bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Lilium liangiae, a new species in the genus Lilium (Liliaceae) that reveals parallel evolution within morphology
Authors: Yuan Yumei , Gao Yundong
Published: March 2024

The former genus Nomocharis, which has been merged as a clade within the genus Lilium (Liliaceae), represents one of the most complicated and unclear groups included in the latter. Research on members of the Nomocharis clade has been quite limited due to the sampling difficulties caused by its selective environmental preferences. In this study, we propose a new species within this clade, Lilium liangiae, as a further bridge connecting the former genus Nomocharis with other members of the genus Lilium. We conducted morphological clustering, phylogenetic, and comparative genomics analyses of nuclear internal spacers and the newly generated complete chloroplast genome, in conjunction with previously published sequences, and performed ancestral state reconstruction to clarify the evolutionary pattern of important traits in Lilium. The clustering results of 38 morphological traits indicated that the new species is allied to Nomocharis, further increasing the morphological polymorphism in the latter. The phylogenetic results and morphological clustering both supported L. liangiae belonging to the subclade Ecristata in Nomocharis, its closest affinity being Lilium gongshanense. Inconsistencies in phylogenetic relationships were detected between nuclear and plastid datasets, possibly due to ancient hybridization and ongoing introgression. Comparative genomics revealed the conservation and similarity of their chloroplast genomes, with variations observed in the expansion and contraction of the IR regions. A/T and palindromic repeat sequences were the most abundant. Seven highly variable regions (Pi≥0.015) were identified as potential molecular markers based on the chloroplast genomes of 47 species within Lilium. Both nuclear and plastid genes exhibited very low variability within the Nomocharis clade, contrasting with their highly variable morphological appearance. The ancestral state reconstruction analysis suggests that the campanulate flower form, as in L. liangiae, arose at least three times within the genus Lilium, revealing parallel evolution in the latter. Overall, this study adds important genetic and morphological evidence for understanding the phylogenetic relationships and parallel evolution patterns of species within the genus Lilium.
Development and validation of a test instrument for the assessment of perceived basic motor competencies in first and second graders: the SEMOK-1-2 instrument
Authors: Bretz Kathrin , Strotmeyer Anne , Seelig Harald , Herrmann Christian
Published: March 2024

Both actual motor competencies (AMC) and perceived motor competencies (PMC) play an important role in motor development research and children's physical and psychological development. PMC refer to children's perceptions of their motor competencies. To assess the PMC of first and second grade children (aged 6–9 years), the SEMOK-1-2 instrument was developed. The instrument is aligned to the validated MOBAK-1-2 instrument which assesses AMC in the competence areas “object movement” and “self-movement” Accounting for possible reading difficulties in younger children, the motor tasks and answer options were illustrated and explained verbally. The purpose of this study was to test and validate the SEMOK-1-2 instrument and investigate the associations between the constructs AMC, PMC and physical activity (PA), whereby PA was measured by the participation in team and individual sports. Data from N = 404 pupils in the German-speaking part of Switzerland from first and second grades (M = 7.8 years, SD = 0.69, 49% boys) were analyzed. Confirmatory factor analyses were conducted to test the factorial validity of the SEMOK-1-2 instrument. Structural equation models were used to investigate the association between the constructs. The analyses confirmed a two-factor structure with the factors PMC “object movement” and PMC “self-movement”, corresponding to the factors existing in the MOBAK-1-2 instrument. Latent correlations between AMC factors and the corresponding PMC factors were r = 0.79 for “object movement” and r = 0.76 for “self-movement”. Associations with external criteria and covariates, such as sex, were associated with both AMC and PMC. Analyses also revealed that children who participated more often in individual and team sports showed higher levels in both AMC and PMC. The confirmation of the two-factorial structure of the SEMOK-1-2 instrument and the associations between AMC and PMC as well as external criteria indicate construct and criterion validity. The SEMOK-1-2 instrument can be economically utilized for assessing PMC and is also suitable for the monitoring of PMC in the context of Physical Education.
Toward an improved conceptualization of emotions in patients with cancer
Authors: Dekker Joost , Doppenberg-Smit Elise , Braamse Annemarie , Lamers Femke , van Linde Myra , Verheul Henk M. W. , Sprangers Mirjam , Beekman Aartjan T. F.
Published: March 2024

Cancer and its associated treatment is a major stressor, leading to emotions such as anxiety or depressive mood. Human emotions have developed through the course of evolution because they facilitate adaptation to important events, such as cancer and its associated treatment. On the other hand, emotions can be maladaptive and interfere with adaptation to cancer. Emotions are maladaptive if they are disproportionally severe or persistent, and if they interfere with functioning. We aim to expand the conceptualization of adaptive and maladaptive emotions in patients with cancer. We draw on major theories in the field of mental disorder and mental health, and apply these theories to conceptualize adaptive and maladaptive emotions in patients with cancer. (i) Maladaptive emotions have two essential features: mental dysfunction and patient harm. Maladaptive emotions are characterized by a network of strongly associated emotional symptoms, which may include cancer-related somatic symptoms. The dysfunctional symptom network is hypothesized to be the result of disturbance of life goal pursuit caused by cancer. (ii) Adaptive emotions have two essential features: ability to deal with cancer and functioning well. The ability to use emotions in an adaptive way depends on skills to recognize, express, and regulate emotions in a flexible manner. A secure attachment style facilitates adaptive emotional responses to cancer. The present conceptualization of adaptive and maladaptive emotions is expected to contribute to better understanding and management of emotions in patients with cancer.
Changes in body mass index and its association with socio-demographic characteristics between 2010 and 2016 in Singapore
Authors: Zhang Yunjue , Abdin Edimansyah , Sambasivam Rajeswari , Shafie Saleha , Roystonn Kumarasan , Vaingankar Janhavi Ajit , Chong Siow Ann , Subramaniam Mythily
Published: March 2024

Background

Epidemiological studies have observed an increase in the prevalence of obesity in both western and Asian countries. This study aims to compare the distribution of body mass index (BMI) in the general population of Singapore between 2010 and 2016, and to explore the socio-demographic risk factors associated with it.

Methods

Data for this study were extracted from two national-wise studies in 2010 and 2016, two population-based, cross-sectional epidemiological studies. BMI cut-off scores were used as an indicator to assess obesity in this study, and the data included in the analysis was self-reported by the respondents.

Results

Overall, the study observed decreasing prevalence in underweight and normal weight categories; and an increasing prevalence in overweight and obesity categories in the Singapore adult population between 2010 and 2016. Age, gender, ethnicity, marital status, and educational level were found to be significantly associated with BMI categories.

Conclusion

The observed increase in the population’s BMI between 2010 and 2016 may lead to an increase in the incidence of chronic diseases in Singapore. Our study findings add to the existing local literature and provides data for evidence-based policymaking on health-related interventions and program planning.
A systematic literature review: deep learning techniques for synthetic medical image generation and their applications in radiotherapy
Authors: Sherwani Moiz Khan , Gopalakrishnan Shyam
Published: March 2024

The aim of this systematic review is to determine whether Deep Learning (DL) algorithms can provide a clinically feasible alternative to classic algorithms for synthetic Computer Tomography (sCT). The following categories are presented in this study: ∙ MR-based treatment planning and synthetic CT generation techniques. ∙ Generation of synthetic CT images based on Cone Beam CT images. ∙ Low-dose CT to High-dose CT generation. ∙ Attenuation correction for PET images. To perform appropriate database searches, we reviewed journal articles published between January 2018 and June 2023. Current methodology, study strategies, and results with relevant clinical applications were analyzed as we outlined the state-of-the-art of deep learning based approaches to inter-modality and intra-modality image synthesis. This was accomplished by contrasting the provided methodologies with traditional research approaches. The key contributions of each category were highlighted, specific challenges were identified, and accomplishments were summarized. As a final step, the statistics of all the cited works from various aspects were analyzed, which revealed that DL-based sCTs have achieved considerable popularity, while also showing the potential of this technology. In order to assess the clinical readiness of the presented methods, we examined the current status of DL-based sCT generation.
Knowledge sharing in manufacturing using LLM-powered tools: user study and model benchmarking
Authors: Kernan Freire Samuel , Wang Chaofan , Foosherian Mina , Wellsandt Stefan , Ruiz-Arenas Santiago , Niforatos Evangelos
Published: March 2024

Recent advances in natural language processing enable more intelligent ways to support knowledge sharing in factories. In manufacturing, operating production lines has become increasingly knowledge-intensive, putting strain on a factory's capacity to train and support new operators. This paper introduces a Large Language Model (LLM)-based system designed to retrieve information from the extensive knowledge contained in factory documentation and knowledge shared by expert operators. The system aims to efficiently answer queries from operators and facilitate the sharing of new knowledge. We conducted a user study at a factory to assess its potential impact and adoption, eliciting several perceived benefits, namely, enabling quicker information retrieval and more efficient resolution of issues. However, the study also highlighted a preference for learning from a human expert when such an option is available. Furthermore, we benchmarked several commercial and open-sourced LLMs for this system. The current state-of-the-art model, GPT-4, consistently outperformed its counterparts, with open-source models trailing closely, presenting an attractive option given their data privacy and customization benefits. In summary, this work offers preliminary insights and a system design for factories considering using LLM tools for knowledge management.
Therapeutic adjuncts in the endoscopic management of urethral stricture disease: past, present, and future
Authors: Singh Jas
Published: March 2024

Urethral stricture disease is a recurrent and debilitating condition affecting many men of all ages. Management may involve endoscopic or surgical treatment. Surgical urethral reconstruction remains the gold standard treatment and is associated with higher success rates in terms of stricture recurrence free-survival. However, urethroplasty is not available to patients with significant medical comorbidities, or those wishing to forego invasive surgery. Endoscopic treatment is aimed at improving lower urinary tract symptoms and relieving obstruction while maximizing time to stricture recurrence with the aid of therapeutic adjuncts. The aim of this review is to discuss the mechanism of action and role of therapeutic adjuncts and highlight some of the lesser-known adjuncts that have been utilized with success in this space.
Fast urban inundation simulation with RIM2D for flood risk assessment and forecasting
Authors: Apel Heiko , Benisch Jakob , Helm Björn , Vorogushyn Sergiy , Merz Bruno
Published: March 2024

Introduction

Urban pluvial flooding is a growing concern worldwide as consequence of rising urban population and climate change induced increases in heavy rainfall. Easy-to-implement and fast simulation tools are needed to cope with this challenge.

Methods

This study describes the development of the parsimonious, GPU-accelerated hydraulic model RIM2D for urban pluvial flood simulations. This is achieved by considering the built-up urban area as flow obstacles, and by introducing capacity-based approaches to consider urban drainage by infiltration on pervious surfaces and sewer drainage from roofs and sealed surfaces. The model performance was analyzed by simulating 8 heavy rainfall events in a test area in the city of Dresden, Germany. For these events detailed discharge measurements of sewer discharge are available, providing a unique dataset for evaluating the sewer drainage simulation, which is of high importance for realistic pluvial inundation simulations in urban areas.

Results and discussion

We show that the model simulates the temporal dynamics of the sewer discharge and the sewer volume within acceptable ranges. Moreover, the erratic variation of the simulated to measured sewer discharge suggests that the deviations from the measurements are caused by the precipitation input rather than the model simplifications. We conclude that RIM2D is a valid tool for urban inundation simulation. Its short simulation runtimes allow probabilistic flood risk assessments and operational flood forecasts.
Creating Tiny Human “Organs” to Test medicines… and More!
Authors: Smirnova Lena , Hartung Thomas
Published: March 2024

Scientists have developed tiny cell models called microphysiological systems (MPSs) that mimic human organs, allowing medicines to be tested without using animals. MPS contain human cells carefully arranged to simulate a real organ’s structure and function. One type of MPS, called an organ-on-chip, also pumps fluids containing nutrients and oxygen through the model, similar to the function of blood flow in our bodies. These MPSs can test how medicines affect human cells and help scientists develop safer, more effective treatments for diseases. MPSs can also be personalized using a patient’s own cells, to find the best treatment for each person. While challenges remain, like cost and reliability, MPSs are steadily improving. Beyond testing medicines, they can be used to study dangerous environmental chemicals and to model diseases. We can even connect multiple “organs” to simulate the whole body. As these revolutionary technologies improve and become widely accepted, they could speed up drug development and reduce animal testing.
Effects of an integrative warm-up method on the range of motion, core stability, and quality of squat performance of young adults
Authors: Šćepanović Tijana , Kojić Miloš , Mikić Mladen , Štajer Valdemar , Ödek Uğur , Penjak Ana
Published: March 2024

Introduction

This research aims to determine the effects of an integrative warm-up method on the range of motion in joints of the lower extremities, the strength of the stabilizer trunk muscles, and the quality of the basic movement patterns in older adolescents.

Methods

The study sample consisted of 88 male students (age 20.1 ± 0.5). They were randomly divided into four groups: one control group (CG) (n = 17; 180.8 ± 7.9 cm; 82.3 ± 8.3 kg) and three experimental groups (EG): EG1 (n = 23; 180.9 ± 7.0 cm; 78.5 ± 9.5 kg), EG2 (n = 31; 182.2 cm ± 7.3 cm; 79.5 ± 11.5 kg), and EG3 (n = 17; 183.3 ± 4.9 cm; 77.5 ± 11.8 kg). The participants were subjected to a 6-week experimental treatment: EG1 once, EG2 twice, and EG3 three times a week. The experimental treatment consisted of four sub-phases representing the integrative warm-up Method: 1) Inhibition (self-myofascial release using a foam roller); 2) Lengthening (Static stretching in a maximum range of motion position); 3) Activation (Positional isometrics muscle activation of the trunk and gluteus); 4) Integration (Integrated all the previous phases into one complex movement pattern). Based on the covariance analysis (ANCOVA), statistically significant treatment effects were observed and positive changes were determined in all experimental groups.

Results

The differences between groups were observed in the following variables: Overhead Squat Assessment (p = 0.000;ηp2=0.318), range of motion of left hip flexion (p = 0.000;ηp2=0.371), range of motion of right hip flexion (p = 0.000;ηp2=0.051) and range of motion of right hip extension (p = 0.051;ηp2=0.088), Double Leg Lowering Test (F = 2.411;p = 0.014;ηp2=0.014) and range of combined motion (plantar and dorsiflexion) of left ankle joint (p = 0.000;ηp2=0.299). There was no significant difference in the Plank Test (F = 1.007;p = 1.007;ηp2=0.035), range of combined motion (plantar and dorsiflexion) of right ankle joint (p = 0.088;ηp2=0.170) and range of motion of left hip extension (p = 0.158;ηp2=0.060). The participants of CG statistically significantly differed from EG1, EG2, and EG3 in the squat performance after the applied treatment.

Discussion

The effect of the treatment was the occurrence of a transformational processes in almost all measured variables. It can be concluded that the integrative method is effective and applicable in practice for both young adults and recreational athletes.
Physical literacy, health and interactive aging: a position paper
Authors: Lloyd Rebecca J. , Smith Stephen , Sahingil Derya
Published: March 2024

Physical literacy (PL), a concept commonly associated with the early years, physical education, and youth sport development, can become a meaningful determinant of health and longevity for the adult and older adult population. A review of 55 recent publications from 2018 to 2023 that encompassed physical literacy conceptual frameworks, assessments, and intervention-based studies was undertaken through an heuristic inspired by the philosophy which gave birth to PL. With particular interest in how PL has evolved in response to the needs of an aging population, this position paper tracks a key shift in focus from the individual to the relational context. It references positive interaction and social participation in recent models as significant features of an across-the-lifespan PL perspective.The concluding position is that fostering joyful inter-action be at the heart of PL promotion, resource development and assessment practices, especially in the case of an aging population.
Concussion history and virtual reality metrics predict core or lower extremity injury occurrence among high school athletes
Authors: Wilkerson Gary B. , Wynn Kimberly R. , Dill Paige W. , Acocello Shellie , Carlson Lynette M. , Hogg Jennifer
Published: March 2024

Introduction

A history of concussion is recognized as a risk factor for musculoskeletal injury, which is likely associated with physiological effects that warrant better understanding. This study aimed to assess the potential of measurements obtained from an immersive virtual reality (VR) test to identify a subtle perceptual–motor impairment that may be prospectively associated with the occurrence of a core or lower extremity sprain or strain.

Methods

A cohort of 68 high school athletes (41 female soccer players and 27 male football players) provided survey responses and completed an immersive VR test several days prior to the initiation of preseason practice sessions. Measurements of eye, neck, arm, and whole-body displacements were obtained during 40 successive lunging/reaching responses to visual stimuli moving horizontally across the VR headset display. Injury occurrences were electronically documented from the initial preseason practice session to the final game of the season.

Results

A statistically significant and intrinsically credible two-factor prediction model for core or lower extremity injury occurrence included an interaction between female sex and a self-reported history of two or more concussions, along with slow response time (RT) for arm reach (OR = 4.67; 95% CI, 1.51–14.43). Follow-up analyses identified sex-specific cut points for arm reach RT associated with elevated injury risk, which were ≥1.385 s for females and ≥1.257 s for males.

Discussion

High school female soccer players who have sustained more than one concussion appear to be highly vulnerable to core or lower extremity sprain or strain, with the risk of injury compounded by a slow arm reach RT. Male football players as a group demonstrated significantly faster arm reach RT than that of female soccer players, but slow perceptual–motor RT for arm reach was also identified as a potentially important injury risk factor for male players. Immersive VR appears to provide precise measurements of behavioral performance characteristics that depend on brain processing efficiency. Given that the speed, accuracy, and consistency of perceptual–motor responses may be modifiable, future research should explore the potential benefits of VR training for reducing the risk of sport-related injuries.
Effective Relationships Between Younger Caregivers and Older Care Recipients Across a Continuum of Formal Residential Care Settings: A Scoping Review and a Critical Analysis
Authors: Dixon Carol-Ann , Roos Vera , Katjene Matthews , Hoffman Jaco
Published: March 2024

Objective:This article aims to conduct a scoping review of what constitutes effective relational interactions between caregivers (CGs) and older persons (OPs) across formal residential care settings.

Methods:A scoping review of publications between January 2000 and December 2021 yielded 10,929 articles, and after removing duplicates and applying exclusion criteria, 36 articles were analysed.

Results:Articles were scrutinised for interactions involving both CGs and OPs, using a thematic framework analysis to identify effective relational constructs. Four themes emerged: 1) Diverse perspectives on the same context: for OPs it is home, and for CGs, workplace. 2) CGs move for a one-up position and OPs submit to a one-down, or as friends. 3) Relational qualities have been mostly associated with CGs, confirming care as a unidirectional action 4). Relationships between CGs and OPs result either in effective or ineffective care outcomes.

Conclusion:The dual meanings attached to the same context limit the authentic interactions between CGs and OPs. We propose a relational caregiving approach by considering the interactions of both CGs and OPs, changing the relational definition, and demonstrating effective relational qualities.
Uncertainty in Visual Generative AI
Authors: Combs Kara , Moyer Adam , Bihl Trevor J.
Published: March 2024

Recently, generative artificial intelligence (GAI) has impressed the world with its ability to create text, images, and videos. However, there are still areas in which GAI produces undesirable or unintended results due to being “uncertain”. Before wider use of AI-generated content, it is important to identify concepts where GAI is uncertain to ensure the usage thereof is ethical and to direct efforts for improvement. This study proposes a general pipeline to automatically quantify uncertainty within GAI. To measure uncertainty, the textual prompt to a text-to-image model is compared to captions supplied by four image-to-text models (GIT, BLIP, BLIP-2, and InstructBLIP). Its evaluation is based on machine translation metrics (BLEU, ROUGE, METEOR, and SPICE) and word embedding’s cosine similarity (Word2Vec, GloVe, FastText, DistilRoBERTa, MiniLM-6, and MiniLM-12). The generative AI models performed consistently across the metrics; however, the vector space models yielded the highest average similarity, close to 80%, which suggests more ideal and “certain” results. Suggested future work includes identifying metrics that best align with a human baseline to ensure quality and consideration for more GAI models. The work within can be used to automatically identify concepts in which GAI is “uncertain” to drive research aimed at increasing confidence in these areas.
A CNN-GRU Hybrid Model for Predicting Airport Departure Taxiing Time
Authors: Yuan Ligang , Liu Jing , Chen Haiyan , Fang Daoming , Chen Wenlu
Published: March 2024

Scene taxiing time is an important indicator for assessing the operational efficiency of airports as well as green airports, and it is also a fundamental parameter in flight regularity statistics. The accurate prediction of taxiing time can help decision makers to further optimize flight pushback sequences and improve airport operational efficiency while increasing flight punctuality. In this paper, we propose a hybrid deep learning model for departure taxiing time prediction based on the new influence factors of taxiing time. Taking Pudong International Airport as the research object, after analyzing the scene operation mode, we construct the origin–destination pairs (ODPs) with stand groups and runways and then propose two structure-related factors, corridor departure flow and departure flow proportion of ODP, as the new features. Based on the new feature set, we construct a departure taxiing dataset for training the prediction model. Then, a departure taxiing time prediction model based on convolutional neural networks (CNNs) and gated recurrent units (GRUs) is proposed, which uses a CNN model to extract the high-dimensional features from the taxiing data and then inputs them to a GRU model for taxiing time prediction. Finally, we conduct a series of comparison experiments on the historical taxiing dataset of Pudong Airport. The prediction results show that the proposed hybrid prediction model has the best performances compared with other deep learning models, and the proposed structure-related features have high correlations with departure taxiing time. The prediction results of taxiing time for different ODPs also verify the generalizability of the proposed model.
Artificial Adult Diet as a New Tool for Improving a Biocontrol Program with Predatory Hoverflies
Authors: Gonzalez Noémie , Fournier Marc , Buitenhuis Rosemarije , Lucas Eric
Published: March 2024

Syrphine hoverflies (Diptera: Syrphinae) are important predators of aphids in agricultural crops. While the use of flowering plants to enhance their efficacy is well established, recent research has developed an artificial diet for adult hoverflies consisting of a sugar solution and pollen in a dispenser. To ensure that the artificial diet is suitable to support hoverfly reproduction, a comparative analysis was conducted between a natural diet of flowering buckwheat plants versus an artificial diet consisting of artificial flowers (including honey solution and pollen), complemented by a sugar solution disperser. The study evaluated the fecundity, fertility, oviposition period, egg hatchability, and overall lifespan of the American hoverfly, Eupeodes americanus (Wiedemann 1830). The results indicate that the artificial diet does not negatively impact the reproductive parameters of E. americanus when compared to the buckwheat-based diet. Consequently, artificial diets emerge as a promising and more convenient alternative to flowering plants to support hoverflies in biological control strategies and for their mass rearing in research facilities and commercial insectaries.
Aphid-Ant Relationships: The Role of Cuticular Hydrocarbons and Different Chemical Stimuli in Triggering Mutualistic Behavior
Authors: El-Harairy Amged , El-Harairy Ahmed , Mahfouz Alaa
Published: March 2024

In ant-aphid interactions, various aphid species offer honeydew to the ant partner and increase their density by ant attendance, whilst others never attend ant species, in which case ants tend to treat them as prey. In this regard, ants should have the ability to distinguish myrmecophile aphid species from non-mutualistic species, so that mutualistic aphids will be accepted as partners rather than prey. Although ant-aphid interactions are now the focus of chemical ecology studies, the role of the different chemical stimuli in determining mutualistic interactions has not been completely clarified. Therefore, we have investigated the cuticular hydrocarbon profile of four myrmecophiles aphid species using GC-MS. We also investigated the behavior of the worker-ants (Lasius niger L., Hymenoptera: Formicidae) to different chemical stimuli derived from aphids. We applied four treatments and found that the behavior of the ant workers varied depending on the source of the different treatments. In particular, the real aphid Aphis pomi and the sugar solution proved to be the most attractive to the ants, while the presence of pure extract of the individuals is enough to disturb the behavior of the ants. We provide evidence that the key stimuli of the tending behavior could be the CHC patterns of the aphids and the CHC profile of the aphids tends to be genus specific. This research will promote further investigations to test the behavior of ant workers towards other species of aphids and treatment combinations.
Modeling and Analysis of Rice Root Water Uptake under the Dual Stresses of Drought and Waterlogging
Authors: Huang Jie , Dong Wei , Liu Luguang , Hu Tiesong , Pan Shaobin , Yang Xiaowei , Qin Jianan
Published: March 2024

The development of an accurate root water-uptake model is pivotal for evaluating crop evapotranspiration; understanding the combined effect of drought and waterlogging stresses; and optimizing water use efficiency, namely, crop yield [kg/ha] per unit of ET [mm]. Existing models often lack quantitative approaches to depicting crop root water uptake in scenarios of concurrent drought and waterlogging moisture stresses. Addressing this as our objective; we modified the Feddes root water-uptake model by revising the soil water potential response threshold and by introducing a novel method to calculate root water-uptake rates under simultaneous drought and waterlogging stresses. Then, we incorporated a water stress lag effect coefficient, φWs, that investigated the combined effect of historical drought and waterlogging stress events based on the assumption that the normalized influence weight of each past stress event decreases with an increase in the time interval before simulation as an exponential function of the decay rate. Further, we tested the model parameters and validated the results obtained with the modified model using data from three years (2016–2018) of rice (Oryza sativa, L) trails with pots in Bengbu, China. The modified Feddes model significantly improved precision by 9.6% on average when calculating relative transpiration rates, particularly post-stress recovery, and by 5.8% on average when simulating soil moisture fluctuations during drought periods. The root mean square error of relative transpiration was reduced by 60.8%, and soil water was reduced by 55.1%. By accounting for both the accumulated impact of past moisture stress and current moisture conditions in rice fields, the modified model will be useful in quantifying rice transpiration and rice water use efficiency in drought–waterlogging-prone areas in southern China.
Design and Parametric Optimization Study of an Eccentric Parallelogram-Type Uprighting Device for Ratoon Rice Stubbles
Authors: Xing Shuaifeng , Yu Yang , Cao Guangqiao , Hu Jinpeng , Zhu Linjun , Liu Junyu , Wu Qinhao , Li Qibin , Xu Lizhang
Published: March 2024

To address the issue of reduced yield in the second season caused by damaged stubbles resulting from being compressed during the harvesting process of the first season’s ratoon rice, a device for rectifying the compressed stubbles was designed. Utilizing the DEM-MBD coupling simulation method, a simulation analysis was conducted to determine the range of key parameters and verify the feasibility of the solution. Using rotational speed, forward speed, and stubble entry angle as experimental factors and stubble rectification rate and second-season yield as evaluation metrics, a three-factor, three-level Box–Behnken response surface field trial was conducted. The theoretically optimal working parameter combination was found to be a forward speed of 1.4 m/s, device rotational speed of 75 rpm, and stubble entry angle of 39°. Under these conditions, three parallel experiments were performed, resulting in a rectification rate of 90.35% in the mechanically harvested and compressed area and a second-season yield of 2202.64 ± 35 kg/hm2. The deviation from the numerical simulation results of parameter optimization was less than 5%. These findings suggest that the designed stubble rectification device for ratoon rice can meet the requirements of stubble rectification during the first-season harvest of ratoon rice. Furthermore, it provides valuable insights for reducing harvest losses in the first season and further improving the level of mechanized harvesting for ratoon rice.
Detection of Orchard Apples Using Improved YOLOv5s-GBR Model
Authors: Sun Xingdong , Zheng Yukai , Wu Delin , Sui Yuhang
Published: March 2024

The key technology of automated apple harvesting is detecting apples quickly and accurately. The traditional detection methods of apple detection are often slow and inaccurate in unstructured orchards. Therefore, this article proposes an improved YOLOv5s-GBR model for orchard apple detection under complex natural conditions. First, the researchers collected photos of apples in their natural environments from different angles; then, we enhanced the dataset by changing the brightness, rotating the images, and adding noise. In the YOLOv5s network, the following modules were introduced to improve its performance: First, the YOLOv5s model’s backbone network was swapped out for the GhostNetV2 module. The goal of this improvement was to lessen the computational burden on the YOLOv5s algorithm while increasing the detection speed. Second, the bi-level routing spatial attention module (BRSAM), which combines spatial attention (SA) with bi-level routing attention (BRA), was used in this study. By strengthening the model’s capacity to extract important characteristics from the target, its generality and robustness were enhanced. Lastly, this research replaced the original bounding box loss function with a repulsion loss function to detect overlapping targets. This model performs better in detection, especially in situations involving occluded and overlapping targets. According to the test results, the YOLOv5s-GBR model improved the average precision by 4.1% and recall by 4.0% compared to those of the original YOLOv5s model, with an impressive detection accuracy of 98.20% at a frame rate of only 101.2 fps. The improved algorithm increases the recognition accuracy by 12.7%, 10.6%, 5.9%, 2.7%, 1.9%, 0.8%, 2.6%, and 5.3% compared to those of YOLOv5-lite-s, YOLOv5-lite-e, yolov4-tiny, YOLOv5m, YOLOv5l, YOLOv8s, Faster R-CNN, and SSD, respectively, and the YOLOv5s-GBR model can be used to accurately recognize overlapping or occluded apples, which can be subsequently deployed in picked robots to meet the realistic demand of real-time apple detection.
Interaction of Gibberellic Acid and Glyphosate on Growth and Phenolic Metabolism in Soybean Seedlings
Authors: Hoagland Robert E. , Boyette Clyde Douglas
Published: March 2024

The plant growth regulator gibberellic acid (GA) and the herbicide glyphosate were examined for their possible interactions with growth and phenolic metabolism in soybean [Glycine max (L.) Merr. Cv. Hill] seedlings. GA caused increases in phenylalanine ammonia-lyase activity (PAL) (per axis basis) above those of the control seedling levels 48 h after treatment in light-grown seedlings. This effect increased to two-fold greater than control levels by 72 and 96 h after treatment. In dark-grown plants, GA had no effect on PAL levels at 24 h, reduced levels at 48 and 72 h, and increased PAL at 96 h. Early studies in our lab reported that glyphosate increased PAL levels, and also reduced hydroxyphenolic compound accumulation in both light- and dark-grown soybean seedlings. Treatments of GA plus glyphosate caused additive increases in PAL activity in light-grown seedlings, but GA lowered glyphosate’s increase in PAL levels at 48–96 h after treatment in dark-grown seedlings. GA had little effect on hydroxyphenolic compound levels in either light- or dark-grown seedlings. GA treatment alone did not significantly affect root elongation, but stimulated hypocotyl and epicotyl elongation and caused marginal reversal of glyphosate inhibition of elongation in roots, hypocotyls, and epicotyls in light-grown plants. These results show some differential effects of GA and glyphosate on growth and phenolic metabolism, and their interactions that are dependent on plants grown in light or darkness.
Impacts of Cropping Systems on Glyphosate and Aminomethylphosphonic Acid Contents and Microbial Community in Field Crop Soils in Quebec (Canada)
Authors: Overbeek William , Lucotte Marc , D’Astous-Pagé Joël , Jeanne Thomas , Pin Clara , Moingt Matthieu , Hogue Richard
Published: March 2024

Glyphosate-based herbicide (GBH) usage is ubiquitous in Quebec field crops, apart from organic management. As glyphosate generally degrades rapidly in agricultural soils, aminomethylphosphonic acid (AMPA) is produced and persists longer than glyphosate. Repeated GBH applications year after year raise questions about glyphosate and AMPA pseudo-persistence in soils and its possible impacts on the soil microbial community. This research aims at understanding the influence of cropping systems and edaphic properties on glyphosate and AMPA contents and on the diversity and composition of the soil microbial community across nine field crop fields located in Southern Quebec (Canada) during 2019 and 2020. Average glyphosate soil contents (0.16 ± 0.15 µg·g−1 dry soil) were lower than average AMPA soil contents (0.37 ± 0.24 µg·g−1 dry soil). Glyphosate and AMPA contents were significantly lower at sites cultivated under organic management than conventional management. For conventional sites, cumulative GBH doses had a significant effect on glyphosate soil contents measured at the end of the growing season, but not on AMPA soil contents. Sites with higher GBH applications appear to accumulate glyphosate over time in the 0–40 cm soil horizon. Glyphosate and AMPA soil contents are inversely proportional to soil pH. Soil prokaryotic and fungal communities’ alpha-diversity, beta-diversity, and functional potential were not impacted by cumulative GBH doses, but rather by soil chemical properties, soil texture, crop rotation, and manure inputs.
The Influence of Combined Pruning and the Use of Root Application of Two Biostimulants and Foliar Nutrition on the Growth and Flowering of Panicle Hydrangea Plants
Authors: Świerczyński Sławomir , Świerczyńska Ilona
Published: March 2024

The aim of this experiment was to assess how the interaction of two treatments influenced the growth and flowering of two varieties of Panicle hydrangea shrubs. The first treatment was plant pruning. Simultaneously, the plants received one of the three following treatments: root application of Trichoderma atroviride, root application of BlackJak biostimulant, or foliar application of a multi-component fertilizer. Simultaneous pruning and inoculation of the plants with the Trichoderma atroviride mycelium improved the length of hydrangea shoots the most, as compared with the control plants (18%). These two treatments also increased the number of flowers (16–47%, depending on the variety) and the fresh weight of plants (10–28%) compared with the control plants. T. atroviride alone improved the number of flowers in both varieties (19–24%) and the diameter of inflorescences in the ‘Silver Dollar’ one (17%). The foliar nutrition increased the fresh weight of plants by 7–57%, depending on the cultivar and pruning. It also increased the diameter and number of inflorescences in one of the varieties. Together with pruning, it intensified the growth of shoots in both cultivars (5–10%). The BlackJak biostimulant treatment gave ambiguous results. In combination with pruning, it improved the length of shoots (15%) in one cultivar and the fresh weight in the other (18%). Without pruning, the treatment increased the number of flowers (16%) and the diameter of inflorescences (9%) in one cultivar. It increased the fresh weight of plants in both cultivars (19–21%). Regardless of the other treatments, pruning increased the length of the shoots and the fresh weight of the plants. On the other hand, it reduced the number of flowers and their diameter. In most cases, the biostimulant treatment and foliar fertilization improved the growth and flowering of the plants. In combination with pruning, they improved the growth of the hydrangea shrubs but reduced the number and diameter of flowers. The simultaneous Ta treatment and pruning were the most beneficial for the growth and flowering of the panicled hydrangea plants grown in containers in a nursery.
The Development of a Risk Assessment Model for Inedible Rendering Plants in Canada: Identifying and Selecting Feed Safety-Related Factors
Authors: Lachapelle Virginie , Comeau Geneviève , Quessy Sylvain , Zanabria Romina , Rhouma Mohamed , van Vonderen Tony , Snelgrove Philip , Kashi Djillali , Bosch My-Lien , Smillie John , Holley Rick , Brockhoff Egan , Costa Marcio , Gaucher Marie-Lou , Chorfi Younes , Racicot Manon
Published: March 2024

The Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) is developing an establishment-based risk assessment model to categorize rendering plants that produce livestock feed ingredients (ERA-Renderer model) according to animal and human health risks (i.e., feed safety risks) and help in determining the allocation of inspection resources based on risk. The aim of the present study was to identify and select feed-safety-related factors and assessment criteria for inclusion in the ERA-Renderer model. First, a literature review was performed to identify evidence-based factors that impact the feed safety risk of livestock feed during its rendering processes. Secondly, a refinement process was applied to retain only those that met the inclusion conditions, such as data availability, lack of ambiguity, and measurability. Finally, an expert panel helped in selecting factors and assessment criteria based on their knowledge and experience in the rendering industry. A final list of 32 factors was developed, of which 4 pertained to the inherent risk of a rendering plant, 8 were related to risk mitigation strategies, and 20 referred to the regulatory compliance of a rendering plant. A total of 179 criteria were defined to assess factors based on practices in the Canadian rendering industry. The results of this study will be used in the next step of the model development to estimate the relative risks of the assessment criteria considering their impact on feed safety. Once implemented, the CFIA’s ERA-Renderer model will provide an evidence-based, standardized, and transparent approach to help manage the feed safety risks in Canada’s rendering sector.
A Model for Consumer Acceptance of Insect-Based Dog Foods among Adult UK Dog Owners
Authors: Pinney Joanne , Costa-Font Montserrat
Published: March 2024

The use of alternative proteins is becoming more common in pet feed, and insect-based dog foods (IBDFs) are becoming more widely available. However, little research has been conducted to date in respect of the drivers for consumers’ acceptance of IBDF. This study aimed to investigate the acceptance of IBDF among adult UK dog owners and the factors influencing the decision to try and buy such products. A theoretical model was developed following a review of the existing literature. An online survey of 280 participants was carried out and the results were analysed using structural equation modelling (SEM) to test the theoretical model. The following constructs all had a significant impact on attitudes towards IBDF and/or intentions to try and buy IBDF: food preferences for animal welfare, health and environment; attitudes towards uses of animals; beliefs about insect sentience; disgust; perceptions of benefits and risks; and social norms. Social norms had the strongest influence of any single construct. Consumer acceptance of IBDF is multi-faceted including social, cultural and ethical components, and it is likely that the better availability of information and opportunities for consumers to familiarise themselves with IBDF would help to drive consumer acceptance. In order to allow dog owners to make informed decisions in line with their ethical preferences, further research is needed to establish the overall health and welfare implications of IBDF on the animals involved in production, as well as the companion animals, who are the ultimate consumers.
Dogs in Lithuania from the 12th to 18th C AD: Diet and Health According to Stable Isotope, Zooarchaeological, and Historical Data
Authors: Piličiauskienė Giedrė , Skipitytė Raminta , Micelicaitė Viktorija , Blaževičius Povilas
Published: March 2024

This article presents the results of research that focused on the nutrition and related health issues of medieval and early modern dogs found in the territory of present-day Lithuania. In this study, we present bone collagen carbon (δ13C) and nitrogen (δ15N) isotope ratios for seventy-five dogs recovered from seven sites which were dated back to the between the 12th and 18th C AD. In addition, by studying the remains of almost 200 dogs, we were able to estimate changes in the sizes and morphotypes of canines across over 600 years. On the basis of stable isotope and historical data, as well as the osteometric analysis, we discuss the dietary patterns of different sizes and types of dogs from the sites related to different social strata and time periods. The results of our study demonstrate that the size, type, diet, and health of canines from different time periods and sociocultural environments varied. Overall, carbon isotopic signals indicate that dogs’ diets were based on C3 plant environment foods (cereals and animals), while freshwater fish was more important for some individuals in coastal Klaipėda/Memelburg Castle. The stable isotope analysis supported the historical records, indicating that cereals were highly important in the diet of elite dogs. Meanwhile, urban dogs had a different nutrition. In the Middle Ages, the consumption of plant-based foods was likely higher compared to the early modern period. Our study also revealed that the diets of dogs did not correlate with individual size. Compared to pigs, dogs had a higher intake of animal foods in their diet. In general, the nutrition of the studied canines was similar to that of the rural human population of the same period.