bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Intelligence across humans and machines: a joint perspective
Authors: Da Silveira Tiago Buatim Nion , Lopes Heitor Silvério
Published: August 2023

This paper aims to address the divergences and contradictions in the definition of intelligence across different areas of knowledge, particularly in computational intelligence and psychology, where the concept is of significant interest. Despite the differences in motivation and approach, both fields have contributed to the rise of cognitive science. However, the lack of a standardized definition, empirical evidence, or measurement strategy for intelligence is a hindrance to cross-fertilization between these areas, particularly for semantic-based applications. This paper seeks to equalize the definitions of intelligence from the perspectives of computational intelligence and psychology, and offer an overview of the methods used to measure intelligence. We argue that there is no consensus for intelligence, and the term is interchangeably used with similar, opposed, or even contradictory definitions in many fields. This paper concludes with a summary of its central considerations and contributions, where we state intelligence is an agent's ability to process external and internal information to find an optimum adaptation (decision-making) to the environment according to its ontology and then decode this information as an output action.
Identifying relevant asymmetry features of EEG for emotion processing
Authors: Mouri Fatima Islam , Valderrama Camilo E. , Camorlinga Sergio G.
Published: August 2023

The left and right hemispheres of the brain process emotion differently. Neuroscientists have proposed two models to explain this difference. The first model states that the right hemisphere is dominant over the left to process all emotions. In contrast, the second model states that the left hemisphere processes positive emotions, whereas the right hemisphere processes negative emotions. Previous studies have used these asymmetry models to enhance the classification of emotions in machine learning models. However, little research has been conducted to explore how machine learning models can help identify associations between hemisphere asymmetries and emotion processing. To address this gap, we conducted two experiments using a subject-independent approach to explore how the asymmetry of the brain hemispheres is involved in processing happiness, sadness, fear, and neutral emotions. We analyzed electroencephalogram (EEG) signals from 15 subjects collected while they watched video clips evoking these four emotions. We derived asymmetry features from the recorded EEG signals by calculating the log ratio between the relative energy of symmetrical left and right nodes. Using the asymmetry features, we trained four binary logistic regressions, one for each emotion, to identify which features were more relevant to the predictions. The average AUC-ROC across the 15 subjects was 56.2, 54.6, 51.6, and 58.4% for neutral, sad, fear, and happy, respectively. We validated these results with an independent dataset, achieving comparable AUC-ROC values. Our results showed that brain lateralization was observed primarily in the alpha frequency bands, whereas for the other frequency bands, both hemispheres were involved in emotion processing. Furthermore, the logistic regression analysis indicated that the gamma and alpha bands were the most relevant for predicting emotional states, particularly for the lateral frontal, parietal, and temporal EEG pairs, such as FT7-FT8, T7-T8, and TP7-TP8. These findings provide valuable insights into which brain areas and frequency bands need to be considered when developing predictive models for emotion recognition.
Association between negatively perceived parenting attitudes and dissociation: a cross-sectional study on the general population in Japan
Authors: Wang Baihui , Kuroki Toshihide
Published: August 2023

Objectives

Many studies have reported that early traumatic experiences, mainly abuse, are associated with forming dangerous attachments and a contributing factor to dissociation. On the other hand, other studies have investigated the association of non-abusive nurturing and attachment styles with dissociation. The aim of this study is to determine the frequency of dissociative experiences in the general Japanese population and investigate the effects of “overprotection” and “lack of care” as nurturing styles and “abandonment anxiety” and “avoidance of intimacy” as attachment styles on dissociation.

Methods

A total of 1,042 residents aged 18 to 69 years were administered with the Dissociative Experiences Scale (DES), the Japanese version of the WHO-5 Well-Being Index (WHO-5-J), the Parental Bonding Instrument (PBI), and the Experiences in Close Relationships Inventory-the-generalized-other-version (ECR-GO). Hierarchical multiple regression analyses on the effects of “overprotection” and “care” as nurturing attitudes “abandonment anxiety” and “avoidance of intimacy” as attachment styles on dissociation (DES-NDI and DES-T) were conducted.

Results

Based on the findings of this study, “care” and “overprotection” as nurturing attitudes were shown to be a contributing factor to dissociation (DES-NDI and DES-T). “Avoidance of intimacy” as an attachment style was shown to contribute to pathological dissociation. On the other hand, the influence of attachment style on the relationship between nurturing style and dissociation was not determined.

Discussion

This study provided essential data on the distribution of dissociative experiences in the general Japanese population. It was indicated that nurturing style, particularly overprotection, may be linked to nonfunctional stress coping and interpersonal anxiety and could be a contributing factor to mental disorders, including dissociation. Furthermore, considering that the effect of nurturing styles on dissociation does not vary with attachment styles, the effect of nurturing styles on dissociation may be more profound.
A systematic review of mental health in rural Andean populations in Latin America during the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Moya-Salazar Jeel , Jaime-Quispe Alexis , Cañari Betsy , Moya-Espinoza Jeel G. , Contreras-Pulache Hans
Published: August 2023

Background

COVID-19 has been causing mental health problems around the world, with rural and indigenous peoples likely to be the most affected. This systematic review synthesizes and critically analyzes the existing literature on mental disorders in the rural Andean population in Latin America.

Methods

A systematic review with narrative synthesis was carried out following the PRISMA guidelines. We searched nine databases (PubMed/MEDLINE, Scopus, EMBASE, ScienceDirect, Web of Science, Cochrane, Scielo, LILACS, and Latindex), five public prepublication servers (SocArXiv, medRxiv, bioRxiv, SportRXiv, and Preprints), ALICIA, and Google Scholar for articles that included the analysis of mental health problems using data collected from the rural Andean population in Latin America. These were eligible for inclusion. Articles that included Non-Latin American populations (including European or African migrants) and studies conducted prior to the COVID-19 pandemic (since the declaration of national lockdown) were excluded.

Results

A total of 23,761 articles were retrieved, 14 of which met the inclusion requirements. Most were cross-sectional (n = 12) and related to anxiety (n = 9), depression (n = 8), and stress (n = 5). The mental health analysis of 5,976 rural dwellers from four countries in Latin America also included gray literature studies (n = 7) that allowed the quantification of mental health problems in adults (n = 7) and adolescents/children (n = 4). Only one study was multinational, and the quality of publications varied. Despite the high frequency of anxiety, depression, and stress symptoms among rural Latin American populations during COVID-19, published research is very limited. This review found preliminary evidence that the frequency of anxiety (45%), depression (27.6%), and stress (33.1%) in the rural population was associated with pandemic restrictions across countries. Measures of other psychiatric problems, such as distress or suicidal ideation, cannot be estimated.

Conclusion

Regional-wide studies investigating changes in the frequency of symptoms of mental health problems in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic are warranted to inform culturally adapted prevention strategies. This study is limited to a narrative synthesis and may be subject to publication bias.

Systematic review registration

https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/display_record.php?RecordID=320489.
Revealing the impact of built environment, air pollution and housing price on health inequality: an empirical analysis of Nanjing, China
Authors: Ding Yu , Wang Chenglong , Wang Jiaming , Wang Peng , Huang Lei
Published: August 2023

Introduction

Residential segregation have become a common phenomenon in China recently. Socioeconomically disadvantaged residents were more likely to live in communities with higher PM2.5 concentrations and poorer built environment, which may ultimately lead to a higher health risk, further exacerbating health inequalities. However, the reasons for health inequalities under residential segregation remain unclear.

Methods

This study quantified the built environment, air pollution, mortality rate and housing price at 1 km × 1 km grid scale. Moderating effect model, mediating effect model, moderated mediating effect model were used to progressively clarify the relationship between the four.

Results

Results show that, in terms of spatial distribution, the central area has high housing price with good built environment, low PM2.5 concentration and low mortality rate. While the suburban area has low housing price, poor built environment, high PM2.5 concentration and high mortality rate. Additionally, built environment can not only reduce health risks through moderating effect, but also affect health through the mediating effect of PM2.5. There is heterogeneity in moderating effect of built environment in different locations. Housing prices can moderate the effect of built environment on health. This study would offer important reference for urban planning to mitigate the effect of built environment inequalities on health inequalities in China.
The Long COVID experience from a patient's perspective: a clustering analysis of 27,216 Reddit posts
Authors: Ayadi Hanin , Bour Charline , Fischer Aurélie , Ghoniem Mohammad , Fagherazzi Guy
Published: August 2023

Objective

This work aims to study the profiles of Long COVID from the perspective of the patients spontaneously sharing their experiences and symptoms on Reddit.

Methods

We collected 27,216 posts shared between July 2020 and July 2022 on Long COVID-related Reddit forums. Natural language processing, clustering techniques and a Long COVID symptoms lexicon were used to extract the different symptoms and categories of symptoms and to study the co-occurrences and correlation between them.

Results

More than 78% of the posts mentioned at least one Long COVID symptom. Fatigue (29.4%), pain (22%), clouded consciousness (19.1%), anxiety (17.7%) and headaches (15.6%) were the most prevalent symptoms. They also highly co-occurred with a variety of other symptoms (e.g., fever, sinonasal congestion). Different categories of symptoms were found: general (45.5%), neurological/ocular (42.9%), mental health/psychological/behavioral (35.2%), body pain/mobility (35.1%) and cardiorespiratory (31.2%). Posts focusing on other concerns of the community such as vaccine, recovery and relapse and, symptom triggers were detected.

Conclusions

We demonstrated the benefits of leveraging large volumes of data from Reddit to characterize the heterogeneity of Long COVID profiles. General symptoms, particularly fatigue, have been reported to be the most prevalent and frequently co-occurred with other symptoms. Other concerns, such as vaccination and relapse following recovery, were also addressed by the Long COVID community.
Sense of Coherence or resilience as predictors of psychological distress in nursing students during the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Hasimi Leila , Ahmadi Mehrnaz , Hovyzian Shahla Assadi , Ahmadi Ali
Published: August 2023

Background

The COVID-19 pandemic lead to the occurrence of numerous psychological distress among students. This study aimed to determine the level of psychological distress as well as the predictive role of Sense of Coherence (SOC) and resilience in nursing students.

Methods

A cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted on 310 nursing students in Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Iran. The data of the study was collected through the demographic information questionnaire, the General Health Questionnaire (GHQ), the Academic Resilience Inventory (ARI), and the Sense of Coherence Scale (SOC-13).

Results

Students' mean scores for the GHQ, ARI, and SOC were 5.81 ± 1.37, 102.88 ± 11.91, and 54.54 ± 6.46, respectively. Regression models showed that two domains of SOC [meaningfulness (β = −0.28, p < 0.001), manageability (β = −0.19, p = 0.001)], female gender (β = 0.12, p = 0.015), and overall ARI (β = −0.12, p = 0.037), were significantly associated with the GH of nursing students. SOC domains [meaningfulness (β = −0.19, p = 0.002), manageability (β = −0.15, p = 0.006)], problem-oriented/positive thinking domain of ARI (β = −0.15, p = 0.011), sex (β = 0.12, p = 0.015), and history of death in first-degree relatives (β = 0.12, p = 0.021) were significantly associated with social dysfunction domain of GH. Three domains of SOC [meaningfulness (β = −0.26, p < 0.001), manageability (β = −0.13, p = 0.032), and comprehensibility (β = −0.13, p = 0.039)], were significantly associated with psychological distress domain of GH.

Conclusion

Our results indicated that low SOC and resilience were predictors of psychological distress in nursing students. Accordingly, interventions such as teaching stress management skills, the skills of using positive coping methods in dealing with stressful situations, and self-management skills are necessary to improve the level of resilience and SOC in nursing students.
Zoos and aquaria: dark tourism or light fun? A post-humanist perspective
Authors: Yerbury Rachel M.
Published: August 2023

Non-human animals in the field of Dark Tourism (DT) is an area of recent discussion. While DT initially described tourist sites of human suffering and death, this field undoubtedly encompasses nonhuman malaise. Some activities are unmistakably DT experiences, like bullfighting and hunting, whereas zoos and aquaria are considered more ambiguous. Using Fennel's post-humanist prototype, animals in zoos and aquaria are highlighted as examples of dark tourism objects who endure pain, suffering and thwarted flourishing. It is argued that animal-based DT activities arise from anthropocentric domination narratives of human exceptionalism and entitlement. In the captive context, nature and nonhumans are conceptualized as “other”, extending the dominant, progress-driven misapprehensions of human-nature separation, allowing people to deny the true and far-reaching effects of human impacts on nonhumans and the earth. Dark tourists seek the artificial manifestations of the captive utopia of zoos and aquaria and the collusion provided, permitting the dismissal of animal rights, biodiversity loss and climate change. An alternative perspective of deep justice is offered, where the wellbeing, interests and rights of animals are inherently valued. Embracing this perspective would allow the rejection of captive-animal dark tourism sites such as zoos and aquaria and for the flourishing of all beings to be to be upheld.
Contextual factors in local energy policy choices: comparative case of solar energy policy in two cities
Authors: Curley Cali , Aloise-Young Patricia , Harrison Nicky , Xu Corey Kewei , Duggan Gerald P. , Zimmerle Daniel
Published: August 2023

Numerous recent calls have been made for policy design research to embed itself throughout the policy process and explore avenues for matching tools and targets. These calls have argued that policy design research, while emphasizing the content and the choice of design, has been under-leveraged, particularly in exploring rationales for effectiveness. In this paper, we conduct a comparative case study to explore variation in participation rates for two similarly categorized solar policies across two mid-sized cities. In this regard, three contextual factors are examined, including the population characteristics, the existing configuration of policies, and the physical environment, which all contribute to shaping policy effectiveness. We argue that policy design is situated within an explicit context and that without capturing the context, the effectiveness of policies may not translate if diffused.
Policy gaps and food systems optimization: a review of agriculture, environment, and health policies in South Africa
Authors: Hlahla Sithabile , Ngidi Mjabuliseni , Duma Sinegugu Evidence , Sobratee-Fajurally Nafiisa , Modi Albert Thembinkosi , Slotow Rob , Mabhaudhi Tafadzwanashe
Published: August 2023

South Africa faces the triple burden of malnutrition, high poverty levels, unemployment, and inequality. “Wicked problems” such as these require innovative and transdisciplinary responses, multi-stakeholder coordination and collaboration, managing complex synergies and trade-offs, and achieving sustainable outcomes. Through qualitative content analysis of national and provincial sector-based policies, we explored the interlinkages between the agriculture, environment, and health sectors in South Africa in the context of sustainable food and nutrition security and the extent to which these interlinkages are integrated into policy and planning. A systemic analysis of the review outcomes was performed to identify its main learning outcome, the status quo in the policy process. The nature of feedback loops was identified, and a leverage point was suggested. The review highlighted that policymakers in the agriculture, environment and health sectors are aware of, and have understood, the relationships among the three sectors. They have also made attempts to address these interlinkages through collaboration and coordination. Unfortunately, this has been met with several challenges due to fragmented sector-specific mandates and targets and a lack of resources for integrated solutions. This creates implementation gaps and unintended duplication of activities, leading to poor service delivery. Transitioning to sustainable and healthy food systems will only be possible after these gaps have been closed and implementation optimization has been achieved. Focusing on meta-level problem-framing, functional collaboration through transdisciplinary approaches, and integrated targets are critical to successful policy implementation and progressive realization of national goals related to sustainable food and nutrition security, unemployment, poverty, and inequality.
Assessing the effects of a mixed Eimeria spp. challenge on performance, intestinal integrity, and the gut microbiome of broiler chickens
Authors: Graham Danielle , Petrone-Garcia Victor M. , Hernandez-Velasco Xochitl , Coles Makenly E. , Juarez-Estrada Marco A. , Latorre Juan D. , Chai Jianmin , Shouse Stephanie , Zhao Jiangchao , Forga Aaron J. , Senas-Cuesta Roberto , Laverty Lauren , Martin Kristen , Trujillo-Peralta Carolina , Loeza Ileana , Gray Latasha S. , Hargis Billy M. , Tellez-Isaias Guillermo
Published: August 2023

A mixed Eimeria spp. challenge model was designed to assess the effects of challenge on broiler chicken performance, intestinal integrity, and the gut microbiome for future use to evaluate alternative strategies for controlling coccidiosis in broiler chickens. The experimental design involved broiler chickens divided into two groups: a control group (uninfected) and a positive control group, infected with Eimeria acervulina (EA), Eimeria maxima (EM), and Eimeria tenella (ET). At day-of-hatch, 240 off-sex male broiler chicks were randomized and allocated to one of two treatment groups. The treatment groups included: (1) Non-challenged (NC, n = 5 replicate pens); and (2) challenged control (PC, n = 7 replicate pens) with 20 chickens/pen. Pen weights were recorded at d0, d16, d31, d42, and d52 to determine average body weight (BW) and (BWG). Feed intake was measured at d16, d31, d42, and d52 to calculate feed conversion ratio (FCR). Four diet phases included a starter d0–16, grower d16–31, finisher d31–42, and withdrawal d42–52 diet. At d18, chickens were orally challenged with 200 EA, 3,000 EM, and 500 ET sporulated oocysts/chicken. At d24 (6-day post-challenge) and d37 (19-day post-challenge), intestinal lesion scores were recorded. Additionally, at d24, FITC-d was used as a biomarker to evaluate intestinal permeability and ileal tissue sections were collected for histopathology and gene expression of tight junction proteins. Ileal and cecal contents were also collected to assess the impact of challenge on the microbiome. BWG and FCR from d16–31 was significantly (p < 0.05) reduced in PC compared to NC. At d24, intestinal lesion scores were markedly higher in the PC compared to the NC. Intestinal permeability was significantly increased in the PC group based on serum FITC-d levels. Cadherin 1 (CDH1), calprotectin (CALPR), and connexin 45 (Cx45) expression was also upregulated in the ileum of the PC group at d24 (6-day post-challenge) while villin 1 (VIL1) was downregulated in the ileum of the PC group. Additionally, Clostridium perfringens (ASV1) was enriched in the cecal content of the PC group. This model could be used to assess the effect of alternative coccidiosis control methods during the post-challenge with EA, EM, and ET.
Cryptosporidium parvum-induced neutrophil extracellular traps in neonatal calves is a stage-independent process
Authors: Grabbe Magdalena , Conejeros Iván , Velásquez Zahady D. , Hasheminasab Seyed Sajjad , Kamena Faustin , Wehrend Axel , Gärtner Ulrich , Taubert Anja , Hermosilla Carlos Rodrigo
Published: August 2023

Introduction

Infections with the apicomplexan obligate intracellular parasite Cryptosporidium parvum lead to cryptosporidiosis—a worldwide zoonotic infection. C. parvum is one of the most common diarrheal pathogens in young calves, which are the main reservoir of the pathogen. Cryptosporidiosis leads to severe economic losses in the calf industry and being a major contributor to diarrhea morbidity and mortality in children. Polymorphonuclear neutrophils (PMN) are part of the innate immune system. Their effector mechanisms directed against invasive parasites include phagocytosis, production of antimicrobial molecules as well as the formation of so-called neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs). Like other leukocytes of the innate immune system, PMN are thus able to release chromatin fibers enriched with antimicrobial granular molecules extracellularly thereby immobilizing and partially killing invasive bacteria, viruses, fungi and parasites.

Methods

In vitro interactions of neonatal bovine PMN and C. parvum-oocysts and sporozoites were illustrated microscopically via scanning electron microscopy- and live cell imaging 3D holotomographic microscopy analyses. C. parvum-triggered NETosis was quantified via extracellular DNA measurements as well as verified via detection of NET-typical molecules [histones, neutrophil elastase (NE)] through immunofluorescence microscopy analysis. To verify the role of ATP in neonatal-derived NETosis, inhibition experiments were performed with NF449 (purinergic receptor antagonist with high specificity to P2X1 receptor).

Results and discussion

Using immunofluorescence- and SEM-based analyses, we demonstrate here for the first time that neonate bovine PMN are capable of forming NETs against C. parvum-sporozoites and oocysts, thus as a stage-independent cell death process. Our data further showed that C. parvum strongly induces suicidal neonatal NETosis in a P2X1-dependent manner, suggesting anti-cryptosporidial effects not only through firm sporozoite ensnarement and hampered sporozoite excystation, but also via direct exposure to NETs-associated toxic components.
Challenges for Developing Palliative Care Services in Resource- Limited Settings of Kazakhstan
Authors: Salikhanov Islam , Connor Stephen R. , Kunirova Gulnara , Khashagulgova Fatima , Nazarova Gulzhaina , Crape Byron Lawrence , Katapodi Maria C.
Published: August 2023

Background: Approximately 40 million people in need of palliative care worldwide, while 80% of them live in low- and middle-income countries. Kazakhstan, a low-to middle-income country with a reforming healthcare system, is committed to improving quality and accessibility of care for its 100,000 terminal patients in need of palliative care.

Policy Options and Recommendations: To join the group of countries where palliative care is available, accessible, and affordable, Kazakhstan must integrate palliative services into the mainstream healthcare system at all levels, from primary healthcare to hospices, and from major cities to remote villages. Based on the evidence thoroughly collected directly from the Ministry of Health, authors propose a feasible set of recommendations regarding palliative policy, pain relief, infrastructure, workforce, and education, which could be implemented in LMICs beyond Kazakhstan.

Conclusion: This study presents an analysis of challenges, recent developments, and needs of palliative care in Kazakhstan, including funding, policy, workforce, education, and infrastructure, providing an evidence base and recommendations for future development of palliative care in Kazakhstan and in other LMICs.
Evaluation of Joint Clearance Effects on the Shimmy of Nose Landing Gear
Authors: Jiang Yiyao , Feng Guang , Liu Panglun , Yuan Li , Ding Jianbin , Jiang Bingyan
Published: August 2023

Through the establishment of a three-dimensional joint clearance model, the effects of joint clearances at different positions on shimmy stability are evaluated. In this paper, considering the radial, axial and coupling characteristics of joint clearance, the shimmy multibody dynamics (MBD) model is applied to different joints in the nose landing gear (NLG) transmission system. It is proposed to evaluate the influence of joint clearance on shimmy from two aspects of position factor and wear factor. The study found that different joint clearances have different effects on shimmy: the joint clearance between the NLG and fuselage has little influence on shimmy; the larger axial clearance of upper and lower torque link joint will cause the shimmy of the NLG, but the radial clearance has no effect on shimmy; while the joint clearance between turning sleeve and upper torque link, lower torque link and piston only works in the axial and radial coupling. The reasons for the different influence characteristics of each joint space are analyzed. Consequently, studying and summarizing the influence of different clearance on shimmy is of great significance for the design and maintenance of the NLG joints.
Correlation Studies of Different Decoupled Two-Scale Simulations for Lattice Structures
Authors: Tsushima Natsuki , Higuchi Ryo , Yamamoto Koji
Published: August 2023

By deliberately designing microscopic internal mechanisms, architected materials can achieve a variety of material properties without changing constituent materials. Integration of the architected materials into a structure as substructures has a good potential to enhance structural performance and realize wide design freedom. This paper explores the capabilities of multiscale approaches for lattice structures, which is a major mechanism in architected materials. The objectives of this paper are (1) to demonstrate the capabilities of the framework to evaluate stiffness characteristics of lattice structures with two different two-scale analysis approaches and (2) to assess the accuracies and validity ranges of both approaches for appropriate evaluations of lattice structures. The two-scale analysis framework consists of the computational homogenizations for the generalized stiffness (ABD) and 3D stiffness (C) matrices. Equivalent stiffness characteristics of the unit cell are obtained by computational homogenizations to effectively capture the macroscopic responses of lattice structures. This study provides a comprehensive correlation study between the prediction accuracies of the two-scale analysis approaches in terms of tensile, bending, and torsional stiffness characteristics for practical modeling and development of lattice structures. The study will contribute a guideline for effective designs of high-performance structures with architected materials.
Mapping and Candidate Gene Prediction of qPL7-25: A Panicle Length QTL in Dongxiang Wild Rice
Authors: Li Sanfeng , Rao Yuchun , Duan Penggen , Wang Zhonghao , Hu Ping , Yu Ruoqian , Luo Chenxi , Tang Mengna , Lu Caolin , Wang Yuexing , Mao Yijian
Published: August 2023

Panicle length (PL) is an important trait closely related to rice yield. More than 200 quantitative trait loci (QTL) for PL have been identified, but only a few can be used for breeding. Dongxiang wild rice contains many excellent genes, and mining favorable PL-related QTL from DXWR is helpful for rice variety improvement. Here, we report a QTL analysis for PL using a recombinant inbred line population consisting of 143 individuals derived from a cross between Dongxiang wild rice and indica cultivar Guangluai 4. A total of four QTL (qPL1-37, qPL4-26, qPL7-25, and qPL8-4) for PL were identified and located on chromosomes 1, 4, 7, and 8. Among them, qPL7-25 showed the largest F-value of 32.32 and 16.80, and the QTL explained 18.66% and 13.06% of the phenotypic variation of Dongxiang wild rice in Hangzhou and Hainan, respectively. QTL mapping was performed using a population of 1800 individuals derived from the crossing of NIL-qPL7-25 and GLA4. qPL7-25 was located between two InDel markers, InDel-24591 and InDel-24710, in a 119 kb region containing 14 predicted genes. Using Sanger sequencing and qRT-PCR analysis, we propose that LOC_Os07g41200 is probably a new allele of the well-known GL7 gene, which affects grain length and appearance quality in rice. These results provide new insights into the use of molecular marker-assisted selection for breeding high-yielding and high-quality rice varieties.
Knowledge, Attitude, and Perception of Students Regarding Renewable Energies in Agriculture in Guilan, Iran
Authors: Fazeli Hadi , Allahyari Mohammad Sadegh , Firouzi Saeid , Ben Hassen Tarek , Surujlal Jhalukpreya , Nejadrezaei Nima , Sadeghzadeh Mina
Published: August 2023

Transitioning from fossil to renewable energy is a global challenge, especially for countries with large fossil-fuel reserves and exports, such as Iran. This study analyses agricultural students’ knowledge of, attitudes toward, and perceptions of renewable energies in the agriculture sector in Guilan Province in Iran. The research was based on a structured questionnaire comprising three sections: (i) respondents’ socio-demographics; (ii) practicality and relevance of academic material and curriculum; and (iii) respondents’ knowledge of and attitudes and perceptions toward renewable energies in agriculture. The results showed that students’ attitudes regarding renewable energies ranked highest, and their perception was lowest. The results also showed a positive and significant relationship between the respondents’ knowledge, marital status, age, and level of education. Moreover, respondents’ age and educational level significantly impacted their attitudes. Cluster analysis divided students’ behavior into three different clusters. These clusters were most affected by attitude. In clustering students’ behavior towards using renewable energies, 38.5%, 33.5%, and 28% of respondents were positioned in the first, third, and second clusters, respectively. This is a pioneering study analyzing agricultural students’ behavior regarding renewable energies in agriculture in Guilan Province, Iran. The results of this study can assist agricultural organizations, politicians in the field of energy, and local authorities in promoting sustainable energy in Guilan Province.
Fodder Radish as a Potential Alternative Feed Source for Livestock in South Africa
Authors: Mbambalala Lwando , Rani Zikhona Theodora , Mpanza Thamsanqa Doctor Empire , Mthana Makiwa Simeon , Ncisana Lusanda , Mkhize Ntuthuko Raphael
Published: August 2023

The agricultural sector receives substantial support from livestock, which greatly contributes to the well-being of rural communities. Livestock offers animal-derived products, such as meat and milk, which serve as abundant protein sources for human consumption. While the majority of South Africa’s agricultural land is suitable for livestock farming within the smallholder sector, these farmers often face a variety of challenges. Among these challenges, there is insufficient access to superior forage resources, resulting in the limited availability of high-quality feed. Traditional nutrient sources for ruminants, such as soybean meal, grain, sunflower meal, and fish meal, are employed as supplementary feeds to provide exceptional nutrition and improve animal performance. Nonetheless, they present logistical, economic, and environmental challenges. To circumvent these challenges, smallholder producers have turned to leguminous trees, including Vachellia species and other locally available feed resources. They are utilized as feasible and cost-effective alternatives to supplement livestock, especially during periods of extended drought. However, these locally available feed resources exhibit inherent limitations, including thorn presence, high fiber content, low digestibility, and the presence of anti-nutritional and toxic factors. Cool season forage crops such as fodder radish present promising alternatives as autumn and winter forages for these farmers. Despite being widely used globally as a supplement for livestock during winter, fodder radish remains relatively underutilized, particularly among smallholder farmers. There is a scarcity of comprehensive information regarding its chemical composition, nutrient utilization, and remarkable potential to revolutionize livestock production, especially within the smallholder sector. Most of the available literature demonstrates the positive effects of fodder radish on soil structure, soil carbon and nitrogen levels, weed suppression, and other benefits. This paper systematically reviews the current state of knowledge on the nutritive value, opportunities, and challenges associated with the utilization of this crop in the cooler eastern regions.
Evaluation of Maize Crop Damage Using UAV-Based RGB and Multispectral Imagery
Authors: Dobosz Barbara , Gozdowski Dariusz , Koronczok Jerzy , Žukovskis Jan , Wójcik-Gront Elżbieta
Published: August 2023

The accurate evaluation of crop damage by wild animals is crucial for farmers when seeking compensation from insurance companies or other institutions. One of the game species that frequently cause crop damage in Europe is the wild boar, which often feeds on maize. Other game species, such as roe deer and red deer, can also cause significant crop damage. This study aimed to assess the accuracy of crop damage evaluation based on remote sensing data derived from unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), especially a digital surface model (DSM) based on RGB imagery and NDVI (normalized difference vegetation index) derived from multispectral imagery, at two growth stages of maize. During the first growth stage, when plants are in the intensive growth phase and green, crop damage evaluation was conducted using both DSM and NDVI. Each variable was separately utilized, and both variables were included in the classification and regression tree (CART) analysis, wherein crop damage was categorized as a binomial variable (with or without crop damage). In the second growth stage, which was before harvest when the plants had dried, only DSM was employed for crop damage evaluation. The results for both growth stages demonstrated high accuracy in detecting areas with crop damage, but this was primarily observed for areas larger than several square meters. The accuracy of crop damage evaluation was significantly lower for smaller or very narrow areas, such as the width of a single maize row. DSM proved to be more useful than NDVI in detecting crop damage as it can be applied at any stage of maize growth.
Advances and Developments in Monitoring and Inversion of the Biochemical Information of Crop Nutrients Based on Hyperspectral Technology
Authors: Zhang Yali , Xiao Junqi , Yan Kangting , Lu Xiaoyang , Li Wanjian , Tian Haoxin , Wang Linlin , Deng Jizhong , Lan Yubin
Published: August 2023

Crop nutrient biochemical information (mainly including chlorophyll class and nutrient elements mainly nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium) is an important basis for revealing crop growth and development patterns and their relationship with the environment. Hyperspectral technology has been rapidly developed and applied in crop nutrient biochemical information monitoring research. This paper firstly describes the theoretical basis of hyperspectral technology for monitoring crop nutrients and biochemical information. Then, the research progress of hyperspectral technology in monitoring nutrient and biochemical information of crops in different growth periods or different growth environments is outlined. Meanwhile, the shortcomings of the current technology in these research directions and the future research trends are discussed. Finally, the modeling methods for building crop nutrient biochemical information monitoring models by applying hyperspectral data are systematically outlined. And the effects of different spectral pre-processing methods, spectral effective information extraction methods and modeling algorithms on the accuracy of monitoring models are analyzed. On this basis, the challenges and prospects of hyperspectral technology in monitoring crop nutrient biochemical information are presented, aiming to provide relevant theoretical basis and technical reference for the research related to monitoring and inversion of crop physiological parameters based on hyperspectral technology.
The Electrical Conductivity and Drying Method Changed the Secondary Metabolite Content and Photoprotective Effects of Hydroponically Cultivated Agastache rugosa Kuntze
Authors: Son Yang-Ju , Park Jai-Eok , Nho Chu Won
Published: August 2023

Many studies have examined how various cultivation methods and elicitors elevate target crop values. Post-harvest treatments, such as the drying method, may alter the final product’s characteristics. We investigated the effect of nutrient solution concentration during the hydroponic cultivation and drying method (cold air drying and freeze drying) after harvesting Agastache rugosa Kuntze, an herb used for folk medicine and as a deodorant, spice, and tea in East Asia. To explore the properties of A. rugosa, we determined its growth parameters, secondary metabolites, and photoprotective effects. We observed the highest growth and yields in A. rugosa grown under 4.0 dS·m−1 electrical conductivity (EC) conditions. However, the EC 2.0 group showed higher antioxidative properties than those grown in EC 1.5 and 4.0 conditions. Drying conditions varied the content and ratios of major active compounds (rosmarinic acid, tilianin, and acacetin) in A. rugosa. Cold air drying caused rosmarinic acid transmutation to tilianin and acacetin, and tilianin showed a stronger positive correlation with antioxidative and photoprotective activities than rosmarinic acid. The increased tilianin content in cold-air-dried A. rugosa accompanied the improved photoprotective effects in dermal cell lines. This study reveals the effects of cultivation and drying methods in A. rugosa production, and proposes alternate industrial production techniques.
Effects of Sowing Dates and Genotypes of Castor (Ricinus communis L.) on Seed Yield and Oil Content in the South Mediterranean Basin
Authors: Cafaro Valeria , Calcagno Silvio , Patanè Cristina , Cosentino Salvatore Luciano , Testa Giorgio
Published: August 2023

To evaluate the performance of dwarf castor hybrids (‘C1012’, ‘C857’, ‘C856’), compared to a local selected genotype, in four subsequent sowing dates (SW1, SW2, SW3, SW4), a trial was conducted at the experimental farm of the University of Catania (Sicily, Italy). The length of the growing season decreased with the increase of the sowing date in the average genotypes from 160 to 94 days, respectively, for the first and the last sowing date. According to the RED—Renewable Energy Directive, the genotype ‘C856’ was the earliest (112 days), resulting in suitability as a catch crop for biomass production. The results showed that early spring sowings negatively impact dwarf hybrid production (1.2 and 1.5 Mg ha−1 in SW1 and SW2, in the average of the three hybrids), which reached the highest yield in the third sowing date (2.0 Mg ha−1), preferring warmer temperatures for the germination of seeds. On the contrary, the ‘Local’ genotype reached the highest yield (1.6 Mg ha−1) in the first sowing date and linearly decreased in the subsequent ones. Nonetheless, the third sowing date positively influenced the oil content and the oil yield in all dwarf genotypes except the ‘Local’ genotype, which showed the highest oil yield in the first sowing date.
Analysis of the Scale Effect and Temporal Stability of Groundwater in a Large Irrigation District in Northwest China
Authors: Zan Ziyi , Yue Weifeng , Zhao Hangzheng , Cao Changming , Wu Fengyan , Lin Peirong , Wu Jin
Published: August 2023

The depth to groundwater table (DGT) and the stability sites of groundwater were closely related parameters in groundwater research. Controlling the DGT and identifying stability sites of DGT were of great significance to prevent soil salinization and improve groundwater monitoring. In this study, using DGT data from the Hetao Irrigation District (HID) from 1991 to 2015, combined with spatial interpolation and coefficient-of-variation methods, this study explored the spatiotemporal variation characteristics and scale-effect problems of DGT from four hierarchical scales: the irrigation district, irrigation subdistrict, main canal, and branch canal. The Spearman correlation coefficient, average relative difference, and standard deviation were also used to further clarify the characteristics of groundwater time stability and its periodic variation rule. The results indicated that the spatiotemporal variation in DGT in the HID, and showed moderate variation characteristics, consistent with scale-effect features, which was deeply influenced by the regional climate and human activities. The DGT in the HID showed different temporal stabilities before and after 2000 caused by the application of Water-saving practices (WSPs). The stability sites were not entirely the same in different years or time periods, but they were all at the moderate DGT level in the HID. The results of this study can provide more insights for improving soil salinization and groundwater monitoring and provide more information for agricultural water-use efficiency and management.
Comparison of Various Nitrogen and Water Dual Stress Effects for Predicting Relative Water Content and Nitrogen Content in Maize Plants through Hyperspectral Imaging
Authors: Maki Hideki , Lynch Valerie , Ma Dongdong , Tuinstra Mitchell R. , Yamasaki Masanori , Jin Jian
Published: August 2023

Water and nitrogen (N) are major factors in plant growth and agricultural production. However, these are often confounded and produce overlapping symptoms of plant stress. The objective of this study is to verify whether the different levels of N treatment influence water status prediction and vice versa with hyperspectral modeling. We cultivated 108 maize plants in a greenhouse under three-level N treatments in combination with three-level water treatments. Hyperspectral images were collected from those plants, then Relative Water Content (RWC), as well as N content, was measured as ground truth. A Partial Least Squares (PLS) regression analysis was used to build prediction models for RWC and N content. Then, their accuracy and robustness were compared according to the different N treatment datasets and different water treatment datasets, respectively. The results demonstrated that the PLS prediction for RWC using hyperspectral data was impacted by N stress difference (Ratio of Performance to Deviation; RPD from 0.87 to 2.27). Furthermore, the dataset with water and N dual stresses improved model accuracy and robustness (RPD from 1.69 to 2.64). Conversely, the PLS prediction for N content was found to be robust against water stress difference (RPD from 2.33 to 3.06). In conclusion, we suggest that water and N dual treatments can be helpful in building models with wide applicability and high accuracy for evaluating plant water status such as RWC.
Attitudes towards the Potential Use of Aversive Geofencing Devices to Manage Wild Elephant Movement
Authors: Cabral de Mel Surendranie J. , Seneweera Saman , Dangolla Ashoka , Weerakoon Devaka K. , Maraseni Tek , Allen Benjamin L.
Published: August 2023

Aversive geofencing devices (AGDs) or animal-borne satellite-linked shock collars might become a useful tool to mitigate human-elephant conflict (HEC). AGDs have the potential to condition problem elephants to avoid human-dominated landscapes by associating mild electric shocks with preceding audio warnings given as they approach virtual boundaries. We assessed the opinions of different stakeholders (experts, farmers, and others who have and have not experienced HEC; n = 611) on the potential use of AGDs on Asian elephants. Most respondents expressed positive opinions on the potential effectiveness of AGDs in managing elephant movement (62.2%). About 62.8% respondents also provided positive responses for the acceptability of AGDs if pilot studies with captive elephants have been successful in managing their movements. Some respondents perceived AGDs to be unacceptable because they are unethical or harmful and would be unsuccessful given wild elephants may respond differently to AGDs than captive elephants. Respondents identified acceptability, support and awareness of stakeholders, safety and wellbeing of elephants, logistical difficulties, durability and reliable functionality of AGDs, and uncertainties in elephants’ responses to AGDs as potential challenges for implementing AGDs. These issues need attention when developing AGDs to increase support from stakeholders and to effectively reduce HEC incidents in the future.
Current and Future Advances in the Detection and Surveillance of Biosecurity-Relevant Equine Bacterial Diseases Using Loop-Mediated Isothermal Amplification (LAMP)
Authors: Knox Alexandra , Zerna Gemma , Beddoe Travis
Published: August 2023

Horses play an important role throughout the world, whether for work, culture, or leisure, providing an ever-growing significant contribution to the economy. The increase in importation and movement of horses, both nationally and internationally, has inevitably allowed for the global equine industry to grow. Subsequently, however, the potential for transmission of fatal equine bacterial diseases has also escalated, and devasting outbreaks continue to occur. To prevent such events, disease surveillance and diagnosis must be heightened throughout the industry. Current common, or “gold-standard” techniques, have shown to be inadequate at times, thus requiring newer technology to impede outbreaks. Loop-mediated isothermal amplification (LAMP) has proven to be a reliable, rapid, and accessible tool in both diagnostics and surveillance. This review will discuss equine bacterial diseases of biosecurity relevance and their current diagnostic approaches, as well as their respective LAMP assay developments. Additionally, we will provide insight regarding newer technology and advancements associated with this technique and their potential use for the outlined diseases.