bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evaluation of mathematical models for predicting medicine distribution into breastmilk - considering biological heterogeneity
Authors: Heo Sumin , Butler Andrew S. , Stamouli Simoncioni Marina , Moult Sam , Malamatari Maria , Kerwash Essam , Cole Susan
Published: November 2024

Introduction

A significant proportion of mothers take medication during the breastfeeding period, however knowledge of infant safety during continued breastfeeding is often limited. Breastmilk exhibits significant physiological heterogeneity, with a range of milk fat (creamatocrit), protein and pH values available within the literature. Mathematical models for the prediction of infant exposure are available and these predict that variable milk physiology will significantly affect accumulation of drugs within the breastmilk. These models are typically validated against limited datasets only, and to the best of our knowledge no widescale review has been conducted which accounts for the heterogeneity of breastmilk.

Methods

Observed area under the curve milk-to-plasma (M/P) ratios and physicochemical properties were collected for a diverse range of drugs. The reliability of previously published mathematical models was assessed by varying milk pH and creamatocrit across the physiological range. Subsequently, alternative methods for predicting lipid and protein binding within the milk, and the effect of ionisation and physicochemical properties were investigated.

Results

Existing models mis-predicted >40% of medications (Phase Distribution model), exhibited extreme sensitivity to milk pH (Log-Transformed model) or exhibited limited sensitivity to changes in creamatocrit (LogPo:w model). Alternative methods of predicting distribution into milk lipids moderately improved predictions, however altering the way in which milk protein binding was predicted and the effect of ionisation on this demonstrated little effect. Many drugs were predicted to have a significant range of M/P ratios.

Discussion

These data show that consideration of the biological heterogeneity of breastmilk is important for model development and highlight that increased understanding of the physiological mechanisms underlying distribution within the milk may be essential to continue improving in silico methodologies to support infant and maternal health.
Genetic analysis of grain yield and related traits of extra-early orange maize inbred lines and their hybrids under drought and rain-fed conditions
Authors: Bonkoungou Tégawendé Odette , Badu-Apraku Baffour , Adetimirin Victor Olawale , Nanema Kiswendsida Romaric , Adejumobi Idris Ishola
Published: November 2024

Background

Orange maize genotypes are sources of provitamin A (PVA) carotenoids, which are precursors of vitamin A. PVA deficiency and drought constitute major challenges causing increasing food and nutritional insecurity in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA). Breeding of drought-tolerant provitamin A hybrid maize can mitigate these challenges. This study was undertaken to determine the combining ability of newly developed extra-early orange inbreds for grain yield and related traits under managed drought stress and rain-fed conditions, determine the mode of gene action conditioning the inheritance of the traits, and classify the inbreds into heterotic groups.

Methodology

One hundred and ninety-six extra-early orange hybrids comprising 180 testcrosses, 10 single crosses, and 6 commercial checks were evaluated under managed drought and rain-fed conditions at Ikenne. In addition, 41 inbreds comprising 36 orange lines and 5 PVA testers involved in the hybrid development were assessed under drought and rain-fed conditions.

Results

The means square for general combining ability (GCA) and specific combining ability (SCA) were significant for grain yield and most other traits under both growing conditions. The contributions of GCA to performance were larger than SCA in each growing condition. Broad-sense and narrow-sense heritability estimates for grain yield were 66% and 37% under managed drought and 88% and 32% under rain-fed conditions, respectively. Mid-parent heterosis and better-parent heterosis for grain yield were 338% and 247% under managed drought, while 173% and 137% under rain-fed conditions. Significant positive correlations existed among grain yield of hybrids, heterosis, and specific combining ability under managed drought. The 41 inbred lines were classified into three heterotic groups under both growing conditions. Sixteen testcross hybrids out-yielded the best commercial check under managed drought.

Conclusion

The testcross hybrids have great potential for commercialization to address the problem of drought and PVA deficiency in SSA. Inbred TZEEIOR 510 showed desirable GCA effects for grain yield and 04 other traits under drought.
Enhancing sugarcane’s drought resilience: the influence of Streptomycetales and Rhizobiales
Authors: Chen Mianhe , Xing Yuanjun , Chen Chunyi , Wang Ziting
Published: November 2024

Drought stress is a critical environmental factor affecting sugarcane yield, and the adaptability of the sugarcane rhizosphere bacterial community is essential for drought tolerance. This review examines the adaptive responses of sugarcane rhizosphere bacterial communities to water stress and explores their significant role in enhancing sugarcane drought tolerance. Under drought conditions, the sugarcane rhizosphere bacterial community undergoes structural and functional shifts, particularly the enrichment of beneficial bacteria, including Streptomycetales and Rhizobiales. These bacteria enhance sugarcane resilience to drought through various means, including nutrient acquisition and phytohormone synthesis. Furthermore, changes in the rhizosphere bacterial community were closely associated with the composition and levels of soil metabolites, which significantly influenced the physiological and biochemical processes of sugarcane during drought stress. This study deepens our understanding of rhizosphere bacterial communities and their interactions with sugarcane, laying a scientific foundation for developing drought-resistant sugarcane varieties, optimizing agricultural practices, and opening new avenues for agricultural applications.
Unlocking vegetation health: optimizing GEDI data for accurate chlorophyll content estimation
Authors: Xia Cuifen , Zhou Wenwu , Shu Qingtai , Wu Zaikun , Wang Mingxing , Xu Li , Yang Zhengdao , Yu Jinge , Song Hanyue , Duan Dandan
Published: November 2024

Chlorophyll content is a vital indicator for evaluating vegetation health and estimating productivity. This study addresses the issue of Global Ecosystem Dynamics Investigation (GEDI) data discreteness and explores its potential in estimating chlorophyll content. This study used the empirical Bayesian Kriging regression prediction (EBKRP) method to obtain the continuous distribution of GEDI spot parameters in an unknown space. Initially, 52 measured sample data were employed to screen the modeling parameters with the Pearson and RF methods. Next, the Bayesian optimization (BO) algorithm was applied to optimize the KNN regression model, RFR model, and Gradient Boosting Regression Tree (GBRT) model. These steps were taken to establish the most effective RS estimation model for chlorophyll content in Dendrocalamus giganteus (D. giganteus). The results showed that: (1) The R2 of the EBKRP method was 0.34~0.99, RMSE was 0.012~3,134.005, rRMSE was 0.011~0.854, and CRPS was 965.492~1,626.887. (2) The Pearson method selects five parameters (cover, pai, fhd_normal, rv, and rx_energy_a3) with a correlation greater than 0.37. The RF method opts for five parameters (cover, fhd_normal, sensitivity, rh100, and modis_nonvegetated) with a contribution threshold greater than 5.5%. (3) The BO-GBRT model in the RF method was used as the best estimation model (R2 = 0.86, RMSE = 0.219 g/m2, rRMSE = 0.167 g/m2, p = 84.13%) to estimate and map the chlorophyll content of D. giganteus in the study area. The distribution range is 0.20~2.50 g/m2. The findings aligned with the distribution of D. giganteus in the experimental area, indicating the reliability of estimating forest biochemical parameters using GEDI data.
The impact of maternal emotional warmth on adolescents’ internalizing problem behaviors: the roles of meaning in life and friendship conflict
Authors: Zhang Ludan , Wang Ruijie , Li Yaoyao , Chen Liang
Published: November 2024

Introduction

Numerous studies suggest that maternal emotional warmth is a critical protective factor against adolescents’ internalizing problem behaviors. However, the underlying mechanisms linking these variables remain unclear. Grounded in ecological systems theory, this study explores the impact mechanisms of social support (maternal emotional warmth), individual resource (meaning in life), and environmental factor (friendship conflict) on adolescents’ internalizing problem behaviors.

Methods

A questionnaire survey of 474 adolescents in vocational school aged 15–24 assessed maternal emotional warmth, meaning in life, friendship conflict, and internalizing problem behaviors.

Results

The results indicate that the meaning in life partially mediates the relationship between maternal emotional warmth and adolescents’ internalizing problem behaviors, with friendship conflict moderating the latter half of this mediation pathway.

Discussion

The findings suggest that adolescents, during their social adaptation process, activate different protective factors depending on the environmental relational context. Specifically, high friendship conflict limits the direct protective role of maternal emotional warmth, whereas a meaning in life becomes a significant protective factor, exerting its effect through mediation. Conversely, when friendship conflict is low, maternal emotional warmth directly serves as a protective factor.
Narration of a collective traumatic event according to the presence of PTSD and considering the social function
Authors: Charretier Laura , Eustache Francis , Laisney Mickael , Dayan Jacques , Fraisse Florence , de La Sayette Vincent , Gagnepain Pierre , Chakli Amine , Klein-Peschanski Carine , Peschanski Denis , Quinette Peggy
Published: November 2024

Introduction

Individuals suffering from PTSD recount the traumatic event using perceptual, emotional and sensory details. Memorization and recall of individual events are influenced by the individual’s social function, i.e., what they are willing and able to share about themselves with others and the society. While the influence of PTSD on narratives has been studied, few studies have measured the effect of social function on the link between PTSD and narrative.

Objectives

The aim was to measure trauma narratives of the terrorist attacks of November 13, 2015, according to the presence of PTSD and considering the social function (civil or professional) at the time of exposure.

Methods

Thirty-seven civilians (including 16 women and 21 men) and 22 first responders (including 7 women and 15 men) exposed to the terrorist attacks of November 13, 2015, in France recounted their experiences. Textometric analyses were carried out to characterize the narrative lexicons of the 4 groups (civilians with PTSD; civilians without PTSD, first responders with PTSD; first responders without PTSD).

Results

The narratives of civilians with or without PTSD contain emotional details of the event. The narratives of first responders with and without PTSD contain details of intervention and team. The narratives of civilians and first responders with PTSD contain elements of social and family contacts. The narratives of civilians and first responders without PTSD contains elements of collective control and aid. Civilians with PTSD mostly use the “I” in narratives, while first responders without PTSD mostly use the “we” narrative and the notion of colleague.

Conclusion

Trauma narratives of individuals exposed to the same collective traumatic event who have developed PTSD are characterized by information about social and family contexts. Trauma narratives of individuals without PTSD show a sense of control and collective support. Associated with PTSD, the social function during the event influences the narrative, involving self-centered statements (first person singular, individual reactions) for exposed civilians, and allo-centered statements (colleagues, victims) for exposed professionals. This study underlines the importance of considering the inclusion of reference to the social group to which one belongs when testifying about peritraumatic experiences to others.
Big-five personality traits and depression: chain mediation of self-efficacy and walking
Authors: Cai Han , Song Hongtao , Yang Yating , Xiao Zihe , Zhang Xianlong , Jiang Feng , Liu Huanzhong , Tang Yi-lang
Published: November 2024

Background

Depression is a major global public health concern, with research indicating a correlation between personality traits and depression. This study aimed to explore the potential mediating roles of self-efficacy and walking in the relationship between personality traits and depression among Chinese residents.

Methods

A cross-sectional questionnaire survey was conducted from July 10 to September 15, 2021, involving 11,031 Chinese residents across 23 provinces, 5 autonomous regions, and 4 municipalities Participants provided data on demographics, personality traits (using the Ten-Item Personality Inventory), self-efficacy (using the New General Self-Efficacy Scale), chronic disease self-management (using the Chronic Disease Self-Management Study Measures), and depression (using the Patient Health Questionnaire-9). After screening, data from 8,499 participants were analyzed. Sequential mediation models were employed, with the Big Five personality traits as predictors, depression as the outcome, and self-efficacy and walking as the mediators.

Results

Extraversion, agreeableness, conscientiousness, and emotional stability were negatively correlated with depression, with self-efficacy and walking as positive mediators in these relationships. Conversely, openness was positively associated with depression, and the self-efficacy-walking chain did not mediate this relationship but rather masked the effect of openness on depression.

Conclusions

Our findings suggest that self-efficacy and walking are significant mediators in the relationship between personality traits and depression, potentially mitigating the risk of depressive episodes.
Feasibility and acceptability of wearing a neuromodulation device at night in individuals in recovery from opioid use disorder
Authors: Meads Kristy L. , Huettner Steve , Amata Dexter , Johnson Hailey , Devine Jaime K. , Warnakulasuriya Shenali , Murphy Keith R. , Good Cameron H.
Published: November 2024

Introduction

Opioid use disorder (OUD) is a serious and persistent problem in the United States with limited non-pharmacological treatment options, especially for the concomitant sleep disorders experienced by most individuals with addiction. While new, non-invasive interventions such as low-intensity focused ultrasound (LIFU) have shown promise in targeting the brain regions impacted throughout addiction and recovery, the devices used are not amenable to outpatient treatment in their current form factor and cannot be used at night during sleep. To bridge this gap and provide a much-needed treatment option for repeated, at-home use, we developed a wearable LIFU device out-of-clinic use.

Methods

This study evaluated the feasibility and acceptability of the portable treatment device among individuals recovering from OUD in an unsupervised, at-home setting. 31 subjects were recruited from a Baltimore, Maryland (USA) outpatient treatment facility and, along with a separate group of 14 healthy controls (HC), were asked to wear a prototype EEG-only (non-LIFU) device for 7 consecutive nights to assess their willingness and adherence to nightly use. Participants used a smartphone application, TrialKit (ePRO), to self-report nightly sleep data (e.g. duration, quality, possible disturbances, and device comfort).

Results

Of the 31 OUD participants recruited, 30 (97%) successfully completed the at-home study, and the majority responded that they would participate in future studies using the head wearable device (OUD, 87%; HC, 71%). OUD participants were statistically more likely than HCs to respond that they would consider using the device in the future to help them sleep (OUD, 70%; HC, 29%). Despite some participants facing technological issues (e.g. lack of reliable phone access or cellular data plans), the OUD group demonstrated high study compliance on par with the healthy control group.

Discussion

Participant’s daily ePRO and exit interview results established that at-home use of advanced treatment technology is feasible in a population group challenged with recovering from OUD. Even more so, numerous participants noted strong willingness to participate in future LIFU-enabled intervention studies to address their persistent sleep issues during recovery.
Plastic waste characterisation to maximise landfill diversion from a New Zealand residential construction site
Authors: Low Joanne K. , Hernandez German , Berry Terri-Ann
Published: November 2024

Introduction

In New Zealand, the construction sector is responsible for a large proportion of waste sent to landfill. The plastic profile of construction waste is varied and complex in comparison to other waste types (e.g. timber, concrete, metals, plasterboard). Therefore, the diversion of plastics from landfills is less straightforward, and there are less obvious benefits to recycling this low-density, low-value waste stream. Plastic waste generated by construction activities has not been well-characterised, which has affected opportunities for waste reduction, reuse and recycling. To fill this knowledge gap, this study characterised the plastic waste generated from a residential construction site. This was used to identify opportunities to address the full waste hierarchy through reduction, reuse and recycling and ultimately enable more sustainable plastic waste management.

Methods

Plastic waste generated from a construction site in Auckland, New Zealand (construction of eight terraced houses) was separated during the project into several categories (pipes, soft plastics, other plastics and hazardous waste). This was followed by in-depth auditing which further sorted waste types by main composition, followed by analysis for polymer type using fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). The research was phased to determine the plastic waste generated across each of the main construction stages. Once the main polymer types had been identified, local waste providers were contacted to establish opportunities for reuse or recycling.

Results

The total mass of plastics generated from all construction stages was 725 kg, 66.4% (by wt.) of which was recycled. Soft plastics, predominantly low-density polyethylene, were the most common plastic type; this was followed by pipes and expanded polystyrene. Plastic packaging, primarily soft plastics and polystyrene, accounted for 60% of total plastics and were mostly generated in the final stages of construction (i.e. fittings and fit-out). This characterisation of construction plastic waste can be used to demonstrate the feasibility of sustainable plastic waste management in Auckland and to identify construction plastic waste sources on an international scale. More studies on a variety of construction types (e.g. detached residential, apartment blocks, commercial) are required to address the full breadth of plastic materials used and to drive a more circular economy for this potential resource.
EEG oscillatory signatures of increased cognitive control at intersections: a virtual reality driving simulation
Authors: Senftleben Ulrike , Kessler Klaus
Published: November 2024

Introduction

Intersections are particularly complex traffic situations and are often the scene of accidents. Driver behaviour and decision-making might be affected by specific factors such as the right of way, traffic volume, and the occurrence of a critical event directly before the intersection.

Methods

We developed a new driving scenario in virtual reality (VR) to test the impact of these factors using a fully immersive head-mounted display. Participants had to navigate through a series of intersections to reach their target destination. We recorded their driving behaviour as well as their brain activity using electroencephalography (EEG).

Results

Our results showed that participants engaged cognitive control processes when approaching an intersection with high traffic volume and when reacting to a critical event, as indexed by driving behaviour and proactively by increased theta power. We did not find differences for right of way in the EEG data, but driving behaviour was as expected, revealing a driving speed reduction when participants had to yield to traffic.

Discussion

We discuss advantages and potential challenges of an immersive VR-based approach to driving simulations and the challenges encountered when recording and analysing EEG data. We conclude that despite movement and electronic artefacts, EEG data in the theta and alpha bands can be analysed robustly and allow for novel insights into control processes in realistic VR scenarios.
Evaluation and spatiotemporal evolution of veterinary talent competitiveness: a new perspective of veterinary education
Authors: Xu Xianhang , Arshad Mohd Anuar , Jian Yugang , Mahmood Arshad , Dong Mengdie
Published: November 2024

Introduction

Improving the quantity and quality of veterinary talent cultivation is an urgent issue to address in current veterinary education and is key to enhancing veterinary talent competitiveness. Starting from an industrial perspective, the introduction of scientific analytical methods for studying veterinary talent competitiveness offers a new view on veterinary education and helps to improve the quality of veterinary education and talent cultivation.

Methods

This study develops a veterinary talent competitiveness evaluation index based on the characteristics of veterinary talent. It proposes a visual method to analyze the level and spatiotemporal evolution of veterinary talent competitiveness using the Entropy method and ArcGIS tools, with Western China as a case study. Data is collected from 12 regions in Western China, spanning 2015 to 2021.

Results

The results show that the method not only evaluates the current state of veterinary talent competitiveness but also considers temporal and spatial evolution, achieving good evaluation effectiveness and high accuracy, thereby guiding the improvement of veterinary education and talent cultivation.

Discussion

Based on the research findings, the study suggests improving the quality of veterinary education and talent cultivation through measures such as strengthening talent resource development, addressing regional imbalances, and promoting spatial integration to achieve a virtuous cycle between veterinary education and industrial development.
Development of a 3 kW Wind Energy Conversion System Emulator Using a Grid-Connected Doubly-Fed Induction Generator
Authors: Boukais Boussad , Mesbah Koussaila , Rahoui Adel , Saim Abdelhakim , Houari Azeddine , Benkhoris Mohamed Fouad
Published: November 2024

This paper presents the design and performance evaluation of an experimental platform that emulates the static and dynamic behavior of a 3 kW Wind Energy Conversion System (WECS). The platform includes a wind turbine emulator (WTE) using a separately excited DC motor (SEDCM) as the prime mover, coupled with a grid-connected doubly-fed induction generator (DFIG). This setup enables comprehensive laboratory studies of a WECS without the need for large-scale field installations. A novel inertia compensation strategy is implemented to ensure the SEDCM accurately replicates the power and torque characteristics of a real wind turbine across various wind profiles. The DFIG was chosen for its high efficiency at variable wind speeds and its reduced power converter requirements compared to other generators. The control strategy for the DFIG is detailed, highlighting its performance and seamless integration within the system. Unlike most studies focusing on generators connected to simple loads, this research considers a grid-connected system, which introduces additional challenges and requirements. This study thoroughly investigates the grid-connected converter, addressing specific demands for grid connection and ensuring compliance with grid standards. Experimental results validate the effectiveness of the emulator, demonstrating its potential as a key tool for optimizing wind turbine control strategies and real-time algorithm validation, and enhancing the performance and reliability of renewable energy systems.
Stress, Teamwork, and Wellbeing Policies: A Synergistic Approach to Reducing Burnout in Public Sector Organizations
Authors: Saud Jenna , Rice John
Published: November 2024

This study investigates the moderating effects of teamwork and employee wellbeing policies on the relationship between workplace stress and burnout within the Australian Public Service (APS). Using data from a large-scale cross-sectional survey conducted in 2022, we examine how both strong team support and organizational wellbeing policies buffer the negative impacts of increased work stress on burnout likelihood. The findings indicate that high levels of both teamwork and wellbeing significantly reduce the likelihood of burnout in high-stress environments. Conversely, the absence of either or both factors tends to relatively exacerbate burnout risk. In addition, employee age is found to negatively correlate with burnout, while role seniority is associated with higher burnout likelihood. Gender differences suggest female employees report slightly higher burnout rates. The results provide valuable insights into organizational strategies for reducing burnout likelihood. In a practical sense they highlight the importance of fostering supportive team environments while also implementing comprehensive wellbeing initiatives in high-stress work environments.
Study on the Impact of the Rural Population Aging on Agricultural Total Factor Productivity in China
Authors: Su Guifang , Chen Zhe , Li Wei , Xia Xianli
Published: November 2024

The rural population aging poses a great challenge to China’s agricultural production, which is dominated by small farmers. Based on the panel data of 30 provinces or cities (except Tibet) in China from 2005 to 2020, the DEA-Malmquist index is employed to measure the agricultural total factor productivity (ATFP) in each province (city), and then the mediation effect model is used to reveal the mechanism by which the rural population aging affects the ATFP through farmland transfer, agricultural social services, and agricultural machinery. The results show that the rural population aging has made a significant contribution to the ATFP, and farmland transfer, agricultural socialized services and agricultural machinery have a intermediary effect on the increase of the ATFP. Further decomposition of ATFP reveals that the rural population aging can significantly contribute to the scale efficiency and technical progress rate through farmland transfer, agricultural socialization services and agricultural machinery, but does not have a significant effect on pure technical efficiency. In order to promote the high-quality and high-efficiency development of agriculture in the context of population aging, it is necessary to optimize the market environment for farmland transfer, improve the agricultural socialized service system, and continue to strengthen agricultural science and technology innovation.
The Influence of Genotype, Environmental Factors, and Location on the Nutraceutical Profile of Rosa canina L. Fruits
Authors: Stamin Florin Daniel , Vijan Loredana Elena , Topală Carmen Mihaela , Cosmulescu Sina Niculina
Published: November 2024

This work aimed to determine how factors such as genotype, environment, and location influence the variation of biochemical compounds constituting the nutraceutical profile of Rosa canina L. fruits for their future integration as a functional food in everyday life, in a region of Romania, where wild fruits have lost their popularity, along with globalization and the social evolution of the rural environment. For nine genotypes of Rosa canina L., the average values of moisture (35.81%), ash (2.55%), total sugar content (41.37 g glucose equivalents/100 g), polyphenols (1211.15 mg gallic acid equivalents/100 g), tannins (764.22 mg gallic acid equivalents/100 g), flavonoids (126 mg catechin equivalents/100 g), anthocyanins (18.64 mg cyanidin 3-glucoside equivalents/100 g), alkaloids (64.20 mg equivalents of atropine sulfate/100 g), antioxidant activity (91.97%), as well as the contents of vitamin C (1.97 g/100 g), lycopene (0.85 mg/100 g), and β-carotene (1.42 mg/100 g) were determined. The determining factor is the genotype, and there are significant variations in the contents of bioactive compounds, both between the three studied areas and between genotypes in the same area. The contents of compounds with nutraceutical value justifies the significant food potential of these wild fruits and their use as a natural medicine in prophylactic and preventive activity.
Wheat Yield, Biomass, and Radiation Interception and Utilization Under Conservation Tillage: Greater Response to Drip Fertigation Compared to Intensive Tillage
Authors: Wang Yuechao , Song Jinxiao , Li Wen , Yan Tingting , Wang Depeng , Xue Jianfu , Gao Zhiqiang
Published: November 2024

Conservation tillage, particularly no tillage (NT), has been recognized as an efficient farming practice, particularly in dryland agriculture, as it significantly enhances crop yields, improves soil health, and contributes to environmental sustainability. However, the influence of NT on winter wheat radiation interception and utilization, biomass, and yield under NT in irrigated fields, especially under drip fertigation, is unclear. A field experiment was carried out for two growing seasons in Shandong province, China, using a split-plot design with the tillage method as the main plot (no tillage, NT; rotary tillage, RT; and first plowing the soil and then conducting rotary tillage, PRT), and water–nitrogen management as the sub-plot (N fertilizer broadcasting and flood irrigation, BF and drip fertigation, DF). Our results showed that DF increased yield by 11.0–28.5%, but the yield response to DF depended on the tillage methods. NT had the highest response in yield of 26.3–28.5%, followed by RT of 14.6–15.1% and PRT of 11.0–11.9%. Both increased grains per ear and ear number, a result of the greater maximum stems number donating to the yield gain by DF under NT. This gain was also due to the substantially promoted post-anthesis biomass (36.7–47.3%), which resulted from the increased interception of solar radiation and radiation use efficiency after anthesis. In addition, the extended post-anthesis duration also benefited biomass and yield. To conclude, our findings underscore the critical need to optimize water and nitrogen management strategies to maximize yield under conservation tillage systems.
Enhancing the Photosynthetic and Yield Performance of Rice in Saline Soil by Foliar-Applying Cost-Effective Compounds as Sources of Carbon Dioxide and Potassium
Authors: Zayed Bassiouni A. , El-Hendawy Salah , Hu Yuncai , Okasha Amira M. , Abdelhamed Mohamed M. , Ghazy Hasnaa A. , Aamer Samah M. , El-Sharnobi Dalia E. , Soltan Saied A. , Gaber Abdelfatah A. , Elsayed Salah
Published: November 2024

Although rice is highly sensitive to salinity, it is considered one of the best crops to grow in salt-affected mudflat soils to alleviate the salinity problem. Applying chemical compounds for an increase in leaf CO2 and nutrient levels can help mitigate the negative impact of salinity on plants in a cost-effective manner. To identify the benefits of using lithovit (Liv), ethanol (Eth), and potassium carbonate (KC) as a source of CO2 and K to enhance rice production in salt-affected soils, a field study was conducted to assess the effects of these compounds on the agro-physiological parameters of two rice genotypes (Giza178 and Giza179) in saline soils. The compounds were applied as a foliar spray at a concentration of 30 mM each before and after the heading growth stage. The results indicated that the genotype, application time, compounds, and their potential two-way interactions significantly influenced all agro-physiological parameters, with only a few exceptions. The genotype Giza 179 exhibited higher pigment contents, photosynthetic capacity, relative water content (RWC), grain yield, and most yield components compared to Giza 178, with increases ranging from 2.1% to 37.9%. Foliar application of different compounds resulted in a 9.7–37.9% increase in various parameters and a 34.6–43.2% decrease in the number of unfilled grains (NUFG) per panicle compared to untreated treatment. Foliar application of different compounds before heading resulted in an increase in various parameters by 4.8–16.1% and a decrease in the NUFG per panicle by 22.9% compared to those applied after heading. Heatmap clustering analysis revealed that foliar application of Liv before heading was the most effective treatment in enhancing various parameters for both genotypes and mitigating the negative effects of salinity stress on the NUFG. This was followed by Eth and KC before heading for Giza 179. Applying Eth and KC to the leaves after heading had a moderate positive impact on most parameters for Giza 179, outperforming the application after heading for Giza 178. Overall, our findings indicate that spraying readily available compounds that elevate CO2 and K levels in rice leaves can help alleviate the negative impacts of salt stress and improve rice production in salt-affected soils in a cost-effective manner.
Integrated Assessment of the Impact of Cropland Use Transition on Food Production Towards the Sustainable Development of Social–Ecological Systems
Authors: Liao Yixin , Lu Xiaojun , Liu Jialin , Huang Jiajun , Qu Yue , Qiao Zhi , Xie Yuangui , Liao Xiaofeng , Liu Luo
Published: November 2024

Understanding the impact of changes in cropland on food production is crucial for economic development and social stability. In recent years, rapid economic growth and frequent population migration in Guangdong Province have significantly changed cropland use and patterns, posing challenges to cropland protection and food security. This study utilized Landsat-4/5/7/8 time-series imagery from the Google Earth Engine and combined it with deep learning techniques to identify long-term cropland use from 1991 to 2020. Then the Global Agro-Ecological Zones model was applied to assess the impact of various cropland use changes on grain production potential (GPP). On this basis, the intrinsic relationship between population, economic development, and food production was further explored using the center of gravity model and spatial mismatch model. The study finds that Guangdong Province’s cropland area has decreased by approximately 34.16%. The annual average loss due to non-agricultural use and abandonment is 2.75 thousand km2 and 3.09 thousand km2, respectively, while the average yearly compensated cropland area is 2.94 thousand km2. The actual annual food loss could meet the needs of about 4.6 million people. Furthermore, non-agriculturalization is the main way of losing GPP, and the reduction of GPP caused by abandonment cannot be underestimated. When considering the GPP loss due to abandonment, new GPP has not fully compensated for lost GPP. Guangdong Province has rapidly decreased the coordination between food production, population, and economic development, leading to considerable contradictions in the social–ecological systems. Finally, the movement of cropland and population centers in opposite directions has intensified the decoupling phenomenon. The results can guide the development of refined cropland protection policies and promote sustainable development of social–ecological systems.
Effect of Cytoplasm Types T and D on Quantitative Trait Loci for Chip Color and Proline Content in Potato Tubers in a Diploid Potato Population
Authors: Smyda-Dajmund Paulina , Szajko Katarzyna , Sołtys-Kalina Dorota , Marczewski Waldemar , Śliwka Jadwiga
Published: November 2024

The production of chips is an increasing part of the potato market. While the potato tubers are stored at low temperatures to minimize storage problems, they tend to accumulate reducing sugars, which negatively impact the quality and color of fried products. The goal of this study was to analyze the impact of cytoplasm type on chip color after harvest and after cold storage at 4 °C, as well as on proline content in cold-stressed potato tubers in a diploid potato population obtained from reciprocal crossing of parents with T- and D-type cytoplasm. Using 224 F1 progeny clones genotyped with Diversity Array Technology (DArTseq™), we mapped the Quantitative Trait Loci (QTL), treating cytoplasm type as a covariate. We detected five QTLs for chip color after harvest and six after cold storage, with the strongest QTL for both traits overlapping on chromosome III. Five QTL for proline content were detected on chromosomes V, X and XII, with the most significant one located on chromosome X. Although the progeny clones with T-type cytoplasm produced significantly lighter chips after cold storage, the cytoplasm type used as a covariate caused only minor modifications to the obtained QTL landscapes for chip color and proline content.
Physiological Responses of Juvenile Bullfrogs (Aquarana catesbeiana) to Salinity Stress
Authors: Zheng Xiaoting , Liang Xueying , Chen Qiuyu , Xie Jingyi , Dong Hongbiao , Yang Jinlong , Zhang Jiasong
Published: November 2024

Bullfrogs (Aquarana catesbeiana) are increasingly farmed for their high nutritional value and adaptability to intensive aquaculture systems. However, salinity stress due to environmental changes and habitat salinization poses a significant challenge for both wild and farmed bullfrogs. This study examines the physiological responses of juvenile bullfrogs to varying salinity levels (0, 2, 4, 6 ppt) to better understand their capacity for osmoregulation and adaptation to salinization. Juvenile bullfrogs underwent salinity treatments for one week, and various physiological parameters, including digestive enzyme activity, antioxidant enzyme activity, and serum biochemical indicators, were measured. The study revealed that moderate salinity (2–4 ppt) enhanced pepsin and amylase activity while maintaining high survival rates. However, higher salinity levels (6 ppt) impaired antioxidant defense mechanisms and liver tissue, increasing oxidative stress markers such as malondialdehyde (MDA). The results suggest that bullfrogs possess a degree of salt tolerance, which may predict their resilience to future landscape salinization driven by environmental changes. This research provides valuable insights into the osmoregulatory mechanisms of amphibians under salinity stress, addressing a critical gap in knowledge essential for both conservation and aquaculture management.
Variability in Distillers’ Co-Product Compositions and Their Nutritional Availability for Pigs: Insights from a Systematic Literature Review
Authors: Rech Herbert , Zem Fraga Alícia , Haubert Franceschi Carolina , Bonadiman Mariani Alexandre , Romeiro de Oliveira Caroline , Miotto Galli Gabriela , Létourneau-Montminy Marie-Pierre , Hauschild Luciano , Bertol Teresinha Marisa , Andretta Ines
Published: November 2024

This study aimed to examine the nutritional diversity of distillers’ co-products in pigs. Two distinct databases were used in this study. The first was compiled through a systematic review of previous scientific publications that have evaluated the chemical composition and nutritional availability of these ingredients for pigs. The final database included information collected from 49 studies published between 2003 and 2022. Most of the studies focused on distillers’ co-products produced from corn (90%) and assessed dried distillers grains with solubles (DDGS; 92%). A wide variety of nutritional compositions was observed in the selected studies, with coefficients of variation of 8% for gross energy and 13% for crude protein in dried distillers grains (DDGs). In the general database, half of the studies were published from 2003 to 2015 and the other half from 2015 to 2022. Greater variability in the net energy content and standardized ileal digestible lysine concentrations from 2015 to 2022 were the main concerns. The second database included information on high-protein dried distillers grains (HP-DDGs) collected directly from several feed mills and was built using the results of chemical analyses. These results suggest that the nutritional matrix of co-products should be assessed for each processing plant. Nevertheless, a coefficient of variation of up to 6% was found for crude protein and up to 20% for ether extract. Variability in nutritional composition is an important challenge of using distillers’ co-products in pig feed.
Fasciola hepatica Soluble Antigen (FhAg)-Induced NETs Under Hypoxic Conditions Exert Cytotoxic Effects on Hepatic Cells In Vitro
Authors: Muñoz-Caro Tamara , Quiroz Pamela , Abarca Cristina , Gómez-Ceruti Marcela , Alarcón Pablo , Teuber Stefanie , Navarro Max , Taubert Anja , Hermosilla Carlos , Burgos Rafael A.
Published: November 2024

Fasciola hepatica is a parasitic trematode that causes fasciolosis in sheep, provoking a decrease in their reproductive capacity, weight gain, meat and milk production, and wool quality. In the pathogenesis of F. hepatica, the penetration and migration of parasitic stages through the liver provoke intense inflammatory immune responses and tissue damage. The aim of this study was to investigate the cytotoxic effects of Fascila hepatica-induced ovine NETs in exposed hepatocytes in vitro, and to analyze whether F. hepatica antigens (FhAg) trigger the release of ovine NETs under hypoxic conditions as well as the roles of matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9) and CD11b in this cellular process in vitro. Here, isolated ovine PMNs were co-cultured with FhAg under hypoxia (5% O2) and NETs were visualized via immunofluorescence analyses, confirming their classical characteristics. The quantification of NETs in response to FhAg in hypoxic conditions significantly enhanced the formation of anchored and cell-free NETs (p < 0.01), and NADPH oxidase (NOX) inhibitor diphenylene iodonium (DPI) significantly reduced their production (p < 0.05). Furthermore, the cytotoxic effect of NETs on hepatic cells was determined by using a live/dead-staining with Sytox Orange, thereby demonstrating that FhAg-induced NETs are cytotoxic for hepatic cells (p = 0.001). We additionally analyzed PMN supernatants to determine the enzymatic activity of MMP-9, observing that FhAg exposure enhances MMP-9 release in ovine PMNs (p < 0.05) but not in bovine PMNs. Interestingly, by using flow cytometric analysis, we determined that the exposure of PMNs to FhAg does not increase the CD11b surface expression of ovine PMNs. This could be an effect of the activation of other surface receptors or transcription factors involved in F. hepatica-induced NETosis. Consequently, we hypothesize that F. hepatica-induced NETs play a role in the pathogenesis of fasciolosis, contributing to liver tissue damage if released in an uncontrolled manner.
Effects of β-Mannanase Alone or Combined with Multi-Carbohydrase Complex in Corn–Soybean Meal Diets on Nutrient Metabolism and Gut Health of Growing Pigs
Authors: Galli Gabriela Miotto , Andretta Ines , Carvalho Camila Lopes , Stefanello Thais B. , Souza de Lima Cony Bruna , Zem Fraga Alícia , Ludwig Takeuti Karine , da Rosa Aline Beatriz , Kipper Marcos
Published: November 2024

(1) Background: This study was performed to evaluate whether the addition of β-mannanase alone or combined with a multi-carbohydrase complex can improve diet digestibility, nutrient and energy metabolism, and the gut health of growing pigs. (2) Methods: Twenty-four pigs (35.56 ± 3.81 kg) were fed a control corn–soybean meal-based diet (no addition) or a control diet with β-mannanase (BM; 300 g/ton) or control diet β-mannanase plus a multi-carbohydrase complex including xylanase, β-glucanase, and arabinofuranosidases (BM + MCC; 300 + 50 g/ton) for 13 days. Total fecal and urine samples were collected from days 6 to 12. The feces samples were collected from all the pigs to determine fecal biomarkers using commercial ELISA tests. Blood samples were collected from all the pigs on day 13 to assess the serum concentrations of acute-phase proteins. All the pigs were euthanized on day 13 for intestinal tissue collection for morphometric analysis. Data were submitted to variance analysis and differences were considered significant at p ≤ 0.05 and a trend for 0.05 < p ≤ 0.10. (3) Results: The addition of BM and BM + MCC resulted in greater dry matter, protein, and energy digestibility coefficients, and protein (2.87% and 2.60%) and energy (2.61% and 1.44%) metabolizability coefficients compared to control (p < 0.05). A greater retention of nitrogen ratio and lower fecal energy were observed in BM and BM + MCC than in the control (p < 0.01). Furthermore, the addition of BM and BM + MCC resulted in lower manure production (29.78 and 49.77%, respectively) and fecal moisture (p < 0.001) compared to the control. The BM addition resulted in a greater villus area and villi height to crypt depth ratio compared to the control (p < 0.05). The addition of BM and BM + MCC diets also reduced the fecal calprotectin levels by 52 and 56% in relation to the control pigs. (4) Conclusions: The use of β-mannanase alone or associated with multi-carbohydrase complex improved nutritional digestibility, nutrient and energy metabolism, and gut health, and reduced the manure production of growing pigs.
Losing a Herd Mate: Negative Effects on Milk Yield and Udder Health Indicators in Loose-Housed Dairy Cattle
Authors: Valníčková Barbora , Bartošová Jitka , Bartoš Luděk
Published: November 2024

Feral cattle (Bos taurus) live in socially stable herds. Due to farm management practices, intensively managed dairy cows experience frequent regrouping, which can disrupt affiliative bonds and induce social stress. This study examines how changes in herd composition affect milk yield and udder health traits in resident dairy cows exposed to the withdrawal of herd members or the introduction of new individuals. Milk yield, electrical conductivity, and blood presence in milk were measured in 798 cows using precision dairy sensors over 9 years. Milk yield decreased significantly (p < 0.001) one day after the removal of familiar herd members, while introducing cows had no effect. A higher number of cows being withdrawn (up to 10) was associated with reduced milk yield (p < 0.001), elevated milk electrical conductivity (p = 0.01), and an increased prevalence of blood presence in milk (p = 0.01), which can indicate potential udder health issues linked to social stress. Holstein Friesian, primiparous, and first-lactation-stage cows were more affected than Czech Simental and multiparous cows later in lactation. These findings underscore the influence of social stability on dairy cow welfare and productivity, emphasising the need for strategies to mitigate stress when herd changes are necessary.