bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Childhood and adult socioeconomic status influence on late-life healthy longevity: evidence from the Chinese longitudinal healthy longevity survey
Authors: Chen Yuanyan
Published: September 2024

Background

Older people in low- and middle-income countries are more susceptible to the impact of childhood experiences. This study comprehensively examines how childhood socioeconomic status (SES) and adult SES collectively influence late-life healthy longevity from a life course perspective, providing insights for shaping health-related policies.

Methods

This study analyzed data from the Chinese Longitudinal Healthy Longevity Survey (1998–2018) with 37,264 individuals aged 65 and above. Using R software, we applied continuous-time multi-state models incorporating the Rockwood frailty index with 38 indicators to assess participants’ health. Childhood SES or life course SES trajectories were core explanatory variables, while age and gender were controlled. Multinomial regression estimated annual transition probabilities between different states, and the multi-state life table method calculated total and frailty-specific life expectancy (LE).

Results

(1) Social mobility among older people in China showed an upward trend from childhood to adulthood. (2) Transition probabilities for robust-frailty, robust-dead, and frailty-dead increased with age, while frailty-robust decreased. Transition probabilities and LE varied across different childhood SES (low, medium, high) or life-course SES trajectory categories (low-low, low-medium, low-high, medium-low, medium-medium, medium-high, high-low, high-medium, high-high), with probabilities of robust-frailty, robust-dead, and frailty-dead decreasing sequentially across different categories, and frailty-robust increasing sequentially across different categories. Total LE, robust LE, and robust LE proportion increased sequentially across different categories, while frailty LE decreased sequentially across different categories. (3) Women had higher total LE and frailty incidence, but lower recovery rate, mortality risk, robust LE, and robust LE proportion compared to men.

Conclusion

Favorable childhood SES and lifelong accumulation of SES advantages protect against frailty morbidity, improve recovery rate, reduce mortality risk, and increase total LE, robust LE, and robust LE proportion. High childhood SES has a stronger protective effect than high adult SES, indicating the lasting impact of childhood conditions on healthy longevity. Systematic interventions in education, food supply, and medical accessibility for children from impoverished families are crucial.
Investigating the impact of climatic and environmental factors on HFRS prevalence in Anhui Province, China, using satellite and reanalysis data
Authors: Liu Ying , Liu Chengyuan , Wang Liping , Chen Xian , Qiao Huijie , Zhang Yan , Cai Binggang , Xue Rongrong , Yi Chuanxiang
Published: September 2024

Introduction

Hemorrhagic Fever with Renal Syndrome (HFRS) is the most commonly diagnosed zoonosis in Asia. Despite taking various preventive measures, HFRS remains prevalent across multiple regions in China. This study aims to investigate the impact of climatic and environmental factors on the prevalence of HFRS in Anhui Province, China, utilizing satellite and reanalysis data.

Methods

We collect monthly HFRS data from Anhui Province spanning 2005 to 2019 and integrated MODIS satellite datasets and ERA5 reanalysis data, including variables such as precipitation, temperature, humidity, solar radiation, aerosol optical depth (AOD), and Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI). Continuous wavelet transform, Spearman correlation analysis, and Poisson regression analysis are employed to assess the association between climatic and environmental factors and HFRS cases.

Results

Our findings reveal that HFRS cases predominantly occur during the spring and winter seasons, with the highest peak intensity observed in a 9-year cycle. Notably, the monthly average relative humidity exhibits a Spearman correlation coefficient of 0.404 at a 4-month lag, taking precedence over other contributing factors. Poisson regression analysis elucidates that NDVI at a 2-month lag, mean temperature (T) and solar radiation (SR) at a 4-month lag, precipitation (P), relative humidity (RH), and AOD at a 5-month lag exhibit the most robust explanatory power for HFRS occurrence. Moreover, the developed predictive model exhibiting commendable accuracy.

Discussion

This study provides key evidence for understanding how climatic and environmental factors influence the transmission of HFRS at the provincial scale. Insights from this research are critical for formulating effective preventive strategies and serving as a resource for HFRS prevention and control efforts.
The role of the immune response in developing tuberculosis infection: from latent infection to active tuberculosis
Authors: Kudryavtsev Igor , Starshinova Anna , Rubinstein Artem , Kulpina Anastasia , Ling Hong , Zhuang Min , Kudlay Dmitry
Published: September 2024

Despite advancements in modern medicine, tuberculosis continues to be one of the leading causes of death globally. Findings indicate that COVID-19 may trigger the activation of tuberculosis infection (TB), leading to its spread. Despite the development of new immunological diagnostic methods for latent tuberculosis infection (LTBI), it is still unclear how the infection transitions to an active TB state. The goal of the study is to provide insights into the progression of tuberculosis infection from a latent to an active state. This article presents recent research data focused on investigating the pathogenesis of LTBI, particularly the immune responses in the interaction between Mycobacteria tuberculosis (Mtb) and the host. It describes the mechanisms of T-cell immunity and cytokine activation, supporting the concept of type 1, type 2, and type 3 immune responses. According to the conducted studies, Th17 cells have a significant role in the development of type 3 antigen-specific responses. The cytokines IL-6 and IL-23 activate STAT3, which is necessary to trigger the expression of Th17. Future research on the role of Th17 cells and cytokines, particularly IL-6 and IL-21, may be beneficial in understanding the shift from LTBI to active TB.
Comparisons of longitudinal radiographic measures of keel bones, tibiotarsal bones, and pelvic bones versus post-mortem measures of keel bone damage in Bovans Brown laying hens housed in an aviary system
Authors: Sallam Moh , Göransson Lina , Larsen Anne , Alhamid Wael , Johnsson Martin , Wall Helena , de Koning Dirk-Jan , Gunnarsson Stefan
Published: September 2024

Keel bone damage, include deviations and fractures, is common in both white and brown laying hens, regardless of the housing system. Radiography for assessing birds’ keel bones is was proposed by previous studies. However, radiographs show only 2 out of 3 dimensions of the dissected keel bones. The current study aimed to (1) investigate the association of radiographic optical density (keel and tibiotarsal) and geometry (keel) with dissected keel bone pathology. Previous studies suggested that keel bone fractures may result from internal pressure exerted by pelvic cavity contents. The current study also aimed to (2) investigate the potential associations between pelvic dimensions and measures of keel bone damage. A sample of 200 laying hens on a commercial farm were radiographed at 16, 29, 42, 55, and 68 weeks, and culled at the end of the laying period (week 74). The birds were examined post-mortem for pelvic dimensions and underwent whole-body radiography, followed by keel and tibiotarsal bone dissection and radiography, and keel bone scoring. The radiographs were used to estimate radiographic optical density (keel and tibiotarsal bone) and keel bone geometry (ratio of keel bone length to mid-depth). The method for on-farm radiography of laying hens, including live bird restraint, positioning for live keel imaging, and post-imaging measurements, was developed, tested, and found to be reproducible. The radiographs (1,116 images of 168 birds) and the respective measurements and post-mortem scores of keel bones are also provided for further development of radiographic metrics relevant to keel bone damage. Some longitudinal radiographic measurements of keel geometry (ratio of length to mid-depth) and optical density (keel and tibiotarsal) showed associations with the damage (deviations/fractures) observed on the dissected keel bones. The associations of keel damage were clearer with the radiographic keel geometry than with keel and tibiotarsal optical density, also clearer for the keel deviations than for keel fractures. The higher radiography ratio of keel length to mid-depth at weeks 42, 55 and 68 of age, the larger deviations size observed on the dissected keels at age of 74 weeks. The higher the tibiotarsal radiographic optical density at week 55 of age, the lower deviations size and fractures count observed on the dissected keels at age of 74 weeks. Pelvic dimensions showed a positive correlation with body weight, but a larger pelvic cavity was associated with increased keel bone damage. These findings lay the foundations for future use of on-farm radiography in identifying appropriate phenotypes for genetic selection for keel bone health.
Evaluating Stacked Dielectric Elastomer Actuators as Soft Motor Units for Forming Artificial Muscles in Biomimetic Rehabilitation Robots
Authors: Mohammadi Vahid , Mohammadi Ghalehney Sahel , Tajdani Mohammad , Lee Samuel C. K. , Behboodi Ahad
Published: September 2024

The recent commercial availability of stacked dielectric elastomer actuators (SDEAs) has unlocked new opportunities for their application as “artificial skeletal muscles” in rehabilitation robots and powered exoskeletons. Composed of multiple layers of thin, elastic capacitors, these actuators present a lightweight, soft, and acoustically noiseless alternative to traditional DC motor actuators commonly used in rehabilitation robotics, thereby enhancing the natural feel of such systems. Building on our previous research, this study aimed to evaluate the most recent version of commercial SDEAs to assess their potential for mechanizing rehabilitation robots. We quantified the stress and strain behavior and stiffness of these actuators in both single and 1 × 3 configurations (with three SDEAs connected in series). The actuators demonstrated the capability to generate up to 25 N of force and 115 KPa, a value surpassing human biceps, with a longitudinal strain measured at about 11%. The significant increase in force generation from 10 N in the previous version to 25 N and displacement from 3.3% to 11% substantially enhances the applicability of this actuator in rehabilitation robotics. SDEAs’ high force generation capability, combined with their strain and stress characteristics comparable to that of human biological muscles, make them ideal alternative actuators for biomimetic robots and applications where actuators must operate in the vicinity of the human body.
Clustering and Cooperative Guidance of Multiple Decoys for Defending a Naval Platform against Salvo Threats
Authors: Bildik Enver , Tsourdos Antonios
Published: September 2024

The threat to naval platforms from missile systems is increasing due to recent advancements in radar seeker technology, which have significantly enhanced the accuracy and effectiveness of missile targeting. In scenarios where a naval platform with limited maneuverability faces salvo attacks, the importance of an effective defense strategy becomes crucial to ensuring the protection of the platform. In this study, we present a multi-agent reinforcement learning-based decoy deployment approach that employs six decoys to increase the survival likelihood of a naval platform against salvo missile strikes. Our approach entails separating the decoys into two clusters, each consisting of three decoys. Subsequently, every cluster is allocated to a related missile threat. This is accomplished by training the decoys with the multi-agent deep reinforcement learning algorithm. To compare the proposed approach across different algorithms, we use two distinct algorithms to train the decoys; multi-agent deep deterministic policy gradient (MADDPG) and multi-agent twin-delayed deep deterministic policy gradient (MATD3). Following training, the decoys learn to form groups and establish effective formation configurations within each group to ensure optimal coordination. We assess the proposed decoy deployment strategy using parameters including decoy deployment angle and maximum decoy speed. Our findings indicate that decoys positioned on the same side outperform those positioned on different sides relative to the target platform. In general, MATD3 performs slightly better than MADDPG. Decoys trained with MATD3 succeed in more successful formation configurations than those trained with the MADDPG method, which accounts for this enhancement.
Energy Absorption Properties of 3D-Printed Polymeric Gyroid Structures for an Aircraft Wing Leading Edge
Authors: Overbeck Mats , Heimbs Sebastian , Kube Jan , Hühne Christian
Published: September 2024

Laminar flow offers significant potential for increasing the energy efficiency of future transport aircraft. At the Cluster of Excellence SE2A—Sustainable and Energy-Efficient Aviation—the laminarization of the wing by means of hybrid laminar flow control (HLFC) is being investigated. The aim is to maintain the boundary layer as laminar for up to 80% of the chord length of the wing. This is achieved by active suction on the leading edge and the rear part of the wing. The suction panels are constructed with a thin micro-perforated skin and a supporting open-cellular core structure. The mechanical requirements for this kind of sandwich structure vary depending on its position of usage. The suction panel on the leading edge must be able to sustain bird strikes, while the suction panel on the rear part must sustain bending loads from the deformation of the wing. The objective of this study was to investigate the energy absorption properties of a triply periodic minimal surface (TPMS) structure that can be used as a bird strike-resistant core in the wing leading edge. To this end, cubic-sheet-based gyroid specimens of different polymeric materials and different geometric dimensions were manufactured using additive manufacturing processes. The specimens were then tested under quasi-static compression and dynamic crushing loading until failure. It was found that the mechanical behavior was dependent on the material, the unit cell size, the relative density, and the loading rate. In general, the weight-specific energy absorption (SEA) at 50% compaction increased with increasing relative density. Polyurethane specimens exhibited an increase in SEA with increasing loading rate, as opposed to the specimens of the other investigated polymers. A smaller unit cell size induced a more consistent energy absorption, due to the higher plateau force.
Non-Destructive Detection of Tea Polyphenols in Fu Brick Tea Based on Hyperspectral Imaging and Improved PKO-SVR Method
Authors: Gong Junyao , Chen Gang , Deng Yuezhao , Li Cheng , Fang Kui
Published: September 2024

Tea polyphenols (TPs) are a critical indicator for evaluating the quality of tea leaves and are esteemed for their beneficial effects. The non-destructive detection of this component is essential for enhancing precise control in tea production and improving product quality. This study developed an enhanced PKO-SVR (support vector regression based on the Pied Kingfisher Optimization Algorithm) model for rapidly and accurately detecting tea polyphenol content in Fu brick tea using hyperspectral reflectance data. During this experiment, chemical analysis determined the tea polyphenol content, while hyperspectral imaging captured the spectral data. Data preprocessing techniques were applied to reduce noise interference and improve the prediction model. Additionally, several other models, including K-nearest neighbor (KNN) regression, neural network regression (BP), support vector regression based on the sparrow algorithm (SSA-SVR), and support vector regression based on particle swarm optimization (PSO-SVR), were established for comparison. The experiment results demonstrated that the improved PKO-SVR model excelled in predicting the polyphenol content of Fu brick tea (R2 = 0.9152, RMSE = 0.5876, RPD = 3.4345 for the test set) and also exhibited a faster convergence rate. Therefore, the hyperspectral data combined with the PKO-SVR algorithm presented in this study proved effective for evaluating Fu brick tea’s polyphenol content.
Impact of Lentinus sajor-caju on Lignocellulosic Biomass, In Vitro Rumen Digestibility and Antioxidant Properties of Astragalus membranaceus var. mongholicus Stems under Solid-State Fermentation Conditions
Authors: Wang Yu-Qiong , Luo Li-Long , Chen Li-Ming , Liao Yang-Ci , Zhang Hang , Gou Chang-Long
Published: September 2024

Lentinus sajor-caju has shown potential for the bioconversion of lignocellulosic biomass in various substrates. Here, we evaluated whether L. sajor-caju affects the lignocellulosic biomass, in vitro fermentation and antioxidant properties of Astragalus membranaceus var. mongholicus (AMM) stems. The lignocellulosic biomass content and the antioxidant activity of AMM stems were determined by scanning electron microscopy, chemical component analysis, in vitro fermentation and LC-MS metabolomics after 30 days of fermentation by L. sajor-caju at 25 °C. L. sajor-caju significantly altered the rigid structure of the stems. Compared with the control condition, the lignocellulose contents were significantly reduced (p < 0.001) and improved in vitro digestibility and total volatile fatty acids. In total, 624 differential metabolites, including 201 up-regulated and 423 down-regulated, were identified in unfermented and fermented comparison groups. Correlation analysis indicated that there were strongly correlations of the total phenolic content and total antioxidant capacity. Meanwhile, the differential metabolites were primarily associated with antioxidant activity, with 4(3H)-quinazolinone, dihydrocarvyl acetate and jaceoside being the most representative. In summary, L. sajor-caju altered the composition of the cell wall of AMM stems, thereby enhancing their antioxidant activity.
Integrated Analysis Reveals Genetic Basis of Growth Curve Parameters in an F2 Designed Pig Population Based on Genome and Transcriptome Data
Authors: Che Zhaoxuan , Qiao Jiakun , Xu Fangjun , Li Xinyun , Zhao Yunxia , Zhu Mengjin
Published: September 2024

Appropriate growth curves can reflect more sophisticated growth patterns of animals than body weight, and thus, the identification of genes and variants related to the growth curve parameter traits contributes to revealing the fine growth and development characteristics of livestock. However, the ability of single genome-wide association analysis (GWAS) and transcriptome analyses to identify valuable genes and variants is limited. In this study, based on genome and transcriptome data, the growth curve parameter traits of hybrid pigs were analyzed, and a set of genes and variants were identified. The Gompertz–Laird growth curve model was optimized to reveal the growth pattern of F2 individuals of Duroc × Erhualian pigs over four time points. Five growth parameters were estimated, including initial body weight (W0), instantaneous growth rate per day (L), coefficient of relative growth or maturing index (k), body weight at inflection point (Wi), and average growth rate (GR). These five parameters were subjected to a genome-wide association study, differential gene expression analysis, and weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA). In the study, 336 pigs were genotyped, and 39,494 SNP markers were used for each pig in the analysis. Thirty of these pigs were also included in the transcriptomics analysis. Based on genome and transcriptome data, the integrated analyses identified five putative SNPs (including INRA0056566 on chromosome X, DRGA0004151 on chromosome 3, INRA0056460 on chromosome X, H3GA0049324 on chromosome 17, and H3GA0037747 on chromosome 13) and 15 candidate genes (PDGFA, VEGFD, CSPP1, EFHC1, PIK3C3, ZZZ3, GCC2, MAPK14, ZPR1, ISG15, ANG, CEBPD, ZHX3, CTBP2, and MYNN). The functional analysis indicated that these candidate genes played important roles in cell division and differentiation, development and aging, and skeletal muscle and fat formation. Our results provide insight into the genetic mechanisms underlying the growth and development of hybrid pigs and offer a theoretical basis for genomic breeding.
Tourists’ Perceptual Positioning of Brand Equity and Competitive Relationships in Organic Agricultural Tourism
Authors: Wang Dan , Shen Ching-Cheng
Published: September 2024

In the face of a highly competitive tourism market, when tourists hold positive brand equity towards a destination, it enhances the destination’s ability to differentiate itself from competitors. This study focuses on the brand equity of organic agricultural tourism, using multidimensional scaling (MDS) to explore the factor structure of brand equity and the perceptual positioning of various tourism destination brands. The research targets tourists engaging in organic agricultural tourism in the Hualien and Taitung regions, with 220 valid questionnaires collected. The research findings indicate the following: 1. Among the 22 brand equity items, “loyalty to organic agricultural tourism”, “awareness of organic agricultural products”, “quality of organic agricultural products”, “environmental sustainability”, “image of healthy tourism”, and “recognition of organic agricultural development” scored the highest. 2. The analysis revealed that the brand equity factors are ranked in the following order: BIHS, BACI, BPQ, BLO, and BAW. 3. Through MDS analysis, the five organic agricultural tourism destinations were categorized into high, medium, and low brand equity groups, illustrating the differentiated competitive relationships among these destinations. The top three factors influencing the brand perceptual maps were BAW, BIHS, and BPQ. The results of this study can serve as a reference for future research on brand equity in organic agricultural tourism and provide a scientific basis for the practical application of shaping brand equity and formulating competitive strategies.
The Determination of Capitalization Rate by the Remote Segments Approach: The Case of an Agricultural Land Appraisal
Authors: Cucuzza Giuseppe , Cerro Marika , Giuffrida Laura
Published: September 2024

In the absence of comparative real estate data in the market segment of the property to be estimated, the appraiser may resort to income capitalization to estimate the market value. Often, however, the choice of which rate to apply is affected by subjective and arbitrary assessments. The estimation result can therefore be inaccurate and rather unclear. However, the Remote Segments Approach (RSA), through appropriate adjustments on the original values, prices, and incomes detected in the remote segments, makes it possible to arrive at an appraisal result consistent with estimative logic and real estate valuation standards. The proposed application illustrates the estimation of the market value of a specialized fruit orchard of avocado, which is to be considered new in relation to other fruit species already present in the reference area. The adjustments required by the RSA are solved with the General Appraisal System (GAS), defining the difference matrix based on relevant characters common to all segments considered. The application is carried out by comparing the segment in which the orchard being estimated falls (subject) with other remote market segments in which prices and incomes constituted by other tree crops are collected. The market value of the subject is derived by making adjustments to the prices and incomes observed in the remote segments of comparison with a comparison function constructed through relevant characters common to the segments considered. The comparison function makes it possible to arrive at the determination of the capitalization rate to be used in estimating the value of the fruit orchard by income approach. While it is based on the comparison of segments, the approach followed allows for a value judgment consistent with the estimation comparison and capable of providing a solution less conditioned by the appraiser’s expertise in the presence of particularly pronounced limiting conditions.
TTPRNet: A Real-Time and Precise Tea Tree Pest Recognition Model in Complex Tea Garden Environments
Authors: Li Yane , Chen Ting , Xia Fang , Feng Hailin , Ruan Yaoping , Weng Xiang , Weng Xiaoxing
Published: September 2024

The accurate identification of tea tree pests is crucial for tea production, as it directly impacts yield and quality. In natural tea garden environments, identifying pests is challenging due to their small size, similarity in color to tea trees, and complex backgrounds. To address this issue, we propose TTPRNet, a multi-scale recognition model designed for real tea garden environments. TTPRNet introduces the ConvNext architecture into the backbone network to enhance the global feature learning capabilities and reduce the parameters, and it incorporates the coordinate attention mechanism into the feature output layer to improve the representation ability for different scales. Additionally, GSConv is employed in the neck network to reduce redundant information and enhance the effectiveness of the attention modules. The NWD loss function is used to focus on the similarity between multi-scale pests, improving recognition accuracy. The results show that TTPRNet achieves a recall of 91% and a mAP of 92.8%, representing 7.1% and 4% improvements over the original model, respectively. TTPRNet outperforms existing object detection models in recall, mAP, and recognition speed, meeting real-time requirements. Furthermore, the model integrates a counting function, enabling precise tallying of pest numbers and types and thus offering practical solutions for accurate identification in complex field conditions.
Kinematic Analysis of the Vibration Harvesting Process of Lycium barbarum L. Fruit
Authors: Yu Ziheng , Wu Jian , Jiang Fang , Xing Hong , Yan Lei , Yang Jianhua
Published: September 2024

The traditional shrub fruits harvesting method is manual picking, while the efficiency is low, which seriously restricts the development of Lycium barbarum L. industry. In order to mechanize the harvesting process of Lycium barbarum L. and improve the correct picking rate while reducing the damage rate of Lycium barbarum L. harvesting, it is very important to analyze the kinematic model of the fruit-bearing branch during vibration harvesting. Through the measurement and analysis of the natural characteristics and physical parameters of the branches, a simplified model of Lycium barbarum L. shrub fruit-bearing branch was built by Solidworks 2023 software, and the appropriate material properties were selected. Through modal analysis and harmonious response analysis, the response characteristics data of fruit-bearing branches of Lycium barbarum L. shrub were obtained. In Qinghai Nuomuhong Farm, the field vibration harvesting kinematic model feature analysis test was carried out, and the acceleration data of the vibration harvesting process were collected by using the acceleration sensor, and through the analysis of the frequency spectrum characteristics of the data, it was concluded that when the excitation frequency was maintained between 8 and 14 Hz, the Lycium barbarum L. fell off well and the picking rate can reach 97.56%, the efficiency can reach 6.88 pieces of fruit per second, and the branch damage was acceptable, which theoretically met the needs of harvesting.
Why Do Farmers Disadopt Successful Innovations? Socio-Ecological Niches and Rice Intensification
Authors: Taylor Marcus , Bhasme Suhas
Published: September 2024

The adoption of innovations in rice cultivation is presumed to operate in a rational manner, wherein new technologies or practices that successfully increase productivity or resource efficiency are adopted by target farmers based on cost-benefit calculations. In contrast, this paper examines a case of a public initiative to promote the system of rice intensification (SRI), wherein farmers widely disadopted the technique despite reporting increasing yields and reduced water consumption. To explain this paradox, we use the concept of the socio-ecological niche to examine a range of social and institutional factors that shape farmers’ decision-making. These included (1) access to land and labour; (2) water management capacity; (3) the quality of networks for knowledge sharing. The research suggests that small variations in these categories among otherwise similar smallholder households can markedly shape farmers’ risk perceptions and tangible outcomes with SRI. The implication is that agricultural innovations should be judged within their wider social context rather than on narrow evaluations of agronomic efficiency. Importantly, this must involve greater feedback mechanisms from smallholders with a variety of socio-economic profiles to help shape the character of agricultural innovations and extension strategies.
Effects of Microbial Biostimulants on Maize and Its Pest, the Western Corn Rootworm, Diabrotica virgifera virgifera
Authors: Tarigan Sri Ita , Kiss Jozsef , György Turóczi , Doan Nhu Phuong Y , Toepfer Stefan
Published: September 2024

The western corn rootworm, Diabrotica virgifera virgifera, (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae) is a serious pest of maize in the USA and Europe. Microbial plant biostimulants such as bacteria, fungi, and algae are designed to stimulate plant nutrition and growth, with some hypothesized to also possess insecticidal properties. We tested 10 biostimulants (four bacteria, five fungi, and one alga) under laboratory and greenhouse conditions. Most biostimulants did not affect the eggs, larvae, or adults of D.v. virgifera. However, in the laboratory, 10% of biostimulants improved egg hatching, and 40% killed some larvae, including the fungi Beauveria bassiana, Rhizophagus irregularis, and Trichoderma asperellum, and the bacterium Ensifer meliloti. Under potted-plant conditions in the greenhouse, these insecticidal effects were not detectable. However, several biostimulants slightly increased height and shoot length of uninfested maize plants, but reduced volume and length of their roots as well as above-ground biomass. Interestingly, 30% of the biostimulants enhanced the plant’s defence against larvae, for example, Bacillus amyloliquefaciens, B. subtilis, and E. meliloti. These may warrant further research into their modes of action as well as field trials to better understand and optimize their potential use in sustainable and integrated pest management.
Predation Efficiency and Biological Control Potential of Micromus angulatus Against Aphis craccivora
Authors: Zhao Yang , Lou Tiancheng , Cao Rongxiang , Jiang Liben , Xu Qiujing , Zhan Qingbin
Published: September 2024

Micromus angulatus (Neuroptera: Hemerobiidae) is a widely distributed and highly effective predator that shows promise as a biological control agent against agricultural pests, particularly Aphis craccivora, the cowpea aphid, which threatens leguminous crops globally. This study aimed to evaluate the predation behaviour, search efficiency, and intraspecific interference of M. angulatus at different developmental stages, including first- to third-instar larvae and adults, in controlling adult A. craccivora populations. The results demonstrated that all developmental stages of M. angulatus exhibited predatory behaviour towards adult aphids, with the functional response fitting the Holling Type II model. The instantaneous attack rates for first-, second-, and third-instar larvae and adults were 1.0017, 1.0448, 0.9581, and 0.9508, respectively; the handling times were 0.0158, 0.0051, 0.0016, and 0.0011 days, respectively; and the theoretical maximum daily predation rates were 63.2911, 196.0784, 625, and 909.0909 aphids, respectively. The pest control efficacies were 63.3989, 204.8672, 598.8311, and 864.3192, respectively. The search efficiency at each developmental stage was negatively correlated with aphid density, which decreased as the prey density increased, with second-instar larvae showing the greatest decrease and adults the least. When the aphid density was fixed, the daily predation rate of individual M. angulatus decreased with increasing conspecific density, indicating that predation was affected by its own density, with the interference effect equation being E = 0.6194P−0.87. These findings indicate that M. angulatus, especially in the third-instar larval and adult stages, has considerable potential as a biological control agent for managing A. craccivora populations in agricultural settings. This study contributes valuable insights for developing sustainable agricultural practices by decreasing reliance on chemical pesticides.
Effect of Blended Bt Corn Refuge on Corn Earworm (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) Infestation and Grain Yield
Authors: Buntin George David , Rowe Pamela Somerville
Published: September 2024

Blended refuges for corn-expressing toxins from Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) Berliner controls have been approved in the United States as an alternative resistance management approach to structured refuge. This study examined the impact of blended refuges up to 30% non-Bt seed on the corn earworm, Helicoverpa zea (Boddie) (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae), larval numbers, and kernel injury, and its effect on corn grain yield and test weights. The percentage of infested ears, larval numbers, and kernel injury of the 20% blend were not significantly different from the non-Bt and nonblended Bt for the Cry1A.105 + Cry2Ab + Cry1Fa2 treatment, but infested ears, larval numbers, and kernel injury of the nonblended Cry1A.105 + Cry2Ab treatment was lower than the comparable non-Bt hybrids, with the 20% blend being intermediate. The nonblended Cry1A.105 + Cry2Ab + Vip3Aa20 had virtually no larvae in ears and no kernel injury. Ear infestation, larval numbers, and kernel injury of the non-Bt blends with Vip3Aa20 were proportional to the percentage of non-Bt seed in the blend, and all infested ears were from the non-Bt refuge plants. Grain yield and test weight were not significantly different among nonblended or blended treatments of any Bt product tested. Results indicate losses of grain yield and test weight by corn earworm in seed blends up to 30% non-Bt seed are unlikely with infestation levels observed in this study.
Resistance Realized Heritability and Fitness Cost of Cyproflanilide in Rice Stem Borer, Chilo suppressalis (Lepidoptera: Pyralidae)
Authors: Zhang Kexin , Zhan Enling , Chang Xiaoli , Fouad Eman Atef , Zhao Chunqing
Published: September 2024

The rice stem borer (RSB) Chilo suppressalis is a devastating rice pest with resistance to a number of insecticides. Recently, the new meta-diamide insecticide cyproflanilide has been considered an effective insecticide to control RSB. However, its resistance risk has not been reported. In the present study, we aimed to assess the resistance risk and evaluate the fitness cost after the RSB was exposed to cyproflanilide. After five generations of selection, the resistance level of RSB increased by 1.5-fold. When h2 was 0.125, a 10-fold resistance increase in the LD50 values was expected in fourteen and thirty-one generations at the selection intensity of 90% and 50%, respectively. The selected population (RSB-SEL) had significant differences in the developmental duration of eggs, 1st, 2nd, 3rd, and 6th instar larvae, and female pupae compared to the unselected population (RSB-UNSEL). Besides, the adult longevity was shortened, and the average pupal weight of males, the emergence rate, the sex ratio, the oviposition, the mean fecundity, and the full life cycle rate were decreased in RSB-SEL. The intrinsic rate of increase (r), the net reproductive rate (R0), and the finite rate of increase (λ) of RSB-SEL were significantly lower than those of RSB-UNSEL, while the mean generation time (T) of RSB-SEL was significantly longer than that of RSB-UNSEL. Based on the results of the prediction of the generations required for a 10-fold resistance increase in the LD50, a potential risk of resistance development exists in RSB after continuous and excessive use of cyproflanilide. These results will be useful in designing the dose of cyproflanilide to control C. suppressalis in field.
Interactions between Sudangrass Lines Selected for Differing Nitrate Expression and Sorghum Aphid
Authors: Hayashida Rafael , Carey Camille , Springer Tim , Knighten Bailey , Armstrong J. Scott , Hoback W. Wyatt
Published: September 2024

Sudangrass (Sorghum sudanense Stapf) is widely cultivated as a summer annual forage across the southern Great Plains because of its robust forage yield potential. However, the accumulation of nitrates and the potential harm to livestock have restricted the use of Sudangrass for feeding ruminants. Since 2013, the sorghum aphid (SA), Melanaphis sorghi (Theobald) (Hemiptera: Aphididae), has been damaging sorghum and Sudangrass production. However, the interaction between SA feeding and nitrate accumulation in Sudangrass has not been determined. In this study, we evaluated the effect of SA feeding on different Sudangrass lines, comparing them to a susceptible and a resistant sorghum variety and measuring the physiological responses and nitrate concentration after aphid feeding. Additionally, we evaluated the use of these grass lines on SA demographics. Initial infestations of 100 SA per plant that were allowed to feed and proliferate for 20 days increased nitrate concentrations in Sudangrass by more than 60% compared to controls. Concurrently, the Sudangrass lines selected for high nitrate levels drastically reduced SA demographic parameters, comparable to those of the resistant sorghum control. Although the adoption of resistant cultivars is recommended for aphid management, the Sudangrass lines selected may not be the best option for SA management because their accumulation of nitrates in response to herbivory can cause ruminant poisoning.
Optimizing Oxalic Acid Application Regime to Maximize Sunflower Remediation Efficacy in Cd-Contaminated Soils
Authors: Zhang Dengmin , Han Yang , Qiao Dongmei , Wang Yadan , Yang Wenhuan , Li Weiping , Xing Yongqiang , Bai Fangfang , Zhao Yulong
Published: September 2024

The exogenous application of oxalic acid is a potential approach to amplifying phytoremediation performance on Cd-contaminated soils. However, few studies explore the optimal oxalic acid application regime from a perspective of coupling different concentrations and timings to maximize Cd removal rate. Given this, a pot experiment was conducted using oil sunflower (Helianthus annuus L.) as the test plant. Oxalic acid was added to the pots at concentrations of 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, and 6 mmol/kg at 20, 30, 40, and 50 days after emergence. A control (CK) without exogenous oxalic acid was also included. We examined the discrepancies in various soil Cd forms, sunflower height, plant non-protein thiol (NPT) levels, and soil Cd remediation efficiency under different oxalic acid application regimes. The results showed that applying oxalic acid at a concentration of 4 mmol/kg reduced the proportion of Fe-Mn oxide Cd and organic Cd compared to the control (CK), while increased the proportion of available Cd. The optimal application time is 30 or 40 days after emergence. The addition of exogenous oxalic acid promoted the growth of sunflowers, with the greatest increase in plant height observed when 4 mmol/kg oxalic acid was applied at 30 days after emergence. Exogenous oxalic acid enhanced the absorption of Cd by sunflower roots, with the total Cd accumulation in roots, stems, and leaves being higher than in the control (CK). When 4 mmol/kg oxalic acid was applied at 30 days after emergence, the total Cd accumulation in roots, stems, and leaves was highest. Under different application times and concentration levels of oxalic acid, Cd accumulation was highest in roots, followed by leaves, with stems showing the lowest accumulation. The NPT content in each part is as follows: root > stem > leaf. Applying 5 mmol/kg oxalic acid after 30 days of sunflower emergence resulted in relatively higher total NPT content in roots, stems, and leaves compared to the control (CK). The TOPSIS model was used for comprehensive evaluation, which showed that 4 mmol/kg oxalic acid application at 30 days after emergence could be used as the optimal oxalic acid application regime for phytoremediation. These findings indicate that the addition of oxalic acid effectively promoted the absorption of Cd by sunflower and increased the efficiency of Cd removal from the rhizosphere soil, with the optimal removal of soil Cd achieved by applying oxalic acid at a concentration of 4 mmol/kg 30 days after the emergence of oilseed sunflower seedlings.
Monitoring and Optimization of Potato Growth Dynamics under Different Nitrogen Forms and Rates Using UAV RGB Imagery
Authors: Ye Yanran , Jin Liping , Bian Chunsong , Liu Jiangang , Guo Huachun
Published: September 2024

The temporal dynamics of canopy growth are closely related to the accumulation and distribution of plant dry matter. Recently, unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) equipped with various sensors have been increasingly adopted in crop growth monitoring. In this study, two potato varieties were used as materials, and treated with different combinations of nitrogen forms (nitrate and ammonium) and application rates (0, 150, and 300 kg ha−1). A canopy development model was then constructed using low-cost time-series RGB imagery acquired by UAV. The objectives of this study were to quantify the variation in canopy development parameters under different nitrogen treatments and to explore the model parameters that represent the dynamics of plant dry matter accumulation, as well as those that contribute significantly to yield. The results showed that, except for the thermal time to canopy senescence (t2), other parameters of the potato canopy development model exhibited varying degrees of variation under different nitrogen treatments. The model parameters were more sensitive to nitrogen forms, such as ammonium and nitrate, than to application rates. The integral area (At) under the canopy development curve had a direct effect on plant dry matter accumulation (path coefficient of 0.78), and the two were significantly positively correlated (Pearson correlation coefficient of 0.93). Integral area at peak flowering (AtII) was significantly correlated with yield for both single and mixed potato varieties, having the greatest effect on yield (total effect of 1.717). In conclusion, UAV-acquired time-series RGB imagery could effectively quantify the variation of potato canopy development parameters under different nitrogen treatments and monitor the dynamic changes in plant dry matter accumulation. The regulation of canopy development parameters is of great importance and practical value for optimizing nitrogen management strategies and improving yield.
Bacillus amyloliquefaciens CU33 Fermented Feather–Soybean Meal Product Improves the Crude Protein Digestibility, Diarrhea Status, and Growth Performance of Goat Kids
Authors: Lee Tsung-Yu , Lee Yueh-Sheng , Wu Chean-Ping , Chan Kun-Wei , Chen Kuo-Lung
Published: September 2024

This study investigates the effects of replacing fish meal with fermented feather meal–soybean meal product (FFSMP) from Bacillus amyloliquefaciens CU33 in the starter on growth performance, relative health performance, and digestibility of Alpine goat kids. In trial 1, thirty-two Alpine goat kids (male) were randomly assigned to dietary supplementation of 2% feather meal–soybean meal mix (FSM), 2% fish meal, or replacing fish meal with 50% or 100% FFSMP (FFSMP-50 or FFSMP-100) in starter (n = 8). In trial 2, sixteen goat kids were selected after trial 1 and used in this digestion trial which began from 12 weeks old. The treatments were the same as in trial 1 (n = 4). In trial 1, the growth performance of the FFSMP groups was better than the FSM group at 0 to 10 weeks (p < 0.05). The fecal consistency index of the FFSMP-100 group was better than the FSM group at 0 to 5 weeks and 5 to 10 weeks. In trial 2, the crude protein (CP) digestibility of the FSM group decreased (p < 0.05). In conclusion, dietary supplementation with 2% FFSMP in goat kids’ diets can improve the growth performance, the CP digestibility, and diarrhea status, and it can completely replace the fish meal in starter diets.
Ultrastructural Characteristics of the Mature Spermatozoon of Artyfechinostomum malayanum (Digenea: Echinostomatidae), an Intestinal Parasite of Rattus norvegicus (Rodentia: Muridae) in Vietnam
Authors: Bakhoum Abdoulaye Jacque Sacodou , Marigo Adji Mama , Poonlaphdecha Srisupaph , Ribas Alexis , Morand Serge , Miquel Jordi
Published: September 2024

The study of sperm characteristics has proven useful for elucidating interrelationships in several groups of Platyhelminthes, such as digeneans. Thus, in the present work, the ultrastructural organization of the mature spermatozoon of the digenean Artyfechinostomum malayanum (Echinostomatidae), a parasite of Rattus norvegicus (Rodentia: Muridae) from Dong Thap Province, Vietnam, was investigated for the first time using transmission electron microscopy. The male gamete of A. malayanum exhibits two axonemes of different lengths, showing the 9 + ‘1’ pattern of the Trepaxonemata, a nucleus, two mitochondria, two lateral expansions, two bundles of parallel cortical microtubules, external ornamentation, spine-like bodies, and granules of glycogen. Thus, the mature spermatozoon follows a Type V sperm model proposed for digeneans. We also highlight some noteworthy characteristics in Echinostomatidae with possible phylogenetic implications, such as two lateral expansions in the anterior region of the spermatozoon and two mitochondria.
Spatial Epidemiology and Its Role in Prevention and Control of Swine Viral Disease
Authors: Qiu Juan , Li Xiaodong , Zhu Huaiping , Xiao Fei
Published: September 2024

Spatial epidemiology offers a comprehensive framework for analyzing the spatial distribution and transmission of diseases, leveraging advanced technical tools and software, including Geographic Information Systems (GISs), remote sensing technology, statistical and mathematical software, and spatial analysis tools. Despite its increasing application to swine viral diseases (SVDs), certain challenges arise from its interdisciplinary nature. To support novices, frontline veterinarians, and public health policymakers in navigating its complexities, we provide a comprehensive overview of the common applications of spatial epidemiology in SVD. These applications are classified into four categories based on their objectives: visualizing and elucidating spatiotemporal distribution patterns, identifying risk factors, risk mapping, and tracing the spatiotemporal evolution of pathogens. We further elucidate the technical methods, software, and considerations necessary to accomplish these objectives. Additionally, we address critical issues such as the ecological fallacy and hypothesis generation in geographic correlation analysis. Finally, we explore the future prospects of spatial epidemiology in SVD within the One Health framework, offering a valuable reference for researchers engaged in the spatial analysis of SVD and other epidemics.