bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Source Domain Extension Method for Inductive Transfer Learning Based on Flipping Output
Authors: Koishi Yasutake , Ishida Shuichi , Tabaru Tatsuo , Miyamoto Hiroyuki
Published: May 2019

Transfer learning aims for high accuracy by applying knowledge of source domains for which data collection is easy in order to target domains where data collection is difficult, and has attracted attention in recent years because of its significant potential to enable the application of machine learning to a wide range of real-world problems. However, since the technique is user-dependent, with data prepared as a source domain which in turn becomes a knowledge source for transfer learning, it often involves the adoption of inappropriate data. In such cases, the accuracy may be reduced due to “negative transfer.” Thus, in this paper, we propose a novel transfer learning method that utilizes the flipping output technique to provide multiple labels in the source domain. The accuracy of the proposed method is statistically demonstrated to be significantly better than that of the conventional transfer learning method, and its effect size is as high as 0.9, showing high performance.
Free Surface Flow Simulation by a Viscous Numerical Cylindrical Tank
Authors: Ren Xingyue , Xiong Fangjie , Qu Ke , Mizutani Norimi
Published: May 2019

In order to numerically investigate the free surface flow evolution in a cylindrical tank, a regular structured grid system in the cylindrical coordinates is usually applied to solve control equations based on the incompressible two-phase flow model. Since the grid spacing in the azimuthal direction is proportionate to the radial distance in a regular structured grid system, very small grid spacing would be obtained in the azimuthal direction and it would require a very small computational time step to satisfy the stability restriction. Moreover, serious mass disequilibrium problems may happen through the convection of the free surface with the Volume of Fluid (VOF) method. Therefore in the present paper, the zonal embedded grid technique was implemented to overcome those problems by gradually adjusting the mesh resolution in different grid blocks. Over the embedded grid system, a finite volume algorithm was developed to solve the Navier–Stokes equations in the three-dimensional cylindrical coordinates. A high-resolution scheme was applied to resolve the free surface between the air and water phases based on the VOF method. Computation of liquid convection under a given velocity field shows that the VOF method implemented with a zonal embedded grid is more advanced in keeping mass continuity than that with regular structured grid system. Furthermore, the proposed model was also applied to simulate the sharp transient evolution of circular dam breaking flow. The simulation results were validated against the commercial software Fluent, which shows a good agreement, and the proposed model does not yield any free surface oscillation.
Shape Memory Activated Self-Deployable Solar Sails: Small-Scale Prototypes Manufacturing and Planarity Analysis by 3D Laser Scanner
Authors: Boschetto Alberto , Bottini Luana , Costanza Girolamo , Tata Maria Elisa
Published: May 2019

Solar sails are propellantless systems where the propulsive force is given by the momentum exchange of reflecting photons. Thanks to the use of shape memory alloys for the self-actuation of the system, complexity of the structure itself has decreased and so has the weight of the whole structure. Four self-deploying systems based on the NiTi shape memory wires have been designed and manufactured in different configurations (wires disposal and folding number). The deployed solar sails surfaces have been acquired by a Nextengine 3D Laser Scanner based on the Multistripe Triangulation. 3D maps have been pre-processed through Geomagic Studio and then elaborated in the Wolfram Mathematica environment. The planarity degree has been evaluated as level curves from the regression plane highlighting marked differences between the four configurations and locating the vertices as the most critical zones. These results are useful in the optimization of the best folding solution both in the weight/surface reduction and in the planarity degree of the solar sail.
Modeling and Optimization of an Indirect Coil Gun for Launching Non-Magnetic Projectiles
Authors: Gies Valentin , Soriano Thierry
Published: May 2019

This article focuses on indirect coil guns used for launching non-magnetic objects. A mechatronic model, coupling electrical, mechanical, and electromagnetic models, is proposed. This model is applied to the optimization of a kicking system used on limited size robots for propelling real soccer balls at the RoboCup. Working with an existing coil gun, we show that fine tuning its setup, especially the initial position and the length of the non-magnetic plunger extension, leads to an increase in the ball speed of 30 % compared to previous results.
Precision Agriculture Application for Sustainable Nitrogen Management of Justicia brandegeana Using Optical Sensor Technology
Authors: Freidenreich Ariel , Barraza Gabriel , Jayachandran Krishnaswamy , Khoddamzadeh Amir Ali
Published: May 2019

Over-fertilization is a common practice in ornamental nursery production. Oftentimes, visual analysis is used to determine plant nutrient levels, leading to less accurate estimates of fertilizer application. This study focused on exploring the suitability of two non-destructive sensors, Soil Plant Analysis Development (SPAD-502) and GreenSeekerTM, for measuring plant tissue nutrient uptake. Florikan Top-Dress fertilizer 12N-6P-8K was applied to Justicia brandegeana in various increments (0, 10, 20, 30, 40, and 50 g) to simulate plants with deficient to excessive nitrogen rates. Various parameters were recorded including Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI) and SPAD readings, soil leachate analysis (nitrates and phosphate), and total leaf carbon:nitrogen (C:N). The NDVI and SPAD readings were recorded biweekly for three months after the initial controlled release fertilizer (CRF) treatments. Leaf C:N was analyzed through dry combustion while nitrates and phosphate were determined from soil leachate. Results suggest that the smaller amount (20 g) of CRF is as effective in providing N to J. brandegeana as larger amounts (30, 40, 50 g). Implementation of this fertilizer regimen will result in reduced agricultural nutrient runoff and overall negative environmental impacts. Application of optical sensor technology using SPAD and GreenSeekerTM showed promising results in determining the fertilizer requirements of J. brandegeana. This method could serve as a guideline for nursery producers and landscape personnel as a fast and non-destructive tool for sustainable fertilizer management practices within the ornamental plant industry.
The Effects of Climate Smart Agriculture and Climate Change Adaptation on the Technical Efficiency of Rice Farming—An Empirical Study in the Mekong Delta of Vietnam
Authors: Ho Thanh Tam , Shimada Koji
Published: May 2019

This study employed the propensity score matching approach to empirically assess the effects of climate smart agriculture participation and climate change adaptation response on the technical efficiency of rice production. Observational data were collected from in-depth interviews with 352 rice farm households in the Mekong Delta, Vietnam. The findings indicate that 71% of local farmers adapted their rice farming to climate change related to salinity intrusion and drought, while 29% of farmers did not. Additionally, only twenty-two rice farmers were typically chosen as participants in the climate smart agriculture pilot program by local government and institutions. The choices for adaptation response and climate smart agriculture participation are significantly influenced by agricultural extension services, belief in climate change, the area of farming land, as well as geographical locations (e.g., province and access to water sources). The results also reveal that climate change adaptation response, including climate smart agriculture participation, played a crucial role in improving technical efficiency of rice production by 13%–14% compared to no adaptation response. Regarding the individual effect of climate smart agriculture participation, participants could achieve higher technical efficiency by 5%–8% compared to non-participants.
Is a Change of Protein Composition after Late Application of Nitrogen Sufficient to Improve the Baking Quality of Winter Wheat?
Authors: Rekowski Azin , Wimmer Monika A. , Henkelmann Günter , Zörb Christian
Published: May 2019

Concentration and composition of storage proteins affect the baking quality of wheat. Although both are influenced by late nitrogen fertilization, it is not clear whether compositional changes are sufficient to improve the baking quality, and whether such effects are cultivar specific. In a pot experiment, two winter wheat cultivars belonging to different quality classes were supplied with two levels of late N fertilizer. Protein subunits were analysed by SDS-PAGE (Sodium Dodecyl Sulfate Polyacrylamide Gel Electrophoresis). Late N supply increased grain yield and protein content in both cultivars, but improved baking quality only in Discus, correlated with stronger changes in glutenin and gliadin fractions. Where baking quality was improved, this occurred at the lower late N level. Overall, the composition rather than the amount of gluten proteins was decisive for flour quality. Measures for enhancing grain protein concentration and composition are less necessary for cultivars such as Rumor in order to achieve optimum baking quality. These results open up an opportunity to reduce N fertilization in wheat production systems.
Effect of Species, Fertilization and Harvest Date on Microbial Composition and Mycotoxin Content in Forage
Authors: Baholet Daria , Kolackova Ivana , Kalhotka Libor , Skladanka Jiri , Haninec Peter
Published: May 2019

The aim of the project was to evaluate the potential of microbial threat to feed safety in the year 2018. Analyses of the epiphytic community of several forage species (clovers, cocksfoot, fescue, festulolium, perennial ryegrass, timothy and trefoil) in variants of fertilized and non-fertilized vegetation were performed. The hypothesis is based on the fact that microorganisms are normally present on plant material during its growth all the way from the seed to the senescence; they are influenced by a plant’s fitness, and they affect its harvest and utilization. Microflora was analyzed by cultivation on specific substrates, total microbial count and five specific microbial groups were observed and quantified. Forage species did not affect plant microflora. The highest risk factor of microbial contamination of feed was proved to be harvest date. Mycotoxin contamination of fresh feed was determined (deoxynivalenol and zearalenone) using ELISA. Zearalenone (ZEA) levels were negatively correlated to fertilization intensity, although these results were not statistically significant. Deoxynivalenol (DON) levels were the lowest in a moderate fertilization regime. Significant differences in mycotoxin content were found among botanical species.
A Time-Series Analysis of Climate Variability in Urban and Agricultural Sites (Rome, Italy)
Authors: Salvati Luca , Zambon Ilaria , Pignatti Giuseppe , Colantoni Andrea , Cividino Sirio , Perini Luigi , Pontuale Giorgio , Cecchini Massimo
Published: May 2019

Identifying early signals of climate change and latent patterns of meteorological variability requires tools analyzing time series data and multidimensional measures. By focusing on air temperature and precipitation, the present study compares local-scale climate regimes at two sites in Central Italy (urban Rome and a peri-urban cropland 10 km west of Rome), using descriptive and inferential statistics on both variables and a drought index (the Standardized Precipitation Index, hereafter SPI) recorded over the last 60 years (1958–2017). The present work assumes the importance of urban-rural gradients shaping local-scale climate regimes and spatial variability, with differential impacts on individual variables depending on territorial background and intrinsic biophysical characteristics. Considering together precipitations and minimum/maximum air temperature at month and year scale, the analysis developed here illustrates two coexisting climatic trends at distinctive spatial scales: A general trend toward warming—specifically influencing temperature regimes—and a more specific pattern evidencing changes in local-scale climate regime along the urban gradient, with a more subtle impact on both precipitations and temperatures. Empirical results indicate that climate variability increased over the study period, outlining the low predictability of dry spells typical of Mediterranean climate especially in the drier season (spring/summer). On average, absolute annual differences between the two sites amounted to 70 mm (more rainfall in the peri-urban site) and 0.9 °C (higher temperature in the urban site). A similar trend toward warming was observed for air temperature in both sites. No significant trends were observed for annual and seasonal rainfalls. SPI long-term trends indicate high variability in dry spells, with more frequent (and severe) drought episodes in urban Rome. Considering together trends in temperature and precipitation, the ‘urban heat’ effect was more evident, indicating a clearer trend toward climate aridity in urban Rome. These findings support the adoption of integrated strategies for climate change adaptation and mitigation in both agricultural systems and relict natural ecosystems surrounding urban areas.
The Use of the Combination of Texture, Color and Intensity Transformation Features for Segmentation in the Outdoors with Emphasis on Video Processing
Authors: Sabzi Sajad , Abbaspour-Gilandeh Yousef , Hernandez-Hernandez Jose Luis , Azadshahraki Farzad , Karimzadeh Rouhollah
Published: May 2019

Segmentation is the first and most important part in the development of any machine vision system with specific goals. Segmentation is especially important when the machine vision system works under environmental conditions, which means under natural light with natural backgrounds. In this case, segmentation will face many challenges, including the presence of various natural and artificial objects in the background and the lack of uniformity of light intensity in different parts of the camera's field of view. However, today, we must use different machine vision systems for outdoor use. For this reason, in this study, a segmentation algorithm was proposed for use in environmental conditions without the need for light control and the creation of artificial background using video processing with emphasizing the recognition of apple fruits on trees. Therefore, a video with more than 12 minutes duration containing more than 22,000 frames was studied under natural light and background conditions. Generally, in the proposed segmentation algorithm, five segmentation steps were used. These steps include: 1. Using a suitable color model; 2. Using the appropriate texture feature; 3. Using the intensity transformation method; 4. Using morphological operators; and 5. Using different color thresholds. The results showed that the segmentation algorithm had the total correct detection percentage of 99.013%. The highest sensitivity and specificity of segmentation algorithm were 99.224 and 99.458%, respectively. Finally, the results showed that the processor speed was about 0.825 seconds for segmentation of a frame.
Agronomic Evaluation of Biochar, Compost and Biochar-Blended Compost across Different Cropping Systems: Perspective from the European Project FERTIPLUS
Authors: Sánchez-Monedero Miguel A. , Cayuela María L. , Sánchez-García María , Vandecasteele Bart , D’Hose Tommy , López Guadalupe , Martínez-Gaitán Carolina , Kuikman Peter J. , Sinicco Tania , Mondini Claudio
Published: May 2019

This paper reports the results on the agronomic performance of organic amendments in the EU 7th FP project “FERTIPLUS—reducing mineral fertilizers and agro-chemicals by recycling treated organic waste as compost and bio-char”. Four case studies on field-scale application of biochar, compost and biochar-blended compost were established and studied for three consecutive years in four distinct cropping systems and under different agro-climatic conditions in Europe. These included the following sites: olive groves in Murcia (Spain), greenhouse grown tomatoes in Almeria (Spain), an arable crop rotation in Oost-Vlaanderen (Merelbeke, Belgium), and three vineyards in Friuli Venezia Giulia (Italy). A slow pyrolysis oak biochar was applied, either alone or in combination with organic residues: compost from olive wastes in Murcia (Spain), sheep manure in Almeria (Spain), and compost from biowaste and green waste in Belgium and Italy. The agronomical benefits were evaluated based on different aspects of soil fertility (soil total organic carbon (TOC), pH, nutrient cycling and microbial activity) and crop nutritional status and productivity. All amendments were effective in increasing soil organic C in all the field trials. On average, the increase with respect to the control was about 11% for compost, 20% for biochar-blended compost, and 36% for biochar. The amendments also raised the pH by 0.15–0.50 units in acidic soils. Only biochar had a negligible fertilization effect. On the contrary, compost and biochar-blended compost were effective in enhancing soil fertility by increasing nutrient cycling (25% mean increase in extractable organic C and 44% increase in extractable N), element availability (26% increase in available K), and soil microbial activity (26% increase in soil respiration and 2–4 fold enhancement of denitrifying activity). In general, the tested amendments did not show any negative effect on crop yield and quality. Furthermore, in vineyards and greenhouse grown tomatoes cropping systems, compost and biochar-blended compost were also effective in enhancing key crop quality parameters (9% increase in grape must acidity and 16% increase in weight, 9% increase in diameter and 8% increase in hardness of tomato fruits) important for the quality and marketability of the crops. The overall results of the project suggest that the application of a mixture of biochar and compost can benefit crops. Therefore, biochar-blended compost can support and maintain soil fertility.
Application of Biogas Digestate with Rice Straw Mitigates Nitrate Leaching Potential and Suppresses Root-Knot Nematode (Meloidogyne incognita)
Authors: Wang Yuexi , Chikamatsu Seiya , Gegen Tuya , Sawada Kozue , Toyota Koki , Riya Shohei , Hosomi Masaaki
Published: May 2019

This study investigated the effects of biogas digestate application to soil with rice straw on nitrate leaching potential and nematicidal activity toward root-knot nematodes Meloidogyne incognita. The following seven treatments were set up: (i) control (CONT); (ii) chemical fertilizer (CF); (iii) wet biogas digestate derived from pig manure (WBD); (iv) and (v) dry biogas digestate derived from a mixture of pig manure and rice straw at an initial C/N ratio of 20 and 30 (DBD20 and DBD30); (vi) and (vii) DBD20 mixed with rice straw to adjust the C/N ratio to 16 (Mix1) and 30 (Mix2), respectively. The application rate of CF and digestates was adjusted to 200 mg N kg−1 soil based on the inorganic ammonium nitrogen contents. Nitrate contents readily increased in all the treatments with incubation, except for Mix2, and those at day 90 were decreased with increasing initial labile C contents. Garden balsam was grown as a test plant for root-knot nematodes using the soils at day 90 and the results showed that the gall index was significantly lower in Mix2 and Mix1 than in CF. These results suggest that dry digestate mixed with rice straw might have potential for lower nitrate leaching and nematicidal properties.
Carbonaceous Greenhouse Gases and Microbial Abundance in Paddy Soil under Combined Biochar and Rice Straw Amendment
Authors: Kumputa Supitrada , Vityakon Patma , Saenjan Patcharee , Lawongsa Phrueksa
Published: May 2019

Little is known about the carbonaceous greenhouse gases and soil microbial community linked to the combination of biochar (BC) and rice straw (RS) in paddy soils. The objectives of this research were to evaluate the effects of combining BC and RS on (1) CH4 and CO2 production from paddy soil, (2) archaeal and bacterial abundance, and (3) rice grain yield. The experiments consisted of a pot trial and an incubation trial, which had a completely randomized design. The experiments included five treatments with three replications: (a) the control (without BC, RS, and chemical fertilizer (CF)); (b) CF; (c) BC 12.50 t ha−1; (d) RS 12.50 t ha−1; and (e) combined BC 6.25 t ha−1 + RS 6.25 t ha−1 + CF. In the sole RS treatment, CH4 production (0.0347 mg m−2 season−1) and the archaeal and bacterial abundance (5.81 × 108 and 4.94 × 1010 copies g−1 soil dry weight (DW)) were higher than outcomes in the sole BC treatment (i.e., 0.0233 mg m−2 season−1 for CH4 production, and 8.51 × 107 and 1.76 × 1010 copies g−1 soil DW for archaeal and bacterial abundance, respectively). CH4 production (0.0235 mg m−2 season−1) decreased significantly in the combined BC + RS + CF treated soil compared to the soil treated with RS alone, indicating that BC lessened CH4 production via CH4 adsorption, methanogenic activity inhibition, and microbial CH4 oxidation through bacterial methanotrophs. However, the archaeal abundance (3.79–5.81 × 108 copies g−1 soil DW) and bacterial abundance (4.94–5.82 × 1010 copies g−1 soil DW) in the combined BC+ RS + CF treated soil and the RS treated soil were found to increase relative to the treatments without RS. The increase was due to the easily decomposable RS and the volatile matter (VM) constituent of the BC. Nevertheless, the resultant CO2 production was relatively similar amongst the BC, RS, and BC + RS treated soils, which was indicative of several processes, e.g., the CO2 production and reduction that occurred simultaneously but in different directions. Moreover, the highest yield of rice grains was obtained from a combined BC + RS + CF treated soil and it was 53.47 g pot−1 (8.48 t ha−1). Over time, the addition of BC to RS soil enhanced the archaeal and bacterial abundance, thereby improving yields and reducing CH4 emissions.
Straw Return with Reduced Nitrogen Fertilizer Maintained Maize High Yield in Northeast China
Authors: Lv Yanjie , Wang Yongjun , Wang Lichun , Zhu Ping
Published: May 2019

Crop residue management is a major concern in China. Returning straw to the field has been promoted to reduce chemical fertilizer input and increase crop yield. For this, the present study as a part of an existing long-term field experiment was conducted including four treatments: (1) Maize straw return with reduced nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium fertilizers (straw + NPK; SNPK); (2) NPK fertilizers; (3) PK fertilizers; and (4) no fertilizers added (nF) in the years of 2016 and 2017. Results showed SNPK and NPK produced similar grain yield over the two years (12,485 vs. 12,754 kg ha−1), which was approximately 3-fold of PK and nF (4763 vs. 3858 kg ha−1). The yield difference was not significant between SNPK and NPK and between PK and nF. The effect of straw return on plant productivity is related to precipitation. In contrast to total carbon (C), nitrogen (N), and phosphorus (P), K was lost from leaf, stem, and grain. Dynamics of plant N post-flowering is critical to determine maize yield and yield components relative to C, P, and K. Dynamics of P and K in leaf were more correlated with yield than in stem, implying the significance of leaf productivity in determining grain yield. These results indicate that combination of NPK fertilizers is critical for increasing grain yield in maize. Crop straw return with reduced NPK fertilizers will help to improve yield and reduce chemical fertilizer input in the long run.
Assessment of the Cutting Performance of a Robot Mower Using Custom Built Software
Authors: Martelloni Luisa , Fontanelli Marco , Pieri Stefano , Frasconi Christian , Caturegli Lisa , Gaetani Monica , Grossi Nicola , Magni Simone , Pirchio Michel , Raffaelli Michele , Volterrani Marco , Peruzzi Andrea
Published: May 2019

Before the introduction of positioning technologies in agriculture practices such as global navigation satellite systems (GNSS), data collection and management were time-consuming and labor-intensive tasks. Today, due to the introduction of advanced technologies, precise information on the performance of agricultural machines, and smaller autonomous vehicles such as robot mowers, can be collected in a relatively short time. The aim of this work was to track the performance of a robot mower in various turfgrass areas of an equal number of square meters but with four different shapes by using real-time kinematic (RTK)-GNSS devices, and to easily extract data by a custom built software capable of calculating the distance travelled by the robot mower, the forward speed, the cutting area, and the number of intersections of the trajectories. These data were then analyzed in order to provide useful functioning information for manufacturers, entrepreneurs, and practitioners. The path planning of the robot mower was random and the turfgrass area for each of the four shapes was 135 m2 without obstacles. The distance travelled by the robot mower, the mean forward speed, and the intersections of the trajectories were affected by the interaction between the time of cutting and the shape of the turfgrass. For all the different shapes, the whole turfgrass area was completely cut after two hours of mowing. The cutting efficiency decreased by increasing the time, as a consequence of the increase in overlaps. After 75 minutes of cutting, the efficiency was about 35% in all the turfgrass areas shapes, thus indicating a high level of overlapping.
Arbuscular Mycorrhizal Fungi Modulate the Crop Performance and Metabolic Profile of Saffron in Soilless Cultivation
Authors: Caser Matteo , Demasi Sonia , Victorino Íris Marisa Maxaieie , Donno Dario , Faccio Antonella , Lumini Erica , Bianciotto Valeria , Scariot Valentina
Published: May 2019

Saffron (Crocus sativus L.) is cultivated worldwide. Its stigmas represent the highest-priced spice and contain bioactive compounds beneficial for human health. Saffron cultivation commonly occurs in open field, and spice yield can vary greatly, from 0.15 to 1.5 g m−2, based on several agronomic and climatic factors. In this study, we evaluated saffron cultivation in soilless systems, where plants can benefit from a wealth of nutrients without competition with pathogens or stresses related to nutrient-soil interaction. In addition, as plant nutrient and water uptake can be enhanced by the symbiosis with arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF), we also tested two inocula: a single species (Rhizophagus intraradices) or a mixture of R. intraradices and Funneliformis mosseae. After one cultivation cycle, we evaluated the spice yield, quality (ISO category), antioxidant activity, and bioactive compound contents of saffron produced in soilless systems and the effect of the applied AMF inocula. Spice yield in soilless systems (0.55 g m−2) was on average with that produced in open field, while presented a superior content of several health-promoting compounds, such as polyphenols, anthocyanins, vitamin C, and elevated antioxidant activity. The AMF symbiosis with saffron roots was verified by light and transmission electron microscopy. Inoculated corms showed larger replacement corms (+50% ca.). Corms inoculated with R. intraradices performed better than those inoculated with the mix in terms of spice quality (+90% ca.) and antioxidant activity (+88% ca.). Conversely, the mixture of R. intraradices and F. mosseae increased the polyphenol content (+343% ca.). Thus, soilless systems appeared as an effective alternative cultivation strategy for the production of high quality saffron. Further benefits can be obtained by the application of targeted AMF-based biostimulants.
Exploring Optimal Tillage Improved Soil Characteristics and Productivity of Wheat Irrigated with Different Water Qualities
Authors: Seleiman Mahmoud F. , Kheir Ahmed M. S. , Al-Dhumri Sami , Alghamdi Abdulaziz G. , Omar El-Said H. , Aboelsoud Hesham M. , Abdella Kamel A. , Abou El Hassan Waleed H.
Published: May 2019

Irrigation with low water quality can adversely affect soil characteristics, optimal moisture for tillage, and crop productivity, particularly in arid and semi-arid regions. We determined the optimal moisture for tillage processing and the effects of optimal and wet tillage on physical and chemical soil characteristics and wheat productivity after irrigation with different water qualities (waste, saline, and highly saline water). We used the Atterberg limit to determine the suitable moisture content for tillage. Tillage at optimal moisture content improved soil characteristics by reducing soil salinity, sodicity, bulk density, shear strength, compaction, and increasing hydraulic conductivity compared to that of wet tillage. It also enhanced growth and productivity of wheat grown with low quality of water (i.e., fresh and waste water), resulting in higher grain yield and root weight at different growth stages than that of saline and highly saline water. In conclusion, tillage at optimal moisture content alleviates the impact of salinity through improving soil physical and chemical characteristics. Optimum tillage can be applied at 20 and 24 days from the previous irrigation in saline and highly saline soils, respectively. Irrigation with waste water resulted in a higher wheat grain yield than saline and highly saline water.
How to Generate Yield in the First Year—A Three-Year Experiment on Miscanthus (Miscanthus × giganteus (Greef et Deuter)) Establishment under Maize (Zea mays L.)
Authors: von Cossel Moritz , Mangold Anja , Iqbal Yasir , Hartung Jens , Lewandowski Iris , Kiesel Andreas
Published: May 2019

Miscanthus is one of the most promising perennial herbaceous industrial crops worldwide mainly due to its high resource-use efficiency and biomass yield. However, the extent of miscanthus cultivation across Europe is still lagging far behind its real potential. Major limiting factors are high initial costs and low biomass yields in the crop establishment period, especially the first year. This study explores the possibility of establishing miscanthus under maize to generate yields from the first year of cultivation onwards. A field trial with mono-cropped maize and two miscanthus establishment procedures, ‘under maize’ (MUM) and ‘standard’ (REF), was established in southwest Germany in 2016. Annual aboveground biomass was harvested in autumn (2016–2018). In 2016 and 2017, the miscanthus dry matter yield (DMY) was significantly lower in MUM than REF. However, the accumulated DMY of miscanthus and maize was as high in MUM as in maize cultivation alone. In 2018, there was no significant difference between the miscanthus DMY of REF (7.86 ± 0.77 Mg ha−1) and MUM (6.21 ± 0.77 Mg ha−1). The accumulated DMY over the three years was 31.7 Mg ha−1 for MUM, of which 10.1 Mg ha−1 were miscanthus-based, compared to 17.7 Mg ha−1 for REF. These results indicate that miscanthus establishment under maize could compensate for its lack of yield in the first year.
Effects of Ground Floor Type on Selected Health-Parameters and Weight of Rabbits Reared in Group Pens
Authors: Windschnurer Ines , Waiblinger Susanne , Hanslik Stefan , Klang Andrea , Smajlhodzic Fehim , Löwenstein Michael , Niebuhr Knut
Published: May 2019

Cage housing of growing rabbits is associated with welfare concerns. An alternative system that has already been introduced involves pens with non-wire floors. An important aspect of group pens, for which the best solution has not yet been clearly demonstrated, is the choice of floor material. The study investigated effects of two ground floor types—slatted plastic floor versus concrete floor with straw litter—on health-related parameters and weight of rabbits reared in large group pens on a commercial rabbit farm, i.e., with preventive coccidiostatic, and if required, additional therapeutic medical treatment. Pens were identical in dimensions, equipment (including platforms), and initial group size (60 animals/pen). Four pens were studied per ground floor type in three consecutive rearing periods (in total, 12 pens per floor type). A higher percentage of rabbits per pen had clean fur if reared on straw (p < 0.05). No significant differences were found in the load of coccidial oocysts in collective faecal samples, mortality, pathological alterations, or causes of loss (p > 0.05). Thus, often-expressed concerns that parasitic load and mortality would be higher in groups kept on straw were not confirmed when rabbits were housed under otherwise equal conditions. Average slaughter weight was higher in rabbits reared on a slatted plastic floor (p < 0.05), confirming previous findings of a negative impact of straw litter on weight gain.
Species-Specific Discrimination of Insect Meals for Aquafeeds by Direct Comparison of Tandem Mass Spectra
Authors: Belghit Ikram , Lock Erik-Jan , Fumière Olivier , Lecrenier Marie-Caroline , Renard Patricia , Dieu Marc , Berntssen Marc H. G. , Palmblad Magnus , Rasinger Josef D.
Published: May 2019

Insect protein has the potential to become a sustainable feed ingredient for the rapidly growing aquaculture industry. In the European Union, insect derived protein is placed under the same legislation as processed animal proteins (PAP). It is therefore of interest to develop methods for regulatory use, which unambiguously identify the species origin of insect-based ingredients. We performed (i) total protein quantification of insect samples using the traditional nitrogen-to-protein conversion factor of 6.25 and the sum of anhydrous amino acids, (ii) quantitative amino acid profiling and (iii) high-throughput tandem mass spectrometry to describe and differentiate 18 different commercial-grade insect meal samples derived from Hermetia illucens (8), Tenebrio molitor (5), Alphitobius diaperinus (3) and Acheta domesticus (2). In addition, we investigated and compared different protein extraction and digestion protocols for proteomic analysis. We found that irrespective of sample preparation, shotgun proteomics in combination with direct spectral comparison were able to differentiate insect meal according to their taxonomic classification. The insect specific spectral libraries created in the present work can in future be used to develop more sensitive targeted methods of insect PAP identification and quantification in commercial feed mixtures.
Effects of Low-Protein Diets and Exogenous Protease on Growth Performance, Carcass Traits, Intestinal Morphology, Cecal Volatile Fatty Acids and Serum Parameters in Broilers
Authors: Ndazigaruye Gervais , Kim Da-Hye , Kang Chang-Won , Kang Kyung-Rae , Joo Yong-Jin , Lee Sang-Rak , Lee Kyung-Woo
Published: May 2019

Dietary exogenous proteases (ENZ) can be used in poultry production to improve the growth of chickens fed low-protein (LP) diets. We hypothesized that ENZ supplemented in an LP diet would improve growth performance and physiological response in broilers for 8–35 days. To investigate this, we used a 2 × 2 factorial design with crude protein (CP, normal diet (NP) and LP) and ENZ. The LP diet contained low in 1% CP and ca. 8–12% amino acids compared to the NP diet and both NP and LP diets were added without or with (1 g/kg of diet) ENZ. We randomly allocated 720 1-week-old Ross 308 male chicks to 48 pens and experimental diets. At 21 days, dietary ENZ, but not CP, increased (p = 0.007) live body weight. Body weight gain from 8–21 days was affected (p = 0.006) by dietary ENZ, but was not affected (p = 0.210) by CP. The feed conversion ratio was affected by both CP and ENZ during the starter period (p < 0.05), by ENZ (p = 0.034) during the finisher period, and by CP (p < 0.001) during the whole period. However, the interaction between CP and ENZ did not significantly affect growth performance (p > 0.05). Dietary ENZ increased (p = 0.013) the relative weight of liver at 21 days. CP and ENZ affected (p = 0.043) total short-chain fatty acids at 21 days. However, this effect was not seen (p = 0.888) at 35 days. Dietary CP increased (p < 0.05) the serum concentrations of both uric acid and creatinine in broilers. We concluded that dietary ENZ is more beneficial to younger broilers, independent of CP levels, and that its effect was restricted to body weight and the feed conversion ratio.
Targeting the MHC Ligandome by Use of TCR-Like Antibodies
Authors: Høydahl Lene Støkken , Frick Rahel , Sandlie Inger , Løset Geir Åge
Published: May 2019

Monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) are valuable as research reagents, in diagnosis and in therapy. Their high specificity, the ease in production, favorable biophysical properties and the opportunity to engineer different properties make mAbs a versatile class of biologics. mAbs targeting peptide–major histocompatibility molecule (pMHC) complexes are often referred to as “TCR-like” mAbs, as pMHC complexes are generally recognized by T-cell receptors (TCRs). Presentation of self- and non-self-derived peptide fragments on MHC molecules and subsequent activation of T cells dictate immune responses in health and disease. This includes responses to infectious agents or cancer but also aberrant responses against harmless self-peptides in autoimmune diseases. The ability of TCR-like mAbs to target specific peptides presented on MHC allows for their use to study peptide presentation or for diagnosis and therapy. This extends the scope of conventional mAbs, which are generally limited to cell-surface or soluble antigens. Herein, we review the strategies used to generate TCR-like mAbs and provide a structural comparison with the analogous TCR in pMHC binding. We further discuss their applications as research tools and therapeutic reagents in preclinical models as well as challenges and limitations associated with their use.
Intracellular Penetration and Effects of Antibiotics on Staphylococcus aureus Inside Human Neutrophils: A Comprehensive Review
Authors: Bongers Suzanne , Hellebrekers Pien , Leenen Luke P.H. , Koenderman Leo , Hietbrink Falco
Published: May 2019

Neutrophils are important assets in defense against invading bacteria like staphylococci. However, (dysfunctioning) neutrophils can also serve as reservoir for pathogens that are able to survive inside the cellular environment. Staphylococcus aureus is a notorious facultative intracellular pathogen. Most vulnerable for neutrophil dysfunction and intracellular infection are immune-deficient patients or, as has recently been described, severely injured patients. These dysfunctional neutrophils can become hide-out spots or “Trojan horses” for S. aureus. This location offers protection to bacteria from most antibiotics and allows transportation of bacteria throughout the body inside moving neutrophils. When neutrophils die, these bacteria are released at different locations. In this review, we therefore focus on the capacity of several groups of antibiotics to enter human neutrophils, kill intracellular S. aureus and affect neutrophil function. We provide an overview of intracellular capacity of available antibiotics to aid in clinical decision making. In conclusion, quinolones, rifamycins and sulfamethoxazole-trimethoprim seem very effective against intracellular S. aureus in human neutrophils. Oxazolidinones, macrolides and lincosamides also exert intracellular antibiotic activity. Despite that the reviewed data are predominantly of in vitro origin, these findings should be taken into account when intracellular infection is suspected, as can be the case in severely injured patients.
Determination of Florfenicol, Thiamfenicol and Chloramfenicol at Trace Levels in Animal Feed by HPLC–MS/MS
Authors: Gavilán Rosa Elvira , Nebot Carolina , Patyra Ewelina , Vazquez Beatriz , Miranda Jose Manuel , Cepeda Alberto
Published: May 2019

Administration of florfenicol and thiamfenicol through medicated feed is permitted within the European Union, always following veterinary prescription and respecting the withdrawal periods. However, the presence of low levels of florfenicol, thiamfenicol, and chloramfenicol in non-target feed is prohibited. Since cross-contamination can occur during the production of medicated feed and according to Annex II of the European Regulation 2019/4/EC, the control of residue levels of florfenicol and thiamfenicol in non-target feed should be monitored and avoided. Based on all the above, a sensitive and reliable method using liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry was developed for the simultaneous detection of chloramfenicol, florfenicol, and thiamfenicol at trace levels in animal feed. Analytes were extracted from minced feed with ethyl acetate. Then, the ethyl acetate was evaporated, the residue was resuspended in Milli-Q water and the extract filtered. The method was in-house validated at carryover levels, with concentration ranging from 100 to 1000 µg/kg. The validation was conducted following the European Commission Decision 2002/657/EC and all performance characteristics were successfully satisfied. The capability of the method to detect amfenicols at lower levels than any prior perspective regulation literature guarantees its applicability in official control activities. The developed method has been applied to non-compliant feed samples with satisfactory results.
The Role of Astrocytes in the Central Nervous System Focused on BK Channel and Heme Oxygenase Metabolites: A Review
Authors: Kim Yonghee , Park Jinhong , Choi Yoon Kyung
Published: May 2019

Astrocytes outnumber neurons in the human brain, and they play a key role in numerous functions within the central nervous system (CNS), including glutamate, ion (i.e., Ca2+, K+) and water homeostasis, defense against oxidative/nitrosative stress, energy storage, mitochondria biogenesis, scar formation, tissue repair via angiogenesis and neurogenesis, and synapse modulation. After CNS injury, astrocytes communicate with surrounding neuronal and vascular systems, leading to the clearance of disease-specific protein aggregates, such as β-amyloid, and α-synuclein. The astrocytic big conductance K+ (BK) channel plays a role in these processes. Recently, potential therapeutic agents that target astrocytes have been tested for their potential to repair the brain. In this review, we discuss the role of the BK channel and antioxidant agents such as heme oxygenase metabolites following CNS injury. A better understanding of the cellular and molecular mechanisms of astrocytes’ functions in the healthy and diseased brains will greatly contribute to the development of therapeutic approaches following CNS injury, such as Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, and stroke.
Inula L. Secondary Metabolites against Oxidative Stress-Related Human Diseases
Authors: Tavares Wilson R. , Seca Ana M. L.
Published: May 2019

An imbalance in the production of reactive oxygen species in the body can cause an increase of oxidative stress that leads to oxidative damage to cells and tissues, which culminates in the development or aggravation of some chronic diseases, such as inflammation, diabetes mellitus, cancer, cardiovascular disease, and obesity. Secondary metabolites from Inula species can play an important role in the prevention and treatment of the oxidative stress-related diseases mentioned above. The databases Scopus, PubMed, and Web of Science and the combining terms Inula, antioxidant and secondary metabolites were used in the research for this review. More than 120 articles are reviewed, highlighting the most active compounds with special emphasis on the elucidation of their antioxidative-stress mechanism of action, which increases the knowledge about their potential in the fight against inflammation, cancer, neurodegeneration, and diabetes. Alantolactone is the most polyvalent compound, reporting interesting EC50 values for several bioactivities, while 1-O-acetylbritannilactone can be pointed out as a promising lead compound for the development of analogues with interesting properties. The Inula genus is a good bet as source of structurally diverse compounds with antioxidant activity that can act via different mechanisms to fight several oxidative stress-related human diseases, being useful for development of new drugs.
Carotenoid Production by Dunaliella salina under Red Light
Authors: Xu Yanan , Harvey Patricia J.
Published: May 2019

The halotolerant photoautotrophic marine microalga Dunaliella salina is one of the richest sources of natural carotenoids. Here we investigated the effects of high intensity blue, red and white light from light emitting diodes (LED) on the production of carotenoids by strains of D. salina under nutrient sufficiency and strict temperature control favouring growth. Growth in high intensity red light was associated with carotenoid accumulation and a high rate of oxygen uptake. On transfer to blue light, a massive drop in carotenoid content was recorded along with very high rates of photo-oxidation. In high intensity blue light, growth was maintained at the same rate as in red or white light, but without carotenoid accumulation; transfer to red light stimulated a small increase in carotenoid content. The data support chlorophyll absorption of red light photons to reduce plastoquinone in photosystem II, coupled to phytoene desaturation by plastoquinol:oxygen oxidoreductase, with oxygen as electron acceptor. Partitioning of electrons between photosynthesis and carotenoid biosynthesis would depend on both red photon flux intensity and phytoene synthase upregulation by the red light photoreceptor, phytochrome. Red light control of carotenoid biosynthesis and accumulation reduces the rate of formation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) as well as increases the pool size of anti-oxidant.
Propolis Extracts Inhibit UV-Induced Photodamage in Human Experimental In Vitro Skin Models
Authors: Karapetsas Athanasios , Voulgaridou Georgia-Persephoni , Konialis Manolis , Tsochantaridis Ilias , Kynigopoulos Spyridon , Lambropoulou Maria , Stavropoulou Maria-Ioanna , Stathopoulou Konstantina , Aligiannis Nektarios , Bozidis Petros , Goussia Anna , Gardikis Konstantinos , Panayiotidis Mihalis I. , Pappa Aglaia
Published: May 2019

The aim of this study was to assess the antioxidant, photoprotective, and antiaging effects of Greek propolis. Propolis was subjected to n-heptane or methanol extraction. Total phenolic/flavonoid content and antioxidant potential were determined in the extracts. Promising extracts were evaluated for their cytoprotective properties using human immortalized keratinocyte (HaCaT) or reconstituted human skin tissue following exposure to UVB. Assessment of cytotoxicity, DNA damage, oxidative status, and gene/protein expression levels of various matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) were performed. The propolis methanolic fractions exhibited higher total phenolic and flavonoid contents and significant in vitro antioxidant activity. Incubation of HaCaT cells with certain methanolic extracts significantly decreased the formation of DNA strand breaks following exposure to UVB and attenuated UVB-induced decrease in cell viability. The extracts had no remarkable effect on the total antioxidant status, but significantly lowered total protein carbonyl content used as a marker for protein oxidation in HaCaT cells. MMP-1, -3, -7, and -9, monitored as endpoints of antiaging efficacy, were significantly reduced by propolis following UVB exposure in a model of reconstituted skin tissue. In conclusion, propolis protects against the oxidative and photodamaging effects of UVB and could be further explored as a promising agent for developing natural antiaging strategies.