bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Immersive virtual reality or computerised mindfulness meditation for improving mood? Preliminary efficacy from a pilot randomised trial
Authors: Poetar Costina-Ruxandra , Bradley Nathan , Voinescu Alexandra
Published: October 2023

Introduction

Mindfulness interventions are effective in improving mood, reducing stress, and increasing quality of life. New developments in technology bring important channels to deliver mindfulness interventions that can increase accessibility, such as the Internet, computerised interventions, mobile apps and recently, virtual reality (VR). The aim of the present study is to enhance our current understanding of the use of VR in mindfulness, namely we examined in a pilot randomised trial the efficacy of an immersive VR-based mindfulness approach compared to an active control (computerised-based mindfulness meditation) on improving mood. A secondary objective was to examine whether VR use resulted in simulator sickness which could affect user engagement.

Methods

Forty-seven (Mage = 29.22 years) healthy participants were randomly assigned to the experimental or control group.

Results

A mixed 2X3 ANOVA showed a significant Time effect. Namely, negative emotions were reduced in both groups, with non-significant differences between groups. For positive emotions, on the other hand, our results showed no significant impact. Simulator sickness in VR was not present, according to t-test, making VR a safe delivery method.

Discussion

Future research should investigate VR dosage and combine VR with other interventions (e.g., blended with face-to-face mindfulness interventions, with Internet-delivered interventions).
The influence of learning styles on academic procrastination among students in mathematics
Authors: Wan Hussin Wan Anis Syamimi , Mohd Matore Mohd Effendi Ewan
Published: October 2023

Introduction

Procrastination is a complex psychological and behavioral construct that is strongly influenced by certain personality traits. In mathematics learning, students find it difficult to master the concepts because of less exposure to learning styles. Poor knowledge of mathematical concepts leads to academic procrastination in the subject of Mathematics among students. Therefore, this study aims to identify students’ learning styles in Mathematics, identify the stages of students’ academic procrastination in Mathematics, and determine whether there is a significant influence of learning styles (visual, auditory, and kinesthetic) on academic procrastination among secondary school students in Mathematics.

Methods

A quantitative approach with a survey was applied. A total of 500 Form Two and Form Four students in five national secondary schools in the Kota Bharu district, Kelantan, were selected using simple random sampling. The duration of data gathering started from 4 October 2022 until 31 January 2023. The Learning Styles Questionnaire and the Academic Procrastination Questionnaire were adapted and verified by eight experts in psychology and counseling. Descriptive and multiple regression tests were carried out using IBM SPSS version 26.0.

Results

The results revealed that the visual learning style was the most dominant learning style among students in the subject of Mathematics, followed by auditory and kinesthetic. The level of students’ academic procrastination in Mathematics was low. Besides, multiple regression showed that visual and kinesthetic learning styles were significant contributors or predictors, which amounted to 14.1% of the variation in students’ academic procrastination in Mathematics.

Discussion

The implications of this study highlight the possibility to improve programs in schools by exposing students to suitable learning styles so that they can practice effective learning styles in Mathematics and consequently overcome academic procrastination. Further research can be carried out by identifying other factors that encourage academic procrastination in the subject of Mathematics in order to increase students’ motivation and self-efficacy.
Mental health status and coping strategies during COVID-19 pandemic among university students in Central Serbia
Authors: Radovanovic Jovana , Selakovic Viktor , Mihaljevic Olgica , Djordjevic Jelena , Čolović Sofija , Djordjevic Jelena R. , Janjic Vladimir , Jovicic Milena , Veselinovic Sladjana , Vukomanovic Ivana Simic , Janicijevic Katarina , Slovic Zivana , Radovanovic Snezana , Djordjevic Ognjen , Djordjic Milan
Published: October 2023

Background

The objective of this research was to evaluate the occurrence of depression, anxiety, and stress, as well as the level of life contentment and coping mechanisms employed by college students amidst the COVID-19 pandemic.

Methods

A total of 588 students of the Faculty of Mechanical Engineering and the Higher School of Medicine, Kraljevo, University of Kragujevac, Central Serbia, participated in an online cross-sectional survey in the period September–October 2022. Depression Anxiety Stress Scales (DASS-21) was used to measure the levels of depression, anxiety, and stress. The Coping Questionnaire—a shorter version (Brief Cope Inventories) assesses the coping strategies a person uses in stressful situations, and the 5-item Life Satisfaction Scale is used to examine the level of life satisfaction.

Results

The symptoms of depression were reported by 34.9%, of anxiety by 47.1% and of stress by 44.2%. The type of faculty (p = 0.001), and place of residence (p = 0.036) correlated with depression, gender with anxiety (p = 0.001) and stress (p = 0.015). In terms of coping mechanisms, the most frequently mentioned strategies, based on average scores, were acceptance (5.76), positive interpretation (5.55), humor (5.46).

Conclusion

The adverse impact of COVID-19 was a risk factor for depression, anxiety and stress symptoms. A negative correlation exists between the levels of depression, anxiety, and stress, and the overall life satisfaction of university students. Offering the necessary assistance through psychological interventions and effective coping techniques is crucial in ensuring the optimal mental health of university students.
The association between the admission to wards with open- vs. closed-door policy and the use of coercive measures
Authors: Krückl Jana S. , Moeller Julian , Imfeld Lukas , Schädelin Sabine , Hochstrasser Lisa , Lieb Roselind , Lang Undine E. , Huber Christian G.
Published: October 2023

Introduction

Psychiatric treatment on a ward with open-door policy is associated with reduced numbers of coercive measures. The effect of the door policy of previous stays, however, has not been investigated.

Methods

The data set consisted of 22,172 stays by adult inpatients in a psychiatric university hospital between 2010 and 2019. Pairs of consecutive stays were built. The outcome variable was the occurrence of coercive measures during the second stay.

Results

Compared to treatments on wards with a closed-door policy at both stays, treatments on wards with an open-door policy at the second stay had smaller odds for coercive measures (OR ranging between 0.09 and 0.33, p < 0.01). In addition, coercive measures were more frequent in treatment histories where patients previously treated on a closed ward were admitted to a ward with an open-door policy and subsequently transferred to a ward with a closed-door policy at the second stay (OR=2.97, p = 0.046).

Discussion

Treatment under open-door policy is associated with fewer coercive measures, even in patients with previous experience of closed-door settings. The group of patients who were admitted to a ward with an open-door, then transmitted to a ward with a closed-door policy seem to be prone to experience coercive measures. Clinical strategies to keep these patients in treatment in an open-door setting could further reduce coercive measures.
Using artificial intelligence to improve public health: a narrative review
Authors: Olawade David B. , Wada Ojima J. , David-Olawade Aanuoluwapo Clement , Kunonga Edward , Abaire Olawale , Ling Jonathan
Published: October 2023

Artificial intelligence (AI) is a rapidly evolving tool revolutionizing many aspects of healthcare. AI has been predominantly employed in medicine and healthcare administration. However, in public health, the widespread employment of AI only began recently, with the advent of COVID-19. This review examines the advances of AI in public health and the potential challenges that lie ahead. Some of the ways AI has aided public health delivery are via spatial modeling, risk prediction, misinformation control, public health surveillance, disease forecasting, pandemic/epidemic modeling, and health diagnosis. However, the implementation of AI in public health is not universal due to factors including limited infrastructure, lack of technical understanding, data paucity, and ethical/privacy issues.
A review on self-healing featured soft robotics
Authors: Islam Md. Ariful , Talukder Labanya , Al Md. Firoj , Sarker Subrata K. , Muyeen S. M. , Das Prangon , Hasan Md. Mehedi , Das Sajal K. , Islam Md. Manirul , Islam Md. Robiul , Moyeen Sumaya Ishrat , Badal Faisal R. , Ahamed Md. Hafiz , Abhi Sarafat Hussain
Published: October 2023

Soft robots are becoming more popular because they can solve issues stiff robots cannot. Soft component and system design have seen several innovations recently. Next-generation robot–human interactions will depend on soft robotics. Soft material technologies integrate safety at the material level, speeding its integration with biological systems. Soft robotic systems must be as resilient as biological systems in unexpected, uncontrolled situations. Self-healing materials, especially polymeric and elastomeric ones, are widely studied. Since most currently under-development soft robotic systems are composed of polymeric or elastomeric materials, this finding may provide immediate assistance to the community developing soft robots. Self-healing and damage-resilient systems are making their way into actuators, structures, and sensors, even if soft robotics remains in its infancy. In the future, self-repairing soft robotic systems composed of polymers might save both money and the environment. Over the last decade, academics and businesses have grown interested in soft robotics. Despite several literature evaluations of the soft robotics subject, there seems to be a lack of systematic research on its intellectual structure and development despite the rising number of articles. This article gives an in-depth overview of the existing knowledge base on damage resistance and self-healing materials’ fundamental structure and classifications. Current uses, problems with future implementation, and solutions to those problems are all included in this overview. Also discussed are potential applications and future directions for self-repairing soft robots.
Urban Farms and Their Benefits: Producing Food in the City
Authors: Saint-Ges Véronique , de Vergès Hugo
Published: October 2023

Can you imagine living in a city, while still being able to eat food that grows in your neighborhood? Agriculture has always played an important role in cities, but urban agriculture has become increasingly popular in recent years. It is a good way to provide fresh, local food for city residents and to bring nature back into cities, helping citizens to reconnect with the environment. In this article, you will learn about what urban agriculture is, some of the ways it is done, and the benefits it provides.
Biosignature preparation for ocean worlds (BioPOW) instrument prototype
Authors: Duval Korine A. , Van Volkenburg Tessa B. , Craft Kathleen L. , Person Chanel M. , Harshman John S. , Fernandes Diarny O. , Benzing Jennifer S. , McDowell Emil G. , Nelson Tyler W. , Divakar Gautham S. , Pochettino Owen M. , Perry Mark E. , Bradburne Christopher E.
Published: October 2023

In situ sampling missions to detect biosignatures on ocean worlds requires thorough sample preparation to manage the expected chemical complexity of such environments. Proposed instruments must be capable of automatic liquid sample handling to ensure sensitive and accurate detections of biosignatures, regardless of the initial chemical composition. Herein, we outline the design, build, and test of the integrated Biosignature Preparation for Ocean Worlds (BioPOW) system capable of purifying amino acids from icy samples. This four step modular instrument 1) melts ice samples, 2) purifies amino acids via cation exchange chromatography, 3) concentrates via vacuum drying, and 4) derivatizes amino acids to volatilize and enable detection with downstream analytical instruments. Initial experiments validated the thermal performance of the system by melting ice in the sample cup (1 mL sample, 3°C–28°C, <5 min, 1.4 kJ) and heating the derivatization tank past the concentration temperature (20°C–60°C, 12 min, 3.6 kJ) to the derivatization temperature (60°C–90°C, 25 min, 7.5 kJ). Later experiments investigated important factors for automatic cation exchange using a design of experiments approach, and found that initial salt concentration, sample and eluate flow rates, and water wash volumes all play significant roles in reducing conductivity (1.1 x–6.7 x) while maintaining phenylalanine yields between 31% and 94%. The modules were then integrated into a 12 cm × 20 cm × 20 cm fieldable platform for analysis, and the maturation of this design for future spaceflight is discussed.
cavsiopy: a Python package to calculate and visualize spacecraft instrument orientation
Authors: Kalafatoglu Eyiguler E. Ceren , Holley Warren , Howarth Andrew D. , Danskin Donald W. , Pandey Kuldeep , Martin Carley J. , Gillies Robert G. , Yau Andrew W. , Hussey Glenn C.
Published: October 2023

Spacecraft attitude plays an important role in the observations of various atmospheric, planetary, and terrestrial parameters and phenomena that are of interest to the scientific community. Precise measurements from imagers, particle sensors, and antennas require accurate knowledge of instrument orientation. cavsiopy is an easy-to-install and use, light-weight open-source Python package for researchers who need to consider instrument pointing direction and observation geometry. cavsiopy contains the coordinate transformation routines and the corresponding rotation matrices from the spacecraft orbital reference frame (ORF) to any of the geocentric equatorial inertial for epoch J2000 (GEI J2K)/International Celestial Reference Frame (ICRF), Earth-centered, Earth-fixed (ECEF), International Terrestrial Reference Frame (ITRF), geodetic north-east-down, and geocentric north-east-center coordinate systems. Additionally, cavsiopy includes routines for importing Swarm-E ephemeris and generic two-line-element (TLE) data files; for the calculation of spacecraft azimuth, elevation, and orbital parameters; as well as for the 2D/3D visualization of the geometry between the instrument and the target. Functionality and utilization of cavsiopy for research problems are demonstrated with examples and visualizations for the Radio Receiver Instrument (RRI) and the Fast Auroral Imager (FAI) of e-POP/Swarm-E.
Prolactin inhibitor changes testosterone production, testicular morphology, and related genes expression in cashmere goats
Authors: Chen Meijing , Duan Chunhui , Yin Xuejiao , Li Xianglong , Liu Xiaona , Zhang Lechao , Yue Sicong , Zhang Yingjie , Liu Yueqin
Published: October 2023

Prolactin has multifaceted roles in lactation, growth, metabolism, osmoregulation, behavior, and the reproduction of animals. This study aimed to investigate the involvement of prolactin in testicular function in cashmere goats. Twenty cashmere goats were randomly assigned to either the control group (CON) or the bromocriptine treatment group (BCR, bromocriptine, prolactin inhibitor). Blood and testis samples collected for analysis after 30 days of treatment. The results indicated that, compared with the CON group, BCR significantly decreased (p < 0.05) the serum concentrations of prolactin, and significantly increased (p < 0.05) the levels of testosterone and luteinizing hormone (LH) on day 30. The serum level of the follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) was not affected (p > 0.05) by the treatment. The mean seminiferous tubule diameter and spermatogenic epithelium thickness were increased (p < 0.05) in the BCR group. Subsequently, we performed RNA sequencing and bioinformatics analysis to identify the key genes and pathways associated with the regulation of spermatogenesis or testosterone secretion function. A total of 142 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were identified (91 were upregulated, 51 were downregulated). Gene ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) revealed that the DEGs were mainly involved in the extracellular matrix (ECM), hippo, and steroid hormone biosynthesis, which are related to testicular function. The expression of the genes SULT2B1, CYP3A24, and CYP3A74 in the steroid hormone biosynthesis pathway significantly increased (p < 0.05) in the BCR group, which was validated by qRT-PCR. These results provide a basis for understanding the mechanisms underlying the regulation of testicular function by prolactin in cashmere goats.
Effects of dietary supplementation with microencapsulated Galla chinensis tannins on growth performance, antioxidant capacity, and lipid metabolism of young broiler chickens
Authors: Ren Xiaojie , Yuan Peng , Niu Jiaxing , Liu Yang , Li Yang , Huang Libo , Jiang Shuzhen , Jiao Ning , Yuan Xuejun , Li Junxun , Yang Weiren
Published: October 2023

This study aimed to investigate the impacts of dietary supplementation with Galla chinensis tannins (GCT) on the growth performance, antioxidant capacity, and lipid metabolism of young broilers. Overall, a total of 216 healthy 1 day-old broilers were randomly allocated to CON group and GCT group, and provided with a basal diet or a basal diet added with 300 mg/kg microencapsulated GCT, respectively, in a 21 days trial. Our findings indicated that dietary GCT addition had no significant effects (p > 0.05) on growth performance. However, GCT supplementation led to a significant reduction in the total cholesterol (TC) concentration in the serum and liver (p < 0.05). Furthermore, GCT supplementation significantly increased the ratios of high-density lipoprotein (HDL) to low-density lipoprotein (LDL) and HDL to TC in the serum, in addition to elevating the activities of enzymes related to lipid metabolism in the liver (p < 0.05). Dietary GCT addition also improved the antioxidant capacity of the broilers, as evidenced by a significant decrease in the concentration of malondialdehyde in serum and liver (p < 0.05). Additionally, the GCT group exhibited significantly increased expressions of hepatic genes associated with antioxidant enzymes (HO-1, GPX1, SOD2, SIRT1, CPT-1, and PPARα) (p < 0.05), while the mRNA expression of SREBP-1 was significantly decreased (p < 0.05) compared with the CON group. In conclusion, dietary addition of 300 mg/kg microencapsulated GCT improved the antioxidant status and lipid metabolism of broilers without affecting their growth performance.
Sound Environment during Dental Treatment in Relation to COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Yamada Tomomi , Nozaki Kazunori , Hayashi Mikako , Kuwano Sonoko
Published: October 2023

This study delves into the acoustic environment within dental clinics, particularly focusing on the impact of extraoral suction devices employed for infection control amid the COVID-19 pandemic. The research encompasses a comprehensive investigation, including a questionnaire survey of dental professionals, sound level measurements at suction device openings, acoustic imaging, and a detailed analysis of sound levels and their spectral characteristics during dental procedures. Additionally, ambient sound levels within clinical settings were monitored over two consecutive days. The findings reveal notable observations. Dental professionals expressed concerns regarding increased sound levels and associated distress caused by extraoral suction device operation. Objective measurements identified varying A-weighted sound pressure levels ranging from 86.0 dB to 96.7 dB at suction device openings, highlighting elevated sound pressure levels and a wide frequency range, especially in the vicinity of both the dentist and the patient’s facial area during dental aerosol procedures. On the other hand, for the entire clinical room, the equivalent continuous A-weighted sound pressure level during the consultation hours was not considered problematic. In light of these findings, it becomes evident that there is a pressing necessity to refine the acoustic characteristics of extraoral suction devices to foster a more accommodating acoustic environment for both patients and dental healthcare professionals within dental clinics.
Rate-Dependent Hysteresis Model of a Giant Magnetostrictive Actuator Based on an Improved Cuckoo Algorithm
Authors: Liu Yang , Meng Jianjun , Cao Jingnian
Published: October 2023

A rate-dependent asymmetric Prandtl–Ishilinskii (RAPI) model was proposed to tackle the serious rate-dependent hysteresis nonlinearity of the giant magnetostrictive actuator(GMA) output. First, a polynomial function was introduced based on the PI model, and hysteresis factors were introduced to the Play operator, which accurately described the asymmetrical characteristic of the actuator output. On this basis, rate-dependent parameters were added to establish a rate-dependent RAPI model. Second, an improved cuckoo search (ICS) algorithm was proposed to solve the difficulty in the parameter identification of the RAPI model. For the ICS algorithm, the algorithm stability and optimization accuracy were improved using the adaptive step (AS) strategy and bird’s nest disturbance strategy. Then, the effectiveness of the ICS algorithm was tested by comparing it with other parameter identification algorithms. Finally, the rate-dependent RAPI model was verified by combining the output data of the giant magnetostrictive actuator under different frequencies. The results show that the rate-dependent RAPI model exhibits a higher accuracy than the PI model, thus verifying the effectiveness of the rate-dependent RAPI model.
A Conflict Resolution Strategy at a Taxiway Intersection by Combining a Monte Carlo Tree Search with Prior Knowledge
Authors: Sui Dong , Chen Hanping , Zhou Tingting
Published: October 2023

With the escalating complexity of surface operations at large airports, the conflict risk for aircraft taxiing has correspondingly increased. Usually, the Air Traffic Controllers (ATCOs) generate route, speed and holding instructions to resolve conflicts. In this paper, we introduce a conflict resolution framework that incorporates prior knowledge by integrating a Multi-Layer Perceptron (MLP) neural network into the Monte Carlo Tree Search (MCTS) approach. The neural network is trained to learn the allocation strategy for waiting time extracted from actual aircraft taxiing trajectory data. Subsequently, the action probability distribution generated with the neural network is embedded into the MCTS algorithm as a heuristic evaluation function to guide the search process in finding the optimal conflict resolution strategy. Experimental results show that the average conflict resolution rate is 96.8% in different conflict scenarios, and the taxiing time required to resolve conflicts is reduced by an average of 42.77% compared to the taxiing time in actual airport surface operations.
Uncertainty Assessment in Temperature Uniformity Survey of Thermal Processing Equipment According to AMS2750 Aerospace Specification
Authors: García-López Carmen , Álvarez-Tey Germán
Published: October 2023

Thermal processing equipment used in the aerospace industry must meet the requirements of the processes for which they are intended. The periodic tests performed by calibration laboratories, according to the AMS2750 specification, are intended to ensure compliance with these equipment requirements. While this specification does not explicitly state the need for uncertainty calculation, it does specify that pyrometry laboratories must have an ISO/IEC 17025 Quality System accredited by a recognized regional body which is a member of the International Laboratory Accreditation Cooperation (ILAC). Therefore, the calculation of uncertainties is necessary. This work presents a methodology for conducting temperature uniformity surveys and uncertainty assessment in these tests. This methodology has been applied to four different types of equipment to analyse, in each case, the contributions of uncertainties and to assess their potential for improvement. The objectives that laboratories should aim for include improving measurement accuracy and reducing uncertainty components in order to meet the criteria of both AMS2750 and ISO/IEC 17025.
Fertilization Mapping Based on the Soil Properties of Paddy Fields in Korea
Authors: Shin Juwon , Won Jinho , Kim Seong-Min , Kim Dae-Cheol , Cho Yongjin
Published: October 2023

The purpose of this study was to construct a map of expected fertilization rates for nitrogen (N) and phosphorus (P2O5) based on measurements of components in soil samples and to identify the spatial variabilities of four lots of a salt-affected paddy field in Korea. Four salt-affected paddy field lots in Korea were divided into 30 sectors for collecting soil samples. They were then analyzed for soil organic matter (SOM), silicon dioxide (SiO2), total nitrogen (TN), and available phosphorus (Av.P2O5) in accordance with international standards. Expected fertilization rates of N and P2O5 were developed as prescription standards for the application of fertilizer to paddy fields. They were derived using a model of the fertilization rates of N and P2O5. To determine the presence of spatial correlation and continuity in the given fields, a spherical variogram was used. Based on the spherical model with the application of a regular kriging interpolation, maps of the contents of TN and Av.P2O5 as well as the expected fertilization rates of N and P2O5 at each sector of 1×1  m2 were developed. The expected fertilization rate of N at each sector appeared in the range of min. 10.0 g to max. 25.7 g, while that of P2O5 appeared in the range of min. 0.68 g to max. 8.46 g.
Comparative Study between Silvopastoral and Agroforest Systems on Soil Quality in a Disturbed Native Forest of South-Central Chile
Authors: Ortiz Juan , Dube Francis , Neira Pablo , Hernández Valera Rafael R. , de Souza Campos Pedro M. , Panichini Marcelo , Pérez-San Martín Andrés , Stolpe Neal B. , Zagal Erick , Curaqueo Gustavo
Published: October 2023

Agroforestry systems (AFSs) have gained recognition as a land use strategy to address food security and climate change. They involve intentionally cultivating trees alongside crops and/or animals. AFSs cover approximately 5% of the global forest area and promote sustainable soil conservation, including soil organic carbon (C) sequestration (CSEQ). In some areas of Chile, AFSs are used to preserve the ecological value of native forests. This study evaluates the effects of two AFSs, namely, an agroforest for fodder production (AGROFRST) and Silvopastoral (SPS), within a degraded native forest (Nothofagus obliqua sp.). The evaluation focuses on their impact on CSEQ capacity and soil quality (SQ), using soil quality indexes (SQIs) derived from 30 soil quality indicators (SINDs) related to physical, chemical, and microbiological properties at two depths (0–5 and 5–20 cm). The results for the total depth analyzed (0–20 cm) indicate an average CSEQ of 6.88 and 4.83 Mg C yr−1 and a global SQI of 37.8% and 31.0% for AGROFRST and SPS, respectively. Among the thirteen SINDs that demonstrated significant differences (p < 0.05), five were associated with the considered depths (P+, Ca2+, S, ECEC, and AlSAT), three differed between AGROFRST and SPS (BD, NH4+, NO3−), while SOC, K+, and Mg2+ varied across all conditions (e.g., combinations of systems and depths), and β-GLU and NMIN differed in a single condition. However, almost all 30 SINDs analyzed showed higher values at the 0–5 cm depth, indicating the positive effects of soil organic matter (SOM)/SOC additions. Significant interactions (Pearson’s correlation) revealed that SOC correlated with most SINDs (e.g., N, NH4+, P+, K+, Ca2+, Mg2+, S, ECEC, NMIN). These findings suggest that both AGROFRST and SPS systems have similar capabilities in restoring the ecological value of native Nothofagus forests while providing conditions for productive and complementary use. This sustainable option offers opportunities for cattle production alongside ecological restoration efforts and provides a possible strategy to generate public policies related to the ecosystem services of agroforestry systems.
Combining Data Assimilation with Machine Learning to Predict the Regional Daily Leaf Area Index of Summer Maize (Zea mays L.)
Authors: Wang Yongqiang , Zhou Hui , Ma Xiaoyi , Liu Hu
Published: October 2023

The prediction of the daily crop leaf area index (LAI) plays a crucial role in forecasting crop growth trends and guiding field management decisions in the realm of scientific research. However, research on the daily prediction of LAI is scarce, and the challenges associated with acquiring sufficient training data pose limitations to the application of machine learning in this context. This study aimed to synergize the strengths of data assimilation and machine learning algorithms to forecast the daily LAI of maize. Initially, a data assimilation algorithm was employed to minimize the disparity between moderate-resolution imaging spectroradiometer-derived LAI and LAI generated through the CERES-Maize model. This effort resulted in a dataset comprising 289 LAI curves. Building upon this dataset, long short-term memory (LSTM) networks, support vector regression (SVR), and random forest (RF) algorithms were formulated, incorporating N-day LAI input history (N = 5, 10, 15, 20, and 25) to predict LAI for days N + 1 to N + 15. The outcomes revealed that, in contrast to the LAI simulated by the crop model before assimilation, the assimilated LAI closely approximated the observed LAI, with an R2 value of 0.90 and an RMSE of 0.44 m2/m2. Furthermore, when compared to SVR and RF, the LSTM-based LAI prediction model exhibited superior accuracy at N = 15, achieving R2 values of 0.99 and 0.99 for the training and testing datasets, respectively, along with RMSE values of 0.12 and 0.14 m2/m2. It was evident that data assimilation supplied an ample number of samples for the training of machine learning algorithms. The integration of data assimilation technology with machine learning algorithms proved to be an effective methodology for forecasting daily crop LAI.
Effects of Drip Tape Layout and Flow Rate on Water and Nitrogen Distributions within the Root Zone and Summer Maize Yield in Sandy Tidal Soil
Authors: Sun Qing , Zhang Hongxiang , Li Xuejie , Zhao Zixuan , Li Zengxu , Zhang Peiyu , Liu Shutang , Jiang Wen , Sun Xuefang
Published: October 2023

Drip tape layout and flow rate are crucial variables that impact the effects of drip fertigation. To investigate the influence of drip tape layout and flow rate on the soil water and nitrogen transport in summer maize in sandy tidal soil, field experiments were conducted for two years. Two drip tape layouts were set: one tape serving for two crop rows (N) and one tape serving for each crop row (E), with two levels of drip flow rate, i.e., high (2 L/h; H) and low (1.3 L/h; L). The results show that under the same drip tape layout, the lower the drip emitter flow rate, the more upright the shape of wetted soil volume. The maximum vertical and horizontal water transport distance under NL treatment was higher than that under NH, EH, and EL treatments. After surface drip fertigation, nitrate nitrogen accumulated near and at the edge of the wetted soil volume. In 2020, under NL treatment, nitrate nitrogen transported to a 55 cm soil layer, which was 22.22%, 71.42%, and 57.14% deeper than that under NH, EH, and EL treatments, respectively. In 2021, nitrate nitrogen could transport to a 60 cm soil layer in both NL and NH treatments. The maximum concentration of ammonium nitrogen was nearby the emitter. Under NL treatment, ammonium nitrogen was transported to 48 and 60 cm soil layers below the emitter in 2020 and 2021, respectively, which was deeper than that observed under NH, EH, and EL treatments. The soil inorganic nitrogen residue of the NL was lower than that of the NH, EH, and EL treatments. Compared with NH, EH, and EL treatments, the two-year maize yield under NL treatment increased by 11.09%, 13.47%, and 8.66% on average, respectively. NL treatment exhibited the highest water use efficiency and nitrogen fertilizer productivity. Therefore, NL treatment (one drip tape serving for two rows with 1.3 L/h flow rate) could promote the absorption of water and nutrients, reduce inorganic nitrogen residue, and to obtain high maize yield in sandy tidal soil.
Too Salty or Toxic for Use: A Tale of Starter Fertilizers in Agronomic Cropping Systems
Authors: Makaza William , Khiari Lotfi
Published: October 2023

The rising shortage of fertilizer resources in crop-producing regions worldwide and the need for fertilizer use optimization to minimize the impact of salt injuries and ammonia toxicity are at the centre of a brewing storm call for sustainable fertilizer savings. The allocation of fertilizers will be an ever-increasing pressure source because of vast agricultural demands under changing climatic conditions. Therefore, starter fertilizers must complement their efficiency and aim to boost productivity and improve food quality to reduce its toxicities, and these observations are corroborated by an analysis of past and ongoing short-, medium-, and long-term experiments. Concurrently, to counterbalance nutrient uptake, fertilizing products containing select nutrients are commonly placed through soil–seed or soil–fertilizer–seed systems to enhance crop production and productivity. Knowledge of the importance of starter fertilizers and their implications as influenced by frequent environmental conditions and management practices remains essential for sustainable and socio-economics of human livelihoods and successful global agronomic food systems under climate change. Therefore, this review takes a closer look at the detailed starter fertilizers’ (N, P, and K) placement approaches exploring their implications on crop production cycles and integrating them with environmental and agronomic management practices that could help to tailor the appropriate fertilizer recommendations and minimise fertilizer toxicity. We explored the mechanisms by which fertilizer salt injury and ammonia toxicity interfere with the morpho-physiological and biochemical processes in most agronomic seed crops. Beyond this, we show the advances that have already been made, as well as suggestions and recommendations concerning managing fertilizer salt injuries and ammonia toxicity potentials in the agricultural industry.
Evaluating the Efficacy of Sentinel-2B and Landsat-8 for Estimating and Mapping Wheat Straw Cover in Rice–Wheat Fields
Authors: Memon Muhammad Sohail , Chen Shuren , Niu Yaxiao , Zhou Weiwei , Elsherbiny Osama , Liang Runzhi , Du Zhiqiang , Guo Xiaohu
Published: October 2023

Sustainable agriculture and soil conservation methods are integral to ensuring food safety and mitigating environmental impacts worldwide. However, crop residue/straw serves many vital functions from tillage to harvest, so that quantifying the appropriate amount of Crop Straw Cover (CSC) on the soil surface is crucial for monitoring tillage intensity and crop yield performance. Thus, a novel research study is conducted to develop an innovative approach for accurately estimating and mapping the Wheat Straw Cover (WSC) percentage through two different multispectral satellites (Sentinel-2B MSI and Landsat-8 OLI-TIRS), using remote sensing-based techniques in Changshu County, China. The field measurements were collected from 80 distinct sites and eight images were acquired through both satellites for the analysis process by applying Crop Residue Indices (CRIs). The results indicate that the coefficients of determination (R2) of the Normalized Difference Tillage Index (NDTI) computed by Sentinel-2 and Landsat-8 were 0.80 and 0.70, respectively, and the root-mean-square deviation (RMSD) values were in the range from 6.88 to 12.04% for CRIs for both satellite data. Additionally, the comparative analysis of the developed model revealed that NDTI was R2 = 0.85 and R2 = 0.77, followed by STI, R2 = 0.82 and R2 = 0.80 and NDRI, R2 = 0.69 and R2 = 0.56 for Sentinel-2B and Landsat-8 data, respectively. Hence, the correlation strength of NDTI, STI and NDRI with WSC percentages was markedly superior by using Sentinel-2B spectral data compared to Landsat-8 ones. Moreover, the NDTI of Sentinel-2B data was the most accurate in mapping the WSC percentage in four categories, with an overall accuracy of 86.53% (κ = 0.78), surpassing the other CRI indices. Therefore, these findings suggest that the multispectral imagery of Sentinel-2B bolstered with enhanced temporal and spatial data was superior for precisely estimating and mapping the WSC percentage compared to Landsat-8 data over a large-scale agricultural region.
Climate Change and an Agronomic Journey from the Past to the Present for the Future: A Past Reference Investigation and Current Experiment (PRICE) Study
Authors: Min Hyunkyeong , Lee Hyeon-Seok , Lee Chun-Kuen , Choi Woo-Jung , Ha Bo-Keun , Lee Hyeongju , Shin Seo-Ho , An Kyu-Nam , Kim Dong-Kwan , Kwon Oh-Do , Ko Jonghan , Cho Jaeil , Kim Han-Yong
Published: October 2023

According to numerous chamber and free-air CO2 enrichment (FACE) studies with artificially raised CO2 concentration and/or temperature, it appears that increasing atmospheric CO2 concentrations ([CO2]) stimulates crop yield. However, there is still controversy about the extent of the yield stimulation by elevating [CO2] and concern regarding the potential adverse effects when temperature rises concomitantly. Here, we tested the effects of natural elevated [CO2] (ca. 120 ppm above the ambient level in 100 years ago) and warming (ca. 1.7–3.2 °C above the ambient level 100 years ago) on rice growth and yield over three crop seasons via a past reference investigation and current experiment (PRICE) study. In 2020–2022, the rice cultivar Tamanishiki (Oryza sativa, ssp. japonica) was grown in Wagner’s pots (1/2000 a) at the experiment fields of Chonnam National University (35°10′ N, 126°53′ E), Gwangju, Korea, according to the pot trial methodology of the reference experiment conducted in 1920–1922. Elevated [CO2] and temperature over the last 100 years significantly stimulated plant height (13.4% on average), tiller number (11.5%), and shoot biomass (10.8%). In addition, elevated [CO2] and warming resulted in a marked acceleration of flowering phenology (6.8% or 5.1 days), potentially leading to adverse effects on tiller number and grain yield. While the harvest index exhibited a dramatic reduction (12.2%), grain yield remained unchanged with elevated [CO2] and warming over the last century. The response of these crop parameters to elevated [CO2] and warming was highly sensitive to sunshine duration during the period from transplanting to heading. Despite the pot-based observations, considering a piecewise response pattern of C3 crop productivity to [CO2] of <500 ppm, our observations demonstrate realistic responses of rice crops to elevated [CO2] (+120 ppm) and moderate warming (+1.7–3.2 °C) in the absence of adaptation measures (e.g., cultivars and agronomic management practices). Hence, our results suggest that the PRICE platform may provide a promising way to better understand and forecast the net impact of climate change on major crops that have historical and experimental archived data, like rice, wheat, and soybean.
Sustainable Production of Tomato Using Fish Effluents Improved Plant Growth, Yield Components, and Yield in Northern Senegal
Authors: Diatta Andre A. , Manga Anicet G. B. , Bassène César , Mbow Cheikh , Battaglia Martin , Sambou Mariama , Babur Emre , Uslu Ömer Süha
Published: October 2023

Aquaculture and agriculture integration is essential for maximizing water and land productivity in arid and semi-arid regions. Thus, the increase in global water scarcity and the dual use of water for crop and fish production has the potential to optimize water use, dispose of aquaculture wastes, provide additional nutrients to crops, and reduce inorganic fertilizer usage, thus maximizing farm productivity. This greenhouse study was conducted to determine the effects of fish effluents on the growth, yield parameters, and yield of tomatoes (Solanum lycopersicum L.). The experiment was carried out in a randomized complete block design with six replications. The 13 treatments consisted of three irrigation water types (river water—control, Nile tilapia—Oreochromis niloticus, African sharptooth catfish—Clarias gariepinus), four fertilizers (chicken manure, cow manure, sheep manure; recommended rate of NPK—280 kg ha−1 of 10-10-20), and six mixed treatments with fish effluent and 50% of the applied rate of manure alone. Results showed that irrigation with C. gariepinus effluent increased the stem diameter by 21%, the number of flowers by 88%, the fruit number by 50%, the fruit diameter by 24%, the mean fruit weight by 34%, and total fruit weight of tomato by 96% compared to NPK treatments. These effects were more evident when C. gariepinus was mixed with poultry, cow, and sheep manures, which resulted in significantly greater values than recommended rates of NPK. The higher productivity observed from the combined use of C. gariepinus and manure treatments (133% increase, on average) compared to NPK treatments was related to the continuous supply of nutrients and the increase of yield parameters. Therefore, the combined use of C. gariepinus effluent and manure can be a viable alternative for smallholder farmers, for whom inorganic fertilizers are often neither affordable nor available.
Carcass Characteristics and Meat Quality of Karacabey Merino lambs Reared under Triticale and Oat Pastures Compared with Stall-Fed Lambs
Authors: Hanoglu Oral Hulya , Kecici Pembe Dilara , Alaturk Firat , Tolu Cemil , Ekiz Bulent , Gokkus Ahmet
Published: October 2023

Fifty-eight Karacabey Merino lambs were used to study the effects of feeding system (triticale pasture, oat pasture, or stall-fed), birth type (single or multiple), gender (male or female), and birth year (2016 or 2017) on various carcass and meat quality characteristics. Stall lambs had higher conformation (CS) and fatness (FS) scores, and higher meat L* and h* values than the two pasture groups, possibly due to higher fat content, while oat pasture lambs had the most tender meat. Single-born lambs had higher CS, FS, and Longissimus thoracis muscle section area, while females had higher subcutaneous and non-carcass fat deposits than their counterparts. Both single-born lambs and 2016-born lambs had higher meat a* and C* values than their counterparts. In conclusion, a pasture-based feeding system is more suitable for Karacabey Merino lambs than a stall feeding system, if lean meat and/or meat products are preferred. However, it should not be ignored that stall-fed lambs showed a better fattening performance in terms of conformation and fatness, during the same period.
Diet of Broilers with Essential Oil from Citrus sinensis and Xylopia aromatica Fruits
Authors: Christofoli Marcela , da Silva Weslane Justina , da Silva Nathan Ferreira , Bonifácio Nadielli Pereira , Souza Christiane Silva , Silva Fabiano Guimarães , Pereira Paulo Sérgio , Minafra Cibele Silva
Published: October 2023

This study aimed to evaluate the effects of essential oils from the fruits of Citrus sinensis and Xylopia aromatica, included in broiler feed, on blood parameters, the biometrics of digestive organs, bone analyses, and the biochemical profiles of the viscera, as well as the histomorphometry of the small intestine. In this study, 180 one-day-old male chicks of the Cobb 500 strain were fed a corn and soybean meal over three treatments and six replications, and the experimental design was completely randomized. The data were subjected to an analysis of variance and a Tukey test at a 5% significance level. The effect of the experimental diets on performance, blood parameters, biometrics of the digestive organs, bone analysis, and biochemical profiles of the viscera, as well as the histomorphometry of the small intestine, were evaluated. The compounds identified in the essential oil of X. aromatica were sylvestrene, α-pinene, and β-pinene, while in C. sinensis they were limonene and myrcene. The essential oils of C. sinensis and X. aromatica had no significant effect on performance at 14 days. The effects of the presence of the essential oils of C. sinensis and X. aromatica on the response were beneficial: there were reductions in liver lipids, cholesterol, and triglycerides, and in the depths of the crypts in the jejunum of chickens. So, the essential oils from the fruits of C. sinensis and X. aromatica can be used in broiler chickens to improve the lipid profiles of birds without affecting their performance.
Real-Life Vancomycin Therapeutic Drug Monitoring in Coagulase-Negative Staphylococcal Bacteremia in Neonatal and Pediatric Intensive Care Unit: Are We Underestimating Augmented Renal Clearance?
Authors: Sette Claudia , Mariani Marcello , Grasselli Luca , Mesini Alessio , Saffioti Carolina , Russo Chiara , Bandettini Roberto , Moscatelli Andrea , Ramenghi Luca A. , Castagnola Elio
Published: October 2023

Bloodstream infections (BSI) from coagulase-negative-staphylococci (CoNS) are among the most frequent healthcare-related infections. Their treatment involves the use of vancomycin, a molecule whose optimal pharmacokinetic/pharmacodynamic (PK/PD) target for efficacy and safety is an area-under-curve/minimum inhibitory concentration (AUC/MIC) ratio ≥ 400 with AUC < 600. BSIs from CoNS in pediatric and neonatal intensive care unit that occurred at the Gaslini Institute over five years were evaluated to investigate the efficacy of vancomycin therapy in terms of achieving the desired PK/PD target and determining whether any variables interfere with the achievement of this target. AUC/MIC ≥ 400 with AUC < 600 at 48 and 72 h after therapy initiation was achieved in only 21% of the neonatal population and 25% of the pediatric population. In the pediatric population, an inverse correlation emerged between estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) and achieved AUC levels. Median eGFR at 72 h was significantly higher (expression of hyperfiltration) in events with AUC < 400, compared with those with AUC ≥ 400 (p < 0.001). A cut-off value of eGFR in the first 72 h has been identified (145 mL/min/1.73 m2), beyond which it is extremely unlikely to achieve an AUC ≥ 400, and therefore a higher dose or a different antibiotic should be chosen.
Comparative Evaluation of the Physiochemical Properties, and Antioxidant and Hypoglycemic Activities of Dendrobium officinale Leaves Processed Using Different Drying Techniques
Authors: Cai Gonglin , Dong Hangmeng , Liu Shoulong , Wu Weijie , Yang Hailong
Published: October 2023

Dendrobium officinale leaves have the potential to be processed into natural antioxidants, functional foods, and food additives. To maximally maintain their quality, fresh D. officinale leaves were dehydrated using different drying methods, i.e., hot air drying (HD), microwave drying (MD), infrared drying (IRD), and freeze drying (FD), and then the physicochemical properties, microstructure, and biological activities of the dried samples were compared. The results showed that, with the FD method, the samples had a porous microstructure, maintained the highest phenolic content, and demonstrated the highest antioxidant and hypoglycemic activities. Among the three thermal drying methods, with the IRD method, the samples retained higher phenolic contents, showed stronger DPPH free-radical scavenging, ferric ion reducing, ferrous ion chelating, and α-glucosidase inhibitory abilities, and more strongly promoted glucose metabolism in insulin-resistant HL-7702 cells than the samples with the MD and HD methods. These results suggested that FD was the most suitable method. However, IRD might be a promising alternative, owing to the high cost and long time needed for FD for the large-scale drying of D. officinale leaves.