bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Breadmaking potential of winter triticale (Triticosecale Wittmack el. Camus) of Polissia ecotype
Authors: Kirilchuk A.
Published: December 2022

The results of the experimental work on the evaluation of the bread-making ability of new varieties of winter triticale of Polissia ecotype, which were carried out in the department of selection and seed production of grain crops of the National Science Center «Institute of Agriculture of the National Academy of Agrarian Sciences», located in Fastiv district of Kyiv region in 2016–2018, are highlighted. The elasticity (P) of the dough on average by varieties was found at the level of 67.2 mm, which corresponds to the indicator of «good filler» wheat, and by varieties ranged from 44 mm (indicator of «weak wheat») in Aristocrat variety to 87 mm («satisfactory improver») in Kotyhoroshko variety. The stretchability (L) of the dough by variety varied from 18 mm (Aristocrat) to 30 mm (Lyubomir) and was 23.5 mm on average. The stretchability of the dough is closely correlated with indicators such as C, the expansion index and the area of the average diagram (r=0.62–0.67). According to the results of calculations, the P/L ratio in winter triticale varieties of Polissia ecotype varied from 1.7 units in Volemir variety to 4.4 units in Kotygoroshko variety, and on average it was found at the level of 2.9 units, winter triticale variety is closer to the optimal value Volemir. According to the flour "strength" alveograph indicator, Solodyuk and Lubomyr winter triticale varieties of Polissia ecotype were distinguished, which reliably prevailed over Poliskyi 7 standard variety (NIR05=17) and amounted to 93 J and 76 J, respectively. The amount of «raw» gluten in winter triticale varieties ranged from 6.4% in Aristokrat variety to 15.0% in KS 9-17 sample, and on average was 11.8%. After drying, the amount of «dry» gluten varied from 2.38% to 5.04%, and averaged 3.9%, which was 33% of the amount of «raw» gluten. The highest indicator of hydration capacity (233.3%) was observed in Petrol variety compared to Polisky 7 standard variety, which significantly exceeded it by 47.6 units (NIR05=14). The physical properties of triticale gluten resemble weak wheat gluten with low elasticity. Tight triticale gluten makes it possible to bake good bread. The volume yield of loaves from triticale flour was 298 ml on average and varied from 260 ml in Polisky 7 variety to 345 ml in Fanat and Solodyuk varieties. Selected winter triticale varieties of Polissia ecotype with satisfactory baking quality, according to the wheat baking technology without adding improvers, are advisable to use in the baking industry.
Efficiency of using Biosystem POWER, KS (BioSistem POWER, SC) preparation to accelerate the destruction of post-harvest residues
Authors: Bunas A. , Tkach E. , Dvoretsky V. , Dvoretska O.
Published: December 2022

Disposal of post-harvest residues from agro-ecosystem remains one of the urgent issues of today for agricultural producers. Burning straw and stubble is an extremely radical and destructive method for biogeocenosis, because during combustion between straw and the soil layer due to water vapor, conditions are created that the burning temperature exceeds 600°С. As a result of such actions, microorganisms, worms, insects, small vertebrates die and the fertile layer of humus is destroyed. Modern biological preparations, which contain a complex of living agronomically useful microorganisms, help to solve the issue of postharvest residues. By accelerating the destruction of organic masses in the soil, the C:N ratio is equalized, organic substances are supplied in a form available to plants, the development of phytopathogens is inhibited, moisture is retained, and humus accumulation processes are active. Field studies were conducted to determine the effectiveness of the new biological preparation BioSistem POWER KS (BioSistem POWER, SC), which contains active bacterial strains of the genera Paenabacillus, Azotobacter, Enterobacter and micromycetes of the genus Trichoderma. Selection of soil samples was carried out 90 days after processing, laboratory tests were carried out in accordance with generally accepted microbiological methods. It was established that the use of BioSistem POWER KS biological preparation (BioSistem POWER, SC) compared to the control increases the level of carbon dioxide emission of the soil of the experimental variants by 2 times, the level of cellulolytic activity by 23–34% depending on the rate of use, the antifungal activity of the soil by 2.5-3 times. Therefore, the biopreparation BioSistem POWER KS (BioSistem POWER, SC) at the rate of 0.3 and 5 l/ha can be recommended to agricultural producers for use in the autumn-spring period to accelerate the decomposition of post-harvest residues.
Influence of Philazonit biopreparation on the fertility of the soil and yield of agricultural crops
Authors: Gunchak M. , Sobko V. , Romanova S. , Hryshchenko O.
Published: December 2022

Influence of biological destructors Phylazonit SV and soil inoculant Phylazonit TO on yield of agricultural crops and basic soil parameters were researched. They included the following bacterial strains Bacillus circulans, Pseudomonas putida, Azotobacter chroococcum, Bacillus megaterium. It was established, that using Phylazonit SV before plowing at the rate 10 l/ha and in spring Phylazonit TO at rate 15 l/ha have increased pea yield by 22.8%, soybean by 21.9%, potato by 11.2%, maize by 19.4%. Additionally, the hummus parameters increased by 0.03–0.08%, lightly hydrolyzed nitrogen by 1.0–7.0 mg/kg, phosphorous movable forms by 2.0–6.0 mg/kg, potassium’s movable forms by 3.0–13.0 mg/kg soil. The soil-centric technology besides Phylazonit SV and Phylazonit TO with mineral fertilizers input came to pea yield increase by 30.1%, soybean by 36.8%, potato by 22.9%, maize by 35.8%. The soil-centric technology came to humus parameters increase by 0.05–0.1%, lightly hydrolyzed nitrogen by 5.0–15.0 mg/kg, phosphorous mobile forms by 8.0–18.0 mg/kg and potassium movable forms by 6.0–18.0 mg/kg in soil. The researched technologies for soil fertility evaluation showed the following notional net income for pea growing 315,7– 522,2 UAH/ha, for soybean growing — 585,0– 764,4 UAH/ha, for potato growing — 4516,0– 6284,0 UAH/ha, for maize growing — 1324,0– 2014,0 UAH/ha. The usage of technology profitability made for pea 9.8–12.6%, for soybean 13.7–18.3%, for potato 56.1–111.8%, for maize 31.2–40.5%.
Influence of combat actions on the content of gross forms of heavy metals in the soils of Sumy and Okhtyrka districts of Sumy region
Authors: Zaitsev Yu. , Hryshchenko O. , Romanova S. , Zaitseva I.
Published: December 2022

The article highlights the ecological danger of military operations on the territory of Ukraine. The results of experimental studies of the content of gross forms of heavy metals in ten soil samples taken from agricultural lands of Sumy and Okhtyrka districts of Sumy region are presented. Three samples were taken from the places where air bombs had fallen, seven from the places of broken military equipment. As a result of the conducted research, it was established that the background level in terms of lead content was exceeded in all soil samples, the average content of the element in the polluted territories was 5.4 times higher than the background value. Exceeding the background level in terms of zinc content was noted in nine out of ten soil samples, the average content of the element in the polluted areas was 3.9 times higher than the background value. The average content of cadmium in the polluted territories was 1.4 times higher than the background value (the excess was noted in eight soil samples). Exceeding the background value of the gross copper content was found in eight soil samples, on average, according to the experiment, the copper content is 4.6 times higher than the background value. Exceeding the background value for the content of nickel and iron was noted only in three soil samples, and the average content of the elements exceeded the background value by 1.2 and 1.1 times. The average manganese content in the polluted areas was 4.8 times higher than the background value (the excess was noted in six soil samples). Based on the results of the research, it was established that the gross content of lead (in six soil samples), zinc and manganese (in two soil samples), and copper (in five soil samples) from the sites of hostilities exceeded the permissible limits. The content of gross forms of cadmium and nickel did not exceed the MPC. A significantly higher coefficient of variation of the content of gross forms of heavy metals in the combat zone, compared to the content outside the combat zone (background value), may indicate the intensity of the influence of a negative factor on the soil cover. The highest degree of disturbance of the ground cover as a result of hostilities was noted in the places of burned equipment (the villages of Kosivshchyna, Stare Selo, Nyzy, Sumy district, Sumy region). According to the results of the correlation analysis, an extremely strong dependence was established between the content of the studied forms of heavy metals.
Existence of SMEs Business Performance During the Covid-19 Pandemic: Analyzing the Contribution of Intellectual Capital and Technological Innovation
Authors: Augustinah Fedianty , Chandra Erbin , Julyanthry Julyanthry , Putri Debi  Eka , Sudirman Acai
Published: December 2022

Purpose – The rapid and massive development of technology, information, and the internet in various business sectors, including SMEs, has created new changes. This situation provides opportunities and challenges for every business actors. Therefore, this study aims to analyze the effect of human, social, and customer capital, as well as technological innovation, on business performance.
Methodology – The library and field design method were adopted with a quantitative approach, involving 180 samples of small and medium business actors. Furthermore, the Partial Least Square (PLS) was used to analyze the data.
Findings – The result showed that human, social, and customer capital positively and significantly affected business performance. Similarly, technological innovation has a positive and significant impact on business performance.
Originality – Employees who work in the small business sector will be relied upon in the future as agents of change. Many practitioners have expressed this in the field of human capital, which assumes greater responsibility for small company players in terms of the style of consultation.
Application of carbon emission prediction based on a combined neural algorithm in the control of coastal environmental pollution in China
Authors: Wang Bin
Published: December 2022

The marine ecosystem provides the environment, resources, and services necessary for the development of every human society. In recent years, China's coastal zone has been polluted to varying degrees, which has seriously affected its development. The characteristics of marine environmental data include the variety of data types, the complexity of factors affecting the marine environment, and the unpredictability of marine pollution. Currently, there are few studies applying the clustering analysis algorithm to marine environmental monitoring. Then, carbon emissions (CEs) from coastal areas are predicted using marine environmental data. Therefore, this paper mainly studies the spatial and temporal accumulation characteristics of marine environmental data and uses the fuzzy c-means (FCM) algorithm to mine the data monitored by the marine environment. Meanwhile, it has been focused on the prediction of coastal CEs, and the grey model-back propagation (GM-BP) algorithm has been developed to predict CEs from coastal areas, which solves the problem that the traditional back propagation neural network (BPNN) cannot fully learn data features, which leads to a decline in accuracy. The experimental results showed that the FCM algorithm can divide the marine sample data into corresponding categories to distinguish polluted and unpolluted samples. The improved neural network model has a higher degree of non-linear fit and lower prediction error than a back propagation (BP) neural network. The main contribution of this paper is to first study the spatial and temporal accumulation characteristics of marine environmental data. The academic contribution of this study is to substitute the predictions of the three gray models (GMs) with the neural network structure simulation to finally obtain more accurate predictions. From a practical point of view, this study is helpful to a certain extent in alleviating the pressure of climate change due to increased CEs in global coastal zones. This study can also provide a new method of measuring environmental governance for marine environmental regulatory authorities.
Efficacy and safety of polymyxin E sulfate in the treatment of critically ill patients with carbapenem-resistant organism infections
Authors: Lu Xin , Zhong Cejun , Liu Yanbin , Ye Hui , Qu Junyan , Zong Zhiyong , Lv Xiaoju
Published: December 2022

Objective

Polymyxins are currently the last line of defense in the treatment of carbapenem-resistant organisms (CRO). As a kind of polymyxin available for clinical use in China, we aim to explore the efficacy and safety of colistin sulfate (Polymyxin E sulfate, PES) in this study.

Methods

This real-world retrospective study included 119 patients diagnosed with CRO infection and treated with PES for more than 72 h, from May 2020 to July 2022 at West China Hospital. The primary outcome was clinical efficacy at the end of treatment, and secondary outcomes included microbial response, in-hospital mortality and incidence of nephrotoxicity.

Results

The effective clinical and microbiological responses were 53.8% and 49.1%, respectively. And the in-hospital mortality was 27.7%. Only 9.2% of patients occurred with PES-related nephrotoxicity. Multivariate analysis revealed that duration of PES was an independent predictor of effective therapy, while age-adjusted Charlson comorbidity index (aCCI) and post-treatment PCT(p-PCT) were independent risk factors for poor outcome.

Conclusions

PES can be a salvage treatment for CRO-induced infections with favorable efficacy and low nephrotoxicity. The treatment duration of PES, aCCI and p-PCT were factors related to the clinical effectiveness of PES.
The actual and ideal indoor soundscape for work, relaxation, physical and sexual activity at home: A case study during the COVID-19 lockdown in London
Authors: Torresin Simone , Ratcliffe Eleanor , Aletta Francesco , Albatici Rossano , Babich Francesco , Oberman Tin , Kang Jian
Published: December 2022

The period of home confinement during the COVID-19 pandemic made the importance of a high-quality surrounding environment even more evident than before. Several studies have been carried out to assess the (negative) impacts of noise on annoyance, particularly whilst working from home (WFH). The present study takes a step further by (1) investigating the positive and negative impacts of the “actual” acoustic environment on a range of activities, i.e., WFH, relaxation, physical, and sexual activities, and (2) identifying the characteristics of an “ideal” indoor soundscape. The study is based on the qualitative analysis of verbal descriptions collected from open-ended questions included in a survey administered in January 2021 to 464 respondents living in London, during the COVID-19 lockdown. The range of impacts in the actual scenario varied from no effect on task execution, to disruption, distraction, concern of disturbing others or being heard. Positive impacts included support of concentration, relaxation, motivation, freedom of sound expression, feeling of being connected to the surroundings and comforted by the presence of others, according to mechanisms described in the study. Negative appraisal could trigger coping strategies (e.g., controlling windows, playing music, wearing headphones) and behavioural changes (e.g., lowering the volume of the voice or music, muting oneself during call, changing workout type) that could in turn limit or enhance the freedom of behaviour, affect or foster wellbeing. Negative impacts were most frequently reported on WFH (by 55% of the participants), followed by relaxation activities (40.6%), sexual activities (30.1%), and home workout (20.1%). The ideal soundscape was described as a quiet, well-sound insulated environment, which guarantees access to positive sounds (i.e., natural sounds, music, urban background), thus resulting in privacy, intimacy, and a place where to express themselves without noise-related constraints. The study complements literature findings on housing design directions in light of the COVID-19 pandemic, by providing further evidence on the impacts of poor sound insulation at home, the potential benefits of nature-based solutions for positive indoor soundscapes, and opportunities for an activity-based design of domestic environments, inclusive of a broader set of home uses and household compositions.
“Same same” but different? Exploring the impact of perceived organizational support at the school and teacher levels on teachers’ job engagement and organizational citizenship behavior
Authors: Hsieh Chuan-Chung , Chien Wei-Cheng , Yen Hung-Chin , Li Hui-Chieh
Published: December 2022

All countries in the world are currently trying to implement educational reform, which increases the additional workload of teachers. It is more important to discuss how to inspire teachers’ enthusiasm for educational reform from the perspective of organizational support (OS). Previous research on OS was limited to perceived organizational support (POS), but in recent years group-level OS has been considered the most promising. There is no study comparing POS and group-level OS in education, and therefore this study explored the relationships between OS, job engagement (JE) and organizational citizenship behavior (OCB) in an educational context. In particular, OS was examined at the individual-level (POS) and the aggregated group-level (school organizational support, SOS). Analysis was performed using structural equation modeling (SEM) at both single and multiple levels. SEM results showed direct and positive relationships of individual-level POS with both JE and OCB. Moreover, JE is directly and positively related to OCB and plays the partial mediating role of the indirect and positive impact of POS on OCB. Multilevel structural equation modeling (MSEM) analysis revealed direct and positive relationships of SOS with teachers’ JE, which was directly and positively related to their OCB. While SOS had no significant positive relationship with OCB, it did have a positive impact on OCB through the mediation of JE. Comparison between SEM and MSEM results revealed the change in effect of OS on OCB from significant to insignificant, thus implying full mediation effect of JE when SOS is considered.
Relationship between university students’ physical activity and mobile phone dependence: Mediating effect of subjective well-being and moderating effect of psychological capital
Authors: Lu Tianci , Wang Caixia , Chen Hanwen , Tao Baole , Jiang Yueyan , Sui Haoran , Yan Jun
Published: December 2022

Background

With the ongoing development of the information society, the Internet and smartphones have become an essential way of life, but also fostered the problem of mobile phone dependence. Physical activity and subjective well-being have both been shown to correlate with mobile phone dependence, but the impact of subjective well-being on the relationship between physical activity and mobile phone dependence is not fully understood. This study investigates subjective well-being as a potential mediating variable in the relationship. It also investigates whether psychological capital moderates the association between subjective well-being and mobile phone dependence.

Methods

A total of 9,569 students from 38 universities in Jiangsu Province were selected. Participants were surveyed via the online questionnaire distribution platform Questionnaire Star. Common method bias test and Pearson correlation tests were used to analyze the study indicators, and the theoretical model for this study was validated using Process plug-in developed by Hayes and set at p < 0.05 (two- tail) as statistically significant.

Results

The levels of physical activity, subjective well-being, and psychological capital were all significantly higher for male students than female students. However, female students had a significantly higher level of mobile phone dependence. As predicted, there was a direct negative correlation between physical activity and mobile phone dependence, and subjective well-being mediated that relationship. Psychological capital moderated the relationship between subjective well-being and mobile phone dependence. It also positively moderated the indirect effect between physical activity and mobile phone dependence via subjective well-being.
Perceived teacher support, peer relationship, and university students’ mental health: The mediation of reality and Internet altruistic behaviors
Authors: Feng Linlin , Zhang Lelin
Published: December 2022

Studying in universities is a crucial development stage for students, whose thoughts, feelings, and actions are affected by interactions with their teachers and peers. This study explored the relationships between perceived teacher support and mental health as well as those between peer relationship and mental health among university students, and examined the mediating effects of reality and Internet altruistic behaviors on these relationships. Perceived teacher support questionnaire, peer relationship satisfaction questionnaire, self-reported altruism questionnaire, Internet altruistic behavior questionnaire, and general health questionnaire were administered to 553 university students. Results demonstrated that perceived teacher support and peer relationship positively predicted reality and Internet altruistic behaviors and positively predicted mental health. Reality and Internet altruistic behaviors positively predicted mental health and exerted significant mediating effects on the correlations between perceived teacher support and mental health as well as those between peer relationship and mental health. The male and female students differed insignificantly in the mediating effects of reality and Internet altruistic behaviors. Therefore, no matter for males or females, teachers should provide sufficient support for the students and establish favorable relationships with them. Friendly relationships, comfort, and active communication among peer students are also essential for creating a healthy and harmonious interaction environment. Those various factors of the school have impacts on the mental health of university students through their altruistic behaviors. This study suggests that further emphasis on teacher support and peer relationship is needed to promote the positive development of altruistic behaviors among university students, and ultimately provide a viable contribution to the university students’ mental health interventions.
Optimal extent of lymph node dissection in gastric cancer
Authors: Varga Zsolt , Kolozsi Péter , Nagy Kitti , Tóth Dezső
Published: December 2022

Gastric cancer still remains a major cause of cancer-related deaths globally. Stage-adapted, individualized treatment is crucial to achieving optimal oncological outcomes. Postoperative morbidity and accurate nodal staging are heavily influenced by the extent of lymph node dissection. On one hand, insufficient lymphadenectomy may result in understaging and undertreatment of a patient, on the other hand, unnecessary lymph node dissection may result in a higher rate of postoperative complications. Approximately one-third of patients with gastric cancer undergoes an avoidable lymph node dissection. Many of the recent treatment updates in the management of gastric cancer have a major influence on both surgical and oncological approaches. Currently, a wide range of endoscopic, minimally invasive, and hybrid surgical techniques are available. The concept of sentinel node biopsy and utilization of the Maruyama Computer Program are significant components of stage-adapted gastric cancer surgery. Likewise, centralization and application of national guidelines, widespread use of neoadjuvant therapy, and the stage migration phenomenon are serious concerns to be discussed. Our goal is to review the available surgical strategies for gastric cancer, with a primary focus on lymphadenectomy.
Aero-Engine Rotor Assembly Process Optimization Based on Improved Harris Hawk Algorithm
Authors: Zhang Bin , Lu Hongyi , Liu Shun , Yang Yucheng , Sang Doudou
Published: December 2022

Multi-stage disc rotor assembly is an important part of the aero-engine rotor manufacturing process. To solve the problem that excessive unbalance of assembly affects the vibration of the whole machine, this paper presents an optimization method for aero-engine rotor assembly balance based on an improved Harris Hawk algorithm. Firstly, the assembly sequence model of the single-stage disc blade and the phase assembly model of a multi-stage disc of the engine rotor is established. Secondly, by using the initial population generation based on dynamic opposing learning and the escape energy function of the non-linear logarithmic convergence factor, the search mechanism of the whale optimization algorithm is introduced in the global exploration, and the adaptive weight strategy and mutation strategy of the genetic algorithm is introduced in the development to improve the algorithm. Then, the effectiveness of the algorithm is verified by experiments and compared with particle swarm optimization, genetic algorithm, and Harris Hawk algorithm, the unbalance of the optimal blade assembly sequence is reduced by 91.75%, 99.82%, and 83.39%, respectively. The algorithm comparison and analysis are carried out for all disc-blade assembly optimization of the rotor. The optimal unbalance of the improved Harris Hawk optimization algorithm is reduced by 79.71%, 99.48%, and 54.92% on average. The unbalance of the algorithm in this paper is the best. Finally, the improved Harris Hawk algorithm is used to find the best assembly phase, and the optimized unbalanced force and moment are reduced by 84.22% and 98.05%, respectively. The results of this study prove that the improved Harris Hawk algorithm for aero-engine rotor assembly balance optimization can effectively reduce the unbalance of rotor disc blade assembly and rotor unbalance and provide a powerful solution for solving engine vibration.
Assessment of the Performance of Agricultural Tires Using a Mobile Test Bench
Authors: Fanigliulo Roberto , Biocca Marcello , Grilli Renato , Fornaciari Laura , Gallo Pietro , Benigni Stefano , Mattei Paolo , Pochi Daniele
Published: December 2022

The performance of agricultural tires varies with the characteristics of both the terrain and the tractors on which they are mounted, which differently affect the rolling resistance, the traction capacity, and the slip. To reduce the variability of test conditions, CREA developed an original mobile test (MTB) bench which consists of a dynamometric single axle trailer pulled by a tractor and can be used both in traction performance tests (driving wheels) and in rolling resistance tests (driven wheels). A control system alternatively operates the adjustment of traction force or slip, so that each test is performed maintaining constant the desired values. The MTB underwent tests under different conditions (type of surface, pre-set values of force of traction and slip) aimed at verifying its accuracy and reliability. In a final test, two pairs of identical new tires were simultaneously mounted on the MTB and on the rear axle of the 2WD tractor that pulled it, to discover information on the different interactions occurring, under the same traction conditions, between the soil surface and each pair of tires, with reference to the relationship between the slips and the load transfers observed on the MTB and on the tractor rear axle. The results evidenced the capability of the MTB to guarantee repeatable test conditions, including field conditions, allowing comparison among the performance of different tires.
Increased Soil Aggregate Stability by Altering Contents and Chemical Composition of Organic Carbon Fractions via Seven Years of Manure Addition in Mollisols
Authors: Zhou Meng , Xiao Yang , Xiao Leilei , Li Yansheng , Zhang Xingyi , Cruse Richard M. , Liu Xiaobing
Published: December 2022

Mollisols include an abundance of soil organic carbon (SOC) which is easily influenced by fertilization management. Manure addition could enhance soil aggregate stability; however, the dominating factor affecting its stabilization remains controversial. The fertilization practices were initiated in 2012 to investigate the influences of different fertilization managements on the contents and molecular characterization of organic carbon (OC) fractions, and to clarify the underlying mechanism of soil aggregate stability change. NoF (non-fertilizer), CF (only chemical fertilizer), CF + DM (chemical fertilizer plus single dairy manure at 15 t ha−1), and CF + 2DM (chemical fertilizer plus double dairy manure at 30 t ha−1) treatments were established. This research was aimed at exploring the potential mechanism that affects aggregate stability in Mollisols through the variation of contents and chemical composition of OC fractions, and screening out the appropriate fertilization practice on promoting SOC stabilization and crop yield under 7-year manure addition. Compared to CF, 7-year manure addition significantly enhanced SOC content by 17.4–35.9% at 0–10 cm depth, which was evidenced from the contribution of increased aromatic compounds with 4.3–19.9%. Simultaneously, compared with CF, CF + DM and CF + 2DM both significantly enhanced dissolved organic carbon and easily oxidizable organic carbon contents by 12.5–37.7% at a 0–30 cm soil layer. In regard to soil aggregates, the increased OC content and mass percentage of macroaggregates, and the decreased mass percentage of free microaggregates both improved aggregate stability under manure addition at 0-30 cm soil layer, which was proven to be the increment in mean weight diameter (MWD) and geometric mean diameter (GMD) values by 17.6–22.1%. Moreover, CF + DM and CF + 2DM raised aromatic compound amounts of POM fractions within macroaggregates [M(c)POM] by 5.6–11.6% and within free microaggregates (Fm-POM) by 4.3–10%. Furthermore, CF + DM and CF + 2DM both significantly increased maize yield by 5.7% and 4.2% compared to CF, but no significant difference was observed between CF + DM and CF + 2DM treatments. Collectively, physical protection through the occlusion within aggregates of POM might be the central mechanism for soil aggregate stability of manure addition in Mollisols. The manure addition of 15 t ha−1 was the effective management method to enhance SOC stabilization and crop yield in Mollisols.
Relevance of Pyrolysis Products Derived from Sewage Sludge for Soil Applications
Authors: Frišták Vladimír , Bošanská Diana , Turčan Vladimír , Pipíška Martin , Pfeifer Christoph , Soja Gerhard
Published: December 2022

The recovery of sludge produced in the wastewater treatment process in WWTPs is often limited by the high content of toxic forms of contaminants of both an inorganic and organic nature. One of the options for the effective treatment of the world’s ever-increasing quantities of sewage sludge is the pyrolysis process. Thermochemical conversion of sewage sludge is emerging as a promising method for treating these heterogeneous and highly complex wastes with increasing research work. Pyrolysis-treated sewage sludge (PM) prepared at 603–615 °C was characterized by pH, EC, and CHN-S analysis; total and bioavailable concentrations of P and heavy metals (Cd, Cu, Fe and Zn); fractionation of bound forms of P and heavy metals in the material and determination of the presence of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs). The studied material was subjected to ecotoxicological tests (Daphnia pulex L.) and cultivation tests (Lactuca sativa L.). Elemental analysis revealed the concentrations of heavy metals in PM: Fe (137,600 mg/kg), Zn (2602 mg/kg), Cu (582 mg/kg), Cr (107 mg/kg), Pb (87 mg/kg), Ni (67 mg/kg), As (<1 mg/kg), Hg (<2 mg/kg) and Cd (<1 mg/kg). The highest values of extractability of the investigated heavy metals from PM were found in the cases of Zn (HCl) and Fe (Mehlich 3), both values not exceeding 500 mg/kg. BCR sequential extraction showed the major concentrations of Cu and Fe were predominantly bound in the residual fraction (F4) and Zn in the reducible fraction (F2) of PM. The results of heavy metal bioavailability suggest that the addition of PM does not negatively affect the growth of lettuce biomass and the metal contents of plant tissues. Based on the results obtained, the pyrolysis material prepared from municipal sewage sludge seems to be a promising and innovative soil additive and a potential alternative to conventional inorganic fertilizers.
The Prevalence of Escherichia coli Derived from Bovine Clinical Mastitis and Distribution of Resistance to Antimicrobials in Part of Jiangsu Province, China
Authors: Xu Tianle , Cao Wendi , Huang Yicai , Zhao Jingwen , Wu Xinyue , Yang Zhangping
Published: December 2022

Bovine mastitis is often taken as one of the most common diseases in dairy farms, which its pathophysiology leads to a reduction of milk production and its quality. The penetration of pathogenic bacteria into the mammary gland, through either a contagious or environmental approach, has been determined the way of infection. The mastitis derived bacteria have become a challenge in practice, since the increasing exposure of antimicrobial. In order to identify characteristics of the epidemiological regulation and drug resistance of the pathogenic bacteria of bovine mastitis in northern Jiangsu, 156 clinical mastitis milk samples were collected from 3 large-scale farms for the epidemiological investigation and analysis of the drug resistance of E. coli. The bacteria were positively isolated in a total of 143 milk samples. The results showed that 78 strains of E. coli were detected, with a prevalence rate of 26.99%, followed by 67 strains of K. pneumoniae, with a prevalence of 23.19%, and 38 strains of Staphylococcus, with a prevalence of spp. 13.15%. In addition, 78 strains of E. coli isolated from bovine mastitis were tested for susceptibility to 8 kinds of antibiotics. It was shown that gentamicin and tetracycline were the most effective against E. coli, with the susceptibility rate of 83.3%, followed by streptomycin and ciprofloxacin, with 73.1% and 71.8% respectively. However, β-lactams including penicillin, cefothiophene, and amoxicillin showed serious resistance to E. coli isolates. There were 12 drug resistance genes detected by PCR, including β-lactam (blaTEM, blaCTX-M, and blaSHV), aminoglycoside (armA and armB), tetracycline (tetA, tetB, and tetC), and quinolone (qnrS, qepA, oqxA, and oqxB) related genes. Notably, all E. coli isolates carried blaTEM gene (100%). The detection rate of blaCTX-M was 53.8%, followed by the detection of blaSHV (20.5%), armA (9.0%), tetA (26.9%), tetB (2.6%), tetC (20.5%), qnrS (29.5%), oqxA (37.2%) and oqxB (1.3%). The present study provides crucial information on the distribution of bovine mastitis derived bacterial pathogens in Jiangsu province, as well as highlighting the antimicrobial resistance which might help to improve the efficiency of antibiotics treatment on bovine mastitis.
The Use of Hough Transform Method and Knot-Like Turning for Motion Planning and Control of an Autonomous Agricultural Vehicle
Authors: Bayar Gokhan
Published: December 2022

This study focuses on motion planning and reference trajectory tracking control of an autonomous agricultural vehicle to achieve precise row following and turning. The smooth time-varying feedback control method was adapted to the system to generate the required control commands. The mathematical representations for motion planning and controllers were constructed based on the car-like robot model. An algorithm to detect trees and rows of trees of an orchard was developed using the Hough transform approach. A new type of turning procedure, called knot-like turning, was proposed to perform turning from one row to another. A simulation environment was created to test and analyze the developed system. To obtain the real data from a field, the trees and rows of trees of a cherry orchard were scanned using a laser scanner rangefinder sensor. Then, the scanned data were moved to the simulation environment to generate the desired trajectory, which was followed by an autonomous agricultural vehicle. The simulation environment made it possible to determine the performance of the proposed motion planning, reference trajectory generation, tracking control and turning procedures. The results presented here indicate that the proposed methodology could be used for desired trajectory tracking tasks for agricultural operations in the case that minimum tracking errors in both straight and turning motions are needed.
Design and Experimental Study of Bionic Reverse Picking Header for Fresh Corn
Authors: Zhang Li , Yu Jianqun , Zhang Qiang , Liu Chuanxin , Fang Xvwen
Published: December 2022

Influenced by the maturity and material properties, fresh corn has problems, such as low picking rate, high energy consumption and high damage rate during mechanized harvesting. For the above problems, a bionic reverse picking header was designed using the post-ripening morphology of corn and the hand-picking behavior as bionic prototypes. Model analysis and structural design of the key components of the header, including the reeling device, clamping device and picking device, were carried out. Based on the designed header prototype, single-factor tests and Box Behnken tests were conducted to explore the factors affecting the working performance of the picking header. The optimal structural parameters and working parameters were determined by response surface method. The results showed that with the increase in the clamping picking device speed and the stalk feeding speed, the picking rate first increased and then decreased. The interaction between feeding speed and cutter position had the most significant effect on the picking rate. The unique reverse picking mechanism and flexible device of the header could avoid collision and damage to the corn ears. The highest picking rate was achieved when the clamping picking device speed was 416.81 rpm, the stalk feeding speed was 1.13 m/s, and the cutter position was −5.45 cm.
Closed-Loop Optimal Control of Greenhouse Cultivation Based on Two-Time-Scale Decomposition: A Simulation Study in Lhasa
Authors: Xu Dan , Li Yanfeng , Dai Anguo , Zhao Shumei , Song Weitang
Published: December 2022

Due to the heavy computation load of closed-loop simulations, optimal control of greenhouse climate is usually simulated in an open-loop form to produce control strategies and profit indicators. Open-loop simulations assume the model, measurements, and predictions to be perfect, resulting in too-idealistic indicators. The method of two-time-scale decomposition reduces the computation load, thus facilitating the online implementation of optimal control algorithms. However, the computation time of nonlinear dynamic programming is seldom considered in closed-loop simulations. This paper develops a two-time-scale decomposed closed-loop optimal control algorithm that involves the computation time. The obtained simulation results are closer to reality since it considers the time delay in the implementation. With this algorithm, optimal control of Venlo greenhouse lettuce cultivation is investigated in Lhasa. Results show that compared with open-loop simulations, the corrections in yield and profit indicators can be up to 2.38 kg m−2 and 11.01 CNY m−2, respectively, through closed-loop simulations without considering the computation time. When involving the time delay caused by the computation time, further corrections in yield and profit indicators can be up to 0.1 kg m−2 and 0.87 CNY m−2, respectively. These conservative indicators help investors make wiser decisions before cultivation. Moreover, control inputs and greenhouse climate states are within their bounds most of the time during closed-loop simulations. This verifies that the developed algorithm can be implemented in real time.
Cultivating Biodiversity to Harvest Sustainability: Vermicomposting and Inoculation of Microorganisms for Soil Preservation and Resilience
Authors: Pereira Maysa Mathias Alves , Moraes Ludmila Caproni , Mogollón María Cristina Troya , Borja Carlos Junio Falconi , Duarte Mateus , Buttrós Victor Hugo Teixeira , Luz José Magno Queiroz , Pasqual Moacir , Dória Joyce
Published: December 2022

Based on the concepts of circular economy and bioeconomy, the reuse of agrifood residues through vermicomposting can help solve serious environmental problems such as soil contamination and degradation, erosion and climate change. In this sense, the objective was to identify, quantify and analyze the physical, chemical, hormonal, amino acid content and microbial biodiversity of three formulations of vermicompost, with and without inoculation of microorganisms from native forest and commercial formulation, aiming at the production of an organic fertilizer rich in microorganisms for use in sustainable production systems. As a result, the vermicompost formulations presented values higher than the minimum requirements stipulated by Brazilian legislation for the registration of class A composite organic fertilizer. There is a significant difference between the vermicomposts, in the parameters related to the content of phosphorus, auxin, tryptophan and organic matter, as well as the relation between humic and fulvic acids. Bacillus sp. and Trichoderma sp. were also influenced by the type of vermicompost formulation. In addition, inoculation with microorganisms from native forest promoted an increase in biodiversity, in which the presence of Actinomyces sp. and Azotobacter chrooccocum contribute to the reduction in the levels of heavy metals in the compost. It is concluded that vermicomposting is a potential tool in the reuse of agri-food residues, with expressive microbial diversity that can influence plant growth, suppression of pathogens, minimize or reduce the effects of biotic and abiotic stresses on plant production, in addition to contributing to maintenance of soil biodiversity, integral fertility and resilience to climate change.
Antifungal Activity of Propolis Extracts against Postharvest Pathogen Phlyctema vagabunda
Authors: Urrea Iván , Arismendi Nolberto , Sepúlveda Ximena , Gerding Macarena , Vero Silvana , Vargas Marisol
Published: December 2022

Phlyctema vagabunda is one of the main postharvest pathogens in late-harvest apples in Chile. The control of this pathogen is mainly through synthetic fungicides or copper-based compounds; however, there are concerns about the residues of these products in food and the environment. Therefore, there is a need for seeking alternative control strategies, in which propolis, a resinous substance collected by bees with antimicrobial properties, could be an environmentally friendly and safe alternative to control for P. vagabunda. The aim of this study was to characterize and determine the pathogenicity of Chilean isolates of P. vagabunda and to evaluate the antifungal activity of propolis against P. vagabunda in vitro and in vivo conditions. The Chilean isolates were identified as P. vagabunda through morphological and molecular characterization. The concentrations of propolis of 0.5% and 0.05% significantly decreased the mycelial growth and germination of conidia by 88.5% and 100%, respectively. The incidence and severity of the disease in apples also decreased by 57.2% and 61.3%, respectively. The use of propolis extract could be a promising alternative for the control of P. vagabunda in apples.
The Effect of Tillage on Faba Bean (Vicia faba L.) Nitrogen Fixation in Durum Wheat ((Triticum turgidum L. subsp. Durum (Desf))-Based Rotation under a Mediterranean Climate
Authors: Tedone Luigi , Alhajj Ali Salem , De Mastro Giuseppe
Published: December 2022

Biological nitrogen fixation (BNF) is a sustainable approach to improving soil fertility that not only provides nitrogen to subsequent crops but also reduces the impacts of synthetic fertilizers. Here, a field experiment was established within the faba bean (Vicia faba L.), cv Prothabat 69-durum wheat (Triticum turgidum L. subsp. Durum (Desf)), cv Iride rotation framework of a long-term experiment in southern Italy to quantify BNF over two consecutive years (2012/13–2013/14). The effect of tillage systems (reduced, conventional, and no tillage) on faba bean N2 fixation was estimated at the flowering and maturity stages via the natural abundance technique, using wheat as a reference crop. The effect of tillage on the percentage of nitrogen fixation from the atmosphere (Ndfa) and the amount of N2 fixed (kg ha−1) were higher under a no-tillage system in both years and at both growth stages, with values of 66.5% at flowering and 81.7% at maturity. The same trend was reported for the amount of N2 fixed (kg N ha−1) at both faba bean growth stages. The N balance was positive in both years, with a mean value of 40.4 kg N ha−1, across all tillage systems; this value was greater in the no-tillage systems (45.7 kg N ha−1) with respect to the others. The values for the organic matter content and stability index were higher under the no-tillage system, which provided favourable conditions that improved N2 fixation by faba beans. The overall results indicate that no-tillage soil management represents a sustainable strategy for improving soil quality and fertility, therefore reducing the dependency of agriculture on synthetic fertilizers.
Dietary Supplementation of Capsaicin Enhances Productive and Reproductive Efficiency of Chinese Crossbred Buffaloes in Low Breeding Season
Authors: Abulaiti Adili , Naseer Zahid , Ahmed Zulfiqar , Liu Wenju , Pang Xunsheng , Iqbal Muhammad Farooq , Wang Shujuan
Published: December 2022

The present study investigated the role of dietary capsaicin (CPS) supplementation on milk yield (liters/head) and milk composition (total solids, lactose, albumin, protein, fat, milk urea nitrogen (MUN), somatic cell count (SCC) and somatic cell score (SCS), serum metabolites (lipoprotein esterase (LPL) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST)), and reproductive physiology (follicular development, estrus response, ovulation and pregnancy) following synchronization during the low breeding season. One hundred (n = 100) crossbred buffaloes were randomly assigned to four dietary groups consisting of CPS supplementation dosages (0, 2, 4 or 6 mg/kg of total mixed ration; TMR) as CPS-0 (n = 26), CPS-2 (n = 22), CPS-4 (n = 25) and CPS-6 (n = 27), respectively, in a 30-day feed trial. The results revealed that the CPS-4 group of buffaloes had a better estrus rate (72%) along with improved (p < 0.05) ovulatory follicle diameter (13.8 mm), ovulation rate (68%) and pregnancy rate (48%) compared to other treatment groups. Milk yield improved (p < 0.05) in CPS-4 supplemented buffaloes after day 20 of the trial, comparatively. There was a significant effect (p < 0.05) of milk sampling day (day 30) on total milk solids, lactose, milk protein and MUN levels, whereas lactose, MUN, SCC and SCS were influenced by supplementation dosage (CPS-4). Glucose levels were affected in buffaloes by sampling time (artificial insemination (AI) and 50-day post-AI) and CPS-dose (CPS-4 and CPS-6), respectively. LPL level changed in CPS-2 and CPS-4 groups at AI time and 50 days after AI. In addition, the AST level was different in CPS-4 at AI time and 50 days after AI. Therefore, our data suggest that a medium dose (~4 mg/kg of TMR) of CPS provided a better response in the form of milk yield, milk composition, serum metabolites and reproductive performance in crossbred buffaloes during the low breeding season.