bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Examination of genetic clones of Myrtus communis as potential sources of organic agricultural pest control agents
Authors: Quinn Elazar , Ben-Simchon Eyal , Gorelick Jonathan , Oka Yuji , Frenkel Omer , Sionov Edward , Kostyukovsky Moshe , Dudai Nativ , Shimshoni Jakob , Zilkah Shmuel , Cohen Menashe , Rapaport Aviv , Shelef Oren
Published: August 2023

Myrtus communis is a Mediterranean shrub cultivated in Israel for traditional, ceremonial use only, with more than 98% of the crop biomass, equivalent to 26–27 tons per ha per annum, considered agricultural waste. Therefore, potentially profitable use for this excess is being highly sought. As Myrtus is also known for its unique terpene and terpenoid content, this work evaluated the impact of essential oil (EO) extracted from several M. communis cultivars on storage insects, nematodes, fungi, and pathogens. In addition, the allelopathic effect of M. communis litter on the germination success of wheat seeds was evaluated. The EO extracts demonstrated an insecticidal effect on several storage insects in fumigation experiments, and a potentially inhibiting effect on wheat development in allelopathy experiments. No significant impact of M. communis EOs on the examined fungi, pathogens, and nematodes was recorded. Additional uses of the M. communis biomass suggest supplying additional income to the farmer through the circular agriculture approach. In addition, the use of this local crop can contribute to sustainable intensification by increasing farming efficiency, nature-based substitutes for chemical pesticides, and possibly the future design of agriculture through the integration of Myrtus in monoculture crops.
The Role of Micromobility in Mobility as a Service in Future Cities
Authors: Saryazdi Ali Haji Gholam , Faraji Seyed J. , Gharamaleki A.Y. Faramarz , Arman Mohadese
Published: August 2023

With urbanization expansion, transportation, and traffic and pollution in cities have increased, which has necessitated the need for a more sustainable urban transportation system. Micro-mobility programs have been proposed worldwide. Despite various previous literature, a comprehensive conceptualization has not been accomplished. Therefore, with a qualitative Meta-Synthesis; we re-introduce and define this style of transportation and answer questions about the criteria for determining micro-mobility, types of micro-mobility, its applications in cities, and its advantages and disadvantages, its main role in urban transportation in future cities and the current market, and its future forecast. The results showed that there is no specific and comprehensive definition to explain micro-mobility and its determining indicators are different and their value is changing according to technological changes. micro-mobility plays a unique role in future cities under the livable city concept with a predicted exponential usage growth, as it has a complementary role to public transportation.
Enhancing the conventional culture: The evaluation of several culture media and growth conditions improve the isolation of ruminal bacteria
Authors: Botero-Rute Lina Marcela , Caro-Quintero Alejandro , Acosta-González Alejandro
Published: August 2023

The rumen microbiota is crucial in cattle digestion, but its low cultivability makes it difficult to study its ecological function and biotechnological potential. To improve the recovery of ruminal microorganisms, this study combined the evaluation of several cultivation parameters with metabarcoding analysis. The parameters tested were culture media (CAN, ER, GC, GOOD, KNT, KYO, NYO, TRB), rumen fluid dilution (10-2, 10-6, and 10-12), and incubation time (3 and 7 days). The bacterial populations were determined through Illumina sequencing of 16S rRNA from three biological replicates of each treatment. Results showed that the culture media did not recover all rumen populations and altered the dominant phyla's relative abundance. In the rumen, Bacteroidetes and Firmicutes had a relative abundance of 75 % and 15 %, respectively, but in the culture media, it was 15 % and 60 %. The PCoA analysis showed that dilution had a significant impact on population composition, with 10-2and 10-6populations clustering together while 10-12populations were more distant. Incubation time had no impact on populations diversity. After comparing PCoA distances, two media (CAN, KNT) were selected based on their ability to recover similar populations to the rumen. 64 cultures were obtained and 54 were identified through 16s rRNA gene sequencing. The metataxonomic analysis showed that CAN media had reproducibility over time, while KNT showed enrichment of different taxa due to the use of rumen fluid as a substrate.
Developing Questions to Assess and Measure Patients’ Perceived Survival Benefit from Adjuvant Endocrine Therapy in Breast Cancer: A Mixed Methods Pilot Study
Authors: Tawfik Bernard , Jacobson Kendal , Brown-Glaberman Ursa , Kosich Mikaela , Horn M. Lee , Nemunaitis Jacklyn , Dayao Zoneddy , Pankratz V. Shane , Sussman Andrew L. , Guest Dolores
Published: August 2023

Purpose
This mixed methods study developed multiple question types to understand and measure women’s perceived benefit from adjuvant endocrine therapy. We hypothesis that patients do not understand this benefit and sought to develop the questions needed to test this hypothesis and obtain initial patient estimates.
Methods
From 8/2022 to 3/2023, qualitative interviews focused on assessing and modifying 9 initial varied question types asking about the overall survival (OS) benefit from adjuvant endocrine therapy. Subsequent focus groups modified and selected the optimal questions. Patients’ self-assessment of their OS benefit was compared to their individualized PREDICT model results.
Results
Fifty-three patients completed the survey; 42% Hispanic, 30% rural, and 47% with income <$39,999 per year. Patients reported adequate health care literacy (61.5%) and average confidence about treatment and medication decisions 49.4 (95% CI 24.4–59.5). From the original 9 questions, 3 modified questions were ultimately found to capture patients’ perception of this OS benefit, focusing on graphical and prose styles. Patients estimated an OS benefit of 42% compared to 4.4% calculated from the PREDICT model (p < 0.001).
Conclusion
In this group with considerable representation from ethnic minority, rural and low-income patients, qualitative data showed that more than one modality of question type was needed to clearly capture patients’ understanding of treatment benefit. Women with breast cancer significantly overestimated their 10-year OS benefit from adjuvant endocrine therapy compared to the PREDICT model.
Novel oxadiazole functionalized pyridopyrimidine derivatives; their anticancer activity and Molecular docking studies
Authors: Dasari Raghu , Gali Srinivas , korra Rajashekar , Vaddiraju Namrata
Published: August 2023

A series of novel oxadiazole functionalized pyridopyrimidine derivatives prepared starting from 6-methyl/ethyl-2-oxo-4-(trifluoromethyl)-1,2-dihydropyridine-3-carbonitrile 1. These compound 1 on reaction with sulphuric acid and obtained compound 2, further compound 2 on reaction with chloroacetamide followed by reaction with EMME coupling and further cyclization to obtain compound 5. Compound 5 on reaction with hydrazide hydrate and obtained hydrazide derivatives 6. Compound 6 on reaction with diverse substituted aromatic acids to get oxadiazole derivatives 7a-l. All the final compounds 7a-l evaluated for anti cancer activity against four human cancer cell lines such as HeLa - Cervical cancer (CCL-2); COLO 205- Colon cancer (CCL-222); HepG2- Liver cancer (HB-8065); MCF7 - Breast cancer (HTB-22) and promising compounds 7d and 7k have been identified and evaluated for molecular docking interactions.
The Global Stability Of Fractional Epidemiological Model With n Strain "AllCoronavirus Mutations"
Authors: Ahmed KAJOUNI , KHADIJA CHANNAN , hilal khalid
Published: August 2023

In this work, we have constructed a new system of differential equations which mathematically models infectious diseases with several mutations. (such as covid 19 disease and their mutations). Therefore, we are interested in studying the asymptotic stability of our new system.
Domain of Attraction of the Time to Extinction For a Class of Subcritical Bisexual Galton-Watson Branching Processes
Authors: Martín-González Ehyter Matías , Galván-Galván Carlos , Calvo-Martínez Eduardo
Published: August 2023

We show that the time to extinction of a subcritical Bisexual Galton-Watson Branching Process (BGWBP for short) with mating function depending on the previous generation, is the discretization of a random variable whose distribution function belongs to the Gumbel maximal domain of attraction. This implies that the distribution of the aforementioned time to extinction can be well approximated using classical Extreme Value Theory, for instance, the Peaks Over Threshold method. We provide several numerical examples of this approximation.
Optimizing Left Ventricular Assist Device Therapy: A Machine Learning Approach for Predicting Cardiac Output
Authors: Belkacem Marwen , Jemili Farah , Ellouze Omar , Kissi Asma El , Kamel Ferid
Published: August 2023

Heart failure (HF) is a significant concern worldwide, with left ventricular assist devices (LVADs) providing effective mechanical circulatory support for end-stage HF patients. However, the static nature of current LVAD pumping rates poses challenges in adapting to patients' physiological needs. To address this limitation, we propose a novel approach utilizing Multi-Layer Perceptron (MLPRegressor), a machine learning algorithm, to predict cardiac output (CO) accurately and adaptively adjust LVAD speed based on non-invasive physiological data. Our approach includes data preprocessing, feature engineering, and model evaluation. Our study demonstrates the superior performance of MLPRegressor over other machine learning models, with a Root mean squared error (RMSE) of 0.652 L/min and an R-squared score of 0.786. Personalized LVAD treatment based on predicted CO has the potential to improve patient outcomes and reduce complications associated with static pumping rates. Future research should explore additional physiological parameters, validation on larger datasets, and real-time monitoring for dynamic LVAD control in clinical settings. The integration of ML in cardiac care holds promise for enhancing heart failure management and patient care.
Dynamic multilayer functional connectivity detects preclinical and clinical Alzheimer’s disease
Authors: Canal-Garcia Anna , Veréb Dániel , Mijalkov Mite , Westman Eric , Volpe Giovanni , Pereira Joana B.
Published: August 2023

Background Increasing evidence suggests that patients with Alzheimer's disease (AD) present alterations in functional connectivity but previous results have not always been consistent. One of the reasons that may account for this inconsistency is the lack of consideration of temporal dynamics. To address this limitation, here we studied the dynamic modular organization on resting-state functional MRI (rs-fMRI) across different stages of AD using a novel multilayer brain network approach. Methods Participants from preclinical and clinical AD stages were included. Temporal multilayer networks were used to assess time-varying modular organization. Logistic regression models were employed for disease stage discrimination, and partial least squares analyses examined associations between dynamic measures with cognition and pathology. Results Temporal multilayer functional measures distinguished all groups, particularly preclinical stages, overcoming the discriminatory power of risk factors such as age, sex, and APOE 𝜀4 carriership. Dynamic functional measures exhibited strong associations with cognition as well as amyloid and tau pathology. Conclusions Dynamic multilayer functional connectivity shows promise as a functional imaging biomarker for both early and late stage AD diagnosis.
Laparoscopic-assisted Altemeier surgery for total rectal prolapse: a case report
Authors: Chen Shiwei , Chen Xiangwen , Yang Tao , Cao Qiurui , Gan Guolian
Published: August 2023

Background Surgery is the predominant method of treating total rectal prolapse. The transabdominal approach has the advantage of reducing recurrence rates compared to the transperineal approach. However, the former is complicated and is mostly applied to patients with prolapse accompanied by constipation. Therefore, Laparoscopic-assisted Altemeier surgery might be a novel option for patient with total rectal prolapse.Case report A 40-year-old man who repeatedly suffered rectal prolapse after defecation for 3 years, was diagnosed with total rectal prolapse based on physical examination and MRI, and the prolapse was about 10 cm. We performed laparoscopic-assisted Altemeier surgery. Postoperatively, the patient achieved an excellent recovery and was out on day 7.Conclusion This procedure ensures that the prolapsed bowel is completely removed and the pelvic floor elevation is assessed, which reduces the chances of recurrence. In addition, the risks, invasiveness and longer duration of more complex laparoscopic procedures are avoided.
Application of Artificial Intelligence in Poultry Farming - Advancing Efficiency in Poultry Farming By Automating The Egg Counting Using Computer Vision System
Authors: Vinod Anoopa , Mohanty Deba Chandan , John Aishwarya , Depuru Bharani Kumar
Published: August 2023

Counting eggs may seem like a simple task, but for poultry farms, it is a vital process that directly impacts productivity, inventory control, and overall output quality. However, the conventional manual counting methods are laborious, time-consuming, and prone to human errors. This research presents a ground-breaking computer imaging system designed to automate egg detection and counting, utilizing the remarkable potential of Computer Vision and Artificial Intelligence (AI) techniques.
The primary objective is to develop a robust and reliable system capable of real-time identification and enumeration of eggs within poultry houses. Strategically positioned cameras capture images, providing a unique perspective into the poultry environment. State-of-the-art computer vision algorithms, including advanced object detection methods like Faster Regions with Convolutional Neural Networks (Faster R-CNN) or You Only Look Once (YOLO), accurately identify eggs within the images using cutting-edge deep learning models.
By integrating AI techniques, the system enhances accuracy and reliability, while continuously learning from vast amounts of data. This transformative automation eliminates labour-intensive manual counting, offering a dependable, efficient, and cost-effective solution while reducing both time and labour requirements and minimizing human errors.
Moreover, the automated system enables real-time data collection, facilitating data-driven decision-making in the poultry industry. Through the integration of cutting-edge computer vision algorithms and AI techniques, the system provides an accurate, efficient, and reliable solution to optimize production processes, enhance inventory control, and ensure high-quality outputs. This work contributes to the ongoing technological advancements in the poultry industry, ultimately improving productivity, and sustainability, and enabling data-driven decision-making.
The Sexual and Reproductive Health Covariates of Early Menarche Among Adolescent Girls
Authors: Ibitoye Mobolaji , Sandfort Theo G. M. , Bingenheimer Jeffrey B. , Sommer Marni
Published: August 2023

Introduction
Research suggests that girls who reach menarche at an early age are at greater risk for negative sexual and reproductive health (SRH) outcomes than their later-maturing counterparts, but very little research has examined this issue in sub-Saharan Africa, especially in West Africa. The goal of the current study was to determine whether early menarche was associated with any SRH outcomes in a sample of Ghanaian girls.
Methods
The study data were drawn from the baseline assessment of a longitudinal study involving two age cohorts (13–14 and 18–19 years) of 700 adolescent girls from Ghana. Logistic regressions were used to assess the association between early menarche (before age 13) and seven SRH outcomes (adolescent sexual activity, early sexual initiation, inconsistent condom use, transactional sex, sexual violence, multiple sexual partners and adolescent pregnancy).
Results
Early menarche was significantly associated with adolescent sexual activity (odds ratio [OR] = 6.4; 95% confidence interval [CI] 2.1–19.7), and sexual violence (OR = 3.2; 95% CI 1.6–6.2) in the younger cohort and early sexual initiation (OR = 3.2; 95% CI 1.19–8.61) and multiple sexual partners (OR = 3.7; 95% CI 1.39–9.87) in the older cohort. Early menarche was also associated with transactional sex and teen pregnancy in the full sample.
Conclusions
These findings suggest the need for special attention to the needs of early-maturing girls in SRH programming. Interventions are needed to delay adolescent sexual activity in girls with early menarche. Efforts to prevent sexual violence among adolescent girls in Ghana may benefit from targeting and addressing the specific needs of early-maturing girls.
Superradiant and subradiant states in lifetime-limited organic molecules through laser-induced tuning
Authors: Lange Christian , Hood Jonathan , Daggett Emma , Walther Valentin , Huang Libai
Published: August 2023

An array of radiatively coupled emitters is an exciting new platform for generating, storing, and manipulating quantum light. However, the simultaneous positioning and tuning of multiple lifetime-limited emitters into resonance remains a significant challenge. Here we report the creation of superradiant and subradiant entangled states in pairs of lifetime-limited and sub-wavelength spaced organic molecules by permanently shifting them into resonance with laser-induced tuning. The molecules are embedded as defects in an organic nanocrystal. The pump light redistributes charges in the nanocrystal and dramatically increases the likelihood of resonant molecules. The frequency spectra, lifetimes, and second-order correlation agree with a simple quantum model. This scalable tuning approach with organic molecules provides a pathway for observing collective quantum phenomena in sub-wavelength arrays of quantum emitters.
Macroscopic Length Scale of Water Super-Transport in Single Ultralong Carbon Nanotube
Authors: Sun Silei , Shen Boyuan , Gao Jun , Zhu Zhenxing , Wei Fei
Published: August 2023

The emergent nanofluidics promotes the exploration of the special hydrodynamics of fluid transport in a nano-sized flow domain1–3. Water, the most common fluid in the nature and human society, will form the ordered structures4–7 by reducing the hydrogen bonding and transport ultra-fast in carbon nanotubes8–16. However, such behaviors have only been reported in the tubes with nano- or micro-meter lengths far away from what can be considered as the macroscopic scales. Here we establish a mass spectroscopy system to detect the super-transport of water and heavy water in individual ultralong carbon nanotubes with an enhancement ratio ε over 106, two orders of magnitude higher than previous results. It indicates that the physics behind water super-transport is still efficient in a macroscopic length scale, where the effects of entrance/exit losses, surface energies, and temperature on the water super-transport can also be evaluated. Such a long transport system will reduce the contribution of entrance/exit effect to the total pressure drop to approach the intrinsic slippage resistance. This work not only extends the super-transport property of nanofluidics into macroscopic length scale, but also provide new hope to detect the intrinsic ultra-low friction on solid-liquid interface for a lossless mass transport in macroscopic applications.
Stochastic Optimal Harmonic Suppression with Permissible Photovoltaic Penetration Level for Grid-Linked Systems using Monte Carlo-Based Hybrid NSGA2-MOPSO
Authors: Abubakar Ali , Borkor Reindorf Nartey , Amoako-Yirenkyi Peter
Published: August 2023

Integrating a high Penetration level of Solar Photovoltaic (SPV) power in the electricity grid could enhance the system’s sustainability, reliability, and affordability. Nevertheless, at higher Penetrations, the intermittency, non-dispatchable nature of the SPV generation, and the extensive utilization of inverter-based interfaces generate excessive harmonic distortions that damage power system devices and interrupt the smooth operation of the power system. Thus, the severity of the harmonic distortion impacts varies as a function of the degree of the SPV Penetration level in the grid-connected system. Though the problem is highly nonlinear stochastic programming with multiple conflicting power quality criteria, no existing study holistically captures the randomness, the contradictory nature of the objectives, and the grid’s technical limitations simultaneously. This study proposes a novel Monte-Carlo-based Hybrid multi-objective methodology to scale up the Photovoltaic Penetration level with a minimum Total Harmonic Distortion (THD) for multilevel SPV inverters in grid-connected systems without violating the system’s standard operational limitations. Six state-of-the-art Multi-Objective Evolutionary algorithms were implemented and compared using hypervolume indica- tor, execution time, and parametric statistical analysis to obtain a quality solution. The results showed that the Hybrid NSGAII-MOPSO outflanked the rest in terms of convergence, diversity, and execution time. It could be inferred that even under variable weather conditions, this harmonic suppression design approach could accurately optimize the SPV Penetration level and mitigate the THD without degrading the grid’s standard operational constraints. In comparison, the stochastic design technique creates a far more reliable SPV grid-connected system than the deterministic approach.
Mitigating Imported Fuel Dependency in Agricultural Production: Case study of an island nation's vulnerability to global catastrophic risks
Authors: Boyd Matt , Ragnarsson Sam , Terry Simon , Payne Ben , Wilson Nick
Published: August 2023

A major global catastrophe could disrupt trade in liquid fuels. Countries dependent on imported oil products might struggle to sustain industrial agriculture. Island nations importing 100% of refined fuels are particularly vulnerable. Our case study of New Zealand aimed to estimate the agricultural land area and biofuel volumes needed to feed the national population in the absence of trade. Results showed that stored diesel would quickly be exhausted with ordinary use (weeks), and even with strict rationing (months). To preserve fuel, we found that farming wheat (requiring as little as 5.3 million liters (L) of diesel per annum), was more fuel-efficient than potatoes (11.7) or dairy (38.7), to feed the national population under a climate-as-usual scenario. The wheat would require 24% of currently grain-cropped land. Under climate conditions adverse to agriculture in a worst case (severe nuclear winter) scenario, fuel requirements increased for wheat, potatoes, and dairy milk, to as much as 14.3, 34.5 and 107.6 million L per annum respectively. If growing wheat, then canola crop as feedstock for the required biofuel would occupy 1–3% of all currently grain-farmed land. Investment in canola biodiesel or renewable diesel refineries could ensure supply for the bare minimum agricultural liquid fuel needs. Expansion in refining and canola cropping before a catastrophe as a resilience measure might be encouraged through market mechanisms, direct government investment, or a combination of these. Logistics of scale-up post-catastrophe should also be analyzed. Biodiesel produced would help the nation meet its emissions reduction targets in normal times.
Effects of Fast Track Investment Project on Household Income and Its Implication to Climate Change Adaptation in Gidami District, Western Ethiopia
Authors: Daka Yohannes Shifera , Dasa Samuel Shiferaw
Published: August 2023

Agriculture is a science and art of producing crops and rearing animals. It supports the world populations even though highly affected by climate change and variability. Therefore, promoting climate smart agriculture is the solution. Climate Resilience Green Economy (CRGE) fast track project implemented crops and livestock production through climate smart agriculture in the study area. However, no study has evaluated the effect of climate smart agricultural practices or livelihoods of the farmers.This research had the aim of identifying crop and animal production adaptation options and assessing adaptation competence of respondents. In this study, 237 samples households (HHs) were selected and stratified by proportionality allocation to sample into CRGE participant (102 HHs) and Non-CRGE group (135 HHs). Data was collected from household survey, key informant and focus group discussions and meteorological data also obtained. The results of 20 years trends (1998–2017) of rainfall show that erratic rainfall trends while the temperature was increasing. Crop and animal production income, adaptation level of respondents before and after project and Non-CRGE group mean income in Ethiopian Birr (ETB) was identified. The mean income of HHs before CRGE project was 5,726.10 ETB and after project was 12,943.00 ETB and increased by 7,217.20 ETB. And mean income of Non-CRGE group in 2012–2014 and 2015–2017 were 5238 ETB and 5502.5 ETB respectively and increased by only 264.50 ETB. Therefore, the average income due to CRGE fast track investment among CRGE participants was increased by 6952.70 ETB when compared with Non-CRGE group. For the reason, adaptation capacity of CRGE fast track participants also increased. Finally, CRGE fast track investment needed for immediate response of adaptation and to diversify source of income. Therefore, promoting CRGE fast track is important since it promotes climate smart agriculture among small holders.
Prinzipien der Energiekonversion in gezielt optimierten Heteronanostrukturen
Authors:   , Trinh Phuong Thao
Published: August 2023

Im Rahmen dieser Arbeit wurde die schnelle Energietransfer- (EET) und Elektronentransfer (ET)-Dynamik unterschiedlichster Quantenpunkte (QD) spektroskopisch untersucht. Die untersuchten Systeme bestanden in den meisten Fällen aus Donor-Akzeptor-Paaren, bei denen die Halbleiternanokristalle als Donor fungierten. Der Fokus lag dabei auf der gezielten Anpassung des Donors, um die optimale Funktionalität zu erreichen. Die Untersuchung der Nanokristalle erstreckte sich daher von einfachen Kernen über verschiedene Kern-Schale-Partikel bis hin zu völlig anderen Strukturen wie Nanoplatelets (NPL). Als Akzeptor wurden eine Vielzahl von Molekülen verwendet, die sich als Elektronen- und/oder Energieakzeptoren für die verschiedenen QDs eignen.
Greenhouse Cultivation of Cucumber (Cucumis sativus L.) in Standard Soilless Media Amended with Biochar and Compost
Authors: Venkataramani Sujatha , Kafle Arjun , Singh Manpreet , Singh Sukhbir , Simpson Catherine , Siebecker Matthew G.
Published: August 2023

Peat is one of the most commonly used substrates in soilless cultivation. However, peat mining produces a negative carbon footprint, which raises the need for alternative sustainable substrate media. To address this, we studied the impact of peat replacement with a combination of various biochars and cotton burr compost on the growth and yield of cucumber (Cucumis sativus L.), and nutrient concentration of media, plant leaf, and fruit in greenhouse conditions. Two experiments were conducted from Nov 2020 through Jan 2021 (Trial 1) and from Feb to Apr 2021 (Trial 2). The treatments were control (peat, vermiculite, and perlite at 2:1:1) and in the control peat was either fully replaced (hardwood biochar+compost, softwood biochar+compost, and hemp biochar+compost) or partially replaced up to 50% (v/v) (hardwood biochar+compost, softwood biochar+compost, and hemp biochar+compost). The control media was more acidic with lowest electrical conductivity than the other treatments. The leaf chlorophyll content and the photosynthetic assimilation rate varied among the treatments in both trials. The final dry shoot biomass was lowest in peat-dominated control treatment suggesting biochar-compost in the substrate media contributed in increased dry biomass of the cucumber plant. The total number of fruits per plant and total yield per plant was significantly increased in all the treatments with the highest in hardwood biochar+compost, compared with the control. The nutrient concentration of media, leaf, and fruit indicates that biochar-compost enhances the nutritional status of the media, which supplies essential nutrients to the plant leaf and fruit while growing in different substrate compositions. Our results suggest that the replacement of peat with full or partial proportions of biochar-compost can produce similar and, in some cases, even better growth, yield, and physiology in potted cucumber than in the unamended control treatment.
Simulation and Experiment on the Falling Pattern of Fresh Tea Leaves Based on Discrete Elements
Authors: Zhang Xu , Zhu Xinyu
Published: August 2023

Tea [Camellia sinensis (L.) O. Ktze] is loved by people all over the world. For accurate simulation of the falling motion characteristics of fresh tea leaves, this study took one bud and two leaves of fresh tea leaves as the research object, and established a 1:1 three-dimensional (3D) model of fresh tea leaves by using 3D scanning and reverse modeling technologies. The 3D fresh tea leaves model was filled with discrete element particles, and the motion pattern of fresh tea leaves within a certain distance from the ground was simulated. The falling shape of fresh tea leaves was captured by the high-speed camera to verify the established model. By adjusting parameters to optimize the model, it was concluded that the simulation was in good agreement with the test, indicating that the established model is correct. According to the simulation, the fall analysis of four kinds of fresh tea leaves, A, B, C, and D, placed on the transmission belt was carried out. The distance between the transmission belt and the ground was 80 cm. Among them, A leaves were 45 cm, B leaves were 55 cm, C leaves were 55 cm, and D leaves were 65 cm away from the ground. The movement characteristic of fresh tea leaves is vertical on the ground. In different positions from the ground during the falling process, it was found that all kinds of fresh tea leaves were rotated around the stalk axis and the middle part of the fresh tea leaves. In conclusion, the establishment of a discrete element model of fresh tea leaves’ movement morphology and the analysis of movement morphology during the falling process laid a theoretical foundation for the study of air suction sorting of fresh tea leaves in the later period.
Promoting Germination in Ornamental Palm Seeds through Dormancy Alleviation
Authors: Pérez Hector E.
Published: August 2023

Delayed and inconsistent seed germination often hampers commercial production of palms (Arecaceae). Such sporadic germination is commonly due to seed dormancy. Mature, freshly shed seeds of palms typically display a combination of underdeveloped embryos (morphological dormancy) and the inability of developing embryos to rupture covering structures (physiological dormancy). Fruit and seedcoats are capable of imbibing water. Therefore, dormancy due to water-impermeable fruit or seedcoats (physical dormancy) does not occur. Removal of embryo covering structures, such as the pericarp and operculum, followed by incubation under moist, warm (25–35 °C) conditions promotes rapid and complete germination. Complete burial in soil promotes germination of seeds in intact fruit of loulu palm (Pritchardia remota).
Transplanting Palms
Authors: Hodel Donald R. , Downer A. James , Pittenger Dennis R.
Published: August 2023

The optimum time to transplant palms (Arecaceae) is at the beginning of the warm season in temperate climates or at the beginning of the rainy season in tropical climates if irrigation is unavailable. Careful and proper handling, including covering and protecting the leaves and root ball during transplanting to protect them from injury and drying out and immediate planting upon arrival at the new site, helps to ensure rapid and successful establishment. A root ball extending out from the trunk for 30 cm appears to be adequate for most solitary-stemmed species. Larger root balls may be necessary for multistemmed or unusually tall or large specimens. Tying up leaves facilitates handling during digging, transport, and planting, but it is best to untie them after planting. In most instances leaf removal during transplanting does not appear to be advantageous, and it is probably best to remove leaves only when they die and turn brown. Too deep or too shallow planting lowers transplant success and stresses palms, making them susceptible to diseases, disorders, and pests. Amending the backfill when transplanting palms is not beneficial in most cases. However, mulch applied around the base of the palm after transplanting can enhance growth. Keeping the soil, backfill, and surrounding site soil evenly moist helps to ensure successful establishment.
Pruning Landscape Palms
Authors: Downer A. James , Hodel Donald R. , Mochizuki Maren J.
Published: August 2023

Landscape palms (Arecaceae) are pruned (i.e., leaves removed) to avoid the hazard of falling fronds, to remove diseased or brown leaves, and, in some cases, to minimize growth by diminishing photosynthetic capacity. In studies at two California locations (Long Beach and Irvine), even complete leaf removal every 3 to 4 months for 18 to 21 months resulted in similar new leaf production by queen palm (Syagrus romanzoffiana) or windmill palm (Trachycarpus fortunei) compared with no pruning or “10 and 2” pruning (industry standard pruning referring to the palm canopy visually beginning at the 10 o'clock position and ending at the 2 o'clock position on a clock face). By contrast, complete leaf removal reduced the number of new leaves of california fan palm (Washingtonia filifera), young mexican fan palm [MFP (Washingtonia robusta)], and taller, more mature MFP by 30%, 23%, and 21% compared with no pruning and “10 and 2” pruning. Leaf petiole length, leaf blade length, leaf blade width, and total palm height were also reduced 19% to 43% after complete leaf pruning compared with no and “10 and 2” pruning of young and more mature MFP. Although “10 and 2” pruning did not reduce growth of any palms, pruning all but the four newest leaves reduced leaf petiole length by 21% for the taller MFP. An important consideration for palm disease control is that tools used for pruning may harbor pathogen inoculum. Flaming pruning saws with a propane torch for 10 s reduced total fungal colonies and palm pathogenic fungi recovered on a selective medium by 95%. Increasing our understanding of palm response to leaf removal and how to minimize unintended consequences of pruning, such as the spread of disease, is an important part of improving palm maintenance.
Palms on the Edge: Species and Strategies for Landscape Utilization
Authors: McDonald Garry V. , Schnelle Michael A. , Arnold Michael A.
Published: August 2023

An emerging niche in landscape design is the creation of exotic venues in commercial and residential settings using unusual plant materials. For instance, the creation of a tropical looking pool area at a hotel, a southwestern desert look for a Mexican restaurant or an oasis for the consumer at a shopping venue can all be in part achieved by the addition of specific plants. Palms (Arecaceae) can be an important component of this effort, even in temperate landscapes. This article focuses on issues related to the incorporation of palms in temperate landscapes. Although palms are signature plants of tropical regions, a surprising number of species can be grown in U.S. Department of Agriculture cold hardiness zones 8, 7, or colder via a combination of appropriate genotype selection, attention to microclimates in design specifications, and/or special cultural practices to mitigate the impact of cold temperatures. Cold-tolerant palms can be a critical design element, especially when paired with other lush tropical-appearing plants, to achieve the goal of creating the illusion of an exotic tropical locale in temperate-climate landscapes. Genotypic and site specification, careful attention to establishment requirements, and modified maintenance practices are critical determinants for success that will be addressed.
Lethal Palm Diseases Common in the United States
Authors: Downer A. James , Uchida Janice Y. , Hodel Donald R. , Elliott Monica L.
Published: August 2023

Palms (Arecaceae) are affected by a variety of pathogens, most of which are fungi. We detail pathogens, host ranges, disease description, diagnosis and epidemiology as well as management for the significant, usually fatal, diseases affecting palms grown in the continental United States and Hawaii. These include fusarium wilt (Fusarium oxysporum f.sp. canariensis) of canary island date palm (Phoenix canariensis), diamond scale (Phaeochoropsis neowashingtoniae), ganoderma butt rot (Ganoderma zonatum), lethal yellowing (Candidatus Phytoplasma palmae subgroup 16SrIV-A), and diseases caused by Nalanthamala (Gliocladium), Phytophthora, and Thielaviopsis. We have omitted the leaf spot and minor blight diseases that often affect palms but pose no long-term consequence to their health and survival. Visual symptoms of lethal palm diseases are often similar, necessitating the isolation or detection of the pathogen with cultural, microscopic, or molecular methods. Management of palm diseases is varied, often requiring in-depth knowledge of the biology of the pathogen and its' infection process. Quarantine, eradication, sanitation, and proper species selection and culture are necessary practices to limit the spread of new and existing diseases of palms in landscapes and nurseries.
Influence of Benzyladenine, Trinexapac-ethyl, or Uniconazole Applications on Height and Tillering of Six Ornamental Grasses
Authors: Padhye Sonali R. , Groninger Judith K.
Published: August 2023

Three ornamental grasses, each within the families Cyperaceae [leatherleaf sedge (Carex buchananii), ‘Frosted Curls’ sedge (Carex comans), and ‘Toffee Twist’ sedge (Carex flagellifera)] and Poaceae [‘Rosea’ pampas grass (Cortaderia selloana), ‘Gracillimus’ miscanthus (Miscanthus sinensis), and muhly grass (Muhlenbergia capillaris)], received two foliar sprays 2 weeks apart of benzyladenine (BA) at 500 or 1000 mg·L−1, trinexapac-ethyl (TE) at 220 mg·L−1, or uniconazole at 20 or 40 mg·L−1. The influence of these spray applications on plant height and tiller number was assessed 0, 2, 4, and 8 weeks after the initial treatment (WAIT). Benzyladenine applications did not suppress the height of leatherleaf sedge or ‘Gracillimus’ miscanthus, yet did suppress the height of the other ornamental grasses by <15% compared to the controls, depending on the concentration used and the time. Applications of BA increased tiller production only in ‘Toffee Twist’ sedge at 2 and 4 WAIT compared to the controls; however, at 8 WAIT, this increase was diminished. Depending on the species, uniconazole suppressed the height of the Cyperaceae grasses by 11% to 22% compared to the controls at 8 WAIT. In Poaceae species, uniconazole suppressed the height of only ‘Rosea’ pampas grass by up to 32% compared to the controls. Uniconazole applications did not increase the tillering of any ornamental grasses tested, except ‘Toffee Twist’ sedge at 8 WAIT. Within Cyperaceae, TE suppressed the height of only ‘Toffee Twist’ sedge compared to the controls, while TE effectively controlled the height of all Poaceae grasses. Based on the species and time, TE application elicited up to 37% height suppression compared to the controls of Poaceae grasses, while it did not influence the tiller number of any ornamental grasses in this study.
Survey of the Research Needs of the Potential Organic Ornamental Bedding Plant Industry in Maine
Authors: Burnett Stephanie E. , Stack Lois Berg
Published: August 2023

Organic and conventional greenhouse growers in Maine were surveyed to determine the research needs of growers who may produce organic ornamental bedding plants. Organic growers were also asked to identify their greatest motivator to determine whether they feel that there is a greater market for organically grown ornamental plants. The greatest percentage (75%) of organic growers indicated that they choose to grow plants organically because “it's the right thing to do.” The second greatest percentage (36%) of organic growers choose organic production techniques for ornamental plants because they grow food crops organically and consider it convenient to use only one production technique. A relatively small number of organic growers (7%) considered the market for organic ornamental plants to be a strong motivator for growing organically. Organic growers were asked to select production issues that pose the greatest challenge for them from a list of common production problems. They considered insect and disease management and organic fertility, substrate, and pH management to be their greatest problems. Conventional growers primarily avoid organic production techniques because they consider organic fertilization or organic insect management to be too big of a challenge. Because organic and conventional growers consider insect and fertility or substrate management to be challenges facing organic growers, these topics should be top priorities for future research on organic greenhouse production.
The Influence of Harvest Time on Sensory Properties and Consumer Acceptance of Sweet Cherries
Authors: Chauvin Maite A. , Whiting Matthew , Ross Carolyn F.
Published: August 2023

The objective of this study was to identify the influence of harvest time on sensory attributes of sweet cherries (Prunus avium) as evaluated by a trained and consumer panel. Over three separate panel days, trained and consumer panelists evaluated ‘Sweetheart’ cherries that were harvested 3 days before commercial maturity (early harvest), at commercial maturity (midharvest), and 3 days postcommercial maturity (late harvest). Fruit attributes from each harvest time were characterized empirically by quantifying soluble solids concentration, exocarp color, and firmness. A sensory panel (n = 12), trained to recognize and evaluate the attributes of cherry appearance (color intensity), texture (flesh firmness and juiciness), and flavor/taste (sweetness, sourness, and cherry flavor intensity), evaluated the fruit. Fruit were then evaluated by a consumer panel for purchase intent, overall acceptance, appearance, flavor, and texture. From the trained panel results, late-harvest cherries were higher in color and flavor intensity. Midharvest cherries were highest in firmness, while early-harvest cherries were lowest in color intensity and sweetness. Consumer panel results indicated midharvest and late-harvest cherries had the highest overall acceptance, and midharvest cherries had the highest acceptance for appearance. Overall acceptance was strongly correlated to flavor acceptance (r = 0.94). These results indicated that cherries harvested at midharvest were the most preferred of the harvest times despite not having the highest intensities of color, sweetness, or flavor. This indicated the importance of color, sweetness, and flavor of cherries on the overall acceptance and the possible interaction of these attributes in consumer acceptance. Furthermore, the results suggest that standard harvest maturity indicator (i.e., red coloration of exocarp) was appropriate for optimum consumer acceptance of ‘Sweetheart’. More broadly, these results suggest that there is some flexibility for the grower with regards to ‘Sweetheart’ cherry harvest and acceptable sensory properties.
Combinations of Nitrogen Rates and Irrigation Programs for Tomato Production in Spodosols
Authors: Santos Bielinski M.
Published: August 2023

Two field studies were conducted to compare the effects of preplant nitrogen (N) rates and irrigation programs on tomato (Solanum lycopersicum) growth and yields. Irrigation programs were seepage (subsurface) irrigation alone at a water volume of 28 acre-inches/acre per season and seepage plus drip irrigation at a volume of 28 and 14 acre-inches/acre per season, respectively. Preplant N fertilization rates were 200, 250, and 300 lb/acre, using ammonium nitrate as the N source. There were significant irrigation program by N rate interactions for nitrate (NO3−) petiole concentrations at 8 weeks after transplanting (WAT), and yield of extra-large fruit and total marketable fruit, but not for plant height at 5 and 7 WAT. The highest NO3-N petiole concentrations were found in plots treated with 200, 250, and 300 lb/acre for N and seepage plus drip irrigation, and with 300 lb/acre N under seepage irrigation alone. For the total marketable fruit weight, there were no differences among N rates in those plots irrigated with the seepage plus drip combination, ranging between 23.8 and 25.9 tons/acre. However, there was a significant N effect in plots receiving only seepage irrigation with marketable fruit weight almost doubling from 12.0 to 22.7 tons/acre when applying 200 and 300 lb/acre N, respectively. Both irrigation programs had equivalent performance when 300 lb/acre N were applied.
Large Single-head Broccoli Yield as Affected by Plant Density, Nitrogen, and Cultivar in a Plasticulture System
Authors: Schellenberg Daniel L. , Bratsch Anthony D. , Shen Zhengxing
Published: August 2023

An open-market window has been identified in Virginia for fall broccoli (Brassica oleracea var. italica). Vegetable producers using plasticulture systems can capitalize on this opportunity by growing broccoli as a second crop after summer vegetables. The objective of this project was to evaluate suitability of two broccoli cultivars, Everest and Gypsy, for the fall production of large single-heads (>6 inches in diameter) for the fresh market. Planting density and rate of nitrogen (N) fertilizer (25, 60, and 100 lb/acre N) effects on yield characteristics were evaluated in a plasticulture system during a 3-year study (2003–05) conducted with broccoli transplants at the Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University Kentland Agricultural Research Farm near Blacksburg, VA. The percentage of large heads was cultivar, plant density, and N rate dependent. The midseason ‘Gypsy’ produced significantly higher total yield and head weight compared with the early-season ‘Everest’. The optimum density to maximize floret production per area was 12,500 plants/acre and a supplemental N rate of 100 lb/acre. This N rate significantly (P < 0.002) improved marketable yield, large head yield, and leaf N accumulation compared with the lower rates. The data indicate that the feasibility of growing fall broccoli using a plasticulture system depends on the number of large heads produced for the fresh market. This in turn will depend on the choice of cultivar, stand establishment, and the requirement for supplemental N fertilizer over the residual level available in the soil after the first crop.