.
Data mining for science of the sun-earth connection as a single system
Authors: Alzate Nathalia , Di Matteo Simone , Morgan Huw , Seaton Daniel B. , Miralles Mari Paz , Balmaceda Laura , Kirk Michael S. , West Matthew , DeForest Craig , Vourlidas Angelos
Published: April 2023

Establishing the Sun-Earth connection requires overcoming the challenges of exploring the data from past and current missions and leveraging tools and models (data mining) to create an efficient system treatment of the Sun and heliosphere. However, solar and heliospheric environment data constitute a vast source of information whose potential is far from being optimally exploited. In the next decade, the solar and heliospheric community will have to manage the increasing amount of information coming from new missions, improve re-analysis of data from past and current missions, and create new data products from the application of new methodologies. This complex task is further complicated by practical challenges such as different datasets and catalogs in different formats that may require different pre-processing and analysis tools, and the need for numerous analysis approaches that are not all fully optimized for large volumes of data. While several ongoing efforts aim at addressing these problems, the available datasets and tools are not always used to their full potential often due to lack of awareness of available resources. In this paper, we summarize the issues raised and goals discussed by members of the community during recent conference sessions focused on data mining for science.
Mesenchymal stromal cell therapy for feline chronic gingivostomatitis: Long term experience
Authors: Soltero-Rivera Maria , Hart Sterling , Blandino Andrew , Vapniarsky Natalia , Arzi Boaz
Published: April 2023

Introduction

Mesenchymal stromal cells (MSC) therapy has emerged as a potential treatment option for refractory FCGS. However, there is a lack of long-term data on the use of MSC therapy in cats. This study aimed to evaluate the long-term safety and efficacy of MSC therapy for FCGS and investigate potential factors associated with treatment outcomes.

Methods

This study was a retrospective evaluation of 38 client-owned cats with refractory FCGS who received MSC therapy. Medical records, histopathology, and the Stomatitis Activity Disease Index (SDAI) were reviewed. Correlations of the long-term follow-up success rates with SDAI and cell line type used were conducted. A client survey was also performed to assess side effect occurrence, quality-of-life following treatment, and overall treatment satisfaction.

Results

Long-term follow-up ranged from 2 to 9 years post-MSC treatment. The overall positive response rate to MSC treatment was 65.5%, with 58.6% of cats exhibiting permanent improvement or cure. Adverse effects occurring during or immediately after treatment were noted in 34.2% of cases, the majority being transient, self-resolving transfusion-like reactions. No long-term adverse events were noted. No significant correlation in outcome was detected between allogeneic and autologous MSC treatment (p = 0.871) or the severity of the SDAI at entry (p = 0.848) or exit (p = 0.166), or the delta SDAI between entry and exit (p = 0.178). The status 6 months (none to partial improvement vs. substantial improvement to resolution) post-therapy was a predictor of long-term response (value of p < 0.041). Most clients were satisfied with the treatment and outcomes, with 90.6% willing to pursue treatment again, given a similar situation.

Discussion

The results of this study support the use of both autologous and allogeneic MSC as an efficacious and safe therapeutic option for refractory FCGS.
A Brain Storm and Chaotic Accelerated Particle Swarm Optimization Hybridization
Authors: Michaloglou Alkmini , Tsitsas Nikolaos L.
Published: April 2023

Brain storm optimization (BSO) and particle swarm optimization (PSO) are two popular nature-inspired optimization algorithms, with BSO being the more recently developed one. It has been observed that BSO has an advantage over PSO regarding exploration with a random initialization, while PSO is more capable at local exploitation if given a predetermined initialization. The two algorithms have also been examined as a hybrid. In this work, the BSO algorithm was hybridized with the chaotic accelerated particle swarm optimization (CAPSO) algorithm in order to investigate how such an approach could serve as an improvement to the stand-alone algorithms. CAPSO is an advantageous variant of APSO, an accelerated, exploitative and minimalistic PSO algorithm. We initialized CAPSO with BSO in order to study the potential benefits from BSO’s initial exploration as well as CAPSO’s exploitation and speed. Seven benchmarking functions were used to compare the algorithms’ behavior. The chosen functions included both unimodal and multimodal benchmarking functions of various complexities and sizes of search areas. The functions were tested for different numbers of dimensions. The results showed that a properly tuned BSO–CAPSO hybrid could be significantly more beneficial over stand-alone BSO, especially with respect to computational time, while it heavily outperformed stand-alone CAPSO in the vast majority of cases.
Detection of Plausibility and Error Reasons in Finite Element Simulations with Deep Learning Networks
Authors: Bickel Sebastian , Goetz Stefan , Wartzack Sandro
Published: April 2023

The field of application of data-driven product development is diverse and ranges from requirements through the early phases to the detailed design of the product. The goal is to consistently analyze data to support and improve individual steps in the development process. In the context of this work, the focus is on the design and detailing phase, represented by the virtual testing of products through Finite Element (FE) simulations. However, due to the heterogeneous data of a simulation model, automatic use is a big challenge. A method is therefore presented that utilizes the entire stock of calculated simulations to predict the plausibility of new simulations. Correspondingly, a large amount of data is utilized to support less experienced users of FE software in the application. Thus, obvious errors in the simulation should be detected immediately with this procedure and unnecessary iterations are therefore avoided. Previous solutions were only able to perform a general plausibility classification, whereas the approach presented in this paper is intended to predict specific error sources in FE simulations.
Hydrogen Peroxide Mitigates Cu Stress in Wheat
Authors: Alhammad Bushra Ahmed , Seleiman Mahmoud F. , Harrison Matthew Tom
Published: April 2023

Abiotic stress imposed by heavy metals (HMs) adversely influences plant growth. In crop plants, such stresses penalize grain yield and ultimately could have enduring connotations for sustainable food security. Although copper (Cu) is an essential micronutrient for crop life, excessive availability of copper impairs plant growth and/or reproductive performance. Anecdotal evidence suggests that hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) is produced in plants under either biotic or abiotic stresses to mitigate oxygen-derived cell toxicity, although the influence of H2O2 remains to be definitively quantified. Here, our aim was to investigate the effects of hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) on the growth, grain yield, and yield components, as well as copper uptake of stressed wheat grown in sandy soil. We found that applications rates of 150 or 300 mg Cu kg−1 soil significantly reduced net photosynthesis, leaf area, chlorophyll, and grain yield. Foliar application of H2O2 to plants grown under 150 and 300 mg Cu kg−1 soil had improved growth, physiological, and yield traits. For instance, foliar application of H2O2 Cu-stressed plants grown under 300 mg Cu kg−1 soil reduced detrimental effects of Cu toxicity by −12% in terms of grains per spike and −7% for 1000-grain weight in comparison to the control treatment. Foliar application of H2O2 on wheat grown under copper stress reduced accumulation of other heavy metals such as cadmium. We suggest that the potential for foliar application of H2O2 in mitigating heavy metal stress in crop plants has large global potential; however, further work is required to elucidate the environmental conditions and application rates required to attain optimal benefit.
Agricultural International Trade by Brazilian Ports: A Study Using Social Network Analysis
Authors: Xavier Daniel Laurentino de Jesus , Reis João Gilberto Mendes dos , Ivale André Henrique , Duarte Aparecido Carlos , Rodrigues Gabriel Santos , Souza Jonatas Santos de , Correia Paula Ferreira da Cruz
Published: April 2023

Agribusiness trade is a complex network of commercial relations among countries, and it is influenced by on-shore and off-shore logistics. Therefore, it is essential to comprehend these relationships to improve decision-making regarding production and logistical development. This paper investigates Brazilian agricultural and livestock exports between 2013 and 2022 to understand logistical bottlenecks based on trade partners. To do so, we performed descriptive statistics and social network analysis (SNA) considering measures such as degree centrality, k-core, and tie strength. Our results indicate Brazil’s dependency on Asian markets whereby eight of ten are located on this continent. We observe an unexpected result regarding the low purchase of these products byimportant Brazilian partners such as the United States, the UK, and the European Union. Finally, the study confirms the Brazilian logistical bottleneck where two logistical corridors correspond to 76% of all agricultural exports in the period, with Santos, the busiest port, moving more than 46% of the cargo.
Determining the Value of Novel Feedstuffs in Imperfect Markets, Taking Lupinus albus as an Example
Authors: Tröster Michael Friedrich , Heinz Markus , Durst Leonhard
Published: April 2023

Feed production and utilization are significant contributors to agricultural economic performance. Upon the market entry of new feedstuffs, livestock farmers are challenged to determine their price worthiness. In addition, transparent price formation is hampered under the conditions of new and often imperfect markets, thereby negatively impacting trade and impeding the development of sustainable markets. Therefore, this study proposes a decision support system that enables the effective valuation of novel feeds, such as white lupin (Lupinus albus L.). The proposed system is based on a linear optimization model that, by parameterizing the pricing assumption of novel feeds, determines their substitution value relative to conventional feeds. Notably, the substitution value of white lupin as a feed was found to vary significantly by animal species, production process, performance level, and cultivation year. However, with substitution values up to €557 t−1, the value of white lupin was frequently far higher than the rarely available market prices (€270 t−1, as of 12/2021), suggesting that white lupin is a novel feed that is grossly undervalued due to imperfect market conditions. Overall, the proposed system can be used for objective pricing in these cases.
Alteration of Carbohydrate Metabolism in Fusarium Infected Wheat Kernels Treated with Fungicides and Its Relation to Baking Technological Parameters and Deoxynivalenol Contamination
Authors: Acs Katalin , Varga Monika , Szekeres Andras , Salgo Andras , Lantos Csaba , Bekes Ferenc , Pauk Janos , Mesterhazy Akos
Published: April 2023

Changes of water-soluble carbohydrate (WSC) content such as fructose, glucose, sucrose, maltose, nystose, raffinose, stachyose and fructan were analyzed in wheat kernels in Fusarium epidemic and non-epidemic seasons. In both season types, eight commercial fungicides were applied and three wheat varieties with differing Fusarium resistance were tested. In the epidemic year, the average total amount of WSC was above 1.6% which was 2 times higher than in the non-epidemic year (0.7%). Sucrose, maltose, raffinose and fructan components determined the increased WSC value, but the most substantial change was observed in maltose content where its average amount was 28 times higher in the epidemic year. Fungicide application also significantly increased all the carbohydrate components except maltose, where significant reduction was observed. WSC components had strong correlation with several farinograph or extensograph parameters, but only the maltose content showed positive strong correlation (r = 0.9) with deoxynivalenol (DON) toxin that was highly affected by the applied fungicide. The changes of WSC indicate altered carbohydrate synthesis along with abnormal degradation processes and thus have impaction on the baking features. It seems that the sugar metabolism interacts with DON synthesis and the results give important additional information to the altered metabolism of the attacked plant.
Robust Trajectory Tracking Control of an Autonomous Tractor-Trailer Considering Model Parameter Uncertainties and Disturbances
Authors: Lu En , Xue Jialin , Chen Tiaotiao , Jiang Song
Published: April 2023

This paper discusses the robust trajectory tracking control of an autonomous tractor-trailer in agricultural applications. Firstly, considering the model parameter uncertainties and various disturbances, the kinematic and dynamic models of the autonomous tractor-trailer system are established. Moreover, the coordinate transformation is adopted to convert the trajectory tracking error into a new unconstrained error state space model. On this basis, the prescribed performance control (PPC) technique is designed to ensure the convergence speed and final tracking control accuracy of the tractor-trailer control system. Then, this paper designs a double closed-loop control structure. The posture control level adopts the model predictive control (MPC) method, and the dynamic level adopts the sliding mode control (SMC) method. At the same time, it is worth mentioning that the nonlinear disturbance observer (NDO) is designed to estimate all kinds of system disturbances and compensate for the tracking control system to improve the system’s robustness. Finally, the proposed control strategy is validated through comparative simulations, demonstrating its effectiveness in achieving robust trajectory tracking of the autonomous tractor-trailer system.
Citrus Canker: A Persistent Threat to the Worldwide Citrus Industry—An Analysis
Authors: Ali Subhan , Hameed Akhtar , Muhae-Ud-Din Ghulam , Ikhlaq Muhammad , Ashfaq Muhammad , Atiq Muhammad , Ali Faizan , Zia Zia Ullah , Naqvi Syed Atif Hasan , Wang Yong
Published: April 2023

Citrus canker (CC), caused by one of the most destructive subfamilies of the bacterial phytopathogen Xanthomonas citri subsp. Citri (Xcc), poses a serious threat to the significantly important citrus fruit crop grown worldwide. This has been the subject of ongoing epidemiological and disease management research. Currently, five different forms have been identified of CC, in which Canker A (Xanthomonas citri subsp. citri) being the most harmful and infecting the majority of citrus cultivars. Severe infection symptoms include leaf loss, premature fruit drop, dieback, severe fruit blemishing or discoloration, and a decrease in fruit quality. The infection spreads rapidly through wind, rain splash, and warm and humid climates. The study of the chromosomal and plasmid DNA of bacterium has revealed the evolutionary pattern among the pathovars, and research on the Xcc genome has advanced our understanding of how the bacteria specifically recognize and infect plants, spread within the host, and propagates itself. Quarantine or exclusion programs, which prohibit the introduction of infected citrus plant material into existing stock, are still in use. Other measures include eliminating sources of inoculum, using resistant hosts, applying copper spray for protection, and implementing windbreak systems. The main focus of this study is to highlight the most recent developments in the fields of Xcc pathogenesis, epidemiology, symptoms, detection and identification, host range, spread, susceptibility, and management. Additionally, it presents an analysis of the economic impact of this disease on the citrus industry and suggests strategies to reduce its spread, including the need for international collaboration and research to reduce the impact of this disease on the global citrus industry.
Utilizing Genetic Resources for Agronomic Trait Improvement
Authors: Martínez-Moreno Fernando , Picó María Belén , Díez María José , Ruiz Magdalena
Published: April 2023

Genetic resources hold the key to adapting crops to a changing climate; they are a source of many new alleles that can be used in plant breeding to improve already-existing cultivars [...]