bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Majority Decision-Making Works Best Under Conditions of Leadership Ambiguity and Shared Task Representations
Authors: Schippers Michaéla C. , Rus Diana C.
Published: June 2021

The effectiveness of decision-making teams depends largely on their ability to integrate and make sense of information. Consequently, teams which more often use majority decision-making may make better quality decisions, but particularly so when they also have task representations which emphasize the elaboration of information relevant to the decision, in the absence of clear leadership. In the present study we propose that (a) majority decision-making will be more effective when task representations are shared, and that (b) this positive effect will be more pronounced when leadership ambiguity (i.e., team members’ perceptions of the absence of a clear leader) is high. These hypotheses were put to the test using a sample comprising 81 teams competing in a complex business simulation for seven weeks. As predicted, majority decision-making was more effective when task representations were shared, and this positive effect was more pronounced when there was leadership ambiguity. The findings extend and nuance earlier research on decision rules, the role of shared task representations, and leadership clarity.
Effects of Internet Language Related to COVID-19 on Mental Health in College Students: The Mediating Effect of Cognitive Flexibility
Authors: Wu Xingzhe , Wang Zhi , Zhang Hongpo , Yuan Peiming , Yu Quanlei , Zhou Zhijin , Zhao Qingbai
Published: June 2021

During the COVID-19 pandemic, Internet language (INL) has influenced daily life extensively. However, the process by which INL influences people’s psychology and behavior is unclear. This study explored the effects of INL on mental health (anxiety and depression). A pilot study was conducted to develop a qualified scale for INL related to COVID-19 (CINL) in college students using an online questionnaire. The CINL scale was found to have two dimensions: frequency and comprehension, as well as good reliability and validity. A formal study explored the mediating effect of cognitive flexibility on the relationship between CINL and mental health. The results showed that CINL positively predicted mental health when it was mediated by cognitive flexibility. These results not only provide a new perspective on understanding the effects of cyber behavior on human mental health from a positive perspective, but also provide practitioners with new insights for interventions on college students’ mental health.
Speech Rhythm Variation in Early-Stage Parkinson's Disease: A Study on Different Speaking Tasks
Authors: Maffia Marta , De Micco Rosa , Pettorino Massimo , Siciliano Mattia , Tessitore Alessandro , De Meo Anna
Published: June 2021

Patients with Parkinson's disease (PD) usually reveal speech disorders and, among other symptoms, the alteration of speech rhythm. The purpose of this study is twofold: (1) to test the validity of two acoustic parameters—%V, vowel percentage and VtoV, the mean interval between two consecutive vowel onset points—for the identification of rhythm variation in early-stage PD speech and (2) to analyze the effect of PD on speech rhythm in two different speaking tasks: reading passage and monolog. A group of 20 patients with early-stage PD was involved in this study and compared with 20 age- and sex-matched healthy controls (HCs). The results of the acoustic analysis confirmed that %V is a useful cue for early-stage PD speech characterization, having significantly higher values in the production of patients with PD than the values in HC speech. A simple speaking task, such as the reading task, was found to be more effective than spontaneous speech in the detection of rhythmic variations.
Mediating Role of Self-Efficacy in the Relationship Between Optimism, Psychological Well-Being, and Resilience Among Iranian Students
Authors: Sabouripour Fatemeh , Roslan Samsilah , Ghiami Zeinab , Memon Mumtaz Ali
Published: June 2021

The present study aims to examine whether self-efficacy mediates the relationship between optimism, dimensions of psychological well-being, and resilience among Iranian students. The participants in this study included 251 Iranian students from Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM). Structural equation modeling using AMOS 20.0 was used to analyze the data. The results indicated that there were significant relationships between optimism, dimensions of psychological well-being, and resilience among Iranian students of UPM. The study findings presented that self-efficacy mediated the relationship between dimensions of psychological well-being (environmental mastery, autonomy, self-acceptance, positive relations with others, personal growth, and purpose in life) and resilience among Iranian students of UPM. Furthermore, self-efficacy was not observed to mediate the influence of optimism on resilience among Iranian students of UPM. The study’s findings help to understand the interrelationship between self-efficacy, various dimensions of psychological well-being, and resilience. Consequently, counselors, psychologists, and instructors can develop and plan valuable strategies to enhance students’ psychological factors.
Cognition in Patients With Memory Difficulties and Dementia Relative to APOE e4 Status
Authors: Hestad Knut , Engedal Knut , Horndalsveen Peter , Strand Bjørn Heine
Published: June 2021

The aim of this study was to investigate whether cognitive performance was equally influenced by Apolipoprotein E (APOE, with its three alleles, e2, e3, and e4) in patients with subjective cognitive decline (SCD), mild cognitive impairment (MCI), and Alzheimer’s disease (AD). In addition, we examined a group of patients with a combination of Vascular dementia (VaD) and AD (VaD/AD). We asked if the APOE e4 allele influenced cognition in these patient groups in the same way. Our study comprised data from 1,991 patients (55% women), with a mean age of 70.9 years (SD 10.8) and 12.1 years of education (SD 3.8). Of them, 1,111 (56%) had at least one APOE e4 allele; 871 (44%) had one and 240 (12%) had two e4 alleles. Three neurocognitive tests were used to measure cognition: the Mini Mental State Examination (MMSE), the 10-word test of the Consortium to Establish a Registry for Alzheimer’s Disease Word List (CERAD-WL) (immediate and delayed recall), and the Trail Making Test Part A (TMTA). The APOE genotypes were regressed against cognitive function using linear regression, adjusting for diagnosis, age, sex, and education. The interaction diagnosis∗APOE was investigated. The allele type had the largest effect on cognitive performance assessed by the CERAD-WL delayed recall test, less for the other tests. Those without the e4 type scored 0.7 units better than those with e4 allele(s) (p < 0.001). Furthermore, there was a significant inverse dose-response pattern between number of e4 alleles and cognitive performance; those with one allele scored 0.4 units better than those with two alleles (p = 0.006), and those without e4 scored 0.7 units better than those with one e4 (p < 0.001). This pattern did not differ between the four diagnostic groups studied.
Compulsive Hoarding Symptoms and the Role of Mindfulness Skills During Social Distancing for the COVID-19 Pandemic: An Exploratory Survey
Authors: Marazziti Donatella , Pozza Andrea , Mucci Federico , Dettore Davide
Published: June 2021

People reporting compulsive hoarding symptoms (CHS) have lower mindfulness skills than those without such symptoms. Mindfulness skills can have the role of a protective buffer against stressful periods. The quarantine imposed to contain the COVID-19 spread had a negative impact on daily habits and healthy behaviors (including social interactions). An increased attachment to objects might be one of the under-recognized psychological consequences of these difficult times, yet no study focused on CHS. Through an online survey in men who were on quarantine during the pandemic, this exploratory survey examined the prevalence of men reporting CHS during this period and explored the role of mindfulness skills on CHS controlling for anxious-depressive/stress symptoms. Forty-three men from the general population completed the Obsessive Compulsive Inventory-Revised (OCI-R), Cognitive and Affective Mindfulness Scale-Revised (CAMS-R) and Depression Anxiety Stress Scales-21 (DASS-21). Twenty-eight percent reported CHS. No differences on the scores of the questionnaires emerged between men with and without CHS, except on CAMS-R Attention scores. In a logistic regression analysis lower CAMS-R Attention scores predicted CHS (β = −0.34, p = 0.03). This is the first, yet preliminary investigation on CHS during quarantine. The prevalence of CHS appears higher than the rates (4%) reported in the last years before the COVID-19 outbreak. Perhaps people showed more intense hoarding tendencies during quarantine/social distancing, and this pattern should be monitored. Larger samples, longitudinal designs and clinician-rated instruments are needed to support or not our findings.
The Prevalence of Generalised Anxiety Disorder Among Prisoners of the Penitentiary Institution in North-Eastern Poland
Authors: Stawinska-Witoszynska Barbara , Czechowska Katarzyna , Moryson Waclaw , Wieckowska Barbara
Published: June 2021

Introduction: Generalised anxiety disorder (GAD) is one of the most common mental disorders. The psychosocial factors that may lead to generalised anxiety disorders include stress, traumatic events, conscious and unconscious internal conflicts, and low social and economic status. Imprisonment and forced isolation may favour the development of depression or anxiety disorders in inmates. Thus, this study aimed to analyse the prevalence of generalised anxiety disorder (GAD) in the population of inmates detained in one of the largest penitentiary units in north-eastern Poland.

Materials and Methods: The data comes from 2017 and includes information on 635 male inmates incarcerated at the Czerwony Bór Prison. The information comes from the health records of individual inmates, kept by the prison outpatient clinician, and documented consultations with doctors of units outside the prison. The classification of generalised anxiety disorders (F41.1) was made in accordance with the 10th Revision of the International Statistical Classification of Diseases and Health Problems and the clinical diagnosis made by a psychiatrist. The Mann-Whitney test was used to compare quantitative data without normal distribution, chi-squared test or Fisher exact test for comparing qualitative data. A one-dimensional and multi-dimensional logistic regression model was used to examine the impact of the prison type on the prevalence of generalised anxiety disorder.

Results: Generalised anxiety disorder was observed among 44 prisoners (6.9%), most often in the age range 30–39 years and among men younger than 30 years, respectively 40.9 and 31.8% of all diagnosed. The average age of patients was 34.6 years. The least number of prisoners with GAD was in the age group 50–59 (2.3%). Nearly 66% of patients were prisoners detained in a closed type prison; the chance of generalised anxiety disorder was three times higher than among the prisoners in a half-open and open type facility. Generalised anxiety disorder was diagnosed significantly more often with those currently serving a prison sentence than those before incarceration.

Conclusions: In Polish conditions, the importance of the problem associated with GAD is evidenced by a significant increase in its prevalence in the prison environment and a three times higher chance of developing generalised anxiety disorder among prisoners in a closed type institution, which calls for highly organised psychiatric care and increased availability of psychological assistance for prisoners.
Short-Term Forecasting of Daily Confirmed COVID-19 Cases in Malaysia Using RF-SSA Model
Authors: Shaharudin Shazlyn Milleana , Ismail Shuhaida , Hassan Noor Artika , Tan Mou Leong , Sulaiman Nurul Ainina Filza
Published: June 2021

Novel coronavirus (COVID-19) was discovered in Wuhan, China in December 2019, and has affected millions of lives worldwide. On 29th April 2020, Malaysia reported more than 5,000 COVID-19 cases; the second highest in the Southeast Asian region after Singapore. Recently, a forecasting model was developed to measure and predict COVID-19 cases in Malaysia on daily basis for the next 10 days using previously-confirmed cases. A Recurrent Forecasting-Singular Spectrum Analysis (RF-SSA) is proposed by establishing L and ET parameters via several tests. The advantage of using this forecasting model is it would discriminate noise in a time series trend and produce significant forecasting results. The RF-SSA model assessment was based on the official COVID-19 data released by the World Health Organization (WHO) to predict daily confirmed cases between 30th April and 31st May, 2020. These results revealed that parameter L = 5 (T/20) for the RF-SSA model was indeed suitable for short-time series outbreak data, while the appropriate number of eigentriples was integral as it influenced the forecasting results. Evidently, the RF-SSA had over-forecasted the cases by 0.36%. This signifies the competence of RF-SSA in predicting the impending number of COVID-19 cases. Nonetheless, an enhanced RF-SSA algorithm should be developed for higher effectivity of capturing any extreme data changes.
The Epidemiological and Spatiotemporal Characteristics of the 2019 Novel Coronavirus Disease (COVID-19) in Libya
Authors: Daw Mohamed A. , El-Bouzedi Abdallah H. , Ahmed Mohamed O.
Published: June 2021

COVID-19 is a global pandemic that has affected all aspects of life. Understanding its geographical and epidemiological characteristics has become particularly important in controlling the spread of the pandemic. Such studies are lacking in North African countries, particularly in Libya, which has the second largest area of any country in Africa and the longest coast facing Europe. The objectives of this study are to determine the epidemiological parameters and spatiotemporal patterns of COVID-19 and outline strategies for containing the spread and consequences of the pandemic. This comprehensive study included all the confirmed cases of COVID-19 since its emergence in Libya on March 24, 2020 until July 31, 2020. The epidemiological characteristics of COVID-19 were analyzed and the spatial dynamic trends were explored. Regional counts of weekly reported cases were used to characterize the spatial dynamics of COVID-19. A total of 3,695 confirmed cases of COVID-19 were recorded: 2,515 men (68.1%) and 1,180 women (31.9%), with a male-to-female ratio of 2.1:1. Ages ranged between 2 and 78 years. Older patients infected with COVID-19 were at a risk of higher disease severity and mortality. Broad geographic variability and spatiotemporal spread variation of the COVID-19 pandemic in Libya was observed, indicating a significant increase of COVID-19 spread starting in the middle of July 2020, particularly in the western and southern regions, although it was consistently reported in the central and eastern regions as well. Assessing the spatiotemporal dynamics of COVID-19 in the early stages of the epidemic is particularly important in understanding the pandemic spread. Such assessments are essential for designing effective prevention and control programs aimed at reducing the impact of the COVID- 19 pandemic, particularly in countries with limited resources.
Ensuring the Robustness and Reliability of Data-Driven Knowledge Discovery Models in Production and Manufacturing
Authors: Tripathi Shailesh , Muhr David , Brunner Manuel , Jodlbauer Herbert , Dehmer Matthias , Emmert-Streib Frank
Published: June 2021

The Cross-Industry Standard Process for Data Mining (CRISP-DM) is a widely accepted framework in production and manufacturing. This data-driven knowledge discovery framework provides an orderly partition of the often complex data mining processes to ensure a practical implementation of data analytics and machine learning models. However, the practical application of robust industry-specific data-driven knowledge discovery models faces multiple data- and model development-related issues. These issues need to be carefully addressed by allowing a flexible, customized and industry-specific knowledge discovery framework. For this reason, extensions of CRISP-DM are needed. In this paper, we provide a detailed review of CRISP-DM and summarize extensions of this model into a novel framework we call Generalized Cross-Industry Standard Process for Data Science (GCRISP-DS). This framework is designed to allow dynamic interactions between different phases to adequately address data- and model-related issues for achieving robustness. Furthermore, it emphasizes also the need for a detailed business understanding and the interdependencies with the developed models and data quality for fulfilling higher business objectives. Overall, such a customizable GCRISP-DS framework provides an enhancement for model improvements and reusability by minimizing robustness-issues.
Does the Conservative Non-pharmacological Management of Knee Osteoarthritis in Switzerland Reflect the Clinical Guidelines? A Survey Among General Practitioners, Rheumatologists, and Orthopaedic Surgeons
Authors: Ettlin Lea , Nast Irina , Huber Erika O. , Niedermann Karin
Published: June 2021

Introduction: The International Guidelines recommend exercise, education and weight management (if appropriate) as the first-line conservative treatment for patients with knee osteoarthritis (OA) to enhance their self-management. The aim of this study was to investigate the current state of conservative non-pharmacological management of patients with knee OA in Switzerland and to explore the perceived barriers and facilitators to the application of the guideline recommendations.

Materials and methods: Eleven semi-structured interviews with selected general practitioners (GPs), rheumatologists and orthopaedic surgeons were performed. Based on these results, an online survey was developed and sent to the members of three scientific medical societies. Questions addressed the frequency of diagnostic measures, treatment options, reasons for referral to exercise and also barriers and facilitators.

Results: A total of 234 members responded. They indicated that patients normally present due to pain (n = 222, 98.2%) and functional limitations of the knee (n = 151, 66.8%). In addition to clinical assessment, X-ray (n = 214, 95.5%) and MRI (n = 70, 31.3%) were the most frequently used diagnostic measures. Treatment options usually involved patient education for diagnosis (n = 223, 98.6%) and suitable activities (n = 217, 96%), pharmacological treatment (n = 203, 89.8%) and referral to physiotherapy (n = 188, 83.2%). The participants estimated that they had referred 54% of their patients with knee OA for a specific exercise. The referral to exercise was driven by “patient expectation/high level of suffering” (n = 73, 37.1%) and their “own clinical experience” (n = 49, 24.9%). The specialists rated the most important barriers to referral to exercise as “disinterest of patient” (n = 88, 46.3%) and “physically active patient” (n = 59, 31.1%). As the most important facilitators, they rated “importance to mention exercise despite the short time of consultation” (n = 170, 89.4%) and “insufficiently physically active patient” (n = 165, 86.9%).

Discussion: A substantial evidence–performance gap in the management of patients with knee OA appears to exist in Switzerland. For the systematic referral to exercise as the first-line intervention, it might be useful for medical doctors to suggest a structured exercise programme to patients with knee OA, rather than just advising general exercise.
Phenolic Compounds From Brewer's Spent Grains: Toward Green Recovery Methods and Applications in the Cosmetic Industry
Authors: Macias-Garbett Rodrigo , Serna-Hernández Sergio Othón , Sosa-Hernández Juan Eduardo , Parra-Saldívar Roberto
Published: June 2021

Brewers' spent grain (BSG) is the main by-product derived from the brewing industry, where it accounts for 85% of the total waste generated. The total annual production worldwide of this waste is 39 million tons. This lignocellulosic material is traditionally used as cattle feed and sold at a low retail price (~USD 45.00 per ton). However, efforts for the revalorization of this by-product are emerging since research has established that it can be used as a low-cost source of bioactive molecules and commodity chemicals that can bring value to integral biorefinery ventures. Among commodities, phenolic compounds have attracted attention as added-value products due to their antioxidant properties with applications in the food, cosmetic, and pharmaceutical industries. These phytochemicals have been associated with antiaging and anticancer activities that have potential applications on cosmetic products. This mini-review summarizes the most relevant extraction techniques used for the recovery of phenolic compounds from BSG while discussing their advantages and shortcomings and the potential applications from BSG bioactive extracts in the cosmetic industry and their reported beneficial effects. This mini-review also makes a brief comment on the role of phenolic compounds extraction in the economic feasibility of an integral BSG biorefinery.
Feeding Sheep Cobalt and Oregano Essential Oil Alone or in Combination on Ruminal Nutrient Digestibility, Fermentation, and Fiber Digestion Combined With Scanning Electron Microscopy
Authors: Jiao Ting , Wu Jianping , Casper David P. , Davis Delmer I. , Brown Michael A. , Zhao Shengguo , Liang Jianyong , Lei Zhaomin , Holloway Bill
Published: June 2021

The feeding of Co lactate (Co), an essential oil blend (EO; oregano), or a combination of Co and EO (EOC) may improve nutrient digestion of corn silage-based rations. In four separate studies, Co, EO, or EOC was fed at 0, 4, and 7 g/days to nine rumen fistulated rams arranged in a replicated 3 × 3 Latin square design. The fourth study evaluated the carrier at 0, 4, and 7 g/day. In each ram, fresh ensiled corn silage, leaf, and husk were placed in individual nylon bags inserted through the ruminal cannula and removed after 48 h. Rams fed increasing carrier rates demonstrated similar (P > 0.10) nutrient digestibilities and ruminal pH and volatile fatty acid concentrations. Feeding Co at 4 and 7 g/day increased (P < 0.05) digestibility of DM (59.4, 63.9, and 62.4% for 0, 4, and 7 g/day, respectively), NDF (59.4, 63.9, and 62.4%), and hemicellulose (HC; 56.2, 63.6, and 65.9%) compared with rams fed 0 g/day, while CP digestibility (46.4, 49.9, and 57.8%) was improved (P < 0.05) in rams fed 7 g/day compared with those fed 0 and 4 g/day. Rams fed 4 g/day EO digested greater (P < 0.05) HC (64.1, 71.4, and 69.1%) than rams fed 0 g/day, while rams fed 7 g/day were intermediate and similar (P > 0.10). Rams fed the EOC combination at 4 and 7 g/day demonstrated greater (P < 0.05) digestibilities of DM (57.7, 60.0, and 60.0%), NDF (21.4, 28.8, and 27.7%), and ADF (24.3, 33.3, and 34.4%) than rams fed 0 g/day. The SEM and SM techniques visually demonstrated minor evidence of husk and leaf digestibility in rams across the three experiments when fed 0 g/day of Co, EO, or EOC; rams fed 4 g/day of Co, EO, or EOC exhibited varying visual signs of leaf digestion with some palisade tissue, spongy tissue, and whole vein structure remaining, while in rams fed 7 g/day, only the vein structure remained. Results demonstrated that feeding Co, EO, or EOC at 4 or 7 g/day enhanced ruminal nutrient digestion and fermentation parameters, which was visually confirmed via SEM and SM.
The Magnitude of the Frequency Jitter of Acoustic Waves Generated by Wind Instruments Is of Relevance for the Live Performance of Music
Authors: Rehm Alexander M.
Published: June 2021

It is shown that a gold-plated device mounted on a tenor saxophone, forming a small bridge between the mouthpiece and the S-bow, can change two characteristics of the radiated sound: (1) the radiated acoustic energy of the harmonics with emission maxima around 1500–3000 Hz, which is slightly reduced for tones played in the lower register of the saxophone; (2) the frequency jitter of all tones in the regular and upper register of the saxophone show a two-fold increase. Through simulated phase-shifted superimpositions of the recorded waves, it is shown that the cancellation of acoustic energy due to antiphase superimposition is significantly reduced in recordings with the bridge. Simulations with artificially generated acoustic waves confirm that acoustic waves with a certain systematic jitter show less cancelling of the acoustic energy under a phase-shifted superimposition, compared to acoustic waves with no frequency jitter; thus, being beneficial for live performances in small halls with minimal acoustic optimization. The data further indicate that the occasionally hearable “rumble” of a wind instrument orchestra with instruments showing slight differences in the frequency of the harmonics might be reduced (or avoided), if the radiated acoustic waves have a systematic jitter of a certain magnitude.
A Comparison of Pearl Millet and Sorghum–Sudangrass Pastures during the Frost-Prone Autumn for Growing Beef Cattle in Semiarid Region
Authors: Lauriault Leonard M. , Schmitz Leah H. , Cox Shad H. , Scholljegerdes Eric J.
Published: June 2021

Sorghum–sudangrass (Sorghum bicolor × S. sudanense (Piper) Stapf.) and pearl millet (Pennisetum glaucum (L.) R. Br.) provide adequate nutritive value for growing beef cattle; however, unlike pearl millet, sorghum–sudangrass produces hydrocyanic acid (which is toxic to livestock) when frosted. Forage yield, nutritive value, and weight gain of growing cattle grazing sorghum–sudangrass and pearl millet were compared during the frost-prone autumns of 2013 and 2014, at New Mexico State University’s Rex E. Kirksey Agricultural Science Center in Tucumcari, NM USA, in randomized complete block designs each year with two replicates. No differences existed between pearl millet and sorghum–sudangrass forage yield, although there was a year–forage interaction for fiber-based nutritive value components because of maturity differences across years between the forages when freeze-killed. Pearl millet allowed for extending grazing of available forage for an additional 14 and 24 d in 2013 and 2014, respectively, compared to sorghum–sudangrass during the frost-prone autumn periods. During that period, when sorghum forages produce potentially toxic levels of hydrocyanic acid, animals grazing pearl millet accumulated an additional average of 94.9 kg live-weight gain ha−1 (p < 0.001). These factors afford producers an opportunity to increase returns on the similar investments of establishing and managing warm-season annual forage crops each year, and allow more time to stockpile cool-season perennial and annual forages for winter and early spring grazing, or to reduce hay feeding.
Effect of Storage Conditions on Storability and Antioxidant Potential of Pears cv. ‘Conference’
Authors: Łysiak Grzegorz P. , Rutkowski Krzysztof , Walkowiak-Tomczak Dorota
Published: June 2021

Late pear cultivars, such as ‘Conference’, can be stored for a long period if kept in good storage conditions. A three-year study (2011–2013) compared the impact of six-month storage using four technologies—normal atmosphere, normal atmosphere + 1-methylcyclopropene (1-MCP), controlled atmosphere, and controlled atmosphere + 1-MCP—on the quality parameters of ‘Conference’ pears, such as mass loss, firmness, total soluble solids, acidity, antioxidant capacity, and the incidence of diseases and disorders. Additionally, the study analysed different storage conditions in terms of profitability, based on the market prices for pears in the seasons during which the pears were stored. The storage conditions had a very strong influence on the fruit quality parameters, and were found to affect most visibly the mass loss and the incidence of postharvest diseases and disorders. The storage of ‘Conference’ pears for 180 days in normal atmosphere is not economically viable, even if the fruit is subjected to 1-MCP treatment; at the same time, it is profitable to store ‘Conference’ pears in controlled atmosphere for the same period, no matter whether 1-MCP was applied or not.
Effect of Amino Acids and Effective Microorganisms on Meadow Silage Chemical Composition
Authors: Radkowski Adam , Radkowska Iwona , Bocianowski Jan , Cyplik Adrian , Wolski Karol , Bujak Henryk
Published: June 2021

The effects of growth stimulants consist of activating plant physiological processes, which positively affects vegetative and generative growth, increasing the yield and its quality. The aim of the experiment was to study the effect of microbial and amino acid products on the quality of grassland silage; their application in different combinations was an experimental factor. According to the results, the foliar application of the amino acid and microbial products had a statistically significant effect on the chemical composition of silage. In comparison to control, silage produced from plants treated with those growth stimulants contained significantly more total protein in dry matter, while crude fiber content changed only slightly. In addition, due to higher lactic acid content, the quality of silage treated with the stimulants was higher than the quality of control plants. To sum up, the foliar treatment of plants with microorganisms in combination with amino acids resulted in a significant increase in the content of desired components, with a higher nutritional value of the silage.
Rice Paddy Soil Seedbanks Composition in a Mediterranean Wetland and the Influence of Winter Flooding
Authors: Osca José M. , Galán Felip , Moreno-Ramón Héctor
Published: June 2021

Soil seedbanks are defined in composition and quantity by many environmental factors inherent to a specific area, and they can be an indicator of the potential problems of weeds in crops. In Valencia (Spain), rice is cultivated with continuous flooding during the growing season, and after harvesting, many of the paddy fields are flooded again during the winter. This study investigates the paddy fields’ soil seedbank composition in this Mediterranean paddy area and the effect of winter flooding on the soil seedbank. Multispectral images from the Sentinel-2 satellite were used to characterise the water level of paddies in winter. Satellite images facilitated the characterisation of winter flooding in fields. Soil samples from sixty-nine points distributed over 15,000 ha of paddies were used to determine the composition of the seedbank plots. The data were spatially represented by geographic information systems. The species that contributed most to the paddy seedbank were Cyperus difformis L., an important rice weed in the Mediterranean area, and other rice weeds such as Echinochloa sp. and Leptochloa fusca subspecies. Other species with a great contribution to the seedbank are species that develop in paddy fields that produce a large quantity of small seeds, such as Lemna sp., Polypogon monspeliensis (L.) Desf., and Nasturtium officinale R. Br. These species interfere little or do not interfere with the rice crop. The study revealed that in general, flooding reduced seedbank density with differences between species. Furthermore, the influence of winter flooding on the different plant species obtained as well as their distribution maps are a further step in this protected area from the point of view of weed management in rice crop, as well as in the management of this Mediterranean wetland.
Cultivation Systems, Light Intensity, and Their Influence on Yield and Fruit Quality Parameters of Tomatoes
Authors: Kanski Larissa , Kahle Hannah , Naumann Marcel , Hagenguth Julia , Ulbrich Andreas , Pawelzik Elke
Published: June 2021

The yield and fruit quality parameters of tomatoes are influenced by environmental conditions, and cultivation systems play an important role in improving quality, apart from breeding. We examined five breeding lines and one cultivar in five cultivation systems for yield and fruit quality parameters. The cultivation systems include a single-glazed greenhouse with and without supplementary LED interlighting; a double-glazed greenhouse with and without supplementary LED interlighting; and an organic cultivation system on the field with a rainout shelter. Plants and fruits grown in the double glazing system showed significantly lower values for plant height, yield, DM, TSS, fructose, glucose, antioxidant capacity (DPPH, TEAC), TPC, calcium, phosphorus, and manganese content than in the single-glazed greenhouse, which can be explained by the lower light transmittance. However, it could be seen that the additional LED interlighting could lower the negative effect on yield and quality traits due to double glazing.
Antioxidant Properties, γ-Aminobutyric Acid (GABA) Content, and Physicochemical Characteristics of Tomato Cultivars
Authors: Tilahun Shimeles , Choi Han-Ryul , Baek Min-Woo , Cheol Lee-Hee , Kwak Ki-Wung , Park Do-Su , Solomon Tifsehit , Jeong Cheon-Soon
Published: June 2021

Tomatoes are rich in secondary metabolites such as lycopene, β-carotene, phenolics, flavonoids, and vitamin C, which are responsible for their antioxidant activates. A high level of γ-Aminobutyric acid (GABA), a health-promoting functional compound, was also found to accumulate in tomato fruit. In addition to the internal quality attributes, the acceptance of the tomato fruit by consumers is highly dependent on appearance and taste. Hence, we conducted this study to evaluate ‘Tori’, ‘TY VIP’, ‘Mamirio’, and ‘Arya’ tomato cultivars based on their physicochemical characteristics, contents of secondary metabolites, and GABA content. The results have revealed that the tested cultivars were very firm, which renders them the best choice for postharvest distribution of fresh market tomatoes as they resist impacts during harvesting and postharvest operations. Based on total soluble solids (TSS), titratable acidity (TA), and Brix acid ratio (BAR) the choice of cultivar could be ‘Mamirio’ > ’Tori’ > ‘TY VIP’ > ‘Arya’. Apart from flavor intensity, ‘Mamirio’ and ’Tori’ also revealed the highest content of ascorbic acid while ‘Mamirio’ and ‘Arya’ had the highest carotenoids (lycopene and β-carotene) accumulation. On the other hand, the highest total phenolics content was recorded from ‘TY VIP’ and ‘Arya’. Moreover, the highest total flavonoids and GABA contents were recorded from ‘TY VIP’. Nevertheless, the antioxidant activity of ‘TY VIP’ was the lowest of all tested cultivars while the highest was recorded from ‘Mamirio’. Taken together, the findings of the present study could suggest that the consumers’ requirements could be better fulfilled by choosing cultivars for the specific target functional compounds. From the tested cultivars, if the target is ascorbic acid, carotenoids, and antioxidant activity then ‘Mamirio’ is the best choice. On the other hand, if the target is total phenolics, flavonoids, and GABA then ‘TY VIP’ is the best choice. One could also label ‘Mamirio’ as an ‘antioxidant tomato’ and ‘TY VIP’ as the ‘GABA tomato’.
Trichoderma and Phosphite Elicited Distinctive Secondary Metabolite Signatures in Zucchini Squash Plants
Authors: Formisano Luigi , Miras-Moreno Begoña , Ciriello Michele , El-Nakhel Christophe , Corrado Giandomenico , Lucini Luigi , Colla Giuseppe , Rouphael Youssef
Published: June 2021

Plant biostimulants are “green” solutions to improve crop production. Trichoderma spp. and phosphites, ordinarily used as biocontrol agents, can trigger phytostimulation, also promoting endogenous mechanisms involved in plant growth and development. The present study aimed at assessing the efficacy of a phosphite-based formulation (Phosphit-One) and Trichoderma harzianum-T22 on the morpho-physiological response and modulation of the metabolomics profile in zucchini squash plants (Cucurbita pepo L.) cultivated in controlled growth conditions (Fitotron®). The highest values of fresh biomass production (390.9 g plant−1) and root dry weight (5.6 g plant−1) were obtained for Trichoderma-treated plants. This last treatment resulted in an improved physiological performance (SPAD index, CO2 assimilation rate, and Fv/Fm ratio) measured 30 days after transplanting. Both Trichoderma and phosphite treatments induced a broad metabolic reprogramming in leaves, evident also for the phosphite treatment that did not result in a growth promotion. The microbial and the non-microbial treatments showed distinctive signatures in secondary metabolism yet, common responses could be also highlighted. For instance, both Trichoderma and phosphite triggered ROS-mediated signaling processes, together with the accumulation of phenylpropanoids, glucosinolates, and phytoalexins. Furthermore, a significant alteration of phytohormones was observed, with terpenoid gibberellins and brassinosteroids showing the largest differences. The metabolomic signatures induced by Trichoderma and phosphite in zucchini squash provided molecular insights into the processes underlying elicitation of plant defense due to biostimulation. Interestingly, the modulation of plant secondary metabolism by both treatments did not impair plant growth.
Monitoring of Long-Lasting Effects of Fumigation with Dimethyl Disulfide (DMDS) on Root-Gall Index, Root-Knots, Other Nematode Populations, and Crop Yield over Three Protected Cucumber Crops in Bulgaria
Authors: Ilieva Zhenya , Lazarova Tanya , Mitev Aleksander , Myrta Arben
Published: June 2021

In order to evaluate the long-term effect of the new fumigant DMDS and its potential to be a part of IPM of root-knot nematodes, a two-year experiment was conducted on cucumber in a greenhouse in Bulgaria. In the first year, DMDS was applied in comparison with farmer nematicide strategy and untreated control in the first cucumber crop. After two consequent catch crops—lettuce in the winter period—a second cucumber crop followed in spring–summer. In this crop, the DMDS effect was studied with no treatment and was integrated into the post-planting strategy with Trichoderma spp. and garlic extract at plots previously treated with DMDS. The effect of DMDS was followed until 450 days after fumigation. Nematocidal efficacy of DMDS was 96% and the yield increased 65.5% in the first cucumber crop, and 80% and 100% in the second cucumber crop, respectively, when nothing was done or a combined strategy with Trichoderma spp. and garlic extract was followed. The DMDS effect on 44 non-target soil nematode genera was also followed. The negative impact of the fumigation was limited in time as non-target nematode communities regained previous crop levels in five months during our study. Therefore, DMDS can be properly included in soil IPM programmes and appears very promising for the protected crop industry in Europe.
Evaluation of NASA POWER Reanalysis Products to Estimate Daily Weather Variables in a Hot Summer Mediterranean Climate
Authors: Rodrigues Gonçalo C. , Braga Ricardo P.
Published: June 2021

This study aims to evaluate NASA POWER reanalysis products for daily surface maximum (Tmax) and minimum (Tmin) temperatures, solar radiation (Rs), relative humidity (RH) and wind speed (Ws) when compared with observed data from 14 distributed weather stations across Alentejo Region, Southern Portugal, with a hot summer Mediterranean climate. Results showed that there is good agreement between NASA POWER reanalysis and observed data for all parameters, except for wind speed, with coefficient of determination (R2) higher than 0.82, with normalized root mean square error (NRMSE) varying, from 8 to 20%, and a normalized mean bias error (NMBE) ranging from –9 to 26%, for those variables. Based on these results, and in order to improve the accuracy of the NASA POWER dataset, two bias corrections were performed to all weather variables: one for the Alentejo Region as a whole; another, for each location individually. Results improved significantly, especially when a local bias correction is performed, with Tmax and Tmin presenting an improvement of the mean NRMSE of 6.6 °C (from 8.0 °C) and 16.1 °C (from 20.5 °C), respectively, while a mean NMBE decreased from 10.65 to 0.2%. Rs results also show a very high goodness of fit with a mean NRMSE of 11.2% and mean NMBE equal to 0.1%. Additionally, bias corrected RH data performed acceptably with an NRMSE lower than 12.1% and an NMBE below 2.1%. However, even when a bias correction is performed, Ws lacks the performance showed by the remaining weather variables, with an NRMSE never lower than 19.6%. Results show that NASA POWER can be useful for the generation of weather data sets where ground weather stations data is of missing or unavailable.
Effect of the Pesticide Endosulfan and Two Different Biostimulants on the Stress Responses of Phaseolus leptostachyus Plants Grown in a Saline Soil
Authors: Landa-Faz Anbu , González-Orenga Sara , Boscaiu Monica , Rodríguez-Vázquez Refugio , Vicente Oscar
Published: June 2021

Soil salinity and the indiscriminate use of agrochemicals has significantly reduced the productivity of the ‘Chinampas’ agroecosystem in Mexico City. Crop improvement under these stressful conditions may be achieved by soil bioremediation. In this study, we checked the effects of the organochlorine pesticide endosulfan and bioremediation with Penicillium crustosum or a citric waste on the growth of Phaseolus leptostachyus plants in saline soil from the Chinampas area. Biochemical markers associated with specific stress responses were also determined after one month of growth in the different substrates. Plant growth was stimulated by bioremediation of the soil. Both biostimulants reduced the degree of stress affecting the plants, as shown by the increase in photosynthetic pigments and the reduction of proline, malondialdehyde (MDA), and H2O2 contents, and the activation of antioxidant systems. However, the biostimulants appeared to mitigate oxidative stress through different mechanisms. Endosulfan contamination inhibited seed germination—which was reverted to control values in the presence of the biostimulants—and further decreased plant growth. No clear patterns of variation of biochemical stress markers were observed combining endosulfan and the biostimulants. In any case, bioremediation with P. crustosum and/or citric waste is recommended to improve the germination and growth of P. leptostachyus plants.
Overview of the Genus Boleodorus and First Reports of Boleodorus thylactus and B. volutus from Southern Alberta, Canada
Authors: Munawar Maria , Yevtushenko Dmytro P. , Castillo Pablo
Published: June 2021

The present study provides the morphological and molecular characterization of Boleodorus thylactus and B. volutus populations, recovered from agricultural fields of southern Alberta. Despite a significant abundance of this group of nematodes, none of the Boleodorus species were previously reported in Canada. Therefore, representative adult specimens of each population were photographed and examined morphometrically. Phylogenetic trees were reconstructed using partial D2–D3 expansion segments of the 28S and 18S rDNA sequences to understand the relationships of Boleodorus species with Tylenchidae-related genera. Boleodorus species are relevant to soil ecological studies and therefore we summarized the important morphological and morphometric characters in tabular form for easy and efficient species identification. Moreover, we discuss the associated hosts and the distribution of all described Boleodorus species. This study will serve as a guide and basic framework for species diagnostics in the genus Boleodorus and will aid in filling the gaps in our knowledge of the species present in our cultivated lands.
The Equine Faecal Microbiota of Healthy Horses and Ponies in The Netherlands: Impact of Host and Environmental Factors
Authors: Theelen Mathijs J. P. , Luiken Roosmarijn E. C. , Wagenaar Jaap A. , Sloet van Oldruitenborgh-Oosterbaan Marianne M. , Rossen John W. A. , Zomer Aldert L.
Published: June 2021

Several studies have described the faecal microbiota of horses and the factors that influence its composition, but the variation in results is substantial. This study aimed to investigate the microbiota composition in healthy equids in The Netherlands under standard housing and management conditions and to evaluate the effect of age, gender, horse type, diet, pasture access, the season of sampling and location on it. Spontaneously produced faecal samples were collected from the stall floor of 79 healthy horses and ponies at two farms. The validity of this sampling technique was evaluated in a small pilot study including five ponies showing that the microbiota composition of faecal samples collected up to 6 h after spontaneous defaecation was similar to that of the samples collected rectally. After DNA extraction, Illumina Miseq 16S rRNA sequencing was performed to determine microbiota composition. The effect of host and environmental factors on microbiota composition were determined using several techniques (NMDS, PERMANOVA, DESeq2). Bacteroidetes was the largest phylum found in the faecal microbiota (50.1%), followed by Firmicutes (28.4%). Alpha-diversity and richness decreased significantly with increasing age. Location, age, season, horse type and pasture access had a significant effect on beta-diversity. The current study provides important baseline information on variation in faecal microbiota in healthy horses and ponies under standard housing and management conditions. These results indicate that faecal microbiota composition is affected by several horse-related and environment-related factors, and these factors should be considered in future studies of the equine faecal microbiota.
Modulation of Cathepsin S (CTSS) Regulates the Secretion of Progesterone and Estradiol, Proliferation, and Apoptosis of Ovarian Granulosa Cells in Rabbits
Authors: Song Guohua , Jiang Yixuan , Wang Yaling , Song Mingkun , Niu Xuanmin , Xu Huifen , Li Ming
Published: June 2021

Cathepsin S (CTSS) is a member of cysteine protease family. Although many studies have demonstrated the vital role of CTSS in many physiological and pathological processes including tumor growth, angiogenesis and metastasis, the function of CTSS in the development of rabbit granulosa cells (GCS) remains unknown. To address this question, we isolated rabbit GCS and explored the regulatory function of the CTSS gene in cell proliferation and apoptosis. CTSS overexpression significantly promoted the secretion of progesterone (P4) and estrogen (E2) by increasing the expression of STAR and CYP19A1 (p < 0.05). We also found that overexpression of CTSS increased GCS proliferation by up-regulating the expression of proliferation related gene (PCNA) and anti-apoptotic gene (BCL2). Cell apoptosis was markedly decreased by CTSS activation (p < 0.05). In contrast, CTSS knockdown significantly decreased the secretion of P4 and E2 and the proliferation of rabbit GCS, while increasing the apoptosis of rabbit GCS. Taken together, our results highlight the important role of CTSS in regulating hormone secretion, cell proliferation, and apoptosis in rabbit GCS. These results might provide a basis for better understanding the molecular mechanism of rabbit reproduction.