bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Diagnosis and Treatment of Nodular Fasciitis of Ear Region in Children: A Case Report and Review of Literature
Authors: Della Volpe Antonio , Festa Paola , Varricchio Alfonso Maria , Russo Carmela , Covelli Eugenio Maria , Bifano Delfina , Piroli Piera , De Lucia Antonietta , Di Stadio Arianna , Ionna Franco
Published: October 2022

Nodular fasciitis (NF) is a benign fibroblastic and myofibroblastic proliferation of subcutaneous tissues. Rarely, it has been identified in the ear and more rarely in children. We describe a case in a four-year-old girl and the surgical management of it. The patient was referred to the otolaryngology unit of a tertiary referral center because she was affected by a painless and growing lesion in the left external auditory canal (EAC). The girl was treated by large-spectrum antibiotic therapy for one week without success. For this reason, we requested ultrasonography (US) of the left hemiface, maxillofacial and temporal bone computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the head with and without contrast. The imaging identified an irregular ovoid hypoechoic nodule with distinct margins indissociable from the cartilaginous planes and extending into the parotid loggia with local infiltration of the fascia. The lesion was surgically removed through preauricular access due its extension into the parotid area. The mass was excised in toto and sent to the pathologist for immunohistochemistry. The histopathologist based on the finding diagnosed a nodular fasciitis. In case of suspicion of malignancy, early investigations should be done to evaluate the lesion, then a traditional parotidectomy can be safely and successfully performed even in a very young child. The open technique allows the removal of NF with full control of the surgical area and facial nerve. In this article, we presented the management of a case in a 4-year-old female affected by NF of the external auditory canal (EAC), and we described clinical and surgical management of the case. We also reviewed literature of nodular fasciitis cases of ears in children.
The Effects of Online Social Interactions on Life Satisfaction of Older Chinese Adults: New Insights Based on a Longitudinal Approach
Authors: Zhou Dong , Xu Yi , Ai Pengya
Published: October 2022

Population aging and digitalization have become universal phenomena. Over the past two decades, digital inclusion has started to play a crucial role in supporting successful aging. Based on a nationally representative sample of around 5200 older adults in China over the period of 2014–2018, we explore the effects of online social interactions (OSIs) on the life satisfaction of older adults. We find that OSIs can improve the levels of life satisfaction of older Chinese adults. Estimates from fixed effect and cross-lagged structural equation models further suggest that OSIs work by increasing physical activities, healthy time allocation, interpersonal trust, and informal social engagement and reducing loneliness. We also find that OSIs narrow the social inequality in life satisfaction across groups from rural–urban areas and groups with different social statuses. Moreover, a comparison among different online engagements shows that not all online activities positively affect older adults’ life satisfaction. Different online activities have varying effects. Our results highlight that public digital interventions focusing on social functions can benefit the lives of older adults.
Digital Competencies for Nurses: Tools for Responding to Spiritual Care Needs
Authors: Burgos Daniel , López-Serrano Aída , Palmisano Stefania , Timmins Fiona , Connolly Michael
Published: October 2022

Users show a growing interest in expanding the implementation of digital tools as a support of technical and management issues in healthcare. This medical care has focused on telemedicine but does not include the recognition of needs as an important part of patient-centred healthcare. Nurses interact with patients at critical times in their life journeys, including birth and death, which are historical events linked with religious beliefs. Furthermore, large migration flows have led to multicultural societies in which religion and spirituality are experienced in distinct ways by different people. Finally, most healthcare professionals lack the proper skills to handle the spiritual needs of their patients, especially for core and digital competences. This article shows the results of qualitative research applying as a research tool an open-ended questionnaire, which allows detecting the educational needs for nurses’ interventions aimed at providing spiritual support to their patients using digital tools. The results obtained reveal that nurses need education and training on fundamental spiritual concepts and digital competencies to meet the multiple demands of their patients’ spiritual needs. Finally, we present an open digital educational proposal for the development of competencies for nurses and other health professionals to provide spiritual care with the support of digital tools.
“Pandemic Fatigue! It’s Been Going On since March 2020”: A Photovoice Study of the Experiences of BIPOC Older Adults and Frontline Healthcare Workers during the Pandemic
Authors: Ekwonye Angela U. , Malek Abigail , Chonyi Tenzin , Nguyen Stephanie , Ponce-Diaz Valerie , Lau Haller Lisa , Farah Iqra , Hearst Mary
Published: October 2022

The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic intensified the stressful and already difficult circumstances of communities of color. Yet, there is no current photovoice research highlighting the lived experiences of these communities from two perspectives—the older adults (OAs) and the frontline healthcare workers (FLHWs). This qualitative study used photovoice to visually portray the struggles of Black, Indigenous, and persons of color (BIPOC) OAs (n = 7) and younger FLHWs (n = 5) who worked with older adults during the pandemic and how they coped and recovered from the challenges of the pandemic. The investigators conducted a three-day training of ten research assistants (RAs) who were paired with either an OA or an FLHW for the photovoice sessions conducted in four stages. Upon examination of the narratives, focus group transcriptions, and photo stories, it became clear that participants faced different challenges during the pandemic, such as the fear of COVID-19 exposure, struggles to adopt COVID-19 mitigation strategies, workplace challenges, and social isolation. Amid this crisis of suffering, isolation, and sadness, participants employed two major strategies to deal with the challenges of the pandemic: positive reappraisal and self-care practices. The findings have implications for clinical social workers, mental health counselors, faith communities, nurse managers and administrators, and policymakers.
Development of Thai Sensory Patterns Assessment Tool for Children Aged 3–12 Years: Caregiver-Version
Authors: Sutthachai Revadee , Kaunnil Anuchart , Phadsri Supaluck , Pomngen Ilada , Stanley Mandy , Srikhamjak Tiam
Published: October 2022

Most existing tools for measuring sensory patterns of children have been developed in Western countries. These tools are complex and may not be culturally appropriate for other contexts that require specific knowledge in the clinical perspective. The aim of this study was to develop a simplified tool called the Thai Sensory Patterns Assessment (TSPA) tool for children. It is designed for children ages 3–12 years old to be completed by their caregiver. The process of creating the tool consisted of drafting a questionnaire and interpreting the result. Partial psychometrics were completed during item development, content validity of items was assessed by five expert ratings. Construct validity and internal consistency were assessed using data from 414 caregivers and intra-rater reliability was assessed with 40 caregivers. The two parts of the TSPA tool for children results, sensory preference, and sensory arousal, were designed to be presented as a sensory pattern in a radar chart/plot. The data analysis showed that both parts of the TSPA tool for children had acceptable psychometric properties with the retained 65 items. Only proprioceptive sensory arousal had a low Cronbach’s α coefficient, suggesting more information sharing between caregivers and professionals is needed. This research is an initial study and must be continuously developed. Future development of this tool in technology platforms is recommended to support use within healthcare services.
Detection of Electroencephalographic Abnormalities and Its Associated Factors among Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder in Thailand
Authors: Tangviriyapaiboon Duangkamol , Traisathit Patrinee , Siripornpanich Vorasith , Suyakong Chidawan , Apikomonkon Hataichanok , Homkham Nontiya , Thumronglaohapun Salinee , Srikummoon Pimwarat
Published: October 2022

Epilepsy often causes more severe behavioral problems in children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and is strongly associated with poor cognitive functioning. Interestingly, individuals with ASD without a history of epilepsy can have abnormal electroencephalographic (EEG) activity. The aim of this study was to examine associations between EEG abnormalities and the ASD severity in children. The children with ASD who enrolled at the Rajanagarindra Institute of Child Development, Thailand were included in this study. The severity of ASD was measured by interviewing their parents with the Thai autism treatment evaluation checklist. The short sensory profile checklist was used for screening the abnormality of children in each domain. Ordinal logistic regression analysis was used to examine associations between factors potentially linked to EEG abnormalities. Most of the study participants were boys (87.5%) and the median age was 5 years. Among the 128 children, 69.5% showed EEG abnormalities (41.4% slow-wave and 28.1% epileptiform-discharge). The results show that a larger number of symptoms and increased severity of ASD were independently associated with a higher risk of EEG abnormalities. Our results emphasize the need for guidelines on the presence of EEG abnormalities in children with ASD for the early detection of epilepsy and improving treatment outcomes.
Challenges Associated with Effective Implementation of CT Dose Check Standards and Radiation Monitoring Index in Computed Tomography: Healthcare Sector Experience
Authors: Dalah Entesar Zawam , Al Musfari Yousuf Mohammad , Ali Badriya Mohd Hassan , Al Hammadi Anwaar Abdulrahim , Beevi Hashim Abdul Azeez , Jaber Manal Ibrahim , Al-Ali Alyazya Akeel , Alkharoossi Ayesha Khalid , Hashemi Fairooz Hussain Al , Alkhatib Fatma Mahmood , Khan Sabaa Anam Aqil
Published: October 2022

Computed tomography (CT) radiation dose management tools should be used whenever possible, particularly with the increasing demand for acquiring CT studies. Herein, we aim to assess the advantages and challenges faced with implementing two CT dose management tools. A second aim was to highlight CT examinations exceeding dose notification values (NVs) and define the common set of causes. A total of 13,037 CT examinations collected over a six-month period, were evaluated, using two independent CT dose management tools, a CT Dose Notification prospective-view tool (PVT) following CT Dose Check standards and a retrospective statistical-based view tool (RSVT). Dose NVs were set to twice the Local Diagnostic Reference Levels. There was a significant discrepancy between dose NV counts registered with prospective (4.15%) and retrospective (7.98%) tools using T-Test. A core difference is the dose configuration setup, with PVT and RSVT being dose per series and whole study, respectively. Both prospective and retrospective dose management tools were equally useful despite their technical difference. Configuring the CT prospective dose notification check tool using NVs that is based on DRLs has limitations, and one needs to establish dose NVs per series to overcome this technical hurdle. Technical challenges make the implementation of CT Dose Check standards puzzling.
Cross-Cultural Adaptation and Validation of the Pregnancy Mobility Index for the Italian Population: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Manzotti Andrea , Zanini Sonia , Colaceci Sofia , Giovannini Niccolò , Antonioli Agnese , Ziglioli Alice , Frontani Francesco , Galeoto Giovanni
Published: October 2022

Introduction: Pregnancy is a specific condition that modifies the mobility of women. In this population, it seems important to use specific tools to properly assess them. The Pregnancy Mobility Index (PMI) was created in 2006 with the aim of assessing mobility in pregnant women. The goal of this study was to translate, adapt, and evaluate the statistical properties of the questionnaire in the Italian pregnant population. Methods: The PMI underwent translation and transcultural adaptation. Reliability and concurrent validity, compared to the Oswestry Disability Index (ODI), was investigated on a sample of pregnant women. An ANOVA was performed to detect differences in the PMI score considering the Body Mass Index (BMI) and age of the sample. Results: The PMI was forward translated, back translated, and transculturally adapted. A consensus meeting accepted the final version of the questionnaire. The PMI was given to 93 pregnant women. PMI showed excellent reliability for every item and the total score (Cronbach’s alpha of 0.945). Concurrent validity compared with ODI items 2–9 was strong considering the total score, with r = 0.726, but moderate comparing the first item of the ODI and the total score of the PMI, r = 470, and considering the total score of both questionnaires (r = 0.683). The ANOVA showed statistical difference in pregnant women with lower BMI for every subscale and total score of PMI (p = 0.009) and for outdoor mobility considering age (p = 0.019). Conclusions: The PMI seems to be a valid and reliable tool to assess mobility in the pregnant population. Pregnant women with a lower BMI showed a greater mobility score in the PMI. In turn, younger pregnant women presented a lower mobility score compared to older pregnant women.
Current Status of Intergroup Threats Perceived by Chinese Physicians and Its Association with Organizational Psychology, Behavior, and Well-Being during the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Cross-Sectional Survey
Authors: Sun Tao , Yin Hong-yan , Zhang Shu-e , Huang Xian-hong , Liu Bei
Published: October 2022

(1) Background: Chinese physicians have encountered serious physical and verbal attacks in recent decades due to poor patient–physician relationships, leading to a broad spectrum of negative consequences. This study aims to assess the status of intergroup threats perceived by physicians and explore its association with organizational psychology, behavior, and well-being during the COVID-19 pandemic. (2) Methods: We conducted a cross-sectional online survey with physicians from November to December 2020 in three provinces: Heilongjiang Province, Henan Province, and Zhejiang Province, in China. A total of 604 physicians were recruited to complete an anonymous questionnaire. There were 423 valid questionnaires. (3) Results: We developed a 25-item intergroup threat scale with four dimensions: interest damage, performance impairment, value derogation, and unjust sentiment. Internal consistency reliability analyses showed that the four dimensions and overall scale exhibited high internal consistency (0.756–0.947). Additionally, the average scores for physicians’ perceived overall intergroup threat, interest damage, performance impairment, value derogation, and unjust sentiment were 4.35 ± 0.51, 4.24 ± 0.73, 4.33 ± 0.58, 4.22 ± 0.65, and 4.53 ± 0.55, respectively. Moreover, this study shows that the intergroup threats perceived positively by physicians were associated with psychological stress (β = 0.270, p < 0.01), emotional exhaustion (β = 0.351, p < 0.01), turnover intention (β = 0.268, p < 0.01), and defensive medical behavior (β = 0.224, p < 0.01), and were negatively associated with job satisfaction (β = −0.194, p < 0.01) and subjective well-being (β = −0.245, p < 0.01). (4) Conclusions: The newly developed scale in this study is a reliable tool for measuring intergroup threats perceived by Chinese physicians. Physicians in China were suffering high-level intergroup threats during the anti-COVID-19 pandemic, which has a significant impact on damage to organizational psychology, behavior, and well-being. Intergroup threats perceived by physicians not only enlarged the risk of emotional exhaustion and psychological stress but also threatened organizational well-being. Moreover, greater intergroup threats were associated with a lower job satisfaction, more frequent defensive medical behavior, and a higher turnover intention for physicians. The results of this study suggest that essential intervention and governance measures should be considered to protect physicians’ well-being and benefits in China, which are urgently needed.
Influence of Exoskeleton Use on Cardiac Index
Authors: Schalk Marco , Schalk Ines , Bauernhansl Thomas , Siegert Jörg , Schneider Urs
Published: October 2022

This study aims to assess the whole-body physiological effects of wearing an exoskeleton during a one-hour standardized work task, utilizing the Cardiac Index (CI) as the target parameter. N = 42 young and healthy subjects with welding experience took part in the study. The standardized and abstracted one-hour workflow consists of simulated welding and grinding in constrained body positions and was completed twice by each subject, with and without an exoskeleton, in a randomized order. The CI was measured by Impedance Cardiography (ICG), an approved medical method. The difference between the averaged baseline measurement and the averaged last 10 min was computed for the conditions with and without an exoskeleton for each subject to result in ∆CIwithout exo and ∆CIwith exo. A significant difference between the conditions with and without an exoskeleton was found, with the reduction in CI when wearing an exoskeleton amounting to 10.51%. This result corresponds to that of previous studies that analyzed whole-body physiological load by means of spiroergometry. These results suggest a strong positive influence of exoskeletons on CI and, therefore, physiological load. At the same time, they also support the hypothesis that ICG is a suitable measurement instrument to assess these effects.
B Lymphoproliferative Neoplasms of Uncertain Biological Significance: Report from the IV Workshop of the Italian Group of Hematopathology and Review of the Literature
Authors: Di Stefano Gioia , Magnoli Francesca , Granai Massimo , Vittone Federico , Santi Raffaella , Ferrara Domenico , Boveri Emanuela , Florena Ada M. , Fend Falko , Sabattini Elena , Paulli Marco , Ponzoni Maurilio , Lazzi Stefano , Pileri Stefano A. , Leoncini Lorenzo ,   the Italian Group of Hematopathology
Published: October 2022

Lymphoproliferative neoplasms of uncertain biological significance are increasingly encountered due to widespread usage of immunophenotypic and molecular techniques. Considering that clearer biological criteria and patient management have been established for B-cell lymphoproliferative diseases of undetermined significance occurring in the peripheral blood, many issues are still obscure for early lesions detected in lymphoid tissues. Regardless that some categories of lymphoproliferative neoplasms of uncertain biological significance have been recognized by the 4th edition of the WHO, other anecdotal early lymphoproliferative lesions still remain fully undefined. Some early lesions frequently originate from the germinal center, including atypical germinal centers BCL2-negative, an early pattern of large B-cell lymphoma with IRF4 rearrangement, and “in situ” high-grade B lymphomas. Moreover, other early lymphoproliferative lesions arise outside the germinal center and include those developing within the setting of monocytoid B-cell hyperplasia, but they also can be directly or indirectly associated with chronic inflammations. This review aims to summarize the concepts discussed during the IV Workshop organized by the Italian Group of Hematopathology, focus on the state-of-the-art on B-cell lymphoproliferative neoplasms of uncertain biological significance, and offer operative insights to pathologists and clinicians in routine diagnostics.
Necessity and Use of a Multilayer Test Object Based on an Anonymous 19th Century Copy of a Painting by Ivan Konstantinovich Aivazovsky (1817–1900)
Authors: Andreev Ivan I. , Sirro Sergey V. , Lykina Anastasiya A. , Smolyanskaya Aleksandra A. , Minin Alexander V. , Kravtsenyuk Olga V. , Menu Michel , Smolyanskaya Olga A.
Published: October 2022

The emergence of new research methods in the field of heritage science always raises a large number of questions related to their applicability, reproducibility of results on similar objects, complementarity with other methods, and development of new research methods. To solve such problems, it is necessary to have a test object with the required structure. A multilayer test object based on a fragment of a copy of a 19th century painting by I.K. Aivazovsky was created and described. Analytical studies of the colourful layers were carried out on a Fourier-transform infrared (FT-IR) spectrometer with an attenuated total reflectance (ATR) attachment in single-reflection mode with a diamond crystal. As part of the use of one research method, differences between painting layers of the 19th and 20th centuries were revealed. Results are presented in the IR graphs. The aim of the work was to identify the characteristics of the pictorial layers inherent in the copy of the painting by I.K. Aivazovsky. This will improve the methodology of technological expertise of the I.K. Aivazovsky’s artworks.
AUTOGRAF—AUTomated Orthorectification of GRAFfiti Photos
Authors: Wild Benjamin , Verhoeven Geert J. , Wieser Martin , Ressl Camillo , Schlegel Jona , Wogrin Stefan , Otepka-Schremmer Johannes , Pfeifer Norbert
Published: October 2022

Admired and despised, created and destroyed, legal and illegal: Contemporary graffiti are polarising, and not everybody agrees to label them as cultural heritage. However, if one is among the steadily increasing number of heritage professionals and academics that value these short-lived creations, their digital documentation can be considered a part of our legacy to future generations. To document the geometric and spectral properties of a graffito, digital photographs seem to be appropriate. This also holds true when documenting an entire graffiti-scape consisting of 1000s of individual creations. However, proper photo-based digital documentation of such an entire scene comes with logistical and technical challenges, certainly if the documentation is considered the basis for further analysis of the heritage assets. One main technical challenge relates to the photographs themselves. Conventional photographs suffer from multiple image distortions and usually lack a uniform scale, which hinders the derivation of dimensions and proportions. In addition, a single graffito photograph often does not reflect the meaning and setting intended by the graffitist, as the creation is frequently shown as an isolated entity without its surrounding environment. In other words, single photographs lack the spatio-temporal context, which is often of major importance in cultural heritage studies. Here, we present AUTOGRAF, an automated and freely-available orthorectification tool which converts conventional graffiti photos into high-resolution, distortion-free, and georeferenced graffiti orthophotomaps, a metric yet visual product. AUTOGRAF was developed in the framework of INDIGO, a graffiti-centred research project. Not only do these georeferenced photos support proper analysis, but they also set the basis for placing the graffiti in their native, albeit virtual, 3D environment. An experiment showed that 95 out of 100 tested graffiti photo sets were successfully orthorectified, highlighting the proposed methodology’s potential to improve and automate one part of contemporary graffiti’s digital preservation.
The Auxin/Indole-3-Acetic Acid (Aux/IAA) Gene Family Analysis of Four Rosaceae Genomes and Expression Patterns of PmIAAs in Prunus mume
Authors: Liu Nuoxuan , Li Li , Chen Xiling , Zhang Yanlong , Zhang Tengxun
Published: October 2022

Auxin is an important phytohormone through plant growth and development. Aux/IAA protein, as a core component in the auxin signaling pathway, plays a vital role in various biological processes such as flower development and floral volatile metabolism in many plants. However, there were a few studies on the Aux/IAA gene family in Prunus plants in Rosaceae and expression patterns of PmIAAs in P. mume. Here, we identified a total of 108 RoIAA gene family members in four typical Rosaceae plants, which included 22 PmIAAs from P. mume, 22 PpIAAs from Prunus persica, 31 PdIAAs from Prunus dulcis and 33 PaIAAs from Prunus armeniaca. Subsequently, the results of the phylogenetic analysis of Aux/IAAs showed that they were categorized into ten groups, and gene structures and motifs were conservative in each group, suggesting that RoIAAs in Rosaceae species had a strong relationship. However, the physical distributions of RoIAAs on chromosomes of every species showed completely uneven. Gene duplications suggested that seven pairs of PmIAAs, eleven pairs of PpIAAs, eleven pairs of PdIAAs, and three pairs of PaIAAs suffered from tandem and segmental duplications. Moreover, the results of the synteny analysis indicated that RoIAAs in four Rosaceae species might come from one ancestor. To explore the roles of PmIAAs in P. mume, expression patterns in five tissues and at four flowering development stages were performed. The results showed that PmIAAs variously expressed in five tissues and five genes (PmIAA2, −9, −10, −12, and −15) might affect flower development and the synthesis of floral compounds in P. mume. This study provided valuable information for further elucidating the regulatory function of PmIAAs in metabolism processes in P. mume.
The Artichoke “Bianco di Pertosa”: The Enhancement of Crop Residues through Environmentally Friendly Uses
Authors: De Falco Enrica , Senatore Antonello , Roscigno Graziana , Pergola Maria
Published: October 2022

The cultivation of the artichoke (Cynara scolymus L.) is widespread all over the world, but the largest area of cultivation is in the Mediterranean basin. It is a plant of Mediterranean origin with countless uses, whose cultivation should be preserved as agrobiodiversity, on which food safety and environmental sustainability depend. Moreover, there is the need to increase the sustainability of food systems also by recovering food loss across the supply chain and identifying ways to best utilise discharged food biomass. Effective waste management is critical to increase the environmental performance of the food system to reduce emissions, energy consumption, and waste disposal. The aims of the research were the quantification of the cultivation and processing residues of the artichoke “Bianco di Pertosa” (Salerno, Southern Italy), a plant resource that has become a driving force for the territory and their recovery, and the evaluation of the possible use in different sectors for the development of highly eco-compatible alternative products and processes. To this end, different types of determinations were carried out on heads and senescent leaves: physical measurements (diameter, height, gross and net weight of the heads, number of leaves per stem, and biomass); chemical determinations (nutritional value, humidity, ashes, proteins, crude fibres, crude fats, fatty acids, total carbohydrates, sugars, metals, and calories); and determination of the dyeing power. Results showed that the incidence of residues on the total fresh biomass was very high with values between 58.5% and 69%, confirming the high availability of biomass deriving from artichoke processing residues that can be used in various ways. In particular, the quantity of leaves was equal to 2.8 tons ha−1 in dry weight, while the residues of primary and secondary heads amounted to 1.4 tons ha−1 in dry weight. The determination of the nutritional label has highlighted a high presence of minerals, in particular, calcium, potassium, and iron; a low Na/K ratio; a high fibre content; and a favourable composition in unsaturated fatty acids. Good results were also obtained in the dyeing determination, thus making crop residues of artichoke a sought-after material for dyeing fabrics and more. These results are important to enhance territories and their resources through the development of eco-compatible processes based on the principles of a circular economy, with a low impact on the environment and safeguarding biodiversity.
Effects of Phospholipase D Inhibitors Treatment on Membrane Lipid Metabolism of Postharvest Banana Fruit in Response to Mechanical Wounding Stress
Authors: Li Li , Yi Ping , Huang Fang , Tang Jie , Sun Jian , Duan Xuewu , Li Jiemin , Su Zuxiang , Ling Dongning , Tang Yayuan , Li Changbao , He Xuemei , Sheng Jinfeng , Li Zhichun , Huang Min , Xin Ming , Gan Ting
Published: October 2022

Banana fruit is a widely cultivated and economically important crop, and it is susceptible to mechanical damage. The effects of three different phospholipase D inhibitors (0.1% n-butanol, 0.05% 2-butanol, and 0.1% hexanal) on the cell membrane integrity and membrane lipid metabolism in wounding banana fruits during storage were investigated. The results indicated that wounded banana treated with phospholipase D inhibitors showed significant (p < 0.05) delay in the ripening and senescence process than the control group after a 9-day storage. Of the three PLD inhibitors, hexanal showed the best effect in maintaining firmness, suppressing the increase of total soluble solids (TSS) and respiration rate, and reducing malondialdehyde (MDA) content and cell membrane permeability of wounded banana fruits. Furthermore, hexanal more efficiently decreased the phospholipase D (PLD) and lipoxygenase (LOX) activities, lowered the contents of phosphatidic acid (PA) and diacylglycerol (DAG), and inhibited the reduction of phosphatidylcholine (PC) and phosphatidylinositol (PI) after 6 days of storage, compared to n-butanol or 2-butanol. These results demonstrate that application of hexanal treatment may be a reliable method to delay the senescence of harvested bananas subjected to mechanical wounding.
Nitrogen Uptake and Translocation in Vanda Orchid after Roots and Leaves Application of Different Forms 15N Tracer
Authors: Panjama Kanokwan , Inkham Chaiartid , Sato Takashi , Ohyama Takuji , Ohtake Norikuni , Ruamrungsri Soraya
Published: October 2022

Vanda is an economically important orchid that is widely produced in Thailand. Usually, growers apply large amounts of fertilizer throughout the plant, covering the leaves and roots to ensure good quality products. Nitrogen fertilizer, in terms of ammonium (NH4+) and nitrate (NO3−), is generally used as an N source. In addition, nitrogen organic fertilizer (glutamine) is increasingly being used to promote rapid growth in some plants. However, the absorption efficiency of organic N compared with the inorganic form (NH4+ and NO3−) via the roots or leaves of Vanda has not been evaluated. Therefore, this research aimed to compare the fate of organic N (in glutamine form) and inorganic N in Vanda using a 15N tracer. Vanda ‘Patchara Delight’ was grown in a plastic greenhouse under a 50% shading net at an average temperature of 25 °C and 80% relative humidity (RH). The plants were sprayed weekly via roots or leaves with 100 mL of 15N solution, 2.5 mM 15NO3− + 2.5 mM NH4+ (N1), 2.5 mM NO3− + 2.5 mM 15NH4+ (N2), and 2.5 mM glutamine (15N2)(N3) for 4 weeks. The plants were then sampled and separated into leaves and roots, and 15N abundance was analyzed using an elemental analyzer coupled with an isotope-ratio mass spectrometer or IRMS. The plants that received only glutamine via roots showed the highest 15N use efficiency (15NUE) of about 28.19% at 30 days after the first feeding (DAF), whereas 15NH4+ resulted in the lowest 15NUE among 15N sources. Regardless of the application site, plants supplied with 15NH4+ showed a lower labeled N concentration and labeled N content in stems and leaves than those fed with a combination of 15NO3− or a sole application of 15N-glutamine. The largest labeled N concentrations in stems, leaves and roots were found in plants supplied with sole glutamine via roots. At 30 DAF, 15N solution either combined with 15NO3− or solitary 15N-glutamine did not affect the labeled N concentration in leaves. Therefore, supplying organic N in glutamine form to Vanda can provide a 4–7% higher NUE than inorganic N, especially when supplying the solution to the roots.
Functional Analysis of PsARRO−1 in Root Development of Paeonia suffruticosa
Authors: Sun Yuke , Shang Wenqian , Yuan Junhui , Wang Zheng , He Songlin , Song Yinglong , Shi Liyun , Shen Yuxiao , Ma Jie , Xu Yufeng , Wang Jiange
Published: October 2022

The adventitious rooting−related oxygenase (ARRO−1) gene is specifically expressed in the early rooting stage and is considered a molecular marker of rooting. In this study, a PsARRO−1 gene (GenBank accession number KJ620008) was identified from a pre−constructed transcriptome database of root development of Paeonia suffruticosa under sandy loam cultivation. The expression was verified by RT−qPCR, and it was found that the expression trend was consistent with the expression in the transcriptome database. The PsARRO−1 gene was specifically highly expressed during the root primordium germination phase. In addition, the RT−qPCR analysis indicated that the expression of PsARRO−1 in roots was significantly higher than in stems and leaves, its peak expression in vitro was 5 days earlier than in soil, and its expression was higher than that of tree peony in soil. Subcellular localization analysis showed that PsARRO−1 was localized in the plasma membrane. Moreover, the transient silent expression of the PsARRO−1 gene was found in the roots of peony seedlings grown using VIGS technology. The root activity was significantly reduced after transient silencing of the expression of the PsARRO−1 gene. These results indicate that PsARRO−1 has a positive regulatory effect on tree peony root development.
Transcriptome Remodeling in Response to Leaf Removal and Exogenous Abscisic Acid in Berries of Grapevine (Vitis vinifera L.) Fruit Cuttings
Authors: Tong Qian , Liu Li , Zhao Yan , Kong Junhua , Wang Yongjian , Xu Xiaobo , Hilbert Ghislaine , Gomès Eric , Dai Zhanwu
Published: October 2022

Climate change is known to simultaneously increase berry sugars but decrease anthocyanins, leading to an imbalance between sugars and anthocyanins in grape berries. To restore the balance of sugars and anthocyanins, carbon limitation by leaf removal and exogenous abscisic acid (ABA) were separately or simultaneously applied to Vitis vinifera cv. Cabernet Sauvignon fruit cuttings to decipher their effects on berry quality with metabolite and whole-genome transcriptome analyses. Carbon limitation decreased the hexose concentration and fully blocked the accumulation of anthocyanins. However, exogenous ABA increased the anthocyanin concentration under both carbon limitation and sufficient conditions. Carbon limitation and exogenous ABA induced the profound remodeling of the whole-genome transcriptome and altered the anthocyanin concentration by regulating the transcription levels of genes involved in the anthocyanin biosynthesis pathways as well as in the genes involved in various types of hormone signaling. Moreover, two pertinent candidate genes were identified based on the co-expression network analysis between the berry metabolite and transcriptome results, including a transcriptional factor, ERF2, and a calcineurin B-like protein-interacting protein kinase gene, CIPK25. In summary, simultaneously modifying the carbon supply by leaf removal and spraying exogenous ABA could re-establish the balance between sugars and anthocyanins to improve the qualities of grape berries via whole-genome transcriptome remodeling.
Kiwifruit Adaptation to Rising Vapor Pressure Deficit Increases the Risk of Kiwifruit Decline Syndrome Occurrence
Authors: Bardi Laura , Nari Luca , Morone Chiara , Solomita Mauro , Mandalà Claudio , Faga Maria Giulia , Migliori Carmela Anna
Published: October 2022

Kiwifruit has, for a long time, been widely affected by a syndrome named “kiwifruit decline syndrome” (KiDS). Several environmental factors have already been investigated looking for the possible origin of this syndrome. Recently, a possible role of climate change has been proposed, highlighting the influence of high air and soil temperature. In this work, the role of rising vapor pressure deficit (VPD) was also investigated in an experimental orchard in which several agronomic practices were examined in order to find strategies to face KiDS occurrence in crops. Stomatal control in response to rising VPD showed to be lacking, and root xylem vessel size and number modifications were observed as an adaptation to water stress; then, a scarce prospect of success facing sudden and strong weather events related to climate change can be expected in this plant. None of the agronomic strategies tested, that were focused on the soil quality improvement and on prevention of desiccation, avoided the KiDS occurrence. Agronomic management should move to new practices focused on orchard climate control.
Relieving the Phenotyping Bottleneck for Grape Bunch Architecture in Grapevine Breeding Research: Implementation of a 3D-Based Phenotyping Approach for Quantitative Trait Locus Mapping
Authors: Rist Florian , Schwander Florian , Richter Robert , Mack Jennifer , Schwandner Anna , Hausmann Ludger , Steinhage Volker , Töpfer Reinhard , Herzog Katja
Published: October 2022

In viticulture, winemakers and the industry demand grape bunches that have a reduced degree of bunch compactness. The major aspect is that a loose bunch compactness reduces the risk of severe Botrytis bunch-rot infections. Grapevine breeders focus hereby on several bunch-architecture-related traits. For specific breeding approaches and breeding-research-related topics, such as Quantitative Trait Locus (QTL) analysis or molecular marker development, the exact and objective phenotyping of such traits is mandatory. In this study, a precise and high-throughput 3D phenotyping pipeline was applied to screen 1514 genotypes from three mapping populations with different genetic backgrounds to investigate its applicability for QTL mapping approaches. In the first step, the phenotypic data of one population containing 150 genotypes were collected and analyzed with the 3D phenotyping pipeline. Additionally, corresponding reference data were obtained. Phenotypic values and results of a QTL analysis were compared with each other. Strongly positive correlations up to r = 0.93 between 3D and reference measurements could be detected for several traits. The ten-times-faster 3D phenotyping pipeline revealed 20, and the reference phenotyping methods revealed 22 QTLs. Eighteen of these QTLs were consistent between both procedures. In the next step, screening was extended to four different mapping populations across several seasons. In total, up to 1500 genotypes were screened during one season (>5000 grape bunches in total). The data analysis revealed significant differences across years and populations. Three bunch-architecture traits, including total berry volume, bunch width, and berry diameter, explained the highest amount of variability in the phenotypic data. A QTL analysis was performed on the phenotypic data of the involved populations to identify comparative genetic loci for bunch-architecture traits. Between 20 and 26 stable and reproducible QTLs for the investigated populations were detected. A common QTL for berry diameter could be identified for all populations. Our results strongly conclude that this locus is co-located on chromosome 17 when mapped to the grapevine reference genome. The results show that the implementation of the 3D phenotyping platform allows for precise and extended screenings of different, genetic diverse mapping populations and thus opens up the possibility to uncover the genomic architecture of this highly complex quantitative grapevine trait.
Foliar Application of ZnO-NPs Influences Chlorophyll Fluorescence and Antioxidants Pool in Capsicum annum L. under Salinity
Authors: Rasouli Farzad , Asadi Mohammad , Hassanpouraghdam Mohammad Bagher , Aazami Mohammad Ali , Ebrahimzadeh Asghar , Kakaei Karim , Dokoupil Libor , Mlcek Jiri
Published: October 2022

Zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO-NPs) have been proven to helpfully improve plant tolerance to several abiotic stresses. However, no information has been reported concerning the role of ZnO-NPs on pepper plants under salinity stress. Hence, this research aimed to evaluate the growth and physiological responses of pepper (Capsicum annum L.) plants to ZnO-NP foliar application under salinity. Plants were subjected to 0 (control), 25 (S1), 50 (S2), and 75 mM (S3) NaCl salinity with a foliar spray of 0, 1000, and 2000 ppm ZnO-NPs. Significant reductions were recorded in the chlorophyll index (SPAD) and chlorophyll fluorescence parameters, and in the activity and/or ratios of reduced ascorbate (AsA), reduced ascorbate/dehydroascorbic acid (AsA/DHA), reduced glutathione (GSH), reduced glutathione/oxidized glutathione (GSH/GSSG), and K+ content. There was a significant increase in proline content, electrolyte leakage (EL), H2O2 content, guaiacol peroxidase (GPX), ascorbate peroxidase (APX), superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione reductase (GR), dehydroascorbic acid (DHA), and oxidized glutathione (GSSG) activities, and in Na+ content and Na+/K+ ratio. Foliar treatments improved the salinity tolerance of the pepper plants by fortifying the antioxidant defense system, leaf fluorescence parameters, K+, and proline content, and in contrast, by decreasing the EL, Na+, and H2O2 levels. ZnO-NP foliar treatment efficiently improved the pepper plants’ physiological responses under salinity. Considering the overall results, 1000 ppm of ZnO-NPs would be advisable for the amelioration of salinity depression and to promote growth potential. However, at higher levels, the nanoparticle showed toxicity symptoms that limited its reliable applications.
Novel Approaches for Sustainable Horticultural Crop Production: Advances and Prospects
Authors: Lastochkina Oksana , Aliniaeifard Sasan , SeifiKalhor Maryam , Bosacchi Massimo , Maslennikova Dilara , Lubyanova Alsu
Published: October 2022

Reduction of plant growth, yield and quality due to diverse environmental constrains along with climate change significantly limit the sustainable production of horticultural crops. In this review, we highlight the prospective impacts that are positive challenges for the application of beneficial microbial endophytes, nanomaterials (NMs), exogenous phytohormones strigolactones (SLs) and new breeding techniques (CRISPR), as well as controlled environment horticulture (CEH) using artificial light in sustainable production of horticultural crops. The benefits of such applications are often evaluated by measuring their impact on the metabolic, morphological and biochemical parameters of a variety of cultures, which typically results in higher yields with efficient use of resources when applied in greenhouse or field conditions. Endophytic microbes that promote plant growth play a key role in the adapting of plants to habitat, thereby improving their yield and prolonging their protection from biotic and abiotic stresses. Focusing on quality control, we considered the effects of the applications of microbial endophytes, a novel class of phytohormones SLs, as well as NMs and CEH using artificial light on horticultural commodities. In addition, the genomic editing of plants using CRISPR, including its role in modulating gene expression/transcription factors in improving crop production and tolerance, was also reviewed.
Functional Oligosaccharides Derived from Fruit-and-Vegetable By-Products and Wastes
Authors: Chockchaisawasdee Suwimol , Stathopoulos Constantinos
Published: October 2022

Industrial-scale food manufacturing generates high quantity of fruit-and-vegetable solid by-product and waste streams (FVSW) which have become a challenge to the environment post-production. Due to this, proposals for a better use of resources to reduce the environmental burden and to promote a circular economy have been introduced. Reintroducing discarded materials back into the production through the recovery of valuable components or through the conversion into value-added ingredients is one approach attracting strong interest in research. FVSW is rich in lignocellulosic materials which can be reused to produce bioactive ingredients. This review highlights the potential use of FVSW as low-cost raw materials and describes the valorisation of FVSW for the production of functional oligosaccharides. The focus is on the production technologies of the main functional oligosaccharides, namely pectic-oligosaccharides, inulin and fructooligosaccharides, xylooligosaccharides, and isomaltooligosaccharides.
Greenhouse Photoluminescent PMMA Panels Improve the Agronomical and Physiological Performances of Lettuce (Lactuca sativa L.)
Authors: Di Mola Ida , Conti Stefano , Bartak Milos , Cozzolino Eugenio , Ottaiano Lucia , Giordano Davide , Melchionna Giuseppe , Mormile Pasquale , Rippa Massimo , Beltrame Luca , El-Nakhel Christophe , Corrado Giandomenico , Rouphael Youssef , Mori Mauro
Published: October 2022

Supplementary lighting of specific wavelengths can be used for inducing morphological and physiological responses in different crops, ultimately improving yield and quality. Based on this approach, new greenhouse covering materials are being developed in order to improve the use of sunlight in horticulture. These new-generation greenhouse coverings may incorporate light spectrum modulation agents or fluorescent additives which convert solar UV radiation into visible light. In this work, we tested the agronomical and physiological response of lettuce grown under a greenhouse covered with poly-methyl-methacrylate (PPMA) panels doped with a blend of the rare-earth inorganic material with a photo-luminescent effect. The doped greenhouse elicited a 36% increase in lettuce yield compared to the undoped greenhouse. Chlorophyll and carotenoid content, as well as antioxidant activity and ascorbic acid content, were not affected by greenhouse cover, but the doped panels induced a 22% reduction in total phenolics and a 14% increase in nitrate content in leaves. The greenhouse covering materials also affected the photochemistry of photosynthesis, as the daily fluctuations in both the effective quantum yield (ΦPSII) and the electron transport rate (ETR) were attenuated under the doped greenhouse. Non-photochemical quenching (NPQ) was closely related to the light environment in all experimental conditions, with the highest values at 14:00 h. Our results showed that the red-supplemented light spectrum under the doped greenhouse cover contributed to increased plant growth and yield, with a corresponding effect on the physiology of photosynthesis.