bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Terminating Oncogenic Signaling: Rational Design of a Molecular Inhibitor distorting and inactivating GTP bound to Oncogenic Mutated RAS Proteins.
Authors: Shekhar Sushant
Published: December 2024

Oncogenic mutations in RAS proteins, particularly within their GTP-binding domains, drive persistent activation of downstream signaling pathways, leading to uncontrolled cellular proliferation and various cancers, including pancreatic, colorectal, lung, and melanoma. These mutations impair GTP hydrolysis by making RAS proteins insensitive to GAP (GTPase-activating protein), maintaining their active state. This study introduces the design of a novel drug molecule targeting GTP-bound mutated RAS proteins. Key features include tert-butyl phenylsulfate as a core fragment due to its strong affinity for GTP, enhanced by electron-donating groups (EDGs) such as -NH2 and -OCH3 to improve binding efficiency. A benzyl-based protective group ensures selective reactivity, stability, and targeted activation exclusively in the presence of mutated RAS. Computational tools, including RDKit and SwissDock, were employed to assemble and optimize the drug molecule, yielding a structure that selectively interacts with GTP-bound RAS mutants, such as KRASG12C and NRASQ61K, defunctionalizing both the GTP and the mutant proteins. The proposed drug molecule shows significant affinity in molecular docking studies, with preliminary optimization ensuring stability and functionality. Future work involves in vitro assays, molecular dynamics simulations, ADMET profiling, and pharmacophore modeling to validate its efficacy and safety. This targeted approach holds promise for treating Ras-driven cancers with minimal off-target effects, marking a significant advancement in precision oncology.
Acupuncture for allergic rhinitis: protocol for a systematic review and network meta-analysis
Authors: Chen YanNi , Song ChenFei , Wang JiaQin , Han XinMin
Published: December 2024

Introduction

Allergic rhinitis (AR) is a widespread inflammatory disorder of the nasal mucosa affecting millions globally. The increasing prevalence of AR underscores the need for effective treatment modalities. Acupuncture has been identified as a potential non-pharmacological intervention for AR due to its effects on autonomic nerve functions and neuroendocrine and immune networks. However, a comprehensive evaluation of different acupuncture techniques through high-quality, evidence-based research is still needed.

Methods and analysis

Randomised controlled trials of different acupuncture-related therapies for postmenopausal osteoporosis will be searched in the following databases from 1 January 2002 to 31 December 2022, including PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library, Web of Science, China National Knowledge Infrastructure, VIP Database, Wanfang Database and China Biomedical Literature Database. Overall, clinical efficacy rate, bone mineral density and a Visual Analogue Scale score are used as the primary outcome indicators. In addition, the secondary outcome indicator is adverse reactions. Meanwhile, Stata (V.14.0) and RevMan (V.5.4) will be used to conduct the network meta-analysis. If the data are permissible and feasible, we will also perform meta-regression and subgroup analyses to address the underlying causes of data inconsistency and heterogeneity in the statistical analyses. To improve the credibility of this network meta-analysis, we will evaluate the quality of evidence in this research according to the GRADE assessment.

Prospero Registration Number: identifier (CRD 42024579713).
Endovascular intravascular intervention for central venous stenosis in maintenance hemodialysis patients: a retrospective observational study
Authors: Tao Yiming , Wang Jianyun , Ma Jianchao , Peng Siqi , Chen Boxi , Deng Shuting , Yuan Ye , Jiang Nan , Wen Sichun , Li Bohou , Wu Qiong , Xu Lixia , Li Sijia , Lin Ting , Wen Feng , Fu Lei , Li Zhuo , Huang Renwei , He Chaosheng , Wang Wenjian , Ye Zhiming , Shi Wei , Feng Zhonglin , Liu Shuangxin
Published: December 2024

Background

The number of people undergoing maintenance hemodialysis is increasing rapidly worldwide. Central vein stenosis (CVS) is a common vascular complication in undergoing hemodialysis, especially those with a history of catheterization. This study aimed to investigate the characteristics of CVS and the clinical effectiveness of percutaneous transluminal angioplasty (PTA) alone and sequential percutaneous transluminal stenting (PTS) in hemodialysis patients with CVS.

Methods

A retrospective analysis of 26 cases of endovascular intervention for CVS using PTA alone or sequential PTS was performed. The characteristics of CVS and the clinical effectiveness of these procedures were evaluated.

Results

This study included 26 hemodialysis patients who presented with symptomatic CVS. Of these 26 patients, 53.85% were male, and their mean age was approximately 54.96 years. All the patients had a history of catheter placement or pacemaker implantation. The incidence of brachiocephalic vein stenosis was significantly higher than that of subclavian vein stenosis (46.16% vs. 26.92%). Based on the degree of stenosis and elastic retraction, these patients were administered PTA alone or sequential PTS. There was no difference in patient age, hemodialysis time, catheter retention time, or stenosis length between the PTA alone and sequential PTS groups. However, the degree of venous stenosis in the PTS group was more severe than that in the PTA alone group. The primary patency rates in the sequential PTS and PTA alone groups were 94.12% and 100% at 3 months; 88.24% and 88.89% at 6 months; 75.00% and 85.71% at 9 months; and 66.67% and 71.43% at 12 months, respectively. It is worth noting that for 7 patients with complete occlusion of the brachiocephalic vein, we used sharp recanalization technology and stenting placement, with patency rates of 85.71% and 71.43% at 6 and 12 months, respectively.

Conclusions

PTA alone is recommended for patients with less than 50% central venous elastic retraction, while sequential PTS is recommended for patients with ≥ 50% central venous elastic retraction. PTA and PTS are safe and effective methods for the treatment of CVS in patients undergoing hemodialysis.
Neuron stress-related genes serve as new biomarkers in hypothalamic tissue following high fat diet
Authors: Liang Caixia , Lu Hongjian , Wang Xueqin , Su Jianbin , Qi Feng , Shang Yanxing , Li Yu , Zhang Dongmei , Duan Chengwei
Published: December 2024

Objective

Energy homeostasis is modulated by the hypothalamic is essential for obesity progression, however, the gene expression profiling remains to be fully understood.

Methods

GEO datasets were downloaded from the GEO website and analyzed by the R packages to obtain the DEGs. And, the WGCNA analysis and PPI networks of co-expressed DEGs were designed using STRING to get key genes. In addition, the single-cell sequencing datasets and GTEx database were utilized to receive the neuron-stress genes from the key genes. Further, high-fat diet (HFD)-induced hypothalamic tissue of mice was used as an animal model to validate the mRNA up-regulation of neuron-stress genes. In addition, the Bmi1 gene was identified as a hub gene through the LASSO model and nomogram analysis. Western blot confirmed the high expression of Bmi1 in hypothalamic tissue of HFD mice and PA-stimulated microglia. Immunofluorescence staining showed that HFD induced the activation of microglia and the expression of Bmi1 in hypothalamic tissue.

Results

We found that six genes (Sacm1l, Junb, Bmi1, Erbb4, Dkc1, and Suv39h1) are neuron stress-related genes and increased in the HFD-induced mice obesity model, Bmi1gene was identified as a key genes that can reflect the pathophysiology of obesity.

Conclusions

Our research depicted a comprehensive activation map of cell abnormality in the obese hypothalamus and Bim1 may be a diagnostic marker in the clinic, which provides a new perspective and basis for investigating the pathogenesis of obesity.
Naturally acquired IgG responses to Plasmodium falciparum do not target the conserved termini of the malaria vaccine candidate Merozoite Surface Protein 2
Authors: Zerebinski Julia , Margerie Lucille , Han Nan Sophia , Moll Maximilian , Ritvos Matias , Jahnmatz Peter , Ahlborg Niklas , Ngasala Billy , Rooth Ingegerd , Sjöberg Ronald , Sundling Christopher , Yman Victor , Färnert Anna , Plaza David Fernando
Published: December 2024

Introduction

Malaria remains a significant burden, and a fully protective vaccine against Plasmodium falciparum is critical for reducing morbidity and mortality. Antibody responses against the blood-stage antigen Merozoite Surface Protein 2 (MSP2) are associated with protection from P. falciparum malaria, but its extensive polymorphism is a barrier to its development as a vaccine candidate. New tools, such as long-read sequencing and accurate protein structure modelling allow us to study the genetic diversity and immune responses towards antigens from clinical isolates with unprecedented detail. This study sought to better understand naturally acquired MSP2-specific antibody responses.

Methods

IgG responses against recombinantly expressed full-length, central polymorphic regions, and peptides derived from the conserved termini of MSP2 variants sequenced from patient isolates, were tested in plasma from travelers with recent, acute malaria and from individuals living in an endemic area of Tanzania.

Results

IgG responses towards full MSP2 and truncated MSP2 antigens were variant specific. IgG antibodies in the plasma of first-time infected or previously exposed travelers did not recognize the conserved termini of expressed MSP2 variants by ELISA, but they bound 13-amino acid long linear epitopes from the termini in a custom-made peptide array. Alphafold3 modelling suggests extensive structural heterogeneity in the conserved termini upon antigen oligomerization. IgG from individuals living in an endemic region, many who were asymptomatically infected, did not recognize the conserved termini by ELISA.

Discussion

Our results suggest that responses to the variable regions are critical for the development of naturally acquired immunity towards MSP2.
Vitronectin promotes proliferation and metastasis of cervical cancer cells via the epithelial-mesenchymal transition
Authors: Lin Yao , Bian Lihong , Zhu Guangwei , Zhang Bin
Published: December 2024

Background

Vitronectin (VTN) is a multifunctional glycoprotein in blood and the extracellular, which could be an effective biomarker for many cancers. However, its role in cervical cancer is under investigated. In this study, we aimed to determine the molecular function of VTN and its potential mechanism in cervical cancer (CC).

Materials and methods

Up- and down-regulated VTN expression was determined in Hela and C33A cells. Reverse transcription, qRT-PCR, and Western blotting test were performed to identify VTN mRNA and protein levels, separately. CCK-8 assay and colony formation assay were carried out to evaluate proliferation abilities of CC cells. A scratch test and a transwell chamber assay were performed to determine cell migration and invasion ability. Expression levels of epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT)-related proteins were measured by Western blotting.

Results

Cell models with up- and down-regulated VTN expression in Hela and C33A cells were successfully established, as confirmed by Western blotting and qPCR. CCK-8 and colony formation assays demonstrated that VTN overexpression significantly enhanced the proliferation of both Hela and C33A cells. Wound healing and Transwell migration assays further indicated that VTN overexpression markedly promoted the migratory and invasive capabilities of these cells. Moreover, Western blotting analysis revealed that VTN overexpression led to a decrease in ZO-1 and E-cadherin protein levels and an increase in β-catenin and N-cadherin levels, whereas VTN knockdown yielded the opposite effect. These findings suggest that VTN promotes cervical cancer cell malignancy through epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT).

Conclusion

VTN plays a tumor-promoting role in CC by promoting the EMT of cervical cancer cells.
Research progress of breast cancer surgery during 2010–2024: a bibliometric analysis
Authors: Kang Jiawei , Jiang Nan , Shataer Munire , Tuersong Tayier
Published: December 2024

Purpose

This study seeks to systematically analyze the research literature pertaining to breast cancer surgery from 2010 to 2024, as indexed in the PubMed database, employing bibliometric methodologies.

Methods

Employing the “bibliometrix” package in the R programming language, alongside VOSviewer and CiteSpace software, this research conducted a comprehensive visual analysis of 1,195 publications. The analysis encompassed publication trends, collaborative networks, journal evaluation, author and institutional assessments, country-specific analyses, keyword exploration, and the identification of research hotspots.

Results

The study observed a rising trend in the number of publications related to breast cancer surgery. However, there was a concomitant decline in citation rates, potentially indicating either a saturation of the research field or a diminution in research quality. The United States, China, and Japan are the leading contributors to research output, with the United States showing the most extensive international collaboration. The University of California, University of Toronto, and University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center were the top institutions for the number of published papers. Through a comprehensive analysis of keywords, we have identified “breast cancer” “pain” “anxiety” “lymphedema” “mastectomy” and “surgery” as central research themes within this domain, the corresponding clusters were subjected to analysis.

Conclusion

This study provides a comprehensive review of breast cancer surgery research, emphasizing major research areas and proposing future research directions. This study provides a significant resource for researchers and clinicians in the field.
Effectiveness of a brief multicomponent intervention to improve physical activity level and functional capacity in fibromyalgia and chronic fatigue syndrome (Synchronize+)
Authors: Martín-Borràs Carme , González Serra Gemma , Carrasco-Querol Noèlia , Sansano-Nadal Oriol , Bueno Hernández Nerea , Bestraten del Pino Pau , Pastor Cazalla Marta , Caballol Angelats Rosa , Montesó-Curto Pilar , Castro Blanco Elisabet , Pozo Ariza Macarena , Fernández-Sáez José , Dalmau Llorca M. Rosa , Gonçalves Alessandra Queiroga , Aguilar Martín Carina
Published: December 2024

Introduction

Fibromyalgia (FM) and chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) are complex central sensitization syndromes that represent an important public health problem. Low cardiorespiratory fitness and muscle function with habitual intolerance to efforts are common characteristics of FM and CFS. This study aimed to examine the effect of a brief multicomponent intervention based on physical activity (PA), nutrition, and chronobiology on movement behaviors (PA, sedentary and sleep time), muscle strength, and cardiorespiratory capacity.

Methods

randomized controlled trial was conducted in primary healthcare in Catalonia. A total of 143 individuals with FM or FM and CFS concomitantly (age 50.8, SD 8.1; 94.4% women) were randomly allocated to the intervention (IG, n = 69) or control (CG, n = 74) groups. The IG participated in a brief multicomponent (PA, nutrition, and chronobiology) group-based intervention (4 sessions, 3 h/session) while the CG received usual primary care practice. Primary outcome measure was PA measured by the REGICOR-Short Physical Activity Questionnaire. Secondary outcomes were sedentary (International Physical Activity Questionnaire) and sleep time (Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index), upper- and lower-body muscle strength (handgrip and sit-to-stand test, respectively), and aerobic capacity (6-min walk test). Data were collected at baseline and 3 months post-intervention.

Results

The IG showed positive differences at 3-month follow-up, with highly appreciably PA levels, less sedentary time, and significantly improved sleep time. Significant between-group differences were also observed at 3 months, with better health values in the IG: PA and sleep time (370.3 ± 307.0 vs. 195.9 ± 289.1 min/week and 6.1 ± 1.6 vs. 5.5 ± 1.8 h/night, respectively) and less sedentary time (266.2 ± 153.3 vs. 209.4 ± 199.9 min/day). The IG also showed higher upper limb strength and significant lower-body strength both between and within groups, as well as significantly improved cardiorespiratory capacity.

Conclusion

The Synchronize + multicomponent program implemented at primary healthcare has shown short-term effectiveness in improving 24-h movement behaviors and health outcomes in individuals with FM, with or without CFS. This intervention may be a first step in educating and motivating people with FM and CFS to adopt an active lifestyle, leading to improved health. Long-term follow-up will determine whether the changes are maintained over time and their impact on quality of life and healthcare costs.
Update on NKCC2 regulation in the thick ascending limb (TAL) by membrane trafficking, phosphorylation, and protein-protein interactions
Authors: Maskey Dipak , Granados Pineda Jessica , Ortiz Pablo A.
Published: December 2024

Purpose of review

The thick ascending limb (TAL) of loop of Henle is essential for NaCl, calcium and magnesium homeostasis, pH balance and for urine concentration. NKCC2 is the main transporter for NaCl reabsorption in the TAL and its regulation is very complex. There have been recent advancements toward understanding how NKCC2 is regulated by protein trafficking, protein-protein interaction, and phosphorylation/dephosphorylation. Here, we update the latest molecular mechanisms and players that control NKCC2 function, which gives an increasingly complex picture of NKKC2 regulation in the apical membrane of the TAL.

Recent Findings

Protein-protein interactions are required as a regulatory mechanism in many cellular processes. A handful of proteins have been recently identified as an interacting partner of NKCC2, which play major roles in regulating NKCC2 trafficking and activity. New players in NKCC2 internalization and trafficking have been identified. NKCC2 activity is also regulated by kinases and phosphatases, and there have been developments in that area as well.

Here we review the current understanding of apical trafficking of NKCC2 in the thick ascending limb (TAL) which is tightly controlled by protein-protein interactions, protein turnover and by phosphorylation and dephosphorylation. We discuss new proteins and processes that regulate NKCC2 that have physiological and pathological significance.
Spontaneous theory of mind in autism: are anticipatory gaze and reaction time biases consistent?
Authors: Onda Keigo , Ichwansyah Rizal , Kawasaki Keisuke , Egawa Jun , Someya Toshiyuki , Hasegawa Isao
Published: December 2024

Background

Individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) exhibit persistent deficits in social interaction and communication in adulthood. Pioneering studies have suggested that these difficulties arise from a lack of immediate, spontaneous mentalizing (i.e., theory of mind: ToM), specifically, an ability to attribute false beliefs to others, which should be usually acquired during neurotypical development. However, this view has been challenged by recent reports of nonreplications of spontaneous mentalizing, even in neurotypical adults.

Objectives

We aimed to evaluate (1) whether measurements of spontaneous ToM in two representative paradigms, gaze bias in the anticipatory looking (AL) test and reaction time bias in the object detection (OD) test, are correlated in neurotypical adults and (2) whether these two measurements are altered in individuals with ASD.

Methods

We developed a novel hybridized spontaneous false belief test combining the AL and OD paradigms to enable within-subject comparison of different spontaneous ToM measurements.

Results

The results obtained with our hybridized test replicated the earlier positive evidence for spontaneous ToM in both AL and OD paradigms. Our results also revealed a correlation between the participants’ spontaneous gaze bias in the AL paradigm and reaction time bias in the OD paradigm, indicating that the participants who had spontaneously anticipated other’s false belief driven actions more quickly detected the object. We further found that spontaneous gaze and reaction time biases were altered in individuals with ASD. Finally, we ascertained those inclusions of these biases as diagnostic variables in a regression model improved the accuracy of diagnosing ASD. ASD diagnosis was best predicted by the model when variables obtained from both AL and OD methods were included in the model.

Conclusions/implications

Our hybridized paradigm not only replicated spontaneous gaze bias in early AL studies and reaction time bias in the OD paradigms, but indicated significant correlation between them, suggesting that different implicit tasks tap the same spontaneous ToM in neurotypical adults. Group differences of these indices between ASD and neurotypical adult groups indicated that our task could help diagnose ASD, which is essential for evaluating the social difficulties that individuals with ASD face in adulthood.
Association between phenotypic age and mortality risk in individuals with obesity: a retrospective cohort study
Authors: Huang Yingxuan , Zhou Apei , Huang Yisen , Wang Yubin , Liu Xiaobo , Liu Xiaoqiang
Published: December 2024

Objective

This study investigates the association between phenotypic age acceleration (PAA) and all-cause and cause-specific mortality in obese individuals.

Methods

Data were drawn from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) between 1999 and 2018, including 9,925 obese adults (BMI ≥ 30 kg/m2). PAA, defined as phenotypic age exceeding chronological age, was assessed using clinical biomarkers. Kaplan-Meier survival analysis and Cox proportional hazards models were used to assess the relationship between PAA and all-cause, cardiovascular, and cancer mortality, adjusting for covariates such as age, gender, race, lifestyle, and health status. Subgroup and sensitivity analyses were performed to ensure the robustness of the findings.

Results

During a median follow-up of 10.6 years, 1,537 deaths were recorded, including 419 from cardiovascular disease and 357 from cancer. PAA was significantly associated with all-cause mortality (HR = 1.84, 95% CI: 1.64–2.06), cardiovascular mortality (HR = 1.86, 95% CI: 1.50–2.31), and cancer mortality (HR = 1.47, 95% CI: 1.17–1.85). These associations remained significant after adjusting for multiple variables, and sensitivity analyses confirmed the robustness of the results.

Conclusion

PAA is an independent predictor of all-cause, cardiovascular, and cancer mortality in obese individuals. This study highlights the importance of PAA in mortality risk assessment and health management in the obese population.
Denitrifying microbial genes quantification attests inference for potential N2O emissions in sugarcane soils by enzymatic bioanalysis
Authors: de Oliveira Luciano Ricardo , Kozusny-Andreani Dora Inés , Monteiro Gabriel Gustavo Tavares Nunes , Mendes Ieda de Carvalho , Rossetto Raffaella , Vanzela Luiz Sergio , Vazquez Gisele Herbst , Navarrete Acacio Aparecido
Published: December 2024

This study evaluated the relationships and sensitivity of denitrifying microbial gene abundance, as well as the activities of soil enzymes β-glucosidase (GLU) and arylsulfatase (ARYL), to assess the quality of sugarcane soils managed with vinasse (V), filter cake (FC), and mineral fertilizer (MF). Composite soil samples were collected using a systematic sampling approach that included two soil classes (Ferralsol and Acrisol), two textures (clayey and sandy), three management systems (V, V+FC, and MF), two sampling seasons (rainy and dry), and three replicates, totaling 72 samples. Analysis of soil organic carbon (SOC), and macro- and micronutrients differentiated the Ferralsol and Acrisol samples into distinct groups based on agricultural management (Global R = 0.554) and showed some overlap based on soil texture (Global R = 0.369). The number of nirK, nirS, and nosZ I gene copies per gram of soil, determined by Real-Time Quantitative PCR (qPCR) based on genomic DNA isolated from the 72 soil samples, was higher in the rainy season compared to the dry season (P<0.05). None of the genes evaluated revealed a consistent response to different sugarcane soil managements, showing specific response patterns for each soil class and texture. In the Ferralsol, the activities of GLU and ARYL increased in the following order: V < MF < V+FC, regardless of soil texture (sandy or clayey) and sampling season. The average activity of the two enzymes in both V+FC and MF treatments was 1.8 times higher in sandy soil and 3.9 times higher in clayey soil compared to soil managed with vinasse. In the Acrisol, no significant differences among the treatments were observed. Statistical analyses revealed negative correlations (P<0.05) between the number of copies of the nirK and nosZ I genes and GLU and ARYL activities in the soil during both seasonal periods analyzed. The number of copies of these two microbial genes was also negatively correlated with the soil organic matter in the rainy season. Thus, the indications of sugarcane soil quality based on enzymatic analyses were corroborated by the lower abundance of genes associated with denitrification process. The findings of this study open the possibilities to infer about the potential for N2O emission from these sugarcane soils based on GLU and ARYL activities.
Spatiotemporal Patterns for Agroforestry Tree Crops in the U.S. Corn Belt for USDA Census of Agriculture Periods 2012–2022
Authors: Caruthers Andria , Dijak Justin , Rotman Robin
Published: December 2024

Within the U.S., there is a growing need to integrate environmentally friendly practices into conventional agriculture. Agroforestry enhances environmental and resource stewardship in agricultural landscapes while offering potential economic benefits to farmers. Despite rising interest, limited information on its application in the U.S. hinders development efforts. A spatiotemporal analysis of current farm operations can provide crucial insights. This study examined patterns of agroforestry and tree crop adoption in the U.S. Corn Belt using USDA Census data (2012, 2017, and 2022) and spatial tools (Global Moran’s I, Local Moran’s I, and Moran scatterplots). The tree crops included in the analysis were chestnut (Castanea spp.), hazelnut (Corylus spp.), improved northern pecan (Carya illinoinensis), elderberry (Sambucus spp.), and pawpaw (Asimina triloba). The results showed increasing farm operations with agroforestry and tree crops over time for all census periods. Agroforestry had the strongest spatial cluster patterns, with Local Moran’s I revealing R2 values rising from 0.30 to 0.35 between 2017 and 2022. Chestnut, hazelnut, and improved pecan had clustered spatial patterns, but had decreasing spatial autocorrelations from 2012 to 2022, while elderberry clustered in 2017 but not 2022. This study reveals an upward trend in agroforestry adoption and the spatial expansion of certain tree crops in the U.S. Corn Belt, highlighting potential for region-specific agroforestry development. The findings offer insights to guide strategies and programs supporting sustainable agricultural practices.
A Non-Linear Exploration of the Digital Economy’s Impact on Agricultural Carbon Emission Efficiency in China
Authors: Zhu Shiying , Huang Jiawen , Li Yansong , Maneejuk Paravee , Liu Jianxu
Published: December 2024

As the global climate crisis intensifies, improving agricultural carbon emission efficiency has become crucial for achieving the sustainable development goals (SDGs). This study investigates the complex, non-linear relationship between China’s digital economy and agricultural carbon emission efficiency, utilizing panel data from Chinese provinces spanning 2012–2022. We employ a multi-method approach, including the Super-SBM model for efficiency measurement, two-way fixed effects models, quantile regression, and Generalized Additive Models (GAMs) for empirical analysis. Our findings reveal: (1) The digital economy significantly enhances agricultural carbon emission efficiency, but with distinct non-linear characteristics across different dimensions. (2) The impact varies among digital economy aspects: the digital economy foundation shows the most substantial influence, followed by the rural digital industry level, while rural digital infrastructure has a relatively minor effect. (3) A threshold effect is observed, with the digital economy’s impact more pronounced in regions with higher agricultural carbon emission efficiency. (4) GAM analysis unveils complex non-linear patterns: the rural digital industry’s impact initially decreases before increasing, the digital economy foundation shows an overall increasing trend with plateaus, and rural digital infrastructure exhibits a near-linear relationship. (5) Sensitivity analysis indicates that agricultural carbon emission efficiency is most responsive to changes in the digital economy foundation, followed by the rural digital industry level. These findings provide nuanced insights into the digital economy’s role in enhancing agricultural sustainability. We propose targeted policy recommendations, including accelerating rural digital infrastructure development, optimizing the rural digital industry structure, and implementing context-specific digital facility construction. These strategies aim to fully leverage the digital economy’s potential in improving agricultural carbon emission efficiency, contributing to China’s “dual carbon” goals and sustainable agricultural development.
Non-Destructive Detection and Visualization of Chlorophyll Content in Cherry Tomatoes Based on Hyperspectral Technology and Machine Learning
Authors: Huang Peng , Yang Pan , Yang Libiao , Xiao Futong , Feng Yanqi , Wang Yuchao
Published: December 2024

The cherry tomato has an important economic value and an increasingly broad market, and the chlorophyll content of cherry tomato leaves can directly reflect the plant’s photosynthetic ability, thus indirectly reflecting its growth status. Therefore, this paper proposes a regression detection method for chlorophyll in cherry tomato leaves by combining machine learning and hyperspectral technology to realize non-destructive, fast, and more accurate detection. Firstly, Moving-Average (MA) preprocessing was chosen as the pretreatment method for this paper, and three regression models of principal component regression (PCR), random forest (RF), and partial least squares regression (PLSR) were established with leaf chlorophyll under different nitrogen concentrations. The CARS_PLSR algorithm has the highest prediction accuracy with accuracy, precision, RMSEC, and RMSEP of 0.8790, 0.9187, 2.9581, and 2.5578, respectively. The study examined the impact of various nitrogen concentrations on the chlorophyll content of cherry tomato leaves, and it was found that the high concentration of nitrogen inhibited the SPAD value of cherry tomato leaves more than that of the low concentration, and the optimal concentration of nitrogen fertilization for tomatoes was 300 mg·L−1. Finally, a regression model was established by using CARS-PLSR combined with the pseudo-color map technology, and a distribution map of chlorophyll content in different SPAD value gradients of cherry tomato leaves was obtained, which could visualize the distribution of chlorophyll and its distribution sites in the leaves and understand the growth status of cherry tomatoes. The distribution of chlorophyll content in different SPAD values of cherry tomato leaves was obtained by using the CARS-PLSR regression model combined with pseudo-color map technology, which can visualize the distribution of chlorophyll in the leaves and the parts of distribution and understand the growth condition of cherry tomatoes. Finally, the optimal model is applied in conjunction with a sprayer to automate fertilizer application.
Design and Experiment of Oblique Stubble-Cutting Side-Throwing Anti-Blocking Device for No-Tillage Seeder
Authors: Zhu Awei , Xu Chengtao , Liu Yanfen , Wang Jiasheng , Tan Xiaodong
Published: December 2024

Aiming at the problem of the wheat straw and stubble of the previous crop blocking the opener during the operation of the summer peanut no-tillage seeder under straw incorporation modes, an oblique stubble-cutting and side-throwing anti-blocking device that can simultaneously cut the stubble and throw the straw was designed. The structure and working principle of the device were clarified, and the key structure of the anti-blocking device was designed through theoretical analysis. According to the kinematics analysis of the rotary blade cutting and throwing of the root–soil composite, the key factors affecting the operation quality of the device and the range of values were determined. The quadratic orthogonal rotation combination design test was carried out with the motion inclination angle, bending angle, and advancing velocity as the test factors, and the straw clearance rate, stubble-cutting rate, and operation power consumption as the indexes. The discrete element simulation test was carried out in EDEM. The significance test of the test results was carried out in Design-Expert, and the influence of each factor on the test index and the interaction between the factors were determined. Then the regression model was optimized by multi-objective function, and the optimal parameter combination was obtained as follows: The motion inclination angle was 22°, the bending angle was 58°, and the advance velocity was 7.7 km/h. At this time, the straw clearance rate of the seedling belt was 92.55%, the root stubble-cutting rate was 95%, and the operation power consumption was 1.80 kW. The field test shows that the machine had good passing capacity, the straw clearance rate of the seedling belt was 91.04%, the root stubble-cutting rate was 92.98%, and the operation power consumption of the single group of stubble cutting device was 1.92 kW. The difference between the field test results and the simulation test was less than 6%, which met the local agronomic requirements and proved that the anti-blocking device had good operation quality.
Antioxidant and Ultrastructural Alterations in Wheat During Drought-Induced Leaf Senescence
Authors: Isgandarova Turana Y. , Rustamova Samira M. , Aliyeva Durna R. , Rzayev Fuad H. , Gasimov Eldar K. , Huseynova Irada M.
Published: December 2024

Wheat is one of the most important crops to ensure food production globally. Understanding the mechanism of leaf senescence in wheat plays a crucial role in improving its productivity and resilience under various stress scenarios. In this study, we investigated biochemical, functional, and ultrastructural changes during leaf senescence in wheat genotypes with contrasting drought tolerance. For this, key parameters such as chlorophyll and total protein content, membrane stability, malondialdehyde level, and the activity of antioxidant enzymes (superoxide dismutase, ascorbate peroxidase, guaiacol peroxidase, benzidine peroxidase, and catalase) were comparatively analyzed during both natural and drought-induced senescence. Additionally, the expression of superoxide dismutase isoform genes functioning in different cellular compartments was studied, alongside ultrastructural changes in flag leaves. The experiments involved genotypes of bread wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) and durum (Triticum durum Desf.) wheat. The plants were grown in controlled environment chambers under control and drought conditions using a completely randomized design. After the booting stage, irrigation was discontinued for drought-treated plants. Flag leaves were sampled at 7, 14, 21, 28, and 35 days after anthesis. Drought-tolerant genotypes exhibited slower chlorophyll degradation, lower lipid peroxidation, enhanced membrane stability, and stronger antioxidant responses, allowing them to maintain cellular function longer, whereas sensitive genotypes showed accelerated leaf senescence. Transcript levels of FeSOD increased significantly post-flowering but declined as senescence progressed, while MnSOD expression exhibited a rise towards the later stages of ontogenesis across all studied genotypes. Ultrastructural analysis revealed progressive damage to chloroplast membranes, thylakoid structures, and mesophyll cell walls under stress conditions, particularly in sensitive genotypes. These findings contribute to a deeper understanding of the physiological and molecular responses of wheat to drought stress, offering potential targets for improving crop performance in water-limited environments.
Rate of Cross-Pollination at Different Isolation Distances between Grain Amaranth (Amaranthus hypochondriacus L.) and a Weedy Relative in Zimbabwe
Authors: Nyambo Canaan , Madanzi Tendai , Maereka Enock Kuziwa , Shoko Nomsa , Chitamba James , Chiota Wendy Mutsa , Mukoyi Francis , Mugandani Raymond , Mafongoya Paramu
Published: December 2024

The adoption of grain amaranth (Amaranthus hypochondriacus L.) as a climate-smart crop due to its hardiness and drought escape mechanisms in sub-Saharan Africa is under threat from the lack of pure seed due to contamination by weedy relatives, such as pigweed (A. hybridus L.). Due to limited land availability, proper isolation distances to attain seed purity in the small-scale farming sector are impossible. A study investigating the cross-pollination rate between grain amaranth and pigweed at distances between 3 and 150 m was conducted at three sites in Zimbabwe during the 2020/2021 and 2021/2022 rainy seasons. Grain amaranth was planted at radial distances of 3 to 150 m from the pure pigweed plot. Meteorological conditions, such as temperature and wind speed and direction, were measured during the anthesis period. The cross-pollination rate in grain amaranth was influenced by distance from the pollen source. A maximum cross-pollination rate of 12.9% was observed within a 10 m radius from the pollen donor plot, and a minimum outcrossing rate of 0.45% was recorded at 150 m. The complete removal of weedy relatives within an extrapolated distance of 325 m is recommended to maintain the genetic purity of grain amaranth in small-scale farming systems.
Rapid Conversion of the Popular Normal-Oleic Peanut Cultivar 308 to High-Oleic Variants via Floral Organ Injection of Pingyangmycin
Authors: Jiang Chunjiao , Wang Zhiwei , Sun Haojie , Yu Shutao , Han Hongwei , Yang Zhen , Zhang Mingjun , Yuan Guangdi , Yu Jing , Wang Chuantang
Published: December 2024

The cultivated peanut (Arachis hypogaea L.) is a main cash crop globally, providing oil, protein, and various beneficial phytochemicals, with high-oleic peanut offering enhanced health benefits and oxidative stability. Despite these advantages, many widely cultivated peanut varieties remain normal-oleic, and the conversion of these varieties to high-oleic types without compromising yield and adaptability is of significant interest. This study evaluated the feasibility of using Pingyangmycin, a chemical mutagen, to induce high-oleic mutations in the popular peanut variety 308 through floral organ injection. The results showed that this method effectively generated high-oleic mutants with oleic acid content exceeding 75%. The mutants yielded more pods and kernels than the parental variety. Genotypic analysis confirmed mutations in the FAD2A and FAD2B genes, associated with the high-oleic phenotype. This novel approach, which reduces seed and reagent requirements and accelerates the breeding timeline, holds promise for enhancing peanut breeding programs and the development of high-oleic cultivars with superior quality and yield.
Pest Management Pathways: Control Strategies for the Olive Fruit Fly (Bactrocera oleae)—A Systematic Map
Authors: Balampekou Evangelia I. , Koutsos Thomas M. , Menexes Georgios C. , Koveos Dimitrios S. , Kouloussis Nikos A.
Published: December 2024

A systematic map is a structured method for reviewing and categorizing research evidence on a scientific topic, offering a broad overview without requiring quantitative synthesis. Unlike systematic reviews, which focus on answering specific research questions, systematic maps help identify trends, gaps, and patterns in literature. This approach has gained increasing recognition in entomology, particularly for providing unbiased insights in fields such as medical entomology and insect biodiversity conservation. By mapping existing studies, systematic maps aid in guiding policy decisions and research priorities. This study presents a systematic map of research on olive fruit fly [(Bactrocera oleae) (Rossi) (Diptera: Tephritidae)] control methods, a key pest in olive cultivation. By reviewing literature from the past sixteen years, we aim to provide a comprehensive analysis of the various strategies tested for managing B. oleae. The main objectives are to categorize the types of studies, assess their scope, and identify trends or gaps in pest control research. The results offer a clearer understanding of the current state of knowledge and suggest directions for future research. This systematic map will serve as a valuable resource for entomologists and policymakers working on sustainable pest management strategies.
New Plum Detection in Complex Environments Based on Improved YOLOv8n
Authors: Chen Xiaokang , Dong Genggeng , Fan Xiangpeng , Xu Yan , Zou Xiangjun , Zhou Jianping , Jiang Hong
Published: December 2024

To address the challenge of accurately detecting new plums amidst trunk and leaf occlusion and fruit overlap, this study presents a novel target detection model, YOLOv8n-CRS. A specialized dataset, specifically designed for new plums, was created under real orchard conditions, with the advanced YOLOv8n model serving as the base network. Initially, the CA attention mechanism was introduced to the backbone network to improve the model’s ability to extract crucial features of new plums. Subsequently, the RFB module was incorporated into the neck layer to leverage multiscale information, mitigating inaccuracies caused by fruit overlap and thereby enhancing detection performance. Finally, the original CIOU loss function was replaced with the SIOU loss function to further enhance the model’s detection accuracy. Test results show that the YOLOv8n-CRS model achieved a recall rate of 88.9%, with average precision scores of mAP@0.5 and mAP@0.5:0.95 recorded at 96.1% and 87.1%, respectively. The model’s F1 score reached 90.0%, and it delivered a real-time detection speed of 88.5 frames per second. Compared to the YOLOv8n model, the YOLOv8n-CRS exhibited a 2.2-percentage-point improvement in recall rate, alongside increases of 0.7 percentage points and 1.2 percentage points in mAP@0.5 and mAP@0.5:0.95, respectively. In comparison to the Faster R-CNN, YOLOv4, YOLOv5s, and YOLOv7 models, the YOLOv8n-CRS model features the smallest size of 6.9 MB. This streamlined design meets the demands for real-time identification of new plums in intricate orchard settings, providing strong technical backing for the visual perception systems of advanced plum-picking robots.
The Influence of Competition Between Festuca arundinacea Schreb. and Trifolium pratense L., Grown in Simple Mixtures, on the Quality of the Fodder
Authors: Vîntu Vasile , Zaiț Grapan Teodora , Samuil Costel , Nazare Adrian-Ilie
Published: December 2024

The aim of this research carried out in the period 2021–2023 was to analyse the influence of competitiveness between Festuca arundinacea Schreb. and Trifolium pratense L., cultivated in simple mixtures, on the quality of the fodder obtained, under the conditions of the northern Romanian forest steppe. In the experiment organized at the Ezăreni Student Research and Practice Station of Iasi University for Life Sciences, at an altitude of 117 m, with coordinates 47°07′27″ N latitude and 27°30′25″ E longitude, on a cambic chernozem soil, with 2.40% humus, 0.178% Nt, 26 ppm PAL and 242 ppm K in the 0–30 cm layer, two factors were studied, namely the cultivation system used, with five graduations: a1—Festuca arundinacea Schreb. (100%—control); a2—Festuca arundinacea Schreb. (75%) and Trifolium pratense L. (25%); a3—Festuca arundinacea Schreb. (50%) and Trifolium pratense L. (50%); a4—Festuca arundinacea Schreb. (25%) and Trifolium pratense L. (75%); and a5—Trifolium pratense L. (100%), and mineral fertilization, with five graduations, respectively: b1—unfertilized (control), b2—N50P50; b3—N75P75; b4—N100P100; and b5—N150P150. The obtained results showed that the process of interspecific competitiveness was greatly influenced by the percentage of participation in the sowing norm of the species in the mixture and the biological peculiarities of the species under study, as well as the climatic conditions specific to each agricultural year, with consequences for the quality of the feed. The crude protein quantity (QCP) obtained in the mixture of Festuca arundinacea Schreb. (25%) and Trifolium pratense L. (75%), fertilized with N150P150, was higher by 788.7 kg·ha−1 than that in the control variant, represented by the Festuca arundinacea Schreb. species (100%), unfertilized. The lowest values of NDF (neutral detergent fiber) and ADF (acid detergent fiber) were recorded in the variants where the Trifolium pratense L. species was present and low doses of mineral fertilizers were used, determining a better quality of the forage. In the third year of vegetation, relative forage quality (RFQ) had values of 113.7 in the variant represented by the mixture of Festuca arundinacea Schreb. (25%) + Trifolium pratense L. (75%), unfertilized, and only 91.2 in the variant represented by the Festuca arundinacea Schreb. species (100%), fertilized with N150P150.
Hybrid Soybean as Green Manure for Improving Soil Properties and Subsequent Crop Growth
Authors: Qi Haibo , Li Bangrui , Fan Junmei , Zhao Wei , Ma Yiming , Suo Yuan , Wang Mingjiu , Wang Yong
Published: December 2024

The rapid increase in fertilizer use has led to the degradation of soil quality, nutrient imbalances, reduced biodiversity, and soil compaction. To address these challenges, hybrid soybeans with efficient biological nitrogen fixation capabilities and broad environmental adaptability were selected as green manure to reduce fertilizer application, thereby improving soil fertility and structure. This study utilized the varieties “Forage Soybean S001” (S001), “Neinong S002 Forage Soybean” (S002), “Mengnong S003 Forage Soybean” (S003), “Mengnong S004 Forage Soybean” (S004), “Mengnong S005 Forage Soybean” (S005), and “Mengnong S006 Forage Soybean” (S006) as green manure materials. The clean tillage (CK) treatment served as the control, ensuring a residue-free soil surface while maintaining consistent practices in soil preparation, irrigation, and field management across all treatments. Field planting of green manure and subsequent crops was conducted at the M-Grass Ecology and Environment (Group) Company’s experimental site in Hohhot in early May of 2023 and 2024. The plots each measured 20 m2, with three replications arranged in a randomized block design. A combination of field experiments and laboratory analyses was utilized to investigate the effects of incorporating various hybrid soybean varieties as green manure on soil nutrient levels, soil enzyme activity, soil microbial communities, and the subsequent growth of oats. The results indicated that incorporating various hybrid soybean varieties as green manure into the soil significantly improved soil nutrient levels and enzyme activity. The diversity and richness of soil bacterial communities increased significantly, accompanied by alterations in community structure and composition. These changes enhanced soil fertility and optimized the microbial community structure, promoting the growth of subsequent crops. Among all the treatments, S001 and S004 were particularly effective in enhancing the soil environment, indicating their potential as superior green manure resources for broader application.