bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Results of implementation of mechanical logging for additional investigation of the geological structure of the Olon-Shibirskoe coal deposit
Authors: Ignatiev N. N. , Bogomolov A. X.
Published: January 2022

Mining coal requires detailed geological information about the structure of the coal seam and the quality of coal seams that allows to minimize the risks associated with the complicating mining and geological factors and changes in the quality characteristics of coal. The article discusses the experience of applying the mechanical logging method as an express method of operational exploration in the Olon-Shibirsk coal deposit. The mechanical logging data were compared with core sampling data and geophysical well surveys. As a result, criteria for dividing the coalbearing sequence of the deposit into lithotypes were identified. According to these criteria, it is possible to identify a general pattern for the considered coal seam: drilling speed increases with decreasing grain size, drilling speed also increases with increasing the content of organic matter in the rock, the maximum drilling speed is characterized by coal seams. The drilling speed is the determining parameter, while the other drilling parameters complement its readings in case of ambiguity in the interpretation of the graph. For coal seams, the dependence of drilling speed on ash content was determined. At the same time, the dependence is most correct for coal seams with thickness more than one meter. On the basis of operational exploration data using mechanical logging for some areas, the morphology of coal seams, as well as the complexity of their structure and ash content, which allowed to specify the reserves and quality by geological blocks. In the final comparison with the fact was confirmed an increase in the accuracy of calculations using the method of mechanical logging. Practical significance of the results of the study is to improve the quality of operational exploration in the field while reducing costs.
On the question of the number of Proterozoic supercontinents
Authors: Bozhko N. A.
Published: January 2022

In the light of modern data, the validity of the existence of two supercontinents in the Proterozoic, previously identified by the author, is considered. The analysis of these data, in particular the results of published paleomagnetic studies, suggests in favor of such identification. At the same time, the existing “generally accepted” sequence of supercontinents in the history of the Earth is not violated, but supplemented.
Neotectonic vertical movements of Northern Sikhote-Alin and adjacent territories and its relationship with the characteristics of the stream network
Authors: Simonov D. A. , Zakharov V. S. , Gilmanova G. Z. , Didenko A. N.
Published: January 2022

Morphostructural analysis of the relief and the analysis of the self-similarity characteristics of stream network of the Northern Sikhote-Alin and adjacent territories were carried out. The relief of the studied territory has an inherited character; it was formed in several stages during the neotectonic stage. The most intense vertical movements occurred at the early phases of the neotectonic stage. At Pleistocene time the intensity of vertical movements decreased significantly. At this time, the modern erosion-denudation forms of relief was formed. At the final stages of neotectonic development (at the end of the Pleistocene — Holocene), there was a slight activation of vertical movements with a changes in the structural plan and the manifestation of NNE stretched structures in the relief, which was reflected in the features of the residual relief. The boundaries of areas with increased residual relief coincide with areas of increased seismicity in the region. A modification of the complex self-similarity parameter PRNS was proposed, the use application of which allowed us to improve the correlation of this parameter with the latest (youngest) movements detected by the morphostructural method. Zones of maximum PRNS values correlate with the areas of greatest relief increment, and zones of it’s minimum correlate with areas the smallest relief increment, or areas of most significant erosion. The results of the analysis of the characteristics of self-similarity of the stream network are mainly comparable with the manifestations of vertical tectonic movements at the final stages of neotectonic development.
Theoretical foundations of geoecology as an interdisciplinary science, built on the basis of the concept of ecological functions of abiotic spheres of the Earth
Authors: Trofimov V. T.
Published: January 2022

Six scientific-informative paradoxes of the current state of geoecology are determined. New theoretical foundations of geoecology as an interdisciplinary science, developed on the basis of the concept of ecological functions of Earth abiotic spheres, are formulated. They include ideas about the content, object, subject, logical and scientific structures of geoecology, geoecological conditions and their condition, the position of geoecology in the system of sciences about the Earth and the biosphere.
Exploration of overlapped endogenous mineralization on the basis of paleovolcanic reconstructions
Authors: Kotelnikov A. E. , Dyakonov V. V. , Dergachev A. L.
Published: January 2022

By these days issues of survey of blind and covered deposits are very actual. High affectivity of geological and prospecting abilities could be achieved only when complex studies have been done which allow to indicate structural elements of explores area and evaluate geological and geochemical potential of prospective areas. In the article the structural and geochemical criterion developed by authors is considered. Its use is preceded by definition of the structural and geological characteristic of the territory based on the method of paleovolcanic reconstruction. At the later stage areas, perspective for detection of an ore mineralization are outlined basing on localization of various type of a mineralization at specified structural units of paleovolcanic structures. Application of geochemical mapping within the perspective areas allows to estimate prospects of the areas, to allocate most perspective sites with their preliminary geochemical estimate.
Hybrid receiving line for broadband electric field measurement
Authors: Zorin N. I. , Yakovlev A. G.
Published: January 2022

High-frequency electric field measurements with a regular receiving dipole characterized by poor electrode contact are greatly influenced by the capacitive currents arising between wires and ground. At the same time, making use of the non-contact receiving dipoles is not generally suitable for low-frequency electric field measurements.

We introduce a novel hybrid galvanic-capacitive receiving dipole, which could be used for broadband electric field measurement even with high contact resistance of the grounded electrodes.
Type I kerogen in the Bazhenov formation rocks of the West Siberian petroleum basin
Authors: Bulatov T. D. , Kozlova E. V. , Pronina N. V. , Korobova N. I. , Leushina E. A. , Voropaev A. V. , Panchenko I. V. , Morozov N. V. , Spasennykh M. Yu.
Published: January 2022

The Bazhenov Formation rocks contain thin luminescent layers enriched in type I kerogen, which is unique for the bulk of the organic matter of the Bazhenov Formation of the West Siberian petroleum basin. The article provides a detailed characterization of the mineral and organic parts and proposed origin of these layers, called by the authors “alginite-rich layers”. The wide distribution of the luminescent alginite-rich layers over the central part of Western Siberia in a single stratigraphic range allows them to be used as marking horizons, as well as for assessing the thermal maturity of kerogen. This study contributes to understanding the diversity of processes that form the organic-rich deposits of the Bazhenov Formation.
Structure of continues reservoirs in the Domanik formation and petrophysical interpretation methods
Authors: Zagranovskaya D. E. , Isaeva S. I. , Vilesov A. P. , Shashel V. A. , Zakharova O. A. , Belyakov E. O. , Demin V. Yu. , Kudin I. L. , Kalmykov G. A.
Published: January 2022

Properties of unconventional prospective deposits are interconnected by the rocesses of reservoir formation and oil and gas formation. Dispersed dolomite in situ formed during the maturation of TOC from syngenetic magnesium in the rock matrix increases the void space of the rock, thereby forming an unconventional reservoir filled with autochthonous hydrocarbons and oil components. In the process of TOC maturation and hydrocarbon migration, the TOC components are redistributed in the void space, thereby, the released volume of rocks is filled with stationary resinous asphaltene substances, which sharply reduces the reservoir properties of unconventional reservoirs. As a result, the definition of “organic” porosity includes a broader concept than just the porosity of kerogen. This is a more complex physicochemical process of transformation of the organic matter itself and the redistribution of elements within the formation as a result of the maturation of TOC components and hydrocarbon migration. When assessing the oil and gas potential in the section, we distinguish three groups of rocks: unconventional reservoirs with an increased TOC content and the presence of mobile hydrocarbons; bituminous rocks, in which part of the pore volume is filled with resinous-asphaltene substances and host dense carbonate rocks without organic matter. Also, sporadically developed traditional reservoirs are distinguished throughout the section of the Domanik type of rocks.
Three-dimensional inversion of magnetotelluric sounding data in the Southern Ladoga area
Authors: Kulikov V. A. , Ionicheva A. P. , Korolkova A. V. , Pushkarev P. Yu. , Sokolova E. Yu. , Yakovlev A. G.
Published: January 2022

The article presents the results of the interpretation of magnetotelluric soundings performed in the Southern Ladoga region. When performing the 3D inversion, both new data obtained by the LADOGA working group in 2018–2021 and data from the profile 1-EV (the “Loop” section) worked out in the early 2000s were used. Based on the results of automatic inversion performed in the ModEM program (Egbert and Albert), a three-dimensional geoelectric model of the earth’s crust to a depth of 60 km is constructed, which shows the complex heterogeneous structure of the studied territory.

In the geoelectric model, two anomalous zones of core electrical conductivity of the south-eastern and north-eastern directions are distinguished, the first of which is a continuation of the well-known Ladoga anomaly. The presence of the second conducting structure confirms the results of single magnetovariational sounding performed by Igor Ivanovich Rokityansky in different parts of the East European Platform in the early 80s of the last century.
Lithogeochemical features and formation environment of the Late Jurassic–Early Creaceous tuff-terrigenous rocks of Ust-Belsky Mountains (North-west of Koryak highlands)
Authors: Gushchina M. Yu.
Published: January 2022

The paper presents the results of studying the lithochemical features of the Late Jurassic-Early Cretaceous tuff-terrigenous rocks of the Ust-Belsky and Algan terranes. Tuff-terrigenous rocks represented by medium-fine-pelitic-grained quartz-feldspar and feldspar greywackes. According to the results, they were formed due to the erosion of intermediate and basic composition volcanic formations, in the marine environment, near the coast. The main source was associated with the island arc in the northwest of the region. Tuff-terrigenous rocks of Ust-Belsky terrane formed in different parts of the forearc basin. Tuff-terrigenous rocks of Algan terrane formed in the trenchslope basin.
Sedimentary conditions of the Abalak formation and Vogulkinskaya strata on the area of Kamennaya summit (Krasnoleninsky arch, Western Siberia)
Authors: Latypova M. R. , Khotylev O. V. , Balushkina N. S. , Kalmykov A. G. , Kalmykov G. A. , Kopaevich L. F. , Karpova E. V. , Churkina V. V.
Published: January 2022

As part of this work, various sedimentation environments were identified in the Middle-Late Jurassic (J2k–J3v1) on the territory of the Krasnoleninsky arch in Western Siberia. The heterogeneity of the seabed topography and the presence of islands formed by protrusions of the pre-Jurassic basement led to the formation of the Vogulka strata as a result of the removal of clastic material from the land. At the same time, far from the islands, in relatively calm shallow environments, clayey and glauconite-clayey sediments of the Abalak Formation accumulated. Gravelites and sandstones of the Vogulka strata were formed unevenly. The greatest thickness of these deposits is observed to the west of the central upland. The difference in the thickness of clastic strata on the western and eastern slopes could probably be caused by the specific horseshoe shape of the island and the absence of active currents on the western part of the slope, as well as its greater steepness. The upper member of the Vogulka strata, composed of detrital limestones, is extremely thin (no more than 1 m), and contains numerous unconformities. Probably, these traces of erosion can be indirect evidence of the influence of the Late Oxford regression on the structure of the section, which was previously noted in adjacent territories.
New data on the formation conditions of the Golets Vysochaishiy gold deposit (Bodaibinskiy district, Russia)
Authors: Boguslavskiy M. A. , Sagalevich V. D. , Prokofiev V. Yu.
Published: January 2022

The Golets Vysochaishy deposit has a sub-tabular orebody hosted by black carbonaceous fine-grained aleuropelitic rocks. We have studied fluid inclusions in quartz samples taken from sulfide-quartz veins in the ore zone of the deposit — performed studies made it possible to establish the parameters of the ore-forming fluid. Thus, the fluids of the deposit are characterized by the typical features of orogenic vein gold deposits’ ore-forming fluids. The process of carbon dioxide degassing from the fluid may have contributed to the deposition of native gold.
A Potential Framework for Allocating National Park Service Budgets
Authors: Rideout Douglas B. , Wei Yu , Kernohan Nicole , Kirsch Andy G.
Published: February 2022

The US Department of Interior, including the National Park Service (NPS), has interest in developing a national fire budgeting process that reflects and promotes program (fuels and preparedness) efficiencies while being transparent, fair, stable, and predictable. A systematic approach should have the potential to operate at all scales (national, regional, and park). To accomplish these objectives, the research introduced a Budgeting Analysis that can be integrated into the STARFire (Strategic budgeting and planning system for wildland fire). The approach used is known as the “gradient method” reflecting the concept that budgets are allocated based on proportionate performance. Using the gradient method, budget increments were allocated to fuels and preparedness programs to improve return on investment (ROI). Three-dimensional performance surfaces were generated for each of the parks in the NPS’s Alaska Fire Management Zone and a gradient was fit to each surface. The individual park gradients were then used to allocate the zone budget increments to the parks and in turn, to the park’s fuels and preparedness programs. These allocations were then summed up to illustrate regional and park level allocations and allocations by program. The results show how a full range of budget increments can be allocated from the zone to each individual park and to each park’s program. The process and the allocations are repeatable and defensible while meeting the NPS budgeting criteria. They also address the concerns expressed by the US Government Accountability Office and reflect the objectives of the Cohesive Strategy. In the current study, we demonstrate a pragmatic example of implementing this method.
Effects of Septum Resection for Secondary Infertility on Subsequent Reproductive Outcomes of in vitro Fertilization–Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection
Authors: Chen Huixiao , Sun Ping , Zhang Na , Lv Shangge , Cao Yongzhi , Yan Lei
Published: February 2022

Objective

To assess the effect of uterine septum resection on reproductive outcomes of in vitro fertilization (IVF) / intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) in patients with secondary infertility complicated with uterine septum.

Methods

A retrospective cohort study included 269 patients. Surgical group included 169 patients with secondary infertility complicated with uterine septum, who underwent 252 embryo-transfer (ET) cycles following septum resection. Control group consisted of 100 patients with secondary infertility and uterine septum, who underwent 178 ET cycles. Cumulative pregnancy rate and cumulative live birth rate after one complete assisted reproductive technology (ART) cycle were the primary outcomes.

Results

The results showed that the cumulative pregnancy rate was higher in the surgery group, and statistically significant difference was observed in the cumulative pregnancy rate between the two groups (71.0 vs. 59%, P = 0.044). In fresh ET cycle, no statistically significant difference between the two groups was evident (54.9 vs. 40.6%, P = 0.061). Statistical analysis of other results of the fresh ET cycle did not differ significantly between the two groups. In terms of frozen embryo transfer (FET) cycle outcomes, the clinical pregnancy rate and delivery rate in surgery group were 52.7 and 38.2%, respectively, which were significantly higher than those in the control group (38.2 and 22.5%, respectively) (P = 0.028 and P = 0.011).

Conclusion

The reproductive outcomes of IVF/ICSI after septum resection in patients with secondary infertility were better than that in the untreated group, suggesting that uterine septum resection can be performed in patients with uterine septum combined with infertility to improve their reproductive outcomes.
Contributions of Immune Cells and Stromal Cells to the Pathogenesis of Systemic Sclerosis: Recent Insights
Authors: Dai Bingying , Ding Liqing , Zhao Lijuan , Zhu Honglin , Luo Hui
Published: February 2022

Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is a multisystem rheumatic disease characterized by vascular dysfunction, autoimmune abnormalities, and progressive organ fibrosis. A series of studies in SSc patients and fibrotic models suggest that immune cells, fibroblasts, and endothelial cells participate in inflammation and aberrant tissue repair. Furthermore, the growing number of studies on single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) technology in SSc elaborate on the transcriptomics and heterogeneities of these cell subsets significantly. In this review, we summarize the current knowledge regarding immune cells and stromal cells in SSc patients and discuss their potential roles in SSc pathogenesis, focusing on recent advances in the new subtypes by scRNA-seq.
A Large Animal Model for Orthopedic Foot and Ankle Research
Authors: Gadomski Benjamin C. , Labus Kevin M. , Stewart Holly L. , Bisazza Katie T. , Nelson Brad B. , Puttlitz Christian M. , McGilvray Kirk C. , Regan Daniel P. , Easley Jeremiah T.
Published: February 2022

Trauma to the soft tissues of the ankle joint distal syndesmosis often leads to syndesmotic instability, resulting in undesired movement of the talus, abnormal pressure distributions, and ultimately arthritis if deterioration progresses without treatment. Historically, syndesmotic injuries have been repaired by placing a screw across the distal syndesmosis to provide rigid fixation to facilitate ligament repair. While rigid syndesmotic screw fixation immobilizes the ligamentous injury between the tibia and fibula to promote healing, the same screws inhibit normal physiologic movement and dorsiflexion. It has been shown that intact screw removal can be beneficial for long-term patient success; however, the exact timing remains an unanswered question that necessitates further investigation, perhaps using animal models. Because of the sparsity of relevant preclinical models, the purpose of this study was to develop a new, more translatable, large animal model that can be used for the investigation of clinical foot and ankle implants. Eight (8) skeletally mature sheep underwent stabilization of the left and right distal carpal bones following transection of the dorsal and interosseous ligaments while the remaining two animals served as un-instrumented controls. Four of the surgically stabilized animals were sacrificed 6 weeks after surgery while the remaining four animals were sacrificed 10 weeks after surgery. Ligamentous healing was evaluated using radiography, histology, histomorphometry, and histopathology. Overall, animals demonstrated a high tolerance to the surgical procedure with minimal complications. Animals sacrificed at 10 weeks post-surgery had a slight trend toward mildly decreased inflammation, decreased necrotic debris, and a slight increase in the healing of the transected ligaments. The overall degree of soft tissue fibrosis/fibrous expansion, including along the dorsal periosteal surfaces/joint capsule of the carpal bones was very similar between both timepoints and often exhibited signs of healing. The findings of this study indicate that the carpometacarpal joint may serve as a viable location for the investigation of human foot and ankle orthopedic devices. Future work may include the investigation of orthopedic foot and ankle medical devices, biologic treatments, and repair techniques in a large animal model capable of providing translational results for human treatment.
CSR Reporting Practices: The Case of University of Bari
Authors: Campobasso Francesco , Galeone Graziana , Ranaldo Simona , Shini Matilda
Published: January 2022

Corporate social responsibility (CSR) is a relevant topic for researchers and practitioners, widely explored with reference to companies. However, there are still few studies that address how higher education institutions integrate CSR practices into their strategy. This represents an important limitation since the university, through academic training and research activity, is the main promoter of CSR practices among different categories of stakeholders. Given the many benefits associated with the adoption of CSR, this study aims to explore the topic of CSR in universities, as they are institutions that act in the public interest and represent the ideal context for spreading the culture of preserving environmental and social, as well as economic, sustainability. The main purpose of this study is to explore, through the methodology of case studies, the type and effectiveness of the tools used by universities, specifically the University of Bari, to disseminate and integrate CSR into corporate strategy. Furthermore, this study aims to investigate how the university ensures the involvement of stakeholders, represented in particular by professors, administrators and students (stakeholder approach), in CSR initiatives. The analysis revealed the centrality of the investigated university in promoting CSR issues and sustainable territorial development. Finally, the study provides empirical evidence of the actions and methods of integrating CSR practices into corporate strategy and the ways in which stakeholders are involved.
Acknowledgment to Reviewers of Adolescents in 2021
Authors:   Adolescents Editorial Office
Published: January 2022

Rigorous peer-reviews are the basis of high-quality academic publishing [...]
The Effect of Tytanit on Fibre Fraction Content in Medicago x varia T. Martyn and Trifolium pratense L. Cell Walls
Authors: Truba Milena , Sosnowski Jacek
Published: January 2022

The aim of the experiment was to determine the effect of foliar application of Tytanit, a stimulator based on titanium, on the content of fibrous fractions, cellulose, and hemicellulose in the cell walls of h. alfalfa and r. clover. The experimental factors were plant species and titanium doses. The content of cell wall fibrous fractions was determined with near-infrared spectroscopy, and Relative Feed Value (RFV), and cellulose and hemicellulose content were calculated based on acid detergent fibre (ADF), neutral detergent fibre (NDF) and acid detergent lignin (ADL). The stimulator differentiated the content of fibrous fractions in plant cell walls. Its largest dose lowered ADF content to 2.3% in plant dry matter, and the smallest one increased accumulation of the ADL fraction by 1.6%. NDF content in the dry matter of h. alfalfa and r. clover was lower than the desired optimum for plants used as forage, and the stimulator additionally reduced it by 4.9%. Higher doses of titanium decreased carbohydrate content during unfavourable hydrothermal conditions. However, there was no significant effect of differentiated Tytanit doses on the RFV value.
Consumers’ Benefit—Risk Perception on Pesticides and Food Safety—A Survey in Greece
Authors: Simoglou Konstantinos B. , Roditakis Emmanouil
Published: January 2022

Pesticides are widely used to protect agricultural products from pests and diseases. Although a strict regulatory framework exists in the EU, concerns about pesticide residues in food are retained among consumers. This study represents the first large sample (N = 1846) attempt to identify the main predictors influencing Greek consumers’ attitude concerning the benefits—risks ratio of pesticide use. After a principal components analysis and a bivariate logistic regression were performed, it was found that Greek consumers express high concerns from pesticide residues in food regarding their loved ones and their own health. At the same time, however, they recognize to a significant extent beneficial contributions of the use of pesticides to food security and the national economy, as well. Several significant predictors of consumer’s attitude towards benefit—risks perception of pesticide use was identified, concerning personal values, pesticide user status, gender, confidence in controlling and certification procedures, and received information. Our results suggest that efforts for risk communication are needed to address food safety issues targeting the general public.
Crop Genetic Resources: An Overview
Authors: Barba-Espin Gregorio , Acosta-Motos José Ramón
Published: January 2022

The impacts of climate change on crop production are already a reality worldwide [...]
Salinity Constraints for Small-Scale Agriculture and Impact on Adaptation in North Aceh, Indonesia
Authors: Dewi Elvira Sari , Abdulai Issaka , Bracho-Mujica Gennady , Rötter Reimund P.
Published: January 2022

We investigated the perceived effects of salinity on farming practices, income, and challenges for crop production in Blang Nibong village in North Aceh, Indonesia. We surveyed 120 smallholder farmers chosen in consultation with local leaders considering their agricultural activities and salinity susceptibility. Farmers’ perceptions of major crop production constraints (e.g., salinity) and potential adaptation strategies were assessed using open and closed questions. The study revealed that farmers in the study region primarily grew rain-fed rice using traditional monoculture. Salinity was identified as the primary crop production constraint by all respondents, resulting in plant mortality, decreased soil health and water quality, limited plant growth, and low yields. Additionally, salinity has reduced the arable area (>0.5 ha), resulting in lower total production. The implications of the salinity were further corroborated by the low farmers’ income. In fact, farming activities are not contributing positively to farmers’ income as the results revealed off-farm activities (77%) as the main source of income. Based on the farmer’s current activities to overcome salinity problems on their farms, they were clustered into adaptive and non-adaptive farmers. The non-adaptive group prefers to convert their land to pasture (81%), whereas the adaptive group prefers to improve the irrigation system (77%).
Effect of Seaweed Extract Supplement on Rice Rhizosphere Bacterial Community in Tillering and Heading Stages
Authors: Chen Chun-Lin , Song Wan-Lin , Sun Lin , Qin Song , Ren Cheng-Gang , Yang Jian-Chao , Feng Da-Wei , Liu Ning , Yan Jun , Cui Bi-Bo , Zhong Zhi-Hai , Li Qing-Quan , Liu Zhi-Dan , Liu Zheng-Yi
Published: January 2022

Rhizosphere microbiota are conducive to soil nutrient cycling for plant growth. Long-term and excessive application of chemical fertilizer is harmful to agriculture. Seaweed extract is a good organic substitute for rhizosphere ecosystem and plant growth. We supplemented 5‰ seaweed extract powder to chemical fertilizer, and then studied its effect on rhizosphere bacteria of japonica rice (Oryza sativa L. subsp. japonica). In a short-term experiment, we compared the changes in rhizosphere bacteria among four treatments, i.e., no fertilizer (T1), chemical fertilizer only (T2), chemical fertilizer with 5‰ seaweed extract (T3), and less chemical fertilizer with 5‰ seaweed extract (80% of that of T3) (T4). Results show that seaweed extract supplement could affect the bacterial community in tillering and heading stages; the α-diversity of rhizosphere bacteria in the heading stage was obviously improved. In addition, seaweed extract supplement improved significantly the content of nitrate nitrogen (N), available phosphorus (P), and available potassium (K) in rhizosphere soil in the tillering stage, and, finally, increased the rice yield and quality mildly. Therefore, the seaweed extract supplement is shown to be a potential strategy to enrich the diversity of rhizosphere bacteria, which enhanced soil nutrient level, increased rice yield and quality, and also saved the use of chemical fertilizer.
The Positive Effects of Increased Light Intensity on Growth and Photosynthetic Performance of Tomato Seedlings in Relation to Night Temperature Level
Authors: Song Jiaohong , Chen Zheng , Zhang Aoxue , Wang Mengli , Jahan Mohammad Shah , Wen Yixuan , Liu Xiaoying
Published: January 2022

Light and temperature are related to the growth and development of plants as well as their energy consumption in plant factories. However, most of the studies to date have focused on light and temperature extremes, while the adaptive responses and underlying mechanisms of plants to non-stress light intensity (LI) and night temperature (NT) largely remain elusive. Here, we investigated the growth and physiological responses of tomatoes grown under three LI regimes of 250 (LL), 300 (LM), and 350 (LH) μmol m−2 s−1, respectively, combined with two NT conditions. The results revealed that increased LI comprehensively improved tomato growth and physiological status at lower NT levels, but the growth stimulations induced by increasing LI were limited by higher NT. In addition, the lower NT at LM and LH conferred a relatively better endogenous physiological condition and significantly promoted tomato growth, but the higher NT significantly accelerated shoot growth at LL, indicating a compensation of higher NT for low light induced growth restriction. Taken together, the current study suggests that the adaptation mechanism of tomato plants to higher NT varied with LI levels, and higher LI plus lower NT would be an effective strategy to improve tomato growth.
Characterization of Berry Aromatic Profile of cv. Trebbiano Romagnolo Grapes and Effects of Intercropping with Salvia officinalis L.
Authors: Rodríguez-Declet Arleen , Castro-Marín Antonio , Lombini Alessandra , Sevindik Onur , Selli Serkan , Chinnici Fabio , Rombolà Adamo Domenico
Published: January 2022

Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) are secondary metabolites responsible for the aroma of grapes and the quality of wine. Apart from genetics, agronomic practices may impact the aroma composition and the concentration of volatiles in grape berries. The possible influence of intercropping with medicinal aromatic plants (MAPs) on the VOCs in grape berries’ profile has been poorly explored. Trebbiano Romagnolo is a white Vitis vinifera cultivar cultivated within the Italia region Emilia-Romagna. The study investigated, for the first time, the volatile organic profile of Trebbiano Romagnolo berries as well as the possible influences of intercropping with sage (Salvia officinalis L.) on the volatile composition of grape berries. A total of 48 free and bound aroma compounds were identified using solid phase extraction-gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (SPE-GC-MS). In the free aroma fraction, the main classes were C6 derivatives, alcohols, and benzenes, while in the bound aroma fraction, the major classes were benzenes, C13 norisoprenoids, and terpenes. The results obtained in this experiment indicate that intercropping with Salvia officinalis may influence volatile compounds in grape berries, an interesting result in cultivars considered neutral such as Trebbiano Romagnolo, providing new insights for exploring the complexity of the terroir and the role of agroecological strategies.
Protein Profiling of Pollen–Pistil Interactions in Almond (Prunus dulcis) and Identification of a Transcription Regulator Presumably Involved in Self-Incompatibility
Authors: Gómez Eva M. , Prudencio Ángela S. , Ortega Encarnación
Published: January 2022

The cultivated almond displays a gametophytic self-incompatibility system, which avoids self-fertilization, and it is controlled by a multi-allelic locus (S-locus) containing two genes specifically expressed in pistil (S-RNase) and pollen (SFB). Studies on almonds with the same S-haplotype but different phenotype pointed to the existence of unknown components in this system to explain its functioning. The increase of knowledge on this reproductive barrier would allow better management of fruit production and germplasm selection. This work proposes candidates to components of the almond gametophytic self-incompatibility system, by identifying differentially expressed proteins (DEPs) after compatible and incompatible pollen–pistil interactions in almonds with the same S-haplotype but a different incompatibility phenotype using iTRAQ and 2D-nano-LC ESI/MSMS analyses. The protein quantitation analysis revealed 895 DEPs, which were grouped into different functional categories. The largest functional group was “metabolic proteins”, followed by “stress resistance and defense proteins”, with higher up-regulation after pollination. The identity of certain DEPs, such as Thaumatin, LRR receptors, such as kinase and pathogenesis related protein PR-4, indicated that some pollen–pistil interactions in almond could have the same bases as host–parasite interactions. Furthermore, additional RT-qPCR analysis revealed the differentially expressed transcription regulator GLABROUS1 enhancer-binding protein-like (GEBPL) could be involved in the gametophytic self-incompatibility system in almond.
Temporary Immersion Bioreactor System as an Efficient Method for Mass Production of In Vitro Plants in Horticulture and Medicinal Plants
Authors: Hwang Ho-Dong , Kwon Suk-Hyun , Murthy Hosakatte Niranjana , Yun Seung-Won , Pyo Sung-Soo , Park So-Young
Published: January 2022

A temporary immersion system (TIS) bioreactor has been used as an efficient and cost-effective method for the in vitro propagation of many plant species. In the current study, the applicability of a TIS bioreactor for plantlet regeneration Chrysanthemum morifolium Ramat., Fragaria × ananassa Duch., and Cnidium officinale Makino was studied. Shoot length, a number of leaves per regenerated shoot, fresh, and dry biomass of plantlets were optimal with the TIS compared to semi-solid and liquid immersion cultures. The leaf area in cryshanthmum, strawberry, and C. afficinale were 2.87 cm2, 3.51 cm2, and 1.43 cm2, respectively, in the plants regenerated by TIS. The photosynthetic pigments were highest in strawberry plants grown in TIS bioreactor culture, and there was no significant difference between semi-solid and liquid culture while the highest values were obtained in C. officinale maintained in semi-solid culture. The chrysanthemum and strawberry plants showed a 100% acclimatization rate in all culture systems. C. officinale plants showed the highest survival rate at 96.9%, which were regenerated in the TIS. TIS bioreactor culture, thus, provides a convenient method that could be adopted for commercial in vitro propagation of chrysanthemum, strawberry and C. officinale plants.
Using HPLC–MS/MS to Assess the Quality of Beet, Mizuna, Lettuce and Corn Salad after Juglone and Walnut Leaf Extract Treatments
Authors: Medic Aljaz , Zamljen Tilen , Grohar Mariana Cecilia , Slatnar Ana , Hudina Metka , Veberic Robert
Published: January 2022

The present study was carried out to investigate the yield, quality, and metabolomic responses of four different vegetable crops to treatments with pure juglone standard and walnut (Juglans regia L.) leaf extract at soil concentrations found in walnut orchards. A total of 60 phenolic compounds were identified and quantified, some for the first time in these crop vegetables. Beta vulgaris L. and Lactuca sativa L. were less susceptible to juglone. For crop quality, B. vulgaris showed the least effects of the different treatments. Both Brassica rapa L. var. japonica and Valerianella locusta Laterr. showed lower yields, even at the lower juglone concentration, and reduced quality, so their cultivation in juglone-containing soils should be avoided. This study also investigated leaf quality at different ages and the quality and yield of these crop vegetables grown under the influence of allelochemicals, to determine the influence of allelochemicals on metabolomics and, thus, on the uptake of phenolic compounds considered to be beneficial to human health.
An Optimized Tobacco Hairy Root Induction System for Functional Analysis of Nicotine Biosynthesis-Related Genes
Authors: Qin Shangqian , Liu Yanrong , Yan Jianping , Lin Shiwen , Zhang Wanjun , Wang Bingwu
Published: January 2022

Rhizobium rhizogenes-mediated plant hairy root induction is a convenient method for functional study of root-specific genes. To develop an optimized tobacco hairy root induction system and study gene function in nicotine biosynthesis, we investigated hairy root induction by three R. rhizogenes strains, R1601, K599, and LBA9402, on different media with leaf discs from plants of different ages, and we observed that the strain LBA9402 used for explant infection exhibited the highest hairy root induction rate with 4 and 8 week old leaf discs of the tobacco ‘Coker176’ on 2/3MS medium, and it could also be used as a cargo delivering foreign genes to hairy roots. Overexpression of MsSPL12 gene, an alfalfa (Medicago sativa) SQUAMOSA promoter binding protein-like (SPL) transcription factor, significantly improved nicotine production in transgenic hairy roots, reaching 1.38–1.85 mg/g compared to 0.5 mg/g of the controls. Expression analysis of the nicotine biosynthesis and transport-related genes responding to methyl-jasmonate (MeJA) treatment revealed a significant upregulation of NtMPO2 responsible for increased nicotine biosynthesis in MsSPL12 transgenic hairy roots. Our results establish a high-throughput approach for gene functional characterization in the hairy roots of a tobacco elite cultivar, ‘Coker176’, as well as suggest a system for efficiently manipulating tobacco nicotine biosynthesis.
Future Scenarios for Olive Tree and Grapevine Potential Yields in the World Heritage Côa Region, Portugal
Authors: Fraga Helder , Guimarães Nathalie , Freitas Teresa R. , Malheiro Aureliano C. , Santos João A.
Published: January 2022

In the World Heritage Côa region, in northern Portugal, agriculture has crucial economic, social and cultural importance. Vineyards and olive groves are part of the economic base of this region, contributing to the regional commercial budget and the livelihood of its residents. Climate change is expected to have significant impacts on these crops, where climatic conditions are already very warm and dry, posing a key threat to the olive oil and winemaking sectors. The present study analyzes the impact of climate change on the potential yield of these two crops over the Côa region. For this purpose, two crop models were initialized and ran with state-of-the art spatial datasets for climate, soil, terrain, and plant data. As outputs of the crop models, potential yields of grapevines and olive trees were obtained for the recent-past (1981–2005) and for the future (2041–2070), under two climatic scenarios (RCP4.5 and RCP8.5). Results (potential yield) were then normalized, taking into account the recent-past maximum yields and divided into four classes (low, low-moderate, moderate-high, and high). For the recent-past, the results of the crop models present a high agreement with the current location of vineyards and olive groves. For the future, two different types of impacts (positive and negative) are found for the two crops. For olive trees, the results show promising future improvements in possible expansion areas within the Côa region. However, for grapevines, the results show a decrease in potential yields throughout the region, including a strong shift of producing moderate zones to low potentials. Nonetheless, these results also suggest that the negative impacts of climate change can be alleviated by the application of suitable adaptation measures, based on changing certain management practices, even in the more severe future scenario. Therefore, these measures should be carefully planned and implemented in a timely fashion by farmers.
Situational Awareness: Techniques, Challenges, and Prospects
Authors: Munir Arslan , Aved Alexander , Blasch Erik
Published: January 2022

Situational awareness (SA) is defined as the perception of entities in the environment, comprehension of their meaning, and projection of their status in near future. From an Air Force perspective, SA refers to the capability to comprehend and project the current and future disposition of red and blue aircraft and surface threats within an airspace. In this article, we propose a model for SA and dynamic decision-making that incorporates artificial intelligence and dynamic data-driven application systems to adapt measurements and resources in accordance with changing situations. We discuss measurement of SA and the challenges associated with quantification of SA. We then elaborate a plethora of techniques and technologies that help improve SA ranging from different modes of intelligence gathering to artificial intelligence to automated vision systems. We then present different application domains of SA including battlefield, gray zone warfare, military- and air-base, homeland security and defense, and critical infrastructure. Finally, we conclude the article with insights into the future of SA.
RNA-Seq Analysis of the Key Long Noncoding RNAs and mRNAs Related to the Regulation of Acute Heat Stress in Rainbow Trout
Authors: Zhou Chang-Qing , Ka Wei , Zhang Hui-Jun , Li Ya-Lan , Gao Pan , Long Rui-Jun , Yang Shun-Wen , Wang Jian-Lin
Published: January 2022

As the global climate warms, more creatures are threatened by high temperatures, especially cold-water fish such as rainbow trout. Evidence has demonstrated that long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) play a pivotal role in regulating heat stress in animals, but we have little understanding of this regulatory mechanism. The present study aimed to identify potential key lncRNAs involved in regulating acute heat stress in rainbow trout. lncRNA and mRNA expression profiles of rainbow trout head kidney were analyzed via high-throughput RNA sequencing, which exhibited that 1256 lncRNAs (802 up-regulation, 454 down-regulation) and 604 mRNAs (353 up-regulation, 251 down-regulation) were differentially expressed. These differentially expressed genes were confirmed to be primarily associated with immune regulation, apoptosis, and metabolic process signaling pathways through Gene Ontology and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes pathway enrichment analysis and coding-noncoding co-expression network analysis. These results suggested that 18 key lncRNA-mRNA pairs are essential in regulating acute heat stress in rainbow trout. Overall, these analyses showed the effects of heat stress on various physiological functions in rainbow trout at the transcriptome level, providing a theoretical basis for improving the production and breeding of rainbow trout and the selection of new heat-resistant varieties.
RNA Sequencing Analysis Reveals Divergent Adaptive Response to Hypo- and Hyper-Salinity in Greater Amberjack (Seriola dumerili) Juveniles
Authors: Peng Yuhao , Shi Hongjuan , Liu Yuqi , Huang Yang , Zheng Renchi , Jiang Dongneng , Jiang Mouyan , Zhu Chunhua , Li Guangli
Published: January 2022

Salinity significantly affects physiological and metabolic activities, breeding, development, survival, and growth of marine fish. The greater amberjack (Seriola dumerili) is a fast-growing species that has immensely contributed to global aquaculture diversification. However, the tolerance, adaptation, and molecular responses of greater amberjack to salinity are unclear. This study reared greater amberjack juveniles under different salinity stresses (40, 30, 20, and 10 ppt) for 30 days to assess their tolerance, adaptation, and molecular responses to salinity. RNA sequencing analysis of gill tissue was used to identify genes and biological processes involved in greater amberjack response to salinity stress at 40, 30, and 20 ppt. Eighteen differentially expressed genes (DEGs) (nine upregulated and nine downregulated) were identified in the 40 vs. 30 ppt group. Moreover, 417 DEGs (205 up-regulated and 212 down-regulated) were identified in the 20 vs. 30 ppt group. qPCR and transcriptomic analysis indicated that salinity stress affected the expression of genes involved in steroid biosynthesis (ebp, sqle, lss, dhcr7, dhcr24, and cyp51a1), lipid metabolism (msmo1, nsdhl, ogdh, and edar), ion transporters (slc25a48, slc37a4, slc44a4, and apq4), and immune response (wnt4 and tlr5). Furthermore, KEGG pathway enrichment analysis showed that the DEGs were enriched in steroid biosynthesis, lipids metabolism, cytokine–cytokine receptor interaction, tryptophan metabolism, and insulin signaling pathway. Therefore, this study provides insights into the molecular mechanisms of marine fish adaptation to salinity.