bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Mesoscale phenomena and their contribution to the global response: a focus on the magnetotail transition region and magnetosphere-ionosphere coupling
Authors: Gabrielse Christine , Gkioulidou Matina , Merkin Slava , Malaspina David , Turner Drew L. , Chen Margaret W. , Ohtani Shin-ichi , Nishimura Yukitoshi , Liu Jiang , Birn Joachim , Deng Yue , Runov Andrei , McPherron Robert L. , Keesee Amy , Yin Lui Anthony Tat , Sheng Cheng , Hudson Mary , Gallardo-Lacourt Bea , Angelopoulos Vassilis , Lyons Larry , Wang Chih-Ping , Spanswick Emma L. , Donovan Eric , Kaeppler Stephen Roland , Sorathia Kareem , Kepko Larry , Zou Shasha
Published: April 2023

An important question that is being increasingly studied across subdisciplines of Heliophysics is “how do mesoscale phenomena contribute to the global response of the system?” This review paper focuses on this question within two specific but interlinked regions in Near-Earth space: the magnetotail’s transition region to the inner magnetosphere and the ionosphere. There is a concerted effort within the Geospace Environment Modeling (GEM) community to understand the degree to which mesoscale transport in the magnetotail contributes to the global dynamics of magnetic flux transport and dipolarization, particle transport and injections contributing to the storm-time ring current development, and the substorm current wedge. Because the magnetosphere-ionosphere is a tightly coupled system, it is also important to understand how mesoscale transport in the magnetotail impacts auroral precipitation and the global ionospheric system response. Groups within the Coupling, Energetics and Dynamics of Atmospheric Regions Program (CEDAR) community have also been studying how the ionosphere-thermosphere responds to these mesoscale drivers. These specific open questions are part of a larger need to better characterize and quantify mesoscale “messengers” or “conduits” of information—magnetic flux, particle flux, current, and energy—which are key to understanding the global system. After reviewing recent progress and open questions, we suggest datasets that, if developed in the future, will help answer these questions.
Assessment of batch culture conditions for cyanobacterial propagation for a bioreactor in space
Authors: Fahrion Jana , Dussap Claude Gilles , Leys Natalie
Published: April 2023

One important point in human space exploration is the reliable air, water and food production for the space crew, less dependent from cargo supply. Bioregenerative life support systems aim to overcome this challenge. The life support program MELiSSA of the European Space Agency uses the cyanobacterium Limnospira indica for air revitalization and food production. In the Space flight experiments ArtEMISS-B and -C, L. indica is tested on the International Space Station. In this study we elucidate which conditions are most favorable for cell propagation from inoculum to a full culture in space to enable a high final biomass concentration, with high pigment composition for an efficient bioprocess. We found that lower light intensities (36–75 µmol photons m-2 s-1) show higher maximum biomass densities and higher pigment contents than cultures grown above 100 µmol photons m-2 s-1. 36 μmol photons m-2 s-1 resulted in maximum biomass concentrations of 3.36 ± 0.15 g L-1 (23 °C), while cultures grown at 140 µmol photons m-2 s-1 only achieved concentrations of 0.82 ± 0.10 g L-1 (25°C) (−75.8%). Colder temperatures (21°C–25°C) showed a negative effect on the pigment content. At 36 µmol photons m-2 s-1, a temperature of 30°C gave a phycocyanin concentration of 0.122 ± 0.014 g g DW-1 and 23°C resulted in 0.030 ± 0.003 g g DW-1 (−75.4%). In conclusion, a low light intensity (36–80 µmol photons m-2 s-1) in combination with warm temperature (30°C–34°C) is optimal to obtain cultures with high pigment contents and high biomass concentrations in a batch culture.
Case report: Thymoid differentiated carcinoma of thyroid: Two cases
Authors: Zhao Yanjie , Liu Jiafeng
Published: April 2023

Objective

Thymoid carcinoma of the thyroid gland is a rare thyroid tumor, which is often presented in case reports.

Methods

The clinical data of two patients with thymic carcinoma of the thyroid gland were retrospectively reviewed.

Results

Case 1: a middle-aged woman who was admitted to the hospital because of “progressive enlargement of the anterior cervical mass for 8 months.” Color Doppler ultrasound and CT showed malignant tumor with high possibility of bilateral cervical lymph node metastasis. Total thyroidectomy and bilateral central cervical lymph node dissection were performed. Lymph node biopsy showed the metastasis of small cell undifferentiated thyroid carcinoma. Because the biopsy pathological result was not consistent with the pathology of the primary lesion, immunohistochemistry was performed again, and the final diagnosis was thymic carcinoma in the thyroid gland. Case 2: the patient was an elderly man who was admitted to the hospital due to hoarseness for half a month. During the operation, the tumor invaded the trachea, esophagus, internal jugular vein, common carotid artery, and surrounding tissues. Palliative resection of the tumor was performed. The tumor postoperative pathology suggested thymoid carcinoma of the thyroid gland. It recurred and compressed the trachea 4 months after the operation, resulting in dyspnea of the patient, and finally tracheotomy was performed to alleviate the symptoms.

Conclusion

Case 1 showed multiple differences in pathological diagnosis, suggesting that the lack of specific imaging and clinical manifestations of thymoid-differentiated thyroid carcinoma made the diagnosis so difficult. Case 2 progressed rapidly, suggesting that thymoid-differentiated thyroid carcinoma was not always inert, and the treatment and follow-up should follow the principle of individualization.
Holistic analysis of lysine acetylation in aquaculture pathogenic bacteria Vibrio alginolyticus under bile salt stress
Authors: Xiao Xing , Li Wanxin , Pan Yanfang , Wang Junlin , Wei Zhiqing , Wang Shi , Wang Na , Jian Jichang , Pang Huanying
Published: April 2023

Lysine acetylation modification is a dynamic and reversible post-translational modification, which plays an important role in the metabolism and pathogenicity of pathogenic bacteria. Vibrio alginolyticus is a common pathogenic bacterium in aquaculture, and bile salt can trigger the expression of bacterial virulence. However, little is known about the function of lysine acetylation in V. alginolyticus under bile salt stress. In this study, 1,315 acetylated peptides on 689 proteins were identified in V. alginolyticus under bile salt stress by acetyl-lysine antibody enrichment and high-resolution mass spectrometry. Bioinformatics analysis found that the peptides motif ****A*Kac**** and *******Kac****A* were highly conserved, and protein lysine acetylation was involved in regulating various cellular biological processes and maintaining the normal life activities of bacteria, such as ribosome, aminoacyl-tRNA biosynthesis, fatty acid metabolism, two-component system, and bacterial secretion system. Further, 22 acetylated proteins were also found to be related to the virulence of V. alginolyticus under bile salt stress through secretion system, chemotaxis and motility, and adherence. Finally, comparing un-treated and treated with bile salt stress lysine acetylated proteins, it was found that there were 240 overlapping proteins, and found amino sugar and nucleotide sugar metabolism, beta-Lactam resistance, fatty acid degradation, carbon metabolism, and microbial metabolism in diverse environments pathways were significantly enriched in bile salt stress alone. In conclusion, this study is a holistic analysis of lysine acetylation in V. alginolyticus under bile salt stress, especially many virulence factors have also acetylated.
Characterization of exercise-induced hemolysis in endurance horses
Authors: Pakula Patrycja D. , Halama Anna , Al-Dous Eman K. , Johnson Sarah J. , Filho Silvio A. , Suhre Karsten , Vinardell Tatiana
Published: April 2023

Exercise-induced hemolysis occurs as the result of intense physical exercise and is caused by metabolic and mechanical factors including repeated muscle contractions leading to capillary vessels compression, vasoconstriction of internal organs and foot strike among others. We hypothesized that exercise-induced hemolysis occurred in endurance racehorses and its severity was associated with the intensity of exercise. To provide further insight into the hemolysis of endurance horses, the aim of the study was to deployed a strategy for small molecules (metabolites) profiling, beyond standard molecular methods. The study included 47 Arabian endurance horses competing for either 80, 100, or 120 km distances. Blood plasma was collected before and after the competition and analyzed macroscopically, by ELISA and non-targeted metabolomics with liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry. A significant increase in all hemolysis parameters was observed after the race, and an association was found between the measured parameters, average speed, and distance completed. Levels of hemolysis markers were highest in horses eliminated for metabolic reasons in comparison to finishers and horses eliminated for lameness (gait abnormality), which may suggest a connection between the intensity of exercise, metabolic challenges, and hemolysis. Utilization of omics methods alongside conventional methods revealed a broader insight into the exercise-induced hemolysis process by displaying, apart from commonly measured hemoglobin and haptoglobin, levels of hemoglobin degradation metabolites. Obtained results emphasized the importance of respecting horse limitations in regard to speed and distance which, if underestimated, may lead to severe damages.
Regulation of semen quality by fatty acids in diets, extender, and semen
Authors: Yuan Chongshan , Wang Jun , Lu Wenfa
Published: April 2023

Fatty acids (FAs) are classified into different types according to the degree of hydrocarbon chain saturation, including saturated fatty acids (SFAs), monounsaturated fatty acids (MUFAs), omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (omega-3 PUFAs) and omega-6 polyunsaturated fatty acids (omega-6 PUFAs), which play an important role in maintaining semen quality. This review focuses on the regulation of FAs in semen, diet and extender on semen quality, and expounds its effects on sperm motility, plasma membrane integrity, DNA integrity, hormone content, and antioxidant capacity. It can be concluded that there are species differences in the FAs profile and requirements in sperm, and their ability to regulate semen quality is also affected by the addition methods or dosages. Future research directions should focus on analyzing the FAs profiles of different species or different periods of the same species and exploring suitable addition methods, doses and mechanism of regulating semen quality.
The long-distance relationship between Dirofilaria and the UK: case report and literature review
Authors: Panarese Rossella , Moore Rhiannon , Page Antony P. , McDonald Mike , MacDonald Emma , Weir William
Published: April 2023

Over the last two decades, vector-borne pathogens (VBPs) have changed their distribution across the globe as a consequence of a variety of environmental, socioeconomic and geopolitical factors. Dirofilaria immitis and Dirofilaria repens are perfect exemplars of European VBPs of One Health concern that have undergone profound changes in their distribution, with new hotspots of infection appearing in previously non-endemic countries. Some areas, such as the United Kingdom, are still considered non-endemic. However, a combination of climate change and the potential spread of invasive mosquito species may change this scenario, exposing the country to the risk of outbreaks of filarial infections. Only a limited number of non-autochthonous cases have been recorded in the United Kingdom to date. These infections remain a diagnostic challenge for clinicians unfamiliar with these “exotic” parasites, which in turn complicates the approach to treatment and management. Therefore, this review aims to (i) describe the first case of D. repens infection in a dog currently resident in Scotland, (ii) summarise the available literature on Dirofilaria spp. infections in both humans and animals in the United Kingdom and (iii) assess the suitability of the United Kingdom for the establishment of these new VBPs.
Transcriptome sequencing reveals the effects of circRNA on testicular development and spermatogenesis in Qianbei Ma goats
Authors: Tang Wen , Xu Qiang Hou , Chen Xiang , Guo Wei , Ao Zheng , Fu Kaibin , Ji Taotao , Zou Yue , Chen Jing Jia , Zhang Yuan
Published: April 2023

Circular RNAs (circRNAs) play an important role in regulating the mammalian reproductive system, especially testicular development and spermatogenesis. However, their functions in testicular development and spermatogenesis in the Qianbei Ma goat, the Guizhou endemic breed are still unclear. In this study, tissue sectioning and circRNAs transcriptome analysis were conducted to compare the changes of morphology and circular RNAs gene expression profile at four different developmental stages (0Y, 0-month-old; 6Y, 6-month-old; 12Y, 12-month-old; 18Y, 18-month-old). The results showed that the circumferences and area of the seminiferous tubule gradually increased with age, and the lumen of the seminiferous tubule in the testis differentiated significantly. 12,784 circRNAs were detected from testicular tissues at four different developmental stages by RNA sequencing, and 8,140 DEcircRNAs (differentially expressed circRNAs) were found in 0Y vs. 6Y, 6Y vs. 12Y, 12Y vs. 18Y and 0Y vs. 18Y, 0Y vs. 12Y, 6Y vs. 18Y Functional enrichment analysis of the source genes showed that they were mainly enriched in testicular development and spermatogenesis. In addition, the miRNAs and mRNAs associated with DECircRNAs in 6 control groups were predicted by bioinformatics, and 81 highly expressed DECircRNAs and their associated miRNAs and mRNAs were selected to construct the ceRNA network. Through functional enrichment analysis of the target genes of circRNAs in the network, some candidate circRNAs related to testicular development and spermatogenesis were obtained. Such as circRNA_07172, circRNA_04859, circRNA_07832, circRNA_00032 and circRNA_07510. These results will help to reveal the mechanism of circRNAs in testicular development and spermatogenesis, and also provide some guidance for goat reproduction.
Parallel Network-Based Sliding Mode Tracking Control for Robotic Manipulators with Uncertain Dynamics
Authors: Wu Honggang , Zhang Xinming , Song Linsen , Zhang Yufei , Wang Chen , Zhao Xiaonan , Gu Lidong
Published: April 2023

Robot dynamics model uncertainty and unpredictable external perturbations are important factors that influence control accuracy and stability. To accurately compensate for the dynamics model in sliding mode control (SMC), a new parallel network (PCR) is proposed in this paper. The network parallelizes the radial basis function and convolutional neural network, which gives it the advantage of making full use of one-dimensional data fitting results and two-dimensional data feature information, realizing the deep learning of multidimensional data and improving the model’s compensation accuracy and anti-interference ability. Meanwhile, based on the integration of adaptive control techniques and gradient descent, a new weight update algorithm is designed to realize the online learning of PCR networks under loss-free functions. Then, a new sliding mode controller (PCR-SMC) is established. The model-free intelligent control of the robot is accomplished without knowledge of the predetermined upper bounds. Additionally, the stability analysis of the control system is proved by the Lyapunov theorem. Lastly, robot tracking control simulations are performed on two trajectories. The results demonstrate the high-precision tracking performance of this controller in comparison with the RBF-SMC controller.
A Simplified Thermal Analysis Model for Regeneratively Cooled Rocket Engine Thrust Chambers and Its Calibration with Experimental Data
Authors: Fagherazzi Matteo , Santi Marco , Barato Francesco , Pizzarelli Marco
Published: April 2023

An essential part of the design of a liquid rocket engine is the thermal analysis of the thrust chamber, which is a component whose operative life is limited by the maximum allowable wall temperature and heat flux. A simplified steady-state thermal analysis model for regeneratively cooled rocket engine thrust chambers is presented. The model is based on semi-empirical correlations for the hot-gas and coolant convective heat transfer and on an original multi-zone approach for the wall conduction. The hot-gas heat transfer is calibrated with experimental data taken from an additively manufactured water-cooled nozzle that is connected to a combustion chamber either fed with decomposed hydrogen peroxide or decomposed hydrogen peroxide and automotive diesel. The thrust chamber (i.e., combustion chamber and nozzle) is designed to produce about 450 N of thrust when operating with a chamber pressure of 11 bar. For this application, the calibrated model predicts the total wall heat transfer rate very accurately and the temperature distribution within the wall structure with an uncertainty of a few tens of kelvins. This level of accuracy can be considered more than adequate for the design, and generally for engineering-type thermal analysis, of similar thrust chambers.
Conceptual Design of a Robotic Ground-Aerial Vehicle with an Aeroelastic Wing Model for Mars Planetary Exploration
Authors: Ayele Wolduamlak , Maldonado Victor
Published: April 2023

This paper presents the technical barriers and an analysis to advance the conceptual development of novel robotic ground-aerial vehicles (RGAVs) for exploration missions to Mars prior to human arrival and the establishment of a base. The concept for RGAVs for Mars planetary exploration is novel, and will require innovations that are at various stages of development or use by the aerospace community. The RGAV concept will utilize inflatable wing technology, which increases the flexibility of the wing, and thus the possibility of structural dynamic instabilities that must be studied in the context of the Martian atmosphere. An aeroelastic model for wing bending is proposed, which considers wind gusts where the change in wind direction is up to ±6° from the mean, and a turbulence intensity of up to 20%. Their effect on the bending displacement of a semi-elastic wing is quantified, resulting in a maximum wing tip displacement of 16.2 cm. Low-fidelity computational aerodynamic analysis is performed using OpenVSP (3.31.1, NASA, Washington, DC, USA) to compute mean aerodynamic loads during cruise conditions at a cruise Mach number of 0.70. Finally, a non-linear adaptive control system is proposed for the longitudinal aerial dynamics and a proportional integral derivative (PID) controller is outlined for the ground roving lateral dynamics.
Validating Dynamic Sectorization for Air Traffic Control Due to Climate Sensitive Areas: Designing Effective Air Traffic Control Strategies
Authors: Ahrenhold Nils , Gerdes Ingrid , Mühlhausen Thorsten , Temme Annette
Published: April 2023

Dynamic sectorization is a powerful possibility to balance the controller workload with respect to traffic flows changing over time. A multi-objective optimization system analyzes the traffic flow over time and determines suitable time-dependent sectorizations. Our dynamic sectorization system is integrated into a radar display as part of a working environment for air traffic controllers. A use case defining climate-sensitive areas leads to changes in traffic flows. When using the system, three controllers are assessed in two scenarios: the developed controller assistance system and the work in a dynamic airspace sectorization environment. We performed a concept validation in which we evaluated how controllers cope with sectors adapting to the traffic flow. The solution was rated as highly applicable by the involved controllers. The trials revealed the necessity to adapt the current procedures and define new aspects more precisely. In this paper, we present the developed environment and the theoretical background as well as the traffic scenarios. Furthermore, we describe the integration in an Air Traffic Management (ATM) environment and the questionnaires developed to assess the functionality of the dynamic sectorization approach. Finally, we present a proposal to enhance controller guidelines in order to cope with situations emerging from dynamic sectorizations, including naming conventions and phraseology.
Oblique Projection-Based Modal Matching Algorithm for LPV Model Order Reduction of Aeroservoelastic Systems
Authors: Liu Yishu , Gao Wei , Li Qifu , Lu Bei
Published: April 2023

An aeroservoelastic system can be described as a gridding-based linear parameter-varying (LPV) model, whose dynamic characteristics usually vary with the airspeed. Due to the high order of the system, it is necessary to perform order reduction on LPV models to overcome the control design challenges. However, when directly extending linear time-invariant (LTI) model order reduction technologies to the LPV system, states of the reduced-order LTI models generated separately at different grid points could be inconsistent. In this paper, a novel modal matching algorithm is proposed to solve the problem of state inconsistency by identifying the internal connection between the models at adjacent grid points. An oblique projection-based distance metric is defined to improve the reliability of the modal matching algorithm. The reduced-order LPV model constructed based on this method would have a high fidelity relative to the original model and a smooth interpolation performance between grid points. The proposed algorithm is applied to the X-56A aircraft, and numerical results show its effectiveness.
Free Fatty Acid Formation Points in Palm Oil Processing and the Impact on Oil Quality
Authors: Tan Bee Aik , Nair Anusha , Zakaria Mohd Ibnur Syawal , Low Jaime Yoke Sum , Kua Shwu Fun , Koo Ka Loo , Wong Yick Ching , Neoh Bee Keat , Lim Chin Ming , Appleton David Ross
Published: April 2023

Background: The level of free fatty acids (FFAs) is an important oil quality index that is consistently measured at mills and refineries to ensure that palm oil is within specification limits. FFAs can accumulate at any point throughout the process, for example, during fresh fruit bunch (FFB) harvesting or during the mill process before sterilisation. Another key contributor to FFA build-up is loose fruit (LF), which is collected following FFB harvesting and is commonly processed together with FFB into crude palm oil (CPO) at the mill. The aim of this study was to identify pivotal points of FFA formation during the process of crude palm oil production. Results: The present study shows that the highest FFA accumulation occurred during the conveying process at the mill before sterilisation due to significant fruit damage. The rapid formation of FFA occurred during the first 15 min of oil palm fruit bruising. A minimum temperature of 60 °C for one hour was needed to deactivate the lipase activity, which is responsible for FFA formation. Blending high-FFA CPO with standard CPO affected indices of palm oil quality, such as the deteriorated peroxide value (PV) and anisidine value (AV), and particularly worsened the bleachability index (DOBI). Conclusions: This study suggests that the conveyor system in the mill could be the prime area to focus on in terms of FFA reduction, along with minimising bruising events. In addition, loose fruits (LF) with high FFA content should be processed separately from FFB, and high-FFA CPO derived from LF should not be mixed with standard CPO.
Improving the Selection Efficiency of Breeding Material within Interspecific Brassicaceae Hybrids with Genomic Prediction and Phenotyping
Authors: Szwarc Justyna , Niemann Janetta , Bocianowski Jan , Kaczmarek Joanna , Doğu Mehmet Zafer , Nowicka Alicja
Published: April 2023

Various molecular markers can be applied to accelerate the breeding process of Brassicaceae plants. The aim of the present study was to assess the usefulness of available markers connected to blackleg resistance and to screen for markers linked to genes influencing major morphological characteristics, suitable for the further selection of Brassicaceae hybrids. Combining the field and molecular results allowed for the selection of useful SSR markers, including mstg004 and mstg027 markers connected to the color of the flowers and marker mstg038 associated with stem color. The field trails were also conducted to investigate the level of blackleg resistance, which permitted the selection of rapeseed hybrids with B. fruticulosa, B. carinata, and S. alba exhibiting the lowest infestation. Furthermore, the functionality of some of the resistance-linked markers was confirmed. The importance of interspecific hybridization and the use of marker-assisted selection are discussed, and the high utility of presented markers in further studies is highlighted.
Sustainable Planning Strategy of Dairy Farming in China Based on Carbon Emission from Direct Energy Consumption
Authors: Du Xinyi , Wang Qi , Zheng Yingying , Gui Jinming , Du Songhuai , Shi Zhengxiang
Published: April 2023

The mechanical and electrical development in dairy farming in China increases energy-related carbon emission (CE). To support the sustainable planning strategy of the department, this study calculated the CE and the carbon emission intensity (CI) of the direct energy consumed in dairy farms from 21 provinces in China. Through four dimensions analysis including the national level, farm scale, inter-provincial distribution, and main producing area, this study illustrates the impact of the environment, production, and management on CE. The total CE of nationwide dairy farming was about 2.4 Tg CO2 eq. in 2019, and the CIs of the 21 provinces varied from 0.009 to 0.216 kg CO2 eq. per kg of milk. The results indicate that the management mode applied in large-scale dairy farms (500 heads and above) varies considerably due to inadequate adaptation to climate. In general, semi-arid and semi-humid regions are more suitable for dairy farming than arid and humid regions. In the main milk-producing area, the spatial aggregation effect is visible in the carbon reduction potential. The present study suggests that further steps to promote sustainability and milk productivity are embodied when the replacement of fossil fuels and the management standardization are adapted to regional characteristics.
Discontinuous Hydration Cycles with Elicitors Improve Germination, Growth, Osmoprotectant, and Salt Stress Tolerance in Zea mays L.
Authors: Pereira Kleane Targino Oliveira , Torres Salvador Barros , de Paiva Emanoela Pereira , Alves Tatianne Raianne Costa , de Souza Neta Maria Lilia , Venâncio Jefferson Bittencourt , Souto Lauter Silva , Benedito Clarisse Pereira , Peixoto Tayd Dayvison Custódio , Ferreira Neto Miguel , Dias Nildo da Silva , da Silva Sá Francisco Vanies
Published: April 2023

Saline stress impairs germination and initial plant growth. However, discontinuous hydration cycles induce osmotic tolerance in seeds and can improve the response of maize seeds to saline stress. The objective of this study was to evaluate the action of discontinuous hydration cycles with different salt stress tolerance elicitors on germination, growth, and osmotic adjustment of maize cultivars. Maize seeds of BR 206 and BRS 5037 Cruzeta cultivars were subjected to the following treatments: 0.0 mmol of NaCl (control), 250 mmol of NaCl (salt stress), salt stress + three discontinuous hydration cycles (DHCs) of seeds in water, salt stress + DHCs with gibberellic acid, salt stress + DHCs with hydrogen peroxide, salt stress + DHCs with salicylic acid, and salt stress + DHCs with ascorbic acid. Salt stress reduced the germination, growth, and biomass accumulation in maize seedlings—the BR 206 cultivar outperformed BRS 5037 Cruzeta. Discontinuous hydration cycles with water failed to improve the salt stress tolerance of maize seeds. However, discontinuous hydration cycles with gibberellic acid, hydrogen peroxide, and salicylic acid promoted salt stress tolerance in maize due to increased synthesis of osmoprotectants. Our results revealed salicylic acid is appropriate for discontinuous hydration cycles in maize seeds.
Agricultural Harvesting Robot Concept Design and System Components: A Review
Authors: Mail Mohd Fazly , Maja Joe Mari , Marshall Michael , Cutulle Matthew , Miller Gilbert , Barnes Edward
Published: April 2023

Developing different robotic platforms for farm operations is vital to addressing the increasing world population. A harvesting robot significantly increases a farm’s productivity while farmers focus on other relevant farm operations. From the literature, it could be summarized that the design concepts of the harvesting mechanisms were categorized as grasping and cutting, vacuum suction plucking systems, twisting and plucking mechanisms, and shaking and catching. Meanwhile, robotic system components include the mobile platform, manipulators, and end effectors, sensing and localization, and path planning and navigation. The robotic system must be cost-effective and safe. The findings of this research could contribute to the design process of developing a harvesting robot or developing a harvesting module that can be retrofitted to a commercially available mobile platform. This paper provides an overview of the most recent harvesting robots’ different concept designs and system components. In particular, this paper will highlight different agricultural ground mobile platforms and their associated mechanical design, principles, challenges, and limitations to characterize the crop environment relevant to robotic harvesting and to formulate directions for future research and development for cotton harvesting platforms.
Biological Activities of Lamiaceae Species: Bio-Guided Isolation of Active Metabolites from Salvia officinalis L.
Authors: Tsitsigianni Eleni , Tomou Ekaterina-Michaela , Almpani Chara , Rallis Michail Ch. , Skaltsa Helen
Published: April 2023

Lamiaceae family includes various medicinal and aromatic plants used in cosmetics and pharmaceutical industries. The present study aimed to investigate in vitro the cytotoxic, photoprotective and antioxidant activities of ten Lamiaceae taxa; Melissa officinalis subsp. altissima (Sm.) Arcang., Rosmarinus officinalis L., Salvia officinalis L., Sideritis cypria Post, S. euboea Heldr., S. perfoliata L. subsp. perfoliata, S. scardica Griseb., S. sipylea Boiss., Stachys iva Griseb., and Thymus vulgaris L. The aqueous extract of Salvia officinalis was bio-guided fractionated to obtain the main bioactive metabolites, which were evaluated for the aforementioned effects and their wound-healing potential. In total, five compounds were isolated and identified through NMR spectra, namely salvianic acid A, rosmarinic acid, salvianolic acid K, luteolin-3′-O-β-D-glucuronide and hispidulin-7-O-β-D-glucuronide. All the compounds were photoprotective and non cytotoxic, while no statistically significant oxidative stress reduction was obtained. Regarding the wound-healing potential, salvianolic acid K was the most promising candidate. Overall, this study suggests photoprotective natural agents from various Lamiaceae species, widely found in Greece, and provides a better insight into Salvia officinalis and its bioactive constituents.
Identification, Characterization, and Growth-Promoting Effects of Bacterial Endophytes Isolated from Okra (Abelmoschus esculentus L.)
Authors: Salehin Ahsanul , Yamane Sakiko , Ueno Makoto , Hayashi Shohei
Published: April 2023

Microorganisms colonize plant roots and exhibit plant growth promotion properties, therefore functioning as biofertilizers. To effectively use plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria, understanding their colonizing behavior and ability to compete with co-existing bacteria is essential. In this study, 12 endophytic bacterial strains belonging to seven genera in four classes with 99–100% homology were isolated from the roots of okra plants (Abelmoschus esculentus L.). Four isolates (Okhm3, Okhm5-4, Okhm10, and Okhm11) were inoculated on okra seeds and their effects on plant growth and colonization with single and mixed inoculations were evaluated. Okra was cultivated using sterilized vermiculite, and the growth parameters and colonization were measured 30 d after seed inoculation. All strains exhibited plant growth promotion traits that could improve okra plant growth in pot culture experiments. Notably, Okhm5-4 and Okhm10 strains (belonging to the Ensifer and Pseudomonas genera) revealed the highest growth-promoting effects on okra plants. Both strains were detected in the endosphere and rhizosphere of okra plants. Okhm10 and Okhm5-4, with lower colonization than Okhm3, showed better growth than Okhm3. Therefore, the colonization potential does not determine the growth-promoting effects. While Okhm3 populations remained stable in both inoculation conditions, the population level of other strains decreased in the mixed inoculation. This study showed bacterial endophytes isolated from Okra can be exploited as bio-fertilizers for sustainable agriculture systems.
Estimation of Strawberry Crop Productivity by Machine Learning Algorithms Using Data from Multispectral Images
Authors: Oliveira Larissa Silva de , Castoldi Renata , Martins George Deroco , Medeiros Matheus Henrique
Published: April 2023

Currently, estimations of strawberry productivity are conducted manually, which is a laborious and subjective process. The use of more efficient and precise estimation methods would result in better crop management. The objective of this study was to assess the performance of two regression algorithms-Linear Regression and Support Vector Machine—in estimating the average weight and number of fruits and the number of leaves on strawberry plants, using multispectral images obtained by a remotely piloted aircraft (RPA). The experiment, which was conducted in the experimental area of the Botany Laboratory at the Federal University of Uberlândia-Monte Carmelo Campus (Universidade Federal de Uberlândia, Campus Monte Carmelo), was carried out using a randomized block design with six treatments and four replications. The treatments comprised six commercial strawberry varieties: San Andreas, Albion, PR, Festival, Oso Grande, and Guarani. Images were acquired on a weekly basis and then preprocessed to extract radiometric values for each plant in the experimental area. These values were then used to train the production prediction algorithms. During the same period, data on the average fruit weight, number of fruits per plant, and number of leaves were collected. The total fruit weight in the field was 48.08 kg, while the linear regression (LR) and Support Vector Machine (SVM) estimates were 48.04 and 43.09 kg, respectively. The number of fruits obtained in the field was 4585, and the number estimated by LR and SVM algorithms was 4564 and 3863, respectively. The number of leaves obtained in the field was 10,366, and LR and SVM estimated 10,360 and 10,171, respectively. It was concluded that LR and SVM can estimate strawberry production and the number of fruits and leaves using multispectral unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) images. The LR algorithm was the most efficient in estimating production, with 99.91% accuracy for average fruit weight, 99.55% for the number of fruits and 99.94% for the number of leaves. SVM exhibited 89.62% accuracy for average fruit weight, 84.26% for the number of fruits, and 98.12% for the number of leaves.
In Vitro Potent Anticancer, Antifungal, and Antioxidant Efficacy of Walnut (Juglans regia L.) Genotypes
Authors: Ara Tabasum , Shafi Sabeeha , Ghazwani Mohammed , Mir Javid Iqbal , Shah Abdul Haseeb , Qadri Raies A. , Hakami Abdulrahim R. , Khalid Mohammad , Hani Umme , Wahab Shadma
Published: April 2023

Walnuts are one of the healthiest foods in the world because they are one of the best sources of beneficial nutrients, minerals, and antioxidants. They also contain key sources of energy. Despite several traditional uses, the leaves of Juglans regia L. have received little attention regarding phytochemical and pharmacological potential. Thus, the current study intended to find the walnut genotypes with the greatest antioxidant, anticancer, and antifungal activity. The total polyphenolic, flavonoid, and flavanol contents of leaves from 14 walnut genotypes were determined. Genotypes that accumulate flavonoid/flavonol contents (99.8–111.93 mg/g quercetin equivalent (QE) and 101.67–111.83 mg/g QE) showed significantly higher ferric reducing antioxidant potential (FRAP) activity (128.2–148.1 μM Fe2+/g dry weight (DW)] than other genotypes. Maximum divergence in the quercetin content (0.8–1.23 mg/g) of walnut genotypes was obtained by cluster analysis. The active component, quercetin, was measured using RP-HPLC. Moreover, the extracts were investigated for antifungal and anticancer assays. We report the significant antifungal potential of walnut leaf genotypes against Candida glabrata, Candida albicans, and Candida tropicalis, with 57.7–93.6%, 26.8–51.5%, and 26.8–51.5% inhibition, respectively. The most significant antiproliferative effect was shown by Opex Culchry, which exhibited 9.4% cell viability at a concentration of 25 µL (0.75 mg) against lung (A549) cell lines. Chenovo exhibited 2.9, 6.2, and 2.2% cell viability, Opex Culchry exhibited 2, 1.5, and 2.4% cell viability, and Sulieman showed 7.6, 0.9, and 7% cell viability against the colon (HCT116) cell lines. The results showed that walnut leaves possess enormous potential as antioxidants, and as anticancer and antifungal agents.
The Influence of Municipal Solid Waste Compost on the Tranformations of Phosphorus Forms in Soil
Authors: Debicka Magdalena , Jamroz Elżbieta , Bekier Jakub , Ćwieląg-Piasecka Irmina , Kocowicz Andrzej
Published: April 2023

Searching for a renewable phosphorus (P) source for agricultural soils has become a challenge of particular importance on a global scale. Depletion of the world’s phosphate resources as well as the risk of environmental problems caused by excessive P mobility have placed this topic among the most important environmental issues. The aim of this study was to analyse the transformation of phosphorus forms in municipal solid waste compost (MSWC) at different maturity stages, to assess the effects of their application on soil phosphorus status and to evaluate the suitability of MSWC for agricultural soils as a potential phosphorus source. The application of MSWC to the soil had a positive effect on the content of available P. The content of potentially mobile P forms increased significantly in the soil, primarily after the introduction of immature MSWC and confirmed by the significant correlations with the applied P indicators. However, the results indicate that the MSWC does not pose a serious environmental risk and could become a potential source of P in the soil, although the material used for this purpose should be mature. This study also indicated that the assessment of using compost as a P source should not be based on P total content alone, but should include the content of different P forms and specific P-related indicators, to reflect both the P availability and the potential environmental risks.
Population Dynamics and Effect of Seed Treatment on Plutella xylostella Control in Romania
Authors: Georgescu Emil , Toader Maria , Brumă Ioan Sebastian , Cană Lidia , Rîșnoveanu Luxița , Fătu Cristina , Zaharia Roxana
Published: April 2023

This paper presents a three-year study concerning the effectiveness of the OSR seed treatment with the cyantraniliprole active ingredient in controlling the DBM larvae attack in autumn and four-year monitoring of the DBM flight pattern, using pheromone sticky traps. The experiment and the monitoring were conducted at the experimental field from the National Agricultural Research and Development Institute (NARDI) Fundulea in Southeast Romania. For the field assessments, each OSR sampled plant was photographed in macro mode, and then images were downloaded and magnified on the PC screen to determine the DBM larva attack. The traps were placed in the OSR crop from mid-March till December and checked twice weekly. Data from the field assessment revealed a higher pest attack on OSR plants on 11 November 2020, when the DBM larvae attack degree was 16.26% in the untreated variant and 11.24% in the variant with treated seeds. The results evidenced unusually higher activity for the diamondback moths during November 2019, 2020, and 2022; the beginning of December 2020 and 2021; and mid-December 2022. This is the first report from the Romanian scientific literature concerning higher DBM attacks at OSR plants in autumn and high moth activity during November and December.
Aerobiology of the Wheat Blast Pathogen: Inoculum Monitoring and Detection of Fungicide Resistance Alleles
Authors: Vicentini Samara Nunes Campos , Hawkins Nichola J. , King Kevin M. , Moreira Silvino Intra , de Paiva Custódio Adriano Augusto , Leite Júnior Rui Pereira , Portalanza Diego , Garcés-Fiallos Felipe Rafael , Krug Loane Dantas , West Jonathan S. , Fraaije Bart A. , De Jesus Júnior Waldir Cintra , Ceresini Paulo Cezar
Published: April 2023

Wheat blast, caused by the ascomycetous fungus Pyricularia oryzae Triticum lineage (PoTl), is mainly controlled by fungicide use, but resistance to the main fungicide groups—sterol demethylase (DMI), quinone outside (QoI), and succinate dehydrogenase inhibitors (SDHI)—has been reported in Brazil. In order to rationalize fungicide inputs (e.g., choice, timing, dose-rate, spray number, and mixing/alternation) for managing wheat blast, we describe a new monitoring tool, enabling the quantitative measurement of pathogen’s inoculum levels and detection of fungicide resistance alleles. Wheat blast airborne spores (aerosol populations) were monitored at Londrina in Paraná State, a major wheat cropping region in Brazil, using an automated high-volume cyclone coupled with a lab-based quantitative real-time PCR (qPCR) assay. The objectives of our study were as follows: (1) to monitor the amount of PoTl airborne conidia during 2019–2021 based on DNA detection, (2) to reveal the prevalence of QoI resistant (QoI-R) cytochrome b alleles in aerosol populations of wheat blast, and (3) to determine the impact of weather on the dynamics of wheat blast aerosol populations and spread of QoI resistant alleles. PoTl inoculum was consistently detected in aerosols during the wheat cropping seasons from 2019 to 2021, but amounts varied significantly between seasons, with highest amounts detected in 2019. High peaks of PoTl DNA were also continuously detected during the off-season in 2020 and 2021. The prevalence of QoI resistant (QoI-R) cytochrome b G143A alleles in aerosol populations was also determined for a subset of 10 PoTl positive DNA samples with frequencies varying between 10 and 91% using a combination of PCR-amplification and SNP detection pyrosequencing. Statistically significant but low correlations were found between the levels of pathogen and the weather variables. In conclusion, for wheat blast, this system provided prior detection of airborne spore levels of the pathogen and of the prevalence of fungicide resistance alleles.
Effects of Equol Supplementation on Growth Performance, Redox Status, Intestinal Health and Skeletal Muscle Development of Weanling Piglets with Intrauterine Growth Retardation
Authors: Zhang Yong , Ren Jingchang , Chen Li , Yan Honglin , Zou Tiande , Zhang Hongfu , Liu Jingbo
Published: April 2023

Animals with intrauterine growth retardation (IUGR) usually undergo injured postnatal growth and development during the early period after birth. Equol (Eq), an isoflavan produced by gut bacteria in response to daidzein intake, has various health benefits. Therefore, the objective of this study was to evaluate whether Eq supplementation can influence the growth performance, redox status, intestinal health and skeletal muscle development of weanling piglets with IUGR. A total of 10 normal-birth-weight (NBW) newborn female piglets and 20 newborn female piglets with IUGR were selected. After weaning at the age of 21 d, 10 NBW piglets and 10 IUGR piglets were allocated to the NBW group and IUGR group, respectively, and offered a basal diet. The other 10 IUGR piglets were allocated to the IUGR + Eq group and offered a basal diet with 50 mg of Eq per kg of diet. The whole trial lasted for 21 d. At the end of the feeding trial, all piglets were sacrificed for the collection of serum, intestinal tissues and skeletal muscles. Supplementation with Eq increased the average daily gain (ADG), average daily feed intake (ADFI), duodenal villus height to crypt depth ratio (V/C), jejunal villus height and V/C, but reduced the duodenal crypt depth in neonatal piglets with IUGR. Meanwhile, Eq supplementation elevated the activities of superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase (CAT) in the serum and duodenum and the activity of SOD in the jejunum, but lowered malondialdehyde (MDA) content in the serum, jejunum and ileum of piglets with IUGR. In addition, supplementation with Eq reduced diamine oxidase (DAO) activity and the levels of D-lactate and endotoxin in serum, and the tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) level in jejunum and ileum, whereas the concentration of serum immunoglobulin G (IgG) and the mRNA levels of intestinal barrier-related markers in jejunum and ileum of IUGR piglets were increased. Furthermore, supplementation with Eq elevated the percentage of fast-fibers and was accompanied with higher mRNA expression of myosin heavy chain IIb (MyHC IIb) and lower mRNA levels in MyHC I in the longissimus thoracis (LT) muscle of IUGR piglets. In summary, Eq supplementation can promote antioxidant capacity, maintain intestinal health and facilitate skeletal muscle development, thus resulting in the higher growth performance of IUGR piglets.
Investigations of Histomonosis-Favouring Conditions: A Hypotheses-Generating Case-Series-Study
Authors: Lüning Julia , Campe Amely , Rautenschlein Silke
Published: April 2023

Since the ban of effective feed additives and therapeutics, histomonosis has become an important disease and, subsequently, a welfare issue for turkey production. We conducted an interview-based case series study to generate hypotheses about possible disease-favouring conditions in 31 H. meleagridis-infected flocks. The determined parameters were related to the general farm (flock management, biosecurity measures, etc.) as well as the histomonosis-specific disease management. Some inadequate biosecurity measures were observed. An inappropriate usage of the hygiene lock and cleaning as well as the disinfection frequency of equipment, clothes, and the hygiene lock could possibly be histomonosis-favouring conditions. These factors could increase the risk for the introduction of H. meleagridis and the risk of a pathogen spread on an affected farm. Insects, wild birds, litter materials, and contaminated dung could be potential vectors of H. meleagridis. Predisposing gastrointestinal diseases were observed in 71% of the affected flocks. Additionally, stress events related to higher temperature, movement of birds, and vaccination were documented in association with clinical histomonosis. The results emphasise the need for both good disease control and health management to ensure sustainable animal health and welfare.