bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Binary classification of non-specific low back pain condition based on the combination of B-mode ultrasound and shear wave elastography at multiple sites
Authors: Yu Xiaocheng , Xu Xiaohua , Huang Qinghua , Zhu Guowen , Xu Faying , Liu Zhenhua , Su Lin , Zheng Haiping , Zhou Chen , Chen Qiuming , Gao Fen , Lin Mengting , Yang Shuai , Chiang Mou-Hsun , Zhou Yongjin
Published: April 2023

Introduction: Low back pain (LBP) is a prevalent and complex condition that poses significant medical, social, and economic burdens worldwide. The accurate and timely assessment and diagnosis of LBP, particularly non-specific LBP (NSLBP), are crucial to developing effective interventions and treatments for LBP patients. In this study, we aimed to investigate the potential of combining B-mode ultrasound image features with shear wave elastography (SWE) features to improve the classification of NSLBP patients.

Methods: We recruited 52 subjects with NSLBP from the University of Hong Kong-Shenzhen Hospital and collected B-mode ultrasound images and SWE data from multiple sites. The Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) was used as the ground truth to classify NSLBP patients. We extracted and selected features from the data and employed a support vector machine (SVM) model to classify NSLBP patients. The performance of the SVM model was evaluated using five-fold cross-validation and the accuracy, precision, and sensitivity were calculated.

Results: We obtained an optimal feature set of 48 features, among which the SWE elasticity feature had the most significant contribution to the classification task. The SVM model achieved an accuracy, precision, and sensitivity of 0.85, 0.89, and 0.86, respectively, which were higher than the previously reported values of MRI.

Discussion: In this study, we aimed to investigate the potential of combining B-mode ultrasound image features with shear wave elastography (SWE) features to improve the classification of non-specific low back pain (NSLBP) patients. Our results showed that combining B-mode ultrasound image features with SWE features and employing an SVM model can improve the automatic classification of NSLBP patients. Our findings also suggest that the SWE elasticity feature is a crucial factor in classifying NSLBP patients, and the proposed method can identify the important site and position of the muscle in the NSLBP classification task.
Experimental investigation of training schedule on home-based working memory training in healthy older adults
Authors: Booth Samantha J. , Brown Laura J. E. , Taylor Jason R. , Pobric Gorana
Published: April 2023

Introduction

The efficacy of working memory training (WMT) for cognitive enhancement in healthy older adults has been extensively investigated. Typically, WMT results in improved performance on the training task, but limited or no transfer of improvement to other cognitive tasks. Accordingly, there is a need to identify optimal intervention parameters to maximize training and transfer task effects of WMT. The current study aimed to investigate the effect of training schedule on training and transfer task performance of WMT in healthy older adults. A secondary aim was to examine the feasibility of participants performing the intervention online at home, unsupervised, and using their personal devices.

Methods

Participants (N = 71; mean age: 66 years) completed sixteen WMT or active-control sessions over eight (distributed) or four (intensive) weeks. Adaptive verbal and spatial n-back tasks were used as the WMT tasks. We tested near transfer effects to a digit-span task and far transfer effects to an abstract relational reasoning task.

Results

Participants successfully performed the cognitively demanding intervention using their own devices, online at home, and with minimal contact with the researcher. We observed a significant improvement in WMT task performance in the WMT group relative to active-controls, but no evidence of near or far transfer. Similar training effects were observed irrespective of the intensity of the training schedule.

Discussion

Our results suggest that comparable benefits could be observed when using less intensive schedules that may be more easily accommodated into everyday life.
Integrating collective know-how for multicriteria decision support in agrifood chains—application to cheesemaking
Authors: Buche Patrice , Couteaux Julien , Cufi Julien , Destercke Sébastien , Oudot Alrick
Published: April 2023

Agrifood chain processes are based on a multitude of knowledge, know-how and experiences forged over time. This collective expertise must be shared to improve food quality. Here we test the hypothesis that it is possible to design and implement a comprehensive methodology to create a knowledge base integrating collective expertise, while also using it to recommend technical actions required to improve food quality. The method used to test this hypothesis consists firstly in listing the functional specifications that were defined in collaboration with several partners (technical centers, vocational training schools, producers) over the course of several projects carried out in recent years. Secondly, we propose an innovative core ontology that utilizes the international languages of the Semantic Web to effectively represent knowledge in the form of decision trees. These decision trees will depict potential causal relationships between situations of interest and provide recommendations for managing them through technological actions, as well as a collective assessment of the efficiency of those actions. We show how mind map files created using mind-mapping tools are automatically translated into an RDF knowledge base using the core ontological model. Thirdly, a model to aggregate individual assessments provided by technicians and associated with technical action recommendations is proposed and evaluated. Finally, a multicriteria decision-support system (MCDSS) using the knowledge base is presented. It consists of an explanatory view allowing navigation in a decision tree and an action view for multicriteria filtering and possible side effect identification. The different types of MCDSS-delivered answers to a query expressed in the action view are explained. The MCDSS graphical user interface is presented through a real-use case. Experimental assessments have been performed and confirm that tested hypothesis is relevant.
A Computationally Efficient Hysteresis Model for Magneto-Rheological Clutches and Its Comparison with Other Models
Authors: Yang Zi-Qi , Kermani Mehrdad R.
Published: April 2023

The collaborative robot market has experienced rapid growth, leading to advancements in compliant actuation and torque control. Magneto-rheological (MR) clutches offer a hardware-level solution for achieving both compliance and torque control through adjustable coupling between the input and output of the MR clutch. However, the presence of frequency-dependent magnetic hysteresis makes controlling the output torque challenging. In this paper, we present a comparative study of six widely used hysteresis models and propose a computationally efficient algebraic model to address the issue of hysteresis modeling and control of the output torque of rotary MR clutches. We compare the estimated torques with experimental measurements from a prototype MR clutch, to evaluate the computational complexity and accuracy of the model. Our proposed algebraic hysteresis model demonstrates superior accuracy and approximately two times less computational complexity than the Bouc–Wen model, and approximately twenty times less memory requirement than neural network-based models. We show that our proposed model has excellent potential for embedded indirect torque control schemes in systems with hysteresis, such as MR clutches and isolators.
Three Satellites Dynamic Switching Range Integrated Navigation and Positioning Algorithm with Clock Bias Cancellation and Altimeter Assistance
Authors: Ye Lvyang , Gao Ning , Yang Yikang , Deng Lingyu , Li Hengnian
Published: April 2023

Challenging environments such as cities, canyons, and forests have become key factors affecting navigation stability. When users pass through intricate overpasses and winding road sections, due to the fluctuation of the geoid, there will be a large fluctuation problem in the elevation measurement error of the user’s receiver. In addition, even if the low Earth orbit (LEO) constellation has thousands of satellites, there will be no technical problems in regard to destroying LEO satellites with existing technology in extreme situations such as warfare and in challenging environments such as dense forests, canyons, and ravines, where three or fewer visible satellites is a foreseeable scenario. To solve the problem of providing location services in such challenging environments, first, we analyze the relationship between temperature and atmospheric pressure and altitude; and then, based on this, we propose an initialization correction method for elevation measurements. Next, based on the broadband LEO constellation, we give an integrated navigation and positioning scheme with the assistance of both a clock bias elimination system and an altimeter. Finally, the proposed scheme is simulated and verified. The experimental results show that the dynamic switching of LEO satellites, combined with the assistance of the altimeter, can effectively improve the stability and positioning accuracy of navigation and positioning and can suppress the large navigation errors caused by the long switching time without the assistance of the altimeter. This allows the switching time to be extended; thus, it can be used as a technical reference solution for integrated communication and navigation (ICN) in the future.
Deep Learning Models for the Classification of Crops in Aerial Imagery: A Review
Authors: Teixeira Igor , Morais Raul , Sousa Joaquim J. , Cunha António
Published: April 2023

In recent years, the use of remote sensing data obtained from satellite or unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) imagery has grown in popularity for crop classification tasks such as yield prediction, soil classification or crop mapping. The ready availability of information, with improved temporal, radiometric, and spatial resolution, has resulted in the accumulation of vast amounts of data. Meeting the demands of analysing this data requires innovative solutions, and artificial intelligence techniques offer the necessary support. This systematic review aims to evaluate the effectiveness of deep learning techniques for crop classification using remote sensing data from aerial imagery. The reviewed papers focus on a variety of deep learning architectures, including convolutional neural networks (CNNs), long short-term memory networks, transformers, and hybrid CNN-recurrent neural network models, and incorporate techniques such as data augmentation, transfer learning, and multimodal fusion to improve model performance. The review analyses the use of these techniques to boost crop classification accuracy by developing new deep learning architectures or by combining various types of remote sensing data. Additionally, it assesses the impact of factors like spatial and spectral resolution, image annotation, and sample quality on crop classification. Ensembling models or integrating multiple data sources tends to enhance the classification accuracy of deep learning models. Satellite imagery is the most commonly used data source due to its accessibility and typically free availability. The study highlights the requirement for large amounts of training data and the incorporation of non-crop classes to enhance accuracy and provide valuable insights into the current state of deep learning models and datasets for crop classification tasks.
Psychological Determinants of Turkish Farmers’ Health and Safety Behaviors: An Application of the Extended Theory of Planned Behavior
Authors: Baydur Hakan , Eser Erhan , Sen Gundogan Nesibe Efruz , Ayhan Emine , Eser Sultan , Dede Bahadır , Hazneci Esin , Öztekin Yeşim Benal , Ekuklu Galip , Cevizci Sibel , Van den Broucke Stephan
Published: April 2023

Background: Structural and behavioral factors are among the causes of occupational accidents in agriculture. The SACURIMA Cost network developed a questionnaire to measure the determinants of farmers’ safety behavior based on the extended theory of planned behavior (TPB). Extended TPB adds subjective norms, subjective control, physical barriers and safety culture to TPB. Objective: The aim of this study is to test the psychometric properties of the “Farmers Safety Behaviors questionnaire” developed by the SACURIMA Cost network. Methods: A Turkish version of the questionnaire was applied to 305 farmers producing six different agricultural products in Turkey. The tool consists of 64 items measuring the determinants of four risk-related behaviors (fall prevention, machine handling, chemical-pesticide use, and animal handling) in a single extended TPB model. Results: The alpha values for the six dimensions ranged from 0.69 to 0.89. The confirmatory factor analysis results for all dimensions were at acceptable levels (CFI range = 0.93–0.99; RMSEA range = 0.03–0.09). Four path models were used to test the behaviors and their predictors, and the results were found to be predictive. The criterion and known groups’ validity analyses results were sufficient. Conclusion: The “Farmers Safety Behaviors Questionnaire” is a valid and reliable tool to measure the determinants of occupational safety behaviors in Turkish farmers.
Trace Element Content in Soils with Nitrogen Fertilisation and Humic Acids Addition
Authors: Wyszkowski Mirosław , Kordala Natalia , Brodowska Marzena S.
Published: April 2023

Application of mineral fertilisers can entail an increase in trace element content in the soil. In consequence, their elevated uptake by plants and transfer to further trophic chain links may occur. The aim of the research reported here was to determine the usefulness of the tested organic materials, such as humic acids, for reduction of the content of trace elements in two soils fertilised with excessive doses of nitrogen fertilisers. Soil type had a considerable effect on soil trace element content. The content of most trace elements (cadmium, lead, chromium, cobalt, nickel, manganese, and iron) was higher in loamy sand than in sand. Among the tested fertilisers, a higher content of most soil trace elements was found after the application of ammonium nitrate. Urea fertilisation led to a decrease in the content of cadmium, chromium, copper, and zinc in both soils; cobalt, manganese, and nickel in sand; and an increase in concentration of cobalt and manganese in loamy sand, relative to the subjects fertilised with ammonium nitrate. Urea ammonium nitrate solution (UAN) decreased the content of chromium, cadmium, copper, nickel, and zinc in both soils; lead in the sand; and cobalt in the loamy sand, while raising the content of lead in the loamy sand, relative to the subjects fertilised with ammonium nitrate. The impact of urea and UAN on the remaining trace element content in the soils was comparable to that effected by ammonium nitrate. The effect of humic acids on trace element content in the soil tended to be beneficial, as they reduced the soil concentrations of these elements compared to the control subject (without their application). However, it should be emphasised that their effect depended on nitrogen fertiliser form and soil type. Humic acids can effectively reduce the uptake of trace elements by some plant species.
Factors Influencing the Spatial Distribution of Regulating Agro-Ecosystem Services in Agriculture Soils: A Case Study of Slovakia
Authors: Makovníková Jarmila , Kološta Stanislav , Flaška Filip , Pálka Boris
Published: April 2023

Agro-ecosystem services assessment and mapping are one of the main requirements for implementing the concept of ecosystem services into institutional decision-making within the European Union and worldwide. The aim of this study was to identify the most important regional drivers of the natural potential of regulating ecosystem services with agricultural soil in Slovakia, resulting in an original set of macro-scale spatial stratification criteria for agricultural land, and to estimate typical middle values of its potential in newly defined regions. The non-monetary assessment was based on natural environment parameters and land use factors. For the assessment of individual indicators of agro-ecosystem services, we utilized an expert scoring system. We evaluated ecosystem services on the basis of biophysical indicators that determine the corresponding soil functions and are part of the existing databases available in the Slovak Republic. The new methodological combination enabled us to provide unique mapping and assessment of agro-ecosystem services within Slovakia. Regional climate, land cover, and soil slope were identified as key factors impacting agro-ecosystem services potential within the country, which can be used as data stratification levels for further analyses. Linking the value of individual regulating agro-ecosystem services potential with geographical distribution can help to optimize its potential depending on the needs of the inhabitants living in different regions by introducing appropriate measures and can contribute to effective agricultural policymaking.
Sensor-Generated Data for Evaluation of Subclinical Mastitis Treatment Effectiveness with Garlic Extract (Allicin) in Dairy Cattle
Authors: Antanaitis Ramūnas , Anskienė Lina , Džermeikaitė Karina , Bačėninaitė Dovilė , Januškauskas Aloyzas , Sincevičius Kęstutis , Baumgartner Walter , Klein Anton
Published: April 2023

The aim of this study was to determine the impact of subclinical mastitis treatment in dairy cattle on biomarkers registered with in-line sensors such as milk yield (MY), electric milk conductivity (EC), rumination time (RT), and somatic cell count (SCC). At the start of the experiment, all cows according to SCC level were divided into two groups: healthy cows (n = 30, with SCCs less than 200,000 per mL and without the growth of bacteria in the milk samples) and cows with subclinical mastitis (n = 32), with SCC levels greater than 200,000 per mL and with growth of bacteria. Streptococcus spp. was found in 15 samples, and Strep. uberis was found in 17 samples. Streptococcus spp. and Strep. uberis were sensitive to amoxicillin and calvulanic acid. According to these results, 32 cows with subclinical mastitis were treated with two treatment protocols: one 1 (n = 16) and two (n = 16). In the first protocol, we used SCC boluses and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (SCCB and NSAID). The second protocol consists of intramammary antibiotics and anti-inflammatory medications (Synulox LC and NSAIDs). All parameters (MY, EC, RT, and SCC) were recorded with Lely Astronaut® A3 milking robots on the day of mastitis diagnosis (0 day) and 14 days after treatment began. All animal experimental procedures were approved by the ethical committee; the approval number is PK01696. On the basis of our findings, we may infer that SCC boluses and NSAIDs are effective in treating subclinical mastitis. After 14 days of treatment, the electrical conductivity of milk in cows treated with AB and NSAID was also higher in all quarters of the udder compared to cows treated with SCCB + NSAID. The RT of cows on disease diagnosis day of cows treated with AB and NSAID was 11.41% lower compared to cows treated with SCCB and NSAID, while the RT of cows after 14 days treated with AB and NSAID was 7.01% lower compared to cows treated with SCCB and NSAID. On the practical side, for treatment of subclinical mastitis, we recommend using a feed supplement SCC bolus (one per os) with a composition containing Meloxicam 20 mg with a single subcutaneous injection at a dosage of 2.5 mL per 100 kg body weight.
Field Incubation Studies on Nutrient Mineralization of Bagasse on Spodosols and Histosols in Florida
Authors: Xu Nan , Amgain Naba R. , Rabbany Abul , McCray James M. , Li Yuncong C. , Strauss Sarah L. , Mylavarapu Rao , Bhadha Jehangir H.
Published: April 2023

The addition of organic byproducts to soils is a vital source of essential nutrients for plant uptake. To reuse the nutrients effectively, there is a need to estimate the release patterns of nutrients from the byproducts. This study aimed to investigate the release patterns of nutrients [nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), and potassium (K)] from bagasse, a sugarcane milling byproduct, at two soil depths (surface at 0 cm vs. buried at 15 cm) in sugarcane and fallow fields on two soil types (Histosols vs. Spodosols) in Florida. In addition, field incubation studies were conducted using the mesh bag technique for one year of sugarcane production. The nutrient release patterns and bagasse decomposition rates were determined under each scenario. The results indicated that bagasse decomposed faster when buried (totally decomposed after approximately 450 days) than when placed on the soil surface (about 50% remained after 450 days) in both sugarcane and fallow fields on Spodosols and Histosols. Bagasse decomposed faster in Histosols compared to Spodosols. N and P showed net immobilization after approximately one month of bagasse application when buried, which indicated additional N and P fertilizers should be considered to meet crop demand. K presented no immobilization, with a rapid initial release in Spodosols and a gradual release in Histosols.
Wheat Import Demand in Mexico: Evidence of Quantile Cointegration
Authors: Valencia-Romero Ramón , Trejo-García José C. , Ríos-Bolívar Humberto
Published: April 2023

The decline in the production of basic grains in Mexico has intensified since the 1990s, with wheat (Triticum) being no exception. This reduction was covered by the growth of Mexican imports. The objective of this research was to analyze the import demand function for wheat from 1994, the time of the initiation of the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA). An autoregressive distributed lag (ARDL) model revealed the change in the conditional mean import demand using variations in its determinants, the Global Indicator of Economic Activity (IGAE for its Spanish acronym) and the real exchange rate, as proxy variables for income and relative prices, respectively. However, the conditional mean is insufficient in a context of increasing foreign purchases of wheat and outliers. Through a quantile extension of the ARDL model (with the acronym QARDL), we then found that the change in imports, and the relevance of the determinants, differed across import levels. In the short term, the upper quantiles of wheat imports responded mainly to their history and the exchange rate. Meanwhile, in the long term, the IGAE and the exchange rate influenced the lower quantiles of imports. We conclude that there was an asymmetric response in the conditional distribution of imports. In other words, this study provides evidence of short- and long-term location asymmetry in wheat imports under NAFTA. The research contributes to the econometric study of basic grain imports. For the first time, the QARDL model is used to understand the relationship between imports and their determinants, and the circumstances under which its use is recommended are indicated. Therefore, a new econometric method is used, avoiding the linearity of the ARDL model, and thus allowing a detailed and accurate estimation of the demand for imports. Consequently, the estimates and conclusions obtained will undoubtedly help economic agents to make more efficient decisions, from national and international investors to government agencies responsible for the promotion of Mexican agriculture.
GmPBS1, a Hub Gene Interacting with Rhizobial Type-III Effectors NopT and NopP, Regulates Soybean Nodulation
Authors: Li Dongdong , Zhu Zikun , Deng Xiaomin , Zou Jianan , Ma Chao , Li Candong , Yin Tao , Liu Chunyan , Wang Jinhui , Chen Qingshan , Xin Dawei
Published: April 2023

Soybean is a legume crop rich in protein and oil. Symbiotic nitrogen fixation plays an important role in the growth of soybean. The type-III effectors such as NopT and NopP are the important signaling factors for the establishment of symbiosis in soybean. In this study, the analysis of nodulation in soybean after inoculation with HH103ΩNopT, HH103ΩNopP, and HH103ΩNopT&NopP indicated crosstalking between NopT and NopP. Further, we aimed to identify the genes of soybean involved in the pathway underlying the crosstalk between NopT and NopP using RNA-seq analysis. Five of the identified candidate genes were confirmed to be induced by NopT and NopP. The expression of GmPBS1 significantly increased to a much larger extent than that of the other four genes after soybean was inoculated with HH103ΩNopT, HH103ΩNopP, or HH103ΩNopT&NopP. The interaction between NopT and GmPBS1 was confirmed via bimolecular fluorescence complementation. Finally, nodulation analysis after GmPBS1 overexpression in the hairy roots indicate that GmPBS1 can regulate the negative effect of NopP on the nodulation, and this regulation is related to NopT. Collectively, our results suggested that during the nodulation in soybean, NopT and NopP have a crosstalking network and GmPBS1 is the hub gene.
Effects of Spraying with Ethephon and Early Topping on the Growth, Yield, and Earliness of Cotton under Late-Sowing and High-Density Cultivation Modes
Authors: Wang Shuo , Sun Hongchun , Zhu Lingxiao , Zhang Ke , Zhang Yongjiang , Zhang Haina , Zhu Jijie , Liu Xiaoqing , Bai Zhiying , Li Anchang , Tian Liwen , Li Cundong , Liu Liantao
Published: April 2023

Late-sowing and high-density cultivation are typical cotton planting models that are widely applied in the Yellow River Valley of China. The model can easily lead to late maturity and reduced yields. Plant topping and ethephon spraying have been shown to improve cotton earliness and yields. However, the optimal topping date and ethephon concentration are yet to be established. A two-year field experiment (2020–2021) was thus conducted to assess the effects of spraying high-concentration ethephon and early topping on the growth, yield, and earliness of cotton under late-sowing and high-density cultivation models. The experiment employed a split-plot design, in which the main plots were sprayed with varying ethephon concentrations (2000 mL/ha, E2000; 4000 mL/ha, E4000; 6000 mL/ha, E6000), while subplots were plant topping dates (T13, 13 July, early-topped; T20, 20 July, suitable-topped; T27, 27 July, late-topped). Higher ethephon concentrations (E4000) increased the earliness of early-topped (T13) plants. Boll-setting and boll-opening rates increased by 12.00% and 16.83% in T13 plants, respectively, relative to T27 plants. However, the shedding rate for T13 plants decreased by 12.00%. Earliness and harvest index (HI) for the T13 plants were higher than those of the T27 plants by 8.01% and 18.91%, respectively. Even though the T13 plant yield decreased slightly, their boll weight increased by 3.99% and 12.27%, respectively, relative to those of the T20 and T27 plants. Earliness increased with increasing ethephon concentration. In conclusion, early topping and higher ethephon concentrations can effectively improve cotton yield and earliness.
Particle Size Distribution and Depth to Bedrock of Chinese Cultivated Soils: Implications for Soil Classification and Management
Authors: Zhao Xiaoning , He Wei , Xue Lihua , Chen Feng , Jia Pingping , Hu Yi , Zamanian Kazem
Published: April 2023

Although a number of studies have provided information on soil texture, soil classification, and depth to bedrock throughout China, few studies have combined this information, which is the basis for agricultural field management. A total of 81% of China’s cultivated lands are distributed among the Middle–Lower Yangtze Plain (18.2%), arid and semiarid North China Plain (18.2%), Northeast Plain (17%), Huang-Huai-Hai Plain (16.1%), and Yunnan–Guizhou Plateau (11.6%). The Huang-Huai-Hai Plain has the highest density of agricultural land (58.5%) and the greatest depth to bedrock of cultivated land (243–402 m). The lowest cultivated depth to bedrock (4–84 m) is concentrated in the Sichuan Basin and its surrounding regions. The main cultivated soil types are Anthrosols, Fluvisols, Cambisols, Phaeozems, Luvisols, Kastanozems, Leptosols, and Acrisols, under the main topsoil texture classes of loam, clay loam, silty clay loam, silt loam, sandy loam, and clay. The Fluvisols had the largest depth to bedrock (156 m) on the Middle–Lower Yangtze Plain and Huang-Huai-Hai Plain, with the highest silt soil distributions but comparable lower sand contents. The Yunnan–Guizhou Plateau had the highest clay soil content. The cultivation under Kastanozems and Leptosols on the Qinghai–Tibet Plateau and in arid and semiarid North China and under Phaeozems on the Northeast Plain should be restricted and managed very cautiously facing erosion risk. The higher percentages of Anthrosols are on the Middle–Lower Yangtze Plain (37%), in Southern China (32%), and on the Yunnan–Guizhou Plateau (26%). The same cultivation aim (i.e., more crop 0production) has produced a similar range of properties over time among the soils developed on agricultural fields, which are classified as Anthrosols. However, various soil types can still be found in agroecosystems because of the variations in climate and topography. Our results highlight that the agriculture-based soil climate and topography shape the interaction of the soil development and not only the pedogenic history of the soil development under variations in the soil depth to bedrock but also the cultivation of distinct pedogenic features. This study provides cultivated soil information on the depth to bedrock, soil classification, and soil texture in China, as well as instructions for field strategies for sustainable agricultural development.
Overexpression of HaASR1 from a Desert Shrub, Haloxylon ammodendron, Improved Salt Tolerance of Arabidopsis thaliana
Authors: Lü Zhao-Long , Gao Hui-Juan , Xu Jia-Yi , Chen Yuan , Lü Xin-Pei , Zhang Jin-Lin
Published: April 2023

Salt stress causes reduced plant growth and alters the plant development process, resulting in a threat to global crop production. The exploring of unique genes conferring to salt tolerance from plants that inhabit extreme environments remains urgent. Haloxylon ammodendron is a desert xero-halophyte shrub with a strong tolerance to drought and salt stresses. We previously reported that the drought tolerance of Arabidopsis thaliana was improved by the overexpression of HaASR1 from H. ammodendron. In this work, the effects of HaASR1 overexpression on the salt tolerance of Arabidopsis were investigated. HaASR1 overexpression significantly enhanced the growth of Arabidopsis lines under salinity and plant tissue water content through enhancing the osmotic adjustment ability, maintaining the membrane integrity, improving the chlorophyll content and leaf area, and thereby enhancing photosynthesis capacity. Taken together, the overexpression of HaASR1 from H. ammodendron improved the salt tolerance of the transgenic lines of Arabidopsis. These results indicated that HaASR1 from H. ammodendron has potential application values in increasing the salt tolerance of grass and crop plants by genetic engineering.
Defeated Stacked Resistance Genes Induce a Delay in Disease Manifestation in the Pathosystem Solanum tuberosum—Phytophthora infestans
Authors: Taoutaou Abdelmoumen , Berindean Ioana Virginia , Chemmam Miloud Khalil , Beninal Lyes , Rida Soumeya , Khelifi Lakhdar , Bouznad Zouaoui , Racz Ionut , Ona Andreea , Muntean Leon
Published: April 2023

Cultivated potato (Solanum tuberosum L.) is one of the most important crops worldwide. Phytophthora infestans (Mont.) de Bary is the oomycete pathogen responsible for the famous Irish famine (1840s). It is still the most important pathogen affecting potato crops, causing the late blight disease on potato and tomato. It is mainly controlled by fungicides. Breeding for disease resistance is the best alternative to chemical control of the disease. One of the strategies used is to stack many resistance genes in the same genotype. Here, we wanted to test the effect of the stacked resistance gene (R) from S. demissum on the infection process by the virulent race EU_13_A2. Four potato genotypes were tested, each one harboring, respectively, one, two, three or four R genes. All the tested genotypes were sensitive. However, the sensitivity degree was negatively correlated with the number of genes harbored by each genotype. There was a delay of two days of symptoms manifestation for the genotype with 4Rs, and the pathogen produced less spores on the detached leaf test. In addition, the amount of phenolic compounds produced is higher in the genotypes with multiple R genes.
Rain Shelter Cultivation Reduces Root Rot Incidence of Panax notoginseng by Altering Root Exudates and Bacterial Communities under Micro-Irrigation and Fertilization
Authors: Zhang Yan , Liang Jiaping , Tang Zhenya , Yang Qiliang
Published: April 2023

Panax notoginseng is an important medicinal crop in China. The high incidence of root rot in P. notoginseng during the rainy season has restricted the development of the industry. It is believed that frequent rainfall and a warm soil environment are important factors that promote root rot incidence. However, there is still a significant knowledge gap in the relationship between rainfall and root rot incidence. To understand the effects of rainfall and fertilizer on root exudates, the soil bacterial structure, and root rot in P. notoginseng, four treatments were chosen for both field and pot experiments. These treatments included DW (rain shelter and no fertilizer), RW (no rain shelter and no fertilizer), DWF (rain shelter and fertilizer), and RWF (no rain shelter and fertilizer). The results showed that both factors (rain shelter and fertilizer) significantly affected root rot incidence and several other parameters. Among them, the effect of a rain shelter is more significant than that of fertilizer, and the combination of the two further improves the effect. DW and DWF treatments significantly reduced the soil moisture, phenolic acid, and root rot incidence, while significantly increasing the soil temperature and enzyme activities compared to RW or RWF. Seven phenolic acids secreted by P. notoginseng roots were all positively correlated with root rot incidence. Root rot was also positively correlated with Planctomycetota, Acidobacteriota, and Gemmatimonadota and negatively correlated with Firmicutes, Proteobacteria, Patescibacteria, and Nitrospirota. DWF treatment decreased the soil moisture and the concentration of p-hydroxybenzoic acid, syringic acid, phthalic acid, and vanillic acid and promoted the growth of Firmicutes and Proteobacteria, leading to the lowest incidence of root rot.
Invasiveness of Pomacea canaliculata: The Differences in Life History Traits of Snail Populations from Invaded and Native Areas
Authors: Zhang Chunxia , Guo Jing , Saveanu Lucía , Martín Pablo R. , Shi Zhaoji , Zhang Jiaen
Published: April 2023

Pomacea canaliculata is native to South America and has become a widely distributed agricultural and environmental pest in southern China. Previous studies have primarily focused on the tolerance of P. canaliculata to various environmental factors, and compared non-native invasive P. canaliculata with natives or non-invasive congeners. However, there has been no research concentrated on variation in innate growth and reproductive characteristics between P. canaliculata in its native and invaded areas. To address this gap, we conducted the first comparison experiment between P. canaliculata from their native area (Argentina) and from an invaded area (China). We recorded the temporal dynamics of shell height of male and female P. canaliculata, and investigated the sexual maturation and egg-related indicators in two populations from each country, rearing them under homogeneous temperature, photoperiod and food conditions. Our results showed that the shell growth rate of P. canaliculata in Argentina was significantly lower than that of P. canaliculata in China. Moreover, P. canaliculata exhibited stronger reproductive characteristics in populations from China, mainly reflected in the earlier sexual maturity, larger egg masses, higher hatching success, and a trend of shorter incubation period. These differences probably arose due to contemporary evolution in invaded areas under strong selective pressures in rice fields, and, together with more favorable climates, enable the snail populations to rapidly grow and expand in southern China.
Genetic Structure and Molecular Identities of 46 Apple Landraces (Malus Mill.) in China
Authors: Wang Lin , Wang Dajiang , Wang Kun , Sun Simiao , Tian Wen , Li Zichen , Wang Guangyi , Lu Xiang , Liu Zhao , Li Qingshan , Gao Yuan
Published: April 2023

In this study, we used genotyping to determine the genetic structure and molecular identities of apple landraces from six species of Malus Mill. in China, based on the fingerprints revealed by microsatellite markers with tailed primer M13. A total of 46 apple landraces of Malus Mill. selected from the National Apple and Pear Germplasm Repository in Xingcheng, China were genotyped with 14 SSR markers. The primers differentiated all the accessions. At least three SSR primers, CH04h02, CH01f07a and CH04g07, with a higher heterozygosity and Shannon’s information index than other combinations can distinguish all the accessions. All the alleles for these three primers were arranged in descending order, and they were assigned values beginning with 01. Character strings were constituted by combining all the codes of the three primers for every accession. By such means, separate and special molecular identities were obtained for every apple landrace, which could be expressed in the form of a bar code. Using such bar codes, trees can be labeled and scanned, which aids in the identification and tracking of genebank collections. The eight-step method for establishing the molecular identities of apple landraces reported here may serve as a reference when determining the molecular identities establishment of other apple germplasms of Malus Mill. This method might also be used for the establishment of a molecular database to aid the preservation of Malus Mill., which is in imminent danger in China. It may also be used to improve the gene bank management of Malus Mill.
Variations in Methanogenic and Methanotrophic Communities Resulted in Different Methane Emissions from Paddy Soil Applied with Two Types of Manure
Authors: Zhou Beibei , Chen Ruirui , Peng Shuang , Zhang Jianwei , Lin Xiangui , Wang Yiming
Published: April 2023

Organic manure application is crucial for the maintenance and improvement of soil fertility. However, it inevitably results in increased paddy CH4 emissions, restricting the use of organic manure in the rice fields. In the present study, two kinds of manures, rapidly composted manure (RCM) and non-composted manure (NCM), were investigated through a 19-week greenhouse experiment, during which the dynamics of CH4 emission, soil parameters (DOC, acetate, NH4+, NO3−, and SO42−), and communities of methanogens and methanotrophs were simultaneously measured. The results showed that NCM significantly enhanced CH4 emission, while RCM decreased CH4 emission by 65.03%; there was no significant difference with the manure-free treatment. In order to well understand the methanogenic process, the seasonal CH4 flux was divided into two periods, namely Stage 1 (before drainage) and Stage 2 (after drainage), on the basis of CH4 emission intensity. The different CH4 production abilities among the three treatments could contribute to the varied CH4 emissions at Stage 1. The much higher soil DOC concentrations were observed in the manure-amended soils (NCM- and RCM-treatments), which could correspondingly lead to the relative higher CH4 emissions compared to the control during Stage 1. Furthermore, the increased methanogenic abundance and the shifted methanogenic archaeal community characterized by the functionally stimulated growth of Methanosarcina genus were observed in the NCM-treated soils, which could consequently result in a higher CH4 emission from the NCM treatment relative to the RCM treatment. As for Stage 2, apart from the significant decrease in soil DOC, the increased contents of soil NO3− and SO42−, especially with the RCM-treated soils, were also detected following the drainage, which might retard CH4 production. The lower CH4 emission at Stage 2 could also be attributed to the vigorous aerobic CH4 oxidations, especially in the RCM-treated soils. As a support, the amount of methanotrophs revealed an increasing trend during the late rice growth period, as did the predominance of the methylotrophy of Methylophilaceae species, which showed robust co-occurrence with methanotrophs, inferring interspecies cooperation in methane oxidation.
Resistance Breeding to Northern Corn Leaf Blight with Dominant Genes, Polygene, and Their Combinations—Effects to Yield Traits
Authors: Zhu Xiaoyang , Kebede Aida , Woldemariam Tsegaye , Wu Jinhe , Jindal Krishan K. , Reid Lana M.
Published: April 2023

Resistance breeding is the most economic method to control northern corn leaf blight (NCLB). The objectives of these studies were: To assess effects of dominant genes (Ht(s)), polygene (PG), and combinations on percent leaf area affected (PLAA), yield, kernel moisture, kernel number per ear, and 100-kernel weight; to understand genetic action of combinations; to predict losses and effects of resistant genes for yield traits with PLAA; and to assess yield under different NCLB epidemic conditions. Two experiments were conducted. E1 had 120 crosses, their parents, and ten hybrid checks, inoculated NCLB twice in 2015 and 2016; and E2 had 85 crosses and 10 hybrids, with none, one, and two inoculation treatments in 2015. E1 results showed the order of PLAA was Ht3 ≈ Ht2 ≈ PGHtm1 ≈ PGHt1< PGHt3 ≈ PGHt2 < PGHtn1 < PG < Ht1 < Htn1 ≈ Htm1. The order of Ht(s) effects for yield was Ht2 > Ht3 > Ht1 > Htm1 > Htn1. Gene effects of cross ≈ gene effects of (female + male) for all five traits. Predicted losses and predicted effects of resistant genes between yield traits with PLAA were determined. E2 results indicated resistant genes increased yield more efficiently under NCLB epidemic environments.
Living Mulch as Sustainable Tool to Improve Leaf Biomass and Phytochemical Yield of Cynara cardunculus var. altilis
Authors: Sałata Andrzej , Sękara Agnieszka , Pandino Gaetano , Mauromicale Giovanni , Lombardo Sara
Published: April 2023

Living mulch (LM) provides many beneficial agro-ecological services by reducing soil evaporation, conserving moisture, controlling soil temperature, reducing weed growth, increasing organic matter and nutrient availability, and improving microbial activities. Legumes, commonly used as living mulches, can affect the yield and quality of main crops. We hypothesized that Egyptian clover co-cultivated with Cynara cardunculus var. altilis (cultivated cardoon) can positively affect both leaf biomass and phytochemical yield. The study was performed on two growing seasons of field experiments to evaluate the potential variation in biomass and phytochemical yields of cardoon leaves. In addition, the leaves were collected at 90, 120, and 150 days after transplanting to evaluate the possible effect of the harvest time. LM improved the fresh and air-dried leaves biomass yields, total phenolic, and dry matter content, while it had no effect on the content of crude fibre, total sugars, L-ascorbic acid, total chlorophylls, and antioxidant activity. Except for luteolin-7-O-glucoside content, no negative effect of LM was observed on the polyphenol profile. Behind the cultivation system, the parameters were also affected by both the harvest time and growing season. According to our data, the proposed intercropping of cultivated cardoon with LM could represent an innovative cultivation system to increase both leaf biomass and the health-promoting compounds of cultivated cardoon leaves by sustainable soil management.
The Genetic Diversity of Mink (Neovison vison) Populations in China
Authors: Zhang Tietao , Li Hu , Larsen Peter Foged , Ba Hengxing , Shi Hongyu , Zhang Haihua , Liu Zongyue
Published: April 2023

The American mink (Neovison vison) is a semiaquatic species of Mustelid native to North America that is now widespread in China. However, the knowledge of genetic diversity of mink in China is still limited. In this study, we investigated the genetic diversity and identified significant single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in mink populations of five different color types in three different mink farms in China. Using double-digest restriction site-associated DNA sequencing, we identified a total of 1.3 million SNPs. After filtering the SNPs, phylogenetic tree, Fst, principal component, and population structure analyses were performed. The results demonstrated that red mink and black mink grouped, with separate clustering of all other color types. The population divergence index (Fst) study confirmed that different mink populations were distinct (K = 4). Two populations with different coat colors were subjected to the selection signature analysis, and 2300 genes were found to have a clear selection signature. The genes with a selection signature were subjected to Gene Ontology (GO) categorization and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) enrichment analysis, the results revealed that the genes with a selection signature were enriched in the melanogenesis pathway. These study’s findings have set the stage for improved breeding and conservation of genetic resources in real-world practical mink farming.
Exploring ‘Wether’ Grazing Patterns Differed in Native or Introduced Pastures in the Monaro Region of Australia
Authors: Parnell Danica , Edwards Jack , Ingram Lachlan
Published: April 2023

Monitoring livestock allows insights to graziers on valuable information such as spatial distribution, foraging patterns, and animal behavior, which can significantly improve the management of livestock for optimal production. This study aimed to understand what potential variables are significant for predicting where sheep spent the most time in native (NP) and improved (IP) paddocks. Wethers (castrated male sheep) were tracked using Global Positioning System (GPS) collars on 15 sheep in the IP and 15 in the NP, respectively, on a property located in the Monaro region of Southern New South Wales, Australia. Trials were performed over four six-day periods in April, July, and November of 2014 and March in 2015. Data were analyzed to understand various trends that may have occurred during different seasons, using random forest models (RFMs). Of the factors investigated, Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI) was significant (p < 0.01) and highly important for wethers in the IP, but not the NP, suggesting that quality of pasture was key for wethers in the IP. Elevation, temperature, and near distance to trees were important and significant for predicting residency of wethers in the IP, as well as the NP. The result of this study highlights the ability of predictive models to provide insights on behavior-based modelling of GPS data and further enhance current knowledge about location-based choices of sheep on paddocks.