bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Gender differences in skilled performance under failure competitive environments: evidence from elite archers
Authors: Li Chunhua , Zhao Yangqing
Published: September 2024

Introduction

Psychologists are particularly interested in how people operate in stressful settings. The sporting arena is a “natural laboratory” for studying how people behave and perform in high-pressure situations. This study explores the gender differences in archers’ ability to cope with adversity, highlighting the significant cold-hand effect observed in both male and female archers, with notable differences in the last arrow performance under pressure.

Methods

Our method is a Poisson general linear model -based test for the cold hand that examines how the performance of the last arrow per set depends on the performance of the previous two shots. We also interact the player’s gender with performance on the previous two arrows and game status to test for gender differences in response to past performance and intermediate game status.

Results

The Poisson regression analysis reveals that male and female archers’ performance dropped significantly after experiencing two consecutive missing bullseyes, which means a cold-hand effect exists. However, although there was no significant difference in the performance of male and female archers on the third arrow, female archers have significantly lower last arrow per set scores than male archers after near poor performance or being in a situation where losing can only be avoided by winning the current set.

Discussion

This finding suggests that female archers are more vulnerable to the potentially negative effects of adversity caused by trailing or recent failures than their male counterparts. We attempt to explain the reasons behind the results above from both psychological and physiological perspectives.
Abnormal resting-state functional connectivity of hippocampal subregions in type 2 diabetes mellitus-associated cognitive decline
Authors: Yao Lin , Li Meng-Yuan , Wang Kang-Cheng , Liu Yan-Ze , Zheng Hai-Zhu , Zhong Zhen , Ma Shi-Qi , Yang Hong-Mei , Sun Meng-Meng , He Min , Huang Hai-Peng , Wang Hong-Feng
Published: September 2024

Objective

Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) over time predisposes to inflammatory responses and abnormalities in functional brain networks that damage learning, memory, or executive function. The hippocampus is a key region often reporting connectivity abnormalities in memory disorders. Here, we investigated peripheral inflammatory responses and resting-state functional connectivity (RSFC) changes characterized of hippocampal subregions in type 2 diabetes-associated cognitive decline (T2DACD).

Methods

The study included 16 patients with T2DM, 16 patients with T2DACD and 25 healthy controls (HCs). Subjects were assessed for cognitive performance, tested for the expression of inflammatory factors IL-6, IL-10 and TNF-α in peripheral serum, underwent resting-state functional magnetic resonance imaging scans, and analyzed for RSFC using the hippocampal subregions as seeds. We also calculated the correlation between cognitive performance and RSFC of hippocampal subregion, and analyzed the significantly altered RSFC values of T2DACD for Receiver Operating Characteristic (ROC) analysis.

Results

T2DACD patients showed a decline in their ability to complete cognitive assessment scales and experimental paradigms, and T2DM did not show abnormal cognitive performance. IL-6 expression was increased in peripheral serum in both T2DACD and T2DM. Compared with HCs, T2DACD showed abnormalities RSFC of the left anterior hippocampus with left precentral gyrus and left angular gyrus. T2DM showed abnormalities RSFC of the left middle hippocampus with right medial frontal gyrus, right anterior and middle hippocampus with left precuneus, left anterior hippocampus with right precuneus and right posterior middle temporal gyrus. Compared with T2DM, T2DACD showed abnormalities RSFC of the left posterior hippocampus and right middle hippocampus with left precuneus. In addition, RSFC in the left posterior hippocampus with left precuneus of T2DACD was positively correlated with Flanker conflict response time (r=0.766, P=0.001). In the ROC analysis, the significantly altered RSFC values of T2DACD achieved significant performance.

Conclusions

T2DACD showed a significant decrease in attentional inhibition and working memory, peripheral pro-inflammatory response increased, and abnormalities RSFC of the hippocampal subregions with default mode network and sensory-motor network. T2DM did not show a significant cognitive decline, but peripheral pro-inflammatory response increased and abnormalities RSFC of the hippocampus subregions occurred in the brain. In addition, the left precuneus may be a key brain region in the conversion of T2DM to T2DACD. The results of this study may provide a basis for the preliminary diagnosis of T2DACD.
Negative and positive urgency as pathways in the intergenerational transmission of suicide risk in childhood
Authors: Ortin-Peralta Ana , Schiffman Amara , Malik Jill , Polanco-Roman Lillian , Hennefield Laura , Luking Katherine
Published: September 2024

Introduction

Parental suicide attempts and suicide death increase suicide risk in their offspring. High levels of impulsivity have been observed in families at high risk for suicide. Impulsivity, a highly heritable trait that is especially elevated in childhood, is frequently measured with the UPPS-P Impulsive Behavior Scale, which includes negative urgency, positive urgency, sensation seeking, premeditation, and perseverance. Our study examined the association between the UPPS-P facets and suicide ideation (without suicide attempts) and suicide attempts at baseline and first-time endorsement within the next two years in childhood. We also examined how the UPPS-P facets mediated the association between parental suicide attempts and suicide death and offspring first-time suicide ideation and attempts at follow-up.

Methods

The sample was 9,194 children (48.4% female; 9-10 years old) from the Adolescent Brain Cognitive Development (ABCD) study, assessed yearly three times. At Time 1 (T1), caregivers reported on suicide attempts and suicide deaths (combined) of the biological parents. Caregivers and children reported on suicide ideation and attempts in the KSADS-PL DSM-5 at each time point, T1 and follow-up (T2 and/or T3). The Short UPPS-P Scale (child-report) assessed the impulsivity facets at T1, which were computed as latent variables.

Results

At T1, 6.7% of children had a parent who had attempted or died by suicide. Most UPPS-P facets were associated with suicide ideation and attempts at T1 and T2/T3. In adjusted models, parental suicide attempts and suicide death were associated with offspring negative and positive urgency. In mediation models, parental suicide attempts and suicide death had an indirect effect on offspring first-time suicide ideation at T2/T3 through negative urgency (OR = 1.04; 95% CI, 1.01-1.08) and positive urgency (OR = 1.03, 95% CI, 1.01-1.05). Similar results were found for first-time suicide attempts at T2/T3.

Discussion

Our findings support an impulsive pathway in the familial transmission of suicide risk. For all youth, interventions that target multiple UPPS-P facets may help prevent or reduce suicide risk. For offspring whose parents have attempted or died by suicide, clinicians should pay particular attention to children who impulsively act on extreme emotions, as they may be at higher suicide risk.
Inequities in air pollution on stroke mortality among Older Americans: a U.S. nationwide analysis
Authors: Kabangu Jean-Luc K. , Fowler Danny , Hernandez Amanda , Newsome-Cuby Takara , Joseph Benson , Dugan John , Fry Lane , Bah Momodou G. , Eden Sonia V.
Published: September 2024

Background

Air pollution is a known risk factor for cardiovascular diseases, including stroke. This study examines the impact of county-level air pollution on ischemic and hemorrhagic stroke mortality among U.S. individuals aged 65 and older, emphasizing racial and socioeconomic disparities.

Methods

Using data from the Center for Disease Control (CDC) Interactive Atlas of Heart Disease and Stroke, we analyzed county-level ischemic stroke mortality rates for older residents between 2016 and 2020. The data on air pollution at the county level, specifically particulate matter (PM2.5) levels, were obtained from the CDC. We applied multivariable linear and logistic regression models to examine the association between PM2.5 levels and stroke mortality, as well as the probability of meeting the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) air quality standards.

Results

County-level analysis revealed a significant correlation (R = 0.68, R2 = 0.48, p < 0.001) between PM2.5 levels and overall stroke mortality. For every 1 μg/m3 increase in PM2.5, there was an increase of 1.89 ischemic stroke deaths per 100,000 residents. Racial and socioeconomic disparities were evident. Counties with predominantly Black populations exhibited a stark disparity, with each 1 μg/m3 increase in PM2.5 correlating with a significant rise in mortality, amounting to 5.81 additional deaths per 100,000 residents. Persistently poor counties displayed vulnerability, experiencing a 4.05 increase in ischemic stroke deaths per 100,000 residents for every 1 μg/m3 increase in PM2.5 levels. Conversely, in counties with a White majority and counties without a persistent state of poverty, the associated increases in stroke mortality per 100,000 residents for every 1 μg/m3 rise in county-level PM2.5 were 1.85 and 1.60, respectively. Counties with a majority of Black residents were over twice as likely to be non-compliant with EPA air quality standards compared to predominantly White counties (aOR 2.36 95% CI: 1.27–4.38, p = 0.006).

Conclusion

This study underscores the significant impact of county-level air pollution, particularly PM2.5, on ischemic stroke mortality among older U.S. residents. Our findings indicate that counties with predominantly Black populations and those experiencing persistent poverty not only suffer from higher mortality rates but also are more likely to be non-compliant with EPA air quality standards. Targeted interventions and policies are urgently needed to reduce air pollution in these vulnerable communities and promote equitable public health outcomes.
Responses of potential double cropping areas expansion and appropriate crop management practices to climate change in northern China
Authors: Wu Xianzhong , Wang Jinxiang , Wu Jiujiang
Published: September 2024

Introduction

Global climate change has led to increases in the temperature and decreases in the number of frost days in northern China, facilitating a shift from a single cropping system (SCS, spring maize) to a double cropping system (DCS, winter wheat-summer maize rotation).

Methods

Therefore, under the current climate conditions, DCS expansion should be evaluated, and new planting schemes should be explored. In this paper, we identified the areas with potential for DCS in northern China considering an annual accumulated temperature of >0°C. The World Food Studies simulation model was used to simulate the yield, irrigation requirement (IR), and net income under various crop management conditions when considering the maximum yield and water use efficiency (WUE) of crops.

Results

Our results indicated that the potential DCS area increased by approximately 31.51 × 104 km2 in northern China, with the primary DCS areas being located in the provinces of Gansu, Shaanxi, Shanxi, Hebei, and Liaoning. Regarding variety selection, winter wheat and summer maize varieties with early and mid-early maturation were found to be favored for the potential DCS areas. The sowing dates corresponding to the maximum WUEs of the crops were later than those corresponding to the maximum yields. In the potential DCS areas, under the maximum yield condition, the average unit total yield, IR, and net income increased to 2700 kg ha−1, 305 mm, and 607 USD ha−1, respectively, whereas under the maximum WUE condition, increases of 2862 kg ha−1, 284 mm, and 608 USD ha−1, respectively, were observed. The average unit total yield of the DCS was 15927 and 13793 kg ha−1 under the maximum yield and maximum WUE condition, respectively.

Discussion

Our findings may clarify the effects of climate change on agricultural production patterns and indicate suitable crop management practices.
A rosin-functionalized plastic surface inactivates African swine fever virus
Authors: Hemmink Johanneke Dinie , Shroff Sailee , Chege Naomi , Haapakoski Marjo , Dixon Linda K. , Marjomäki Varpu
Published: September 2024

African swine fever virus (ASFV) causes a severe hemorrhagic disease in pigs, leading to up to 100% case fatality. The virus May persist on solid surfaces for long periods; thus, fomites, such as contaminated clothing, footwear, farming tools, equipment, and transport vehicles, May contribute to the indirect transmission of the virus. Here, a plastic surface functionalized with tall oil rosin was tested against ASFV. The rosin-functionalized plastic reduced ASFV infectious virus titers by 1.3 log10 after 60 min of contact time and killed all detectable viruses after 120 min, leading to a ~ 6 log10 reduction. In contrast, the infectious virus titer of ASFV in contact with low-density polyethylene (LDPE) plastic reduced <1 log10 after 120 min. Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) showed significant morphological changes in the virus after 2 h of contact with the rosin-functionalized plastic surface, but no changes were observed with the LDPE plastic. The use of antiviral plastic in the farming sector could reduce the spread of ASFV through fomites and could thus be part of an integrated program to control ASFV.
A systematic review of epidemiological modelling in response to lumpy skin disease outbreaks
Authors: Lee Simin , Baker Christopher M. , Sellens Emily , Stevenson Mark A. , Roche Sharon , Hall Robyn N. , Breed Andrew C. , Firestone Simon M.
Published: September 2024

Lumpy skin disease (LSD) is an infectious disease currently spreading worldwide and poses a serious global threat. However, there is limited evidence and understanding to support the use of models to inform decision-making in LSD outbreak responses. This review aimed to identify modelling approaches that can be used before and during an outbreak of LSD, examining their characteristics and priorities, and proposing a structured workflow. We conducted a systematic review and identified 60 relevant publications on LSD outbreak modelling. The review identified six categories of question to be addressed following outbreak detection (origin, entry pathway, outbreak severity, risk factors, spread, and effectiveness of control measures), and five analytical techniques used to address them (descriptive epidemiology, risk factor analysis, spatiotemporal analysis, dynamic transmission modelling, and simulation modelling). We evaluated the questions each analytical technique can address, along with their data requirements and limitations, and accordingly assigned priorities to the modelling. Based on this, we propose a structured workflow for modelling during an LSD outbreak. Additionally, we emphasise the importance of pre-outbreak preparation and continuous updating of modelling post-outbreak for effective decision-making. This study also discusses the inherent limitations and uncertainties in the identified modelling approaches. To support this workflow, high-quality data must be collected in standardised formats, and efforts should be made to reduce inherent uncertainties of the models. The suggested modelling workflow can be used as a process to support rapid response for countries facing their first LSD occurrence and can be adapted to other transboundary diseases.
Strategies, Methods, and Supports for Developing Skills within Learning Communities: A Systematic Review of the Literature
Authors: Zamiri Majid , Esmaeili Ali
Published: September 2024

This systematic review underscores the significance of learning communities as fertile grounds for skill development across diverse contexts. Furthermore, it reviews and theoretically evaluates several commonly used strategies, methods, and supports for developing skills within learning communities by synthesizing the existing literature. We followed the procedure outlined by the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) to ensure a transparent, comprehensive, and standardized approach to conducting and reporting our systematic review, thereby enhancing the review’s credibility and reproducibility. Through an extensive analysis of the literature, we identified eleven strategies, methods, and supports (application of collaborative projects, mentorship programs, workshops and training sessions, online learning platforms, peer learning and feedback, problem-based learning, cross-collaboration initiatives, leadership development programs, inclusive learning environments, gamification and simulations, and social media and networking) that play pivotal roles in nurturing different types of skills. We describe each identified solution, its advantages and challenges, the types of skills targeted for development, and their overall contribution to skill enhancement. The findings emphasize the importance of fostering collaborative and interactive environments within learning communities to facilitate collective skill development and personal growth. Our systematic review faced some challenges (e.g., heterogeneity of studies and lack of longitudinal data) due to the overwhelming diversity of the literature on skill development across various disciplines and contexts. Overall, by synthesizing existing knowledge and identifying gaps in the literature, this review serves as a foundation for advancing theory, informing practice, and promoting continual improvement in skill development within learning communities.
Ethical Leadership and Emotional Exhaustion: The Impact of Moral Intensity and Affective Commitment
Authors: Santiago-Torner Carlos , González-Carrasco Mònica , Miranda Ayala Rafael Alberto
Published: September 2024

Purpose: The impact of ethical leadership on employee emotional exhaustion has been extensively analyzed. However, the impact of a leader’s moral intensity on an employee’s emotional state has gone largely unnoticed. This research demonstrates that ethical leadership influences employee emotional exhaustion as a function of the extent of the leader’s moral standards. Furthermore, this research finds that affective commitment acts as a mediating mechanism. Methods: A simple mediation model is used. The sample consists of 448 professionals in six organizations in the Colombian electrical sector who responded to an online questionnaire. The sampling is probabilistic by conglomerates. Findings: This research found a positive relationship between ethical leadership and emotional exhaustion, with affective commitment being a mechanism that helps explain this association. Ethical behavior is voluntary in nature and develops in an environment of trust. When an ethical leader surpasses specific moral turning points, a follower’s learning becomes an obligation, preventing affective fluidity. A search for acceptance implies constant consumption of resources that weakens the follower’s capacity for self-regulation until it is exhausted. Moreover, when the leader’s expectations are difficult to meet, affective commitment can lead to significant emotional ambiguity in followers. This context intensifies role stress and increases the likelihood of emotional exhaustion. Lastly, seniority in the workplace promotes emotional exhaustion. Originality: This research challenges conventional wisdom about the mitigating effect of ethical leadership on employees’ emotional states. It broadens the understanding of this management style and fills a crucial knowledge gap by introducing a new perspective. Practical Implications: A balanced and accessible leader can quickly convey a convincing ethical discourse. Emphasizing the vulnerability and importance of human beings can help prevent moral anguish and ethical distances. This, in turn, provides followers with resources to mitigate exhaustion and strengthen commitment.
Combined Genome-Wide Association Studies (GWAS) and Linkage Mapping Identifies Genomic Regions Associated with Seedling Root System Architecture (RSA) under Different Nitrogen Conditions in Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.)
Authors: Jia Yulin , Xu Ninglu , Zhang Jun , Ren Kaiming , Wu Jinzhi , Wang Chunping , Huang Ming , Li Youjun
Published: September 2024

The nitrogen (N) use efficiency (NUE) in the roots of seedlings is beneficial for increasing crop yield. Creating marker-assisted selection for wheat root traits can assist wheat breeders in choosing robust roots to maximize nutrient uptake. Exploring and identifying the effect of different N supply conditions on root system architecture (RSA) is of great significance for breeding N efficient wheat varieties. In this study, a total of 243 wheat varieties native to the Yellow and Huai Valley regions of China were utilized for genome-wide association studies (GWAS). Furthermore, a recombinant inbred line (RIL) population of 123 lines derived from the cross between Avocet and Chilero was utilized for linkage examination. A hydroponic seedling experiment using a 96-well tray was conducted in the lab with two treatments: normal N (NN) and low N (LN). Five RSA traits, including the relative number of root tips (RNRT), relative total root length (RTRL), relative total root surface area (RTRS), relative total root volume (RTRV), and relative average root diameter (RARD), were investigated. GWAS and linkage analysis were performed by integrating data from the wheat 660 k single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) chip and diversity arrays technology (DArT) to identify genetic loci associated with RSA. The results showed that, based on the ratio of RSA-related traits under two N supply conditions, a total of 497 SNP markers, which are significantly associated with RSA-related traits, were detected at 148 genetic loci by GWAS. A total of 10 QTL loci related to RSA were discovered and identified by linkage mapping. Combining two gene localization methods, three colocalized intervals were found: AX-95160997/QRtrl.haust-3D, AX-109592379/QRnrt.haust-5A, and AX-110924288/QRtrl.haust-7D/QRtrs.haust-7D. According to the physical location of the colocalization of these two sites, between 39.61 and 43.74 Mb, 649.97 and 661.55 Mb, and 592.44 and 605.36 Mb are called qRtrl-3D, qRnrt-5A, and qRtrl-7D. This study has the potential to enhance the effectiveness of selecting root traits in wheat breeding programs, offering valuable insights into the genetic underpinnings of NUE in wheat. These results could help in breeding wheat varieties with higher NUE by implementing focused breeding strategies.
Research on the Energy Management Strategy of a Hybrid Tractor OS-ECVT Based on a Dynamic Programming Algorithm
Authors: Zhang Kai , Deng Xiaoting , Lu Zhixiong , Wang Tao
Published: September 2024

The multi-degree-of-freedom characteristics of the planetary gear electronic continuously variable transmission (ECVT) configuration in series-parallel hybrid tractors impose more complex requirements for energy management strategies under variable load conditions. For a high-power hybrid tractor, this paper takes the hybrid tractor output-split (OS)-ECVT configuration as the research object and describes the principles of stepless transmission and power-splitting within the configuration. In order to improve the fuel economy of high-power hybrid tractors and the running status of power components, an energy management strategy focused on ploughing conditions based on the Bellman minimum dynamic programming (DP) algorithm is proposed in this paper. Second, equivalent fuel consumption is selected as the performance index for energy-saving control, and the solving principle of the energy management strategy based on the dynamic programming algorithm is established to facilitate the resolution process of the energy management strategy. Finally, the energy-saving control simulation is completed under ploughing conditions. The results show that compared with the energy management strategy based on the optimal operating line (OOL), the energy management strategy based on DP fully utilizes the benefits of low-cost electric energy and enables the hybrid power system to have a wider range of stepless transmission performance. In addition, the hybrid power system has the advantages of enhanced decoupling of speed and torque, higher efficiency, and more economical secondary energy conversion. As a result, the whole machine has enhanced power-split performance, greatly improving the running conditions of the power components. The equivalent fuel consumption values of the energy management strategies based on DP and OOL are about 3.1238 L and 4.2713 L, respectively. The equivalent fuel consumption based on DP is reduced by about 26.87%, which effectively improves the fuel efficiency of hybrid tractors.
Fire Impacts on Soil Properties and Implications for Sustainability in Rotational Shifting Cultivation: A Review
Authors: Arunrat Noppol , Kongsurakan Praeploy , Solomon Lemlem Wondwossen , Sereenonchai Sukanya
Published: September 2024

Fire, a prevalent land management tool in rotational shifting cultivation (RSC), has long been debated for its immediate disruption of surface soil, vegetation, and microbial communities. While low-intensity and short-duration slash-and-burn techniques are considered beneficial for overall soil function, the dual nature of fire’s impact warrants a comprehensive exploration. This review examines both the beneficial and detrimental effects of fire on soil properties within the context of RSC. We highlight that research on soil microbial composition, carbon, and nitrogen dynamics following fire events in RSC is gaining momentum. After fires, soil typically shows decreases in porosity, clay content, aggregation, and cation exchange capacity, while sand content, pH, available phosphorus, and organic nitrogen tend to increase. There remains ongoing debate regarding the effects on bulk density, silt content, electrical conductivity, organic carbon, total nitrogen, and exchangeable ions (K+, Ca2+, Mg2+). Certain bacterial diversity often increases, while fungal communities tend to decline during post-fire recovery, influenced by the soil chemical properties. Soil erosion is a major concern because fire-altered soil structures heighten erosion risks, underscoring the need for sustainable post-fire soil management strategies. Future research directions are proposed, including the use of advanced technologies like remote sensing, UAVs, and soil sensors to monitor fire impacts, as well as socio-economic studies to balance traditional practices with modern sustainability goals. This review aims to inform sustainable land management practices that balance agricultural productivity with ecological health in RSC systems.
Soil Mechanical Systems and Related Farming Machinery
Authors: Cho Yongjin , Nam Ju-Seok
Published: September 2024

The mechanization of agricultural work has contributed significantly to the improvement of agricultural productivity and reduced production costs [...]
2-Keto-L-Gulonic Acid Enhances Cold Stress Tolerance in Arabidopsis thaliana via Augmentation of Ascorbic Acid Biosynthesis and Antioxidant Defense Systems
Authors: Wu Qiqi , Gao Mingfu , Sun Hao , Yang Weichao , Xu Hui
Published: September 2024

Cold stress severely impairs plant growth, development, and yields. L-ascorbic acid (ASA), a crucial antioxidant, is pivotal in mitigating stress-induced damage. Previous research found that 2-keto-L-gulonic acid (2KGA), a precursor of ASA in its industrial production, effectively enhances the endogenous ASA content in plants. We hypothesized that 2KGA might alleviate chilling stress and tried to verify it through a cultivation experiment of Arabidopsis thaliana. The results demonstrate that the application of 2KGA significantly increased ASA content (24.58%) and up-regulated ASA biosynthetic genes in Arabidopsis at 4 °C for 24 h. Furthermore, 2KGA alleviated the decrease in fresh weight (17.05%) and total chlorophyll content (15.85%) caused by low temperatures. The contents of proline, soluble sugar (SS), soluble protein (SP), and the activities of antioxidant enzymes including superoxide dismutase (SOD), peroxidase (POD), catalase (CAT), and ascorbate peroxidase (APX) were significantly increased under the 2KGA treatment at low temperatures, while the malondialdehyde (MDA) content was reduced. Moreover, 2KGA up-regulated the ICE-CBF-COR signaling pathway in response to cold stress. These collective findings strongly support the involvement of 2KGA in enhancing cold tolerance in Arabidopsis, presenting an innovative approach for agricultural practices aimed at enhancing crop resilience to environmental stresses.
Effects of Successive Top-Dressing Application of Lime on a Sweet Cherry Orchard in Southern Chile
Authors: Artacho Pamela , Schwantes Daniel , Martabit Pablo , Bonomelli Claudia
Published: September 2024

Annual top-dressing application of agricultural lime is a common practice in fruit orchards on acidic soils in southern Chile, which could result in surface over-liming and base imbalances. A trial was performed in a cherry orchard with an 8-year history of surface liming to evaluate the effectiveness of lime materials in neutralizing acidity in the soil profile and the effect on the tree nutritional status. No-lime (NL), calcitic (AgL), hydrated (HL), and liquid (LL) lime treatments were applied on soil surface at commercial rates, and soil acidity variables were measured at depths of 0–5, 5–10, and 10–20 cm in samples collected at 0, 15, 30, 60, and 225 days after application. Tree nutritional status was evaluated through foliar analysis. Top-dressing application of AgL was ineffective in ameliorating subsoil acidity at depths >5 cm, even in high-rainfall conditions. HL did not exhibit greater alkalinity mobility compared to AgL, although it had a faster but shorter-lived reaction. At the manufacturer-recommended rates, LL application was ineffective. After 8 years of top-dressing liming with AgL, a significant stratification of soil pH, Al, and Ca was observed. However, foliar concentration of bases did not reflect the surface Ca accumulation in soil, discarding an antagonistic cation competition for tree uptake.
Sustainable Strategies for the Control of Crop Diseases and Pests to Reduce Pesticides
Authors: Góngora Carmenza E. , Silva Maria do Céu
Published: September 2024

Crop diseases and pests may cause considerable yield losses and threaten food supply and security [...]
Combined Application of Chemical Fertilizer and Organic Amendment Improved Soil Quality in a Wheat–Sweet Potato Rotation System
Authors: Zhang Hui , Li Xiang , Zhou Jiayi , Wang Jidong , Wang Lei , Yuan Jie , Xu Cong , Dong Yue , Chen Yahua , Ai Yuchun , Zhang Yongchun
Published: September 2024

The long-term excessive use of chemical fertilizers may result in soil degradation, but manure and straw application is considered to be an effective approach for alleviating this problem. The aim of this study is to examine the long-term impacts of different fertilization patterns on soil quality variables in a wheat–sweet potato rotation system. Four treatments were conducted in a field trial for a duration of twelve years, including (1) no fertilizer (control, CK); (2) application of mineral fertilizers (NPK) alone; (3) NPK with crop straw return (NPKs); (4) combined use of NPK and farmyard manure (NPKm). Thirteen physical, chemical, and biological soil parameters were measured. The results showed that the NPKm and NPKs significantly improved the proportion of macroaggregates (>0.25 mm) by 24.7% and 21.9% compared to the NPK alone, respectively. The proportion of microaggregates (0.053–0.25 mm) under the NPKm was 47.4% significantly higher than the NPKs. Additionally, the NPKm resulted in a 22.2% and 19.6% increase in the SOC content than the NPK and NPKs, respectively. In terms of soil-available K, the NPKs resulted in levels that were 42.1% and 49.6% higher than the NPKm and NPK alone, respectively. Long-term fertilization significantly decreased soil pH by 0.95–1.85 units compared to the control, whereas manure application could alleviate soil acidification, as shown when the pH increased by 10.6–18.7%. The NPKm and NPKs resulted in significantly increased soil pHs by 10.6% and 18.7% compared to the NPK alone, respectively. In addition, the NPKm and NPKs increased N-acetyl-β-D-glucosaminidase activity by 52.6% and 60.3% compared to the NPK alone. Determined by the minimum data set method, the NPKm treatment exhibited the highest soil quality index, followed by the NPKs and NPK. Our findings suggested that the combined use of chemical fertilizers with organic amendments proved beneficial for enhancing soil quality.
Phenotypic Diversity and Seed Germination of Elaeagnus angustifolia L. in Relation to the Geographical Environment in Gansu Province, China
Authors: Zhang Kaiqiang , Zhu Zhu , Shi Rongrong , Shi Ningrui , Tian Qing , Lu Xuemei
Published: September 2024

Elaeagnus angustifolia L. is a highly adaptable urban ornamental plant, playing a key role in dry land and saline-alkali protective forests. The diverse geographical and climatic conditions in Gansu Province have resulted in variations in its distribution and growth. This study assesses the phenotypic diversity of fruits and seeds, and the seed germination characteristics of 82 E. angustifolia plants from nine populations in Gansu Province, exploring their relationship with geographical and climatic factors. We measured 12 phenotypic traits and five germination indices. This study included germination tests under standard conditions, statistical analysis of phenotypic differences, and Pearson and Spearman correlation analyses to examine relationships between traits and geo-climatic factors. Principal component and cluster analyses were also performed to identify key traits and classify populations. The findings were as follows: (1) Significant differences were observed in phenotypic traits and germination characteristics among populations. Single fruit weight showed the highest variation (27.56%), while seed transverse diameter had the lowest (8.76%). The Lanzhou population exhibited the greatest variability (14.27%), while Linze had the lowest (6.29%). (2) A gradient change pattern in traits was observed, primarily influenced by longitude and a combination of geographical and climatic factors. Seed germination was positively correlated with altitude, annual precipitation, and relative humidity, but negatively affected by latitude and traits such as fruit weight. (3) Principal component analysis identified germination rate, germination index, seed shape index, and fruit shape index as primary factors, contributing 27.4%, 20.6%, and 19.9% to the variation, respectively. Cluster analysis grouped the 82 plants into four clusters, not strictly based on geographical distance, suggesting influence from factors such as genotype or environmental conditions. In conclusion, this study lays a foundation for understanding the genetic mechanisms behind the phenotypic diversity and germination characteristics of E. angustifolia. It offers insights into how geo-climatic factors influence these traits, providing valuable information for the species’ conservation, cultivation, and management.
Combined Effects of Nitrogen Addition and Warming on Shrub Growth and Nutrient Uptake through Microbially Mediated Soil Fertility
Authors: Mao Zhuxin , Li Yang , Chen Siyu , Wang Yuchao , Jing Guanghua , Wei Ying , Shang Huiying , Yue Ming
Published: September 2024

Plant restoration strategies are ubiquitously employed for the purposes of soil and water conservation and ecological improvement in forest ecosystems. Despite N and temperature being acknowledged as pivotal factors affecting plant restoration outcomes, their effects on soil fertility, microbial communities, and shrub biomass remain underexplored, particularly in the loess hilly regions of China. Here, we examined the growth patterns and nutrient acquisition abilities of three shrub species, Periploca sepium, Amorpha fruticosa, and Vitex negundo, along with the attendant alterations in soil properties and microbial community composition under controlled greenhouse conditions. Specifically, we imposed three levels of N fertilization (200, 400, and 600 kg ha−1; designated as N1, N2, and N3, respectively) and temperature regimes (18–23, 25–30, and 32–37 °C; labeled T1, T2, and T3, respectively). The results indicated a significant interplay between the combination of N fertilization and temperature significantly affecting shrub growth. Optimal growth conditions, as evidenced by the highest dry biomass accumulation, were identified as N3T1 for A. fruticosa, N1T1 for P. sepium, and N2T2 for V. negundo, with these conditions differentially influencing roots, stems, and leaves. Furthermore, soil microorganisms also responded significantly to the N fertilization and temperature. However, this was largely dependent on shrub species and soil nutrients. For A. fruticosa under N3T1 conditions, Actinobacteria and Basidiomycota abundances correlated strongly with soil C, N, and P contents, while leaf N uptake significantly correlated with the structure of both bacterial and fungal communities. For P. sepium at N1T1, Acidobacteriota was dominant in response to soil N and C, while leaf C uptake and leaf and stem N uptake positively correlated with bacterial and fungal communities, respectively. For V. negundo at N2T2, Chloroflexi had the greatest abundance, responding to the greatest variation in soil N and C, while its stem N uptake was significantly related to the structure of the fungal communities. Thus, our findings underscored the intricate interplay between abiotic factors, shrub growth, soil fertility, and microbial community dynamics, providing insights into the optimization of plant restoration efforts in ecologically sensitive regions.
A Synthesis Analysis of the Relationship between Main and Ratoon Crop Grain Yields in Ratoon Rice
Authors: Liu Bin , Yuan Shen , Peng Shaobing
Published: September 2024

Ratoon rice represents a viable means to enhance rice production efficiency in terms of both area and time. Nonetheless, the development of specific varieties tailored for ratoon rice has been hindered by the complexity of trait considerations required during breeding/screening processes. A pivotal step towards advancing ratoon rice breeding programs involves reducing the dimensionality of selection traits. In this study, we performed a comprehensive analysis exploring whether the yield of the main crop could serve as a predictor for ratoon crop yield, thereby simplifying the selection process. Our findings revealed significant variability in the rice yields of both main and ratoon crops, with the ratoon crop yield averaging 51% of the main crop. Importantly, the correlation between grain yields of the main and ratoon crops did not deviate from the identity line, substantiating the feasibility of predicting ratoon crop yield based on the main crop yield. The number of panicles in the ratoon crops was found to be closely linked to that of the main crop; however, the size values of the panicles in the ratoon crops exhibited less of a dependency on the main crop’s panicle size. Additionally, a general decrease in grain weight was observed in the ratoon crops compared to the main crop. In summary, this study elucidates a pathway for the simplification of selection traits, thereby enhancing the efficiency of breeding high-yielding ratoon rice varieties, with the ultimate aim of fostering the sustainable development of ratoon rice.
Biochar and Straw Amendments over a Decade Divergently Alter Soil Organic Carbon Accumulation Pathways
Authors: Lei Kunjia , Dai Wenxia , Wang Jing , Li Zhenwang , Cheng Yi , Jiang Yuji , Yin Weiqin , Wang Xiaozhi , Song Xiaodong , Tang Quan
Published: September 2024

Exogenous organic carbon (C) inputs and their subsequent microbial and mineral transformation affect the accumulation process of soil organic C (SOC) pool. Nevertheless, knowledge gaps exist on how different long-term forms of crop straw incorporation (direct straw return or pyrolyzed to biochar) modifies SOC composition and stabilization. This study investigated, in a 13-year long-term field experiment, the functional fractions and composition of SOC and the protection of organic C by iron (Fe) oxide minerals in soils amended with straw or biochar. Under the equal C input, SOC accumulation was enhanced with both direct straw return (by 43%) and biochar incorporation (by 85%) compared to non-amended conventional fertilization, but by different pathways. Biochar had greater efficiency in increasing SOC through stable exogenous C inputs and inhibition of soil respiration. Moreover, biochar-amended soils contained 5.0-fold greater SOCs in particulate organic matter (POM) and 1.2-fold more in mineral-associated organic matter (MAOM) relative to conventionally fertilized soils. Comparatively, although the magnitude of the effect was smaller, straw-derived OC was preserved preferentially the most in the MAOM. Straw incorporation increased the soil nutrient content and stimulated the microbial activity, resulting in greater increases in microbial necromass C accumulation in POM and MAOM (by 117% and 43%, respectively) compared to biochar (by 72% and 18%). Moreover, straw incorporation promoted poorly crystalline (Feo) and organically complexed (Fep) Fe oxides accumulation, and both were significantly and positively correlated with MAOM and SOC. The results address the decadal-scale effects of biochar and straw application on the formation of the stable organic C pool in soil, and understanding the causal mechanisms can allow field practices to maximize SOC content. These results are of great implications for better predicting and accurately controlling the response of SOC pools in agroecosystems to future changes and disturbances and for maintaining regional C balance.
Seed Dormancy and Germination Responses to Different Temperatures of Leptochloa chinensis (L.) Nees: A Case Study with 242 Populations Collected from Rice Fields in East China
Authors: An Kai , Chen Ling , Liu Yiyang , Wei Haiyan , Chen Guoqi
Published: September 2024

Leptochloa chinensis (L.) Nees is a troublesome rice weed. We collected 242 L. chinensis populations from rice fields in eastern China and studied the duration of seed dormancy and the seed germination ability at different temperatures. All L. chinensis populations studied exhibited seed dormancy. The periods required to reach 50% germination under optimal conditions were 31–235 days, with an average of 96 days. None of the populations germinated at 15 °C. Under constant temperatures of 20, 25, 30, and 35 °C, the average germination percentages of 242 populations were 0%, 71%, 79%, and 60% at 2 days after treatment (DAT), and were 56%, 84%, 88%, and 88% at 14 DAT, respectively. The duration of seed dormancy, as well as the germination ability of seeds, were significantly (p < 0.05) influenced by the agricultural region and the longitude and latitude of the collection locations. Under constant temperatures of 20 to 35 °C, the average germination percentages of seeds collected from transplanted rice fields were significantly higher than those collected from direct-seeded fields. This is the first study on seed germination biology of L. chinensis with multiple populations systematically collected from rice fields on a regional scale.
Enhancement of Thermal Tolerance and Growth Performances of Asian Seabass (Lates calcarifer) Fed with Grape Extract Supplemented Feed
Authors: Akram Salman , Ranasinghe Naveen , Lee Tsung-Han , Chou Chi-Chung
Published: September 2024

Cold snaps during the winter present a critical challenge for Asian seabass (Lates calcarifer) in Taiwan, as sudden temperature drops significantly affect their growth and survival. This study explores the effects of dietary grape extract (GE) from Vitis vinifera on the growth performance, oxidative stress regulation, and thermal tolerance of this commercially valuable fish. Over a 60-day feeding trial, four dietary groups were tested: a control diet without GE and three diets supplemented with GE at 2% (GE20), 3% (GE30), and 4% (GE40) with commercial feed. The results demonstrated that GE supplementation positively influenced growth, with the GE20 group achieving the best weight gain and feed conversion ratio among all groups. The upregulation of the growth-related gene igf-1 in the liver of the GE20 group further supported its superior growth performance. Additionally, GE-fed groups showed increased expression of antioxidant-related genes sod1 and sod2 in the liver, while gpx1 exhibited a significant increase only in the GE20 group, indicating enhanced antioxidant defenses. Cat gene expression remained unchanged, and higher GE doses reduced the expression of gpx1, cat, and igf-1. Furthermore, GE supplementation improved cold tolerance in all treated groups compared to the control. These findings suggest that dietary GE at 20 g/kg is particularly effective in enhancing growth performance and cold tolerance in Asian seabass, offering a promising strategy for boosting fish health and adaptability in aquaculture.
Minimum Space When Transporting Pigs: Where Is the “Good” Law?
Authors: Whiting Terry L.
Published: September 2024

This paper focuses on the problem of numeracy when writing regulations, specifically how to describe a threshold for crowding of pigs during transport, considering transported pigs range in body mass from 5 to 500 kg. When scientific findings provide the basis for regulation in the public interest, those findings must be communicated in a consistent way to regulators and policymaking bodies. Numeracy is the ability to understand, reason with, and apply appropriate numerical concepts to real-world questions. Scientific understanding is almost always based on rational understanding of numerical information, numeracy. The threshold of administrative offenses is often a numerical description. Commercial livestock transporters have an interest in loading livestock compartments to the maximum to achieve the largest payload allowed by axle weight laws, as is the case in all bulk commodity transport. Maximizing payload minimizes costs and environmental hazards of fuel exhaust and can benefit the public with lower pork prices, but has a serious animal welfare risk. Livestock production academics, veterinarians, and animal welfare activists have been working for decades to determine the level of livestock crowding in transport containers that would be appropriate for regulatory enforcement. The scientific discourse has been plagued by a lack of numerical standardization when describing results of trials and forming recommendations. Exceeding specific numerical thresholds is the core to implementing enforcement actions. This paper examines the communication and other barriers that have prevented emergence of a consensus on this question and provides a direction toward resolution. Further confirmation of effects of crowding livestock in transit is needed. This paper suggests that articulating an enforceable standard in pig transport is possible. In inspection for compliance, discovering the LP50 (lethal pressure—50) for slaughter-weight pigs is an initial global benchmark goal. The LP50 is the loading floor pressure in a commercial transport compartment, under field conditions, that would result in the death of at least one pig in the group 50% of the time.