bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evidence based clinical practice guideline for follow-up care in persons with spinal cord injury
Authors: Eriks-Hoogland Inge , Müller Lorena , Baumberger Michael , Huber Burkhart , Michel Franz , Belfrage Celina , Elmerghini Hicham , Veseli-Abazi Mide , Böthig Ralf , Fiebag Kai , Thietje Roland , Jordan Xavier
Published: September 2024

Introduction

While it is well-established that follow-up care programs play a crucial role in preventing and early detecting secondary health conditions (SHCs) in persons with spinal cord injury [SCI, including spina bifida (SB)], the availability of evidence-based follow-up care programs remains limited. Under the leadership of the German-speaking Medical Society for Paraplegiology (DMGP), we have developed an evidence based clinical practice guideline for follow-up care of SHCs in persons with SCI and identify research gaps.

Methods

This guideline was developed in accordance with the regulations of the Association of the Scientific Medical Societies in Germany (AWMF e.V.). To ensure an evidence-based guidance, we utilized the International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health (ICF) generic core set and ICF Core Set for individuals with SCI in long-term context as our foundational framework. We conducted a comprehensive literature review to identify existing recommendations for follow-up care and graded the level of evidence according to relevant instruments. Subsequently, we formulated recommendations and achieved consensus through a structured nominal group process involving defined steps and neutral moderation, while adhering to the criteria outlined in the German guideline development instrument (DELBI).

Results

Although there is a fair number of literatures describing prevalence and severity of SHCs after SCI, the amount of literature including recommendations was low (19 for SCI and 6 for SB). Based on the current evidence on prevalence and severity of SHCs and available recommendations, a clinical practice guideline on follow-up care of most relevant SHCs was defined. The recommendations for follow-up care are described in the following chapters: (1) Nervous system; (2) (Neuropathic) pain; (3) Cardiovascular diseases; (4) Respiratory System; (5) Immunological system, vaccination and allergies; (6) Gastrointestinal tract and function; (7) Endocrinological system and nutrition; (8) Urogenital system; (9) Contraception, pregnancy, birth and postpartum care; (10) Musculoskeletal system; (11) Pressure injuries; (12) Psychological health; (13) Medication and polypharmacy.

Conclusion

We could successfully establish an evidence based clinical practice guideline for follow-up care of SHCs in individuals with SCI. There is however a notable lack of high-quality recommendations for SCI follow-up care.
Migrant survivors of conflict-related sexual violence accessing a specialist health service in Turin, Italy: a qualitative analysis of clinical forensic interview transcripts
Authors: Rubini Elena , Trentin Monica , Valente Martina , Cenati Stefano , Canavese Antonella , Castagna Paola , Ragazzoni Luca , Gino Sarah
Published: September 2024

Introduction

The Sexual Violence Relief center Soccorso Violenza Sessuale (SVS) is a specialist service, situated in Sant’Anna Hospital, an Obstetrics and Gynecology facility in Turin, North-West Italy. The study aimed to qualitatively analyze the transcripts of interviews routinely conducted by gynecologist and midwife in the first part of the medical examination of migrant patients accessing care at SVS after being subjected to conflict-related sexual violence (CRSV) in their home country or during migration and to explore the adverse outcomes of such violence on their health.

Methods

Interview transcripts were purposely selected to include adult migrant patients (age > 18) subjected to CRSV in the different phases of migration and accessing SVS from January 1st, 2014, to September 4th, 2023. Data was extracted from the SVS archive, anonymized, and thematically analyzed.

Results and discussion

In total, 43 interview transcripts were eligible for inclusion. All of them were related to cisgender women of Sub-Saharan origin describing different forms of violence as a driver for migration. CRSV was disclosed by 18 survivors as occurring in their home country and by 31 in transit (e.g., Libya), the most reported type being rape. 49% of the patients described adverse physical outcomes of CRSV, while 72% reported psychological sequelae. The findings confirm high levels and different modalities of violence throughout the migratory route. Qualitative analysis of interview transcripts served as a valuable source for understanding how survivors described the CRSV they endured, its consequences, as well as other violence encountered during migration.
“Necessary evil”: the difficulties of establishing programmatic culture in the transfer portal era
Authors: Corr Chris , Bopp Trevor , Stokowski Sarah
Published: September 2024

The implementation of the transfer portal and eased transfer restrictions has drastically impacted the migration of college football players. While such athlete autonomy aligns with sweeping organizational policy adopted, and mandated, by the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA), the absence of barriers preventing the mobility of players may have a resultant effect on the development of sustained organizational culture. Through interviews with direct stakeholders currently coaching football at the Football Bowl Subdivision (FBS) level, the findings of this study reveal that while the transfer portal is commonly utilized to achieve short-term success, building a roster composed predominantly of transfer players was perceived as unsustainable in the desired cultivation of meaningful organizational culture. As coaches grapple with the intensified demands to win football games, the findings of this study indicate that sustained long-term programmatic success may be more suitably achieved through the cultivation of distinct organizational culture rather than a reliance on transfer players.
Pulsed Electromagnetic Field (PEMF) stimulation as an adjunct to exercise: a brief review
Authors: Ghanbari Ghoshchi Sheyda , Petroni Maria Letizia , Piras Alessandro , Marcora Samuele Maria , Raffi Milena
Published: September 2024

Pulsed Electromagnetic Field (PEMF) therapy is a non-invasive treatment that utilizes electromagnetic fields to stimulate and promote natural healing processes within the body. PEMF therapy works by emitting low-frequency electromagnetic pulses, which penetrate deep into tissues and cells, enhancing cellular function and health. PEMF applications are vast, ranging from enhancing recovery in athletes to supporting overall well-being in everyday individuals. PEMF therapy is increasingly recognized in the realm of sports and physical activity for its profound benefits in enhancing performance, accelerating recovery, and preventing injuries. By improving circulation, enhancing tissue oxygenation, and promoting the body's natural healing processes, PEMF therapy has become an invaluable tool in sports medicine, contributing to optimized physical health and prolonged athletic careers. In this review, we explore the effects of PEMF on exercise and the underlying physiological mechanisms.
Paneth-like cells disruption and intestinal dysbiosis in the development of enterocolitis in an iatrogenic rectosigmoid hypoganglionosis rat model
Authors: Budianto Iskandar Rahardjo , Kusmardi Kusmardi , Maulana Andi Muh. , Arumugam Somasundaram , Afrin Rejina , Soetikno Vivian
Published: September 2024

Background

Hypoganglionosis resembles Hirschsprung disease (HSCR) which is characterized by severe constipation. Enterocolitis due to hypoganglionosis or Hirschsprung-associated enterocolitis (HAEC) is a life-threatening complication of both diseases. This study investigated the role of Paneth-like cells (PLCs) and gut microbiota in the development of enterocolitis in an iatrogenic rectosigmoid hypoganglionosis rat model.

Methods

The rectosigmoid serosa of male Sprague-Dawley rats were exposed to 0.1% benzalkonium chloride (BAC). The rats were then sacrificed after 1, 3, 5, 8, and 12 weeks. A sham group was sacrificed on Week 12. With hematoxylin-eosin staining, the ganglionic cells were quantified, the degree of enterocolitis was analyzed, and the PLCs was identified. Intestinal barrier function was assessed for the anti-peripherin, occludin, and acetylcholinesterase (AChE)/butyrylcholinesterase (BChE) ratio. qRT-PCR was used as reference for the evaluation of antimicrobial peptide (AMP) of PLCs using cryptdins, secretory Phospholipase A2, and lysozyme levels. 16S rRNA high-throughput sequencing on fecal samples was performed to analyze the changes in the intestinal microbiota diversity in each group.

Results

After 1 week of intervention, the ganglion cells were fewer in all sacrificial 0.1% BAC groups at varying times than those in the sham group. Occludin and peripherin were decreased, while the AChE/BChE ratio was increased. At Week 5 postintervention, the number of α-defensins-positive PLCs increased in the sigmoid colon tissues from BAC-treated rats. Conversely, PLCs-produced AMP decreased from Week 5 to Week 12. The sham group demonstrated increased Lactobacillus and decreased Bacteroides, while the 0.1% BAC group exhibited reciprocal changes, indicating dysbiosis. Enterocolitis occurred from Week 1 postintervention.

Conclusion

Application with BAC influences the disruption of PLCs in Week 5 postintervention, and dysbiosis exacerbate the occurrence of enterocolitis. Further research on Paneth cells involvement in HAEC development is warranted.
Is Reinforcement Learning Good at American Option Valuation?
Authors: Kor Peyman , Bratvold Reidar B. , Hong Aojie
Published: September 2024

This paper investigates algorithms for identifying the optimal policy for pricing American Options. The American Option pricing is reformulated as a Sequential Decision-Making problem with two binary actions (Exercise or Continue), transforming it into an optimal stopping time problem. Both the least square Monte Carlo simulation method (LSM) and Reinforcement Learning (RL)-based methods were utilized to find the optimal policy and, hence, the fair value of the American Put Option. Both Classical Geometric Brownian Motion (GBM) and calibrated Stochastic Volatility models served as the underlying uncertain assets. The novelty of this work lies in two aspects: (1) Applying LSM- and RL-based methods to determine option prices, with a specific focus on analyzing the dynamics of “Decisions” made by each method and comparing final decisions chosen by the LSM and RL methods. (2) Assess how the RL method updates “Decisions” at each batch, revealing the evolution of the decisions during the learning process to achieve optimal policy.
Performance of Linear and Spiral Hashing Algorithms
Authors: Kulandai Arockia David Roy , Schwarz Thomas
Published: September 2024

Linear Hashing is an important algorithm for many key-value stores in main memory. Spiral Storage was invented to overcome the poor fringe behavior of Linear Hashing, but after an influential study by Larson, it seems to have been discarded. Since almost 50 years have passed, we repeat Larson’s comparison with the in-memory implementation of both to see whether his verdict still stands. Our study shows that Spiral Storage has slightly better lookup performance but slightly poorer insert performance. However, Spiral Hashing has more predictable performance for inserts and, in particular, better fringe behavior.
Integrating Eye Movement, Finger Pressure, and Foot Pressure Information to Build an Intelligent Driving Fatigue Detection System
Authors: Chen Jong-Chen , Chen Yin-Zhen
Published: September 2024

Fatigued driving is a problem that every driver will face, and traffic accidents caused by drowsy driving often occur involuntarily. If there is a fatigue detection and warning system, it is generally believed that the occurrence of some incidents can be reduced. However, everyone’s driving habits and methods may differ, so it is not easy to establish a suitable general detection system. If a customized intelligent fatigue detection system can be established, it may reduce unfortunate accidents. With its potential to mitigate unfortunate accidents, this study offers hope for a safer driving environment. Thus, on the one hand, this research hopes to integrate the information obtained from three different sensing devices (eye movement, finger pressure, and plantar pressure), which are chosen for their ability to provide comprehensive and reliable data on a driver’s physical and mental state. On the other hand, it uses an autonomous learning architecture to integrate these three data types to build a customized fatigued driving detection system. This study used a system that simulated a car driving environment and then invited subjects to conduct tests on fixed driving routes. First, we demonstrated that the system established in this study could be used to learn and classify different driving clips. Then, we showed that it was possible to judge whether the driver was fatigued through a series of driving behaviors, such as lane drifting, sudden braking, and irregular acceleration, rather than a single momentary behavior. Finally, we tested the hypothesized situation in which drivers were experiencing three cases of different distractions. The results show that the entire system can establish a personal driving system through autonomous learning behavior and further detect whether fatigued driving abnormalities occur.
Optimizing Retail Pharmacy Success: The Role of Multichannel Marketing Strategies
Authors: Wick Alexander , Koczian Bernhard , Králiková Kristína
Published: September 2024

This study focuses on the effect of multichannel marketing communication in retail pharmacies to establish customer satisfaction in a world experiencing the digitalization of health sectors. The objective of the study is to understand customer acquisition and retention practices, the role of online and offline integrated communication, and the extent of customer preference for various marketing communication channels. As part of the study, the quantitative analysis of the publications included in the review was made using articles and reports published from 2014 to 2024. The review was conducted on the aspects of marketing using multiple channels in retail pharmacy and the healthcare-associated fields. The studies identified that comprehensive communication channel enhancement policies positively affect the generation of revenues, reduction in costs, and information delivery schedules in pharmaceuticals. Depending on the channel, consumers’ needs and wants differ, and there is success in personalizing and presenting reasonably logical thoughts to people. Synchronicity of online and offline communication effectively increases the customers’ power, trust, and satisfaction. E-marketing has always been significant in enhancing customers’ touch points, which is why digital transformation is vital. This study further supports the fact that multichannel marketing is mandatory for the success of a retail pharmacy in the prevalent, highly competitive environment. The implementation also presupposes knowledge of consumer differences, the synergy of online and offline contacts, the emphasis on personalization, and fast adaptation to the changing technological environment, but often within the framework of severe legislation.
Two-Stage Hyperelliptic Kalman Filter-Based Hybrid Fault Observer for Aeroengine Actuator under Multi-Source Uncertainty
Authors: Wang Yang , Sun Rui-Qian , Gou Lin-Feng
Published: September 2024

An aeroengine faces multi-source uncertainty consisting of aeroengine epistemic uncertainty and the control system stochastic uncertainty during operation. This paper investigates actuator fault estimation under multi-source uncertainty to enhance the fault diagnosis capability of aero-engine control systems in complex environments. With the polynomial chaos expansion-based discrete stochastic model quantification, the optimal filter under multi-source uncertainty, the Hyperelliptic Kalman Filter, is proposed. Meanwhile, by treating actuator fault as unknown input, the Two-stage Hyperelliptic Kalman Filter (TSHeKF) is also proposed to achieve optimal fault estimation under multi-source uncertainty. However, considering that the biases of the model are often fixed for the individual, the TSHeKF-based fault estimation is robust and leads to inevitable conservativeness. By adding the additional estimation of the unknown deviation in state function caused by probabilistic system parameters, the hybrid fault observer (HFO) is proposed based on the TSHeKF and realizes conservativeness-reduced estimation for actuator fault under multi-source uncertainty. Numerical simulations show the effectiveness and optimality of the proposed HFO in state estimation, output prediction, and fault estimation for both single and multi-fault modes, when considering multi-source uncertainty. Furthermore, Monte Carlo experiments have demonstrated that the HFO-based optimal fault estimation is less conservative and more accurate than the Two-stage Kalman Filter and TSHeKF, providing better safety and more reliable aeroengine operation assurance.
Dietary Effects of Black-Oat-Rich Polyphenols on Production Traits, Metabolic Profile, Antioxidative Status, and Carcass Quality of Fattening Lambs
Authors: Antunović Zvonko , Klir Šalavardić Željka , Mioč Boro , Steiner Zvonimir , Đidara Mislav , Sičaja Vinko , Pavić Valentina , Mihajlović Lovro , Jakobek Lidija , Novoselec Josip
Published: September 2024

The study aimed to establish the dietary effects of black oat rich in polyphenols on the production traits, metabolic profile, antioxidant status, and carcass quality of fattening lambs, after weaning. In the BO group, in the feed mixture, common oats replaced the black oat compared to the CO group. The research comprehensively investigated production indicators, blood metabolic profile, antioxidant status, and lamb carcass quality. No significant differences were found in the fattening or slaughter characteristics of lamb carcasses, except for lower pH1 values in BO lamb carcasses. Significant increases in RBC, HCT, and MCV levels as well as TP, ALB, and GLOB concentrations and GPx and SOD activities in the blood of BO lambs were found. The glucose and EOS content as well as the activity of the enzymes ALT and ALP were significantly lower in the blood of the BO group than in the CO group. In the liver, the DPPH activity was significantly higher in the BO lambs compared to the CO lambs. The observed changes in glucose, protein metabolism, and antioxidant status in the blood and tissues of lambs indicate that the use of polyphenol-rich black oats in the diet of lambs under stress conditions is justified.
A SWOT Analysis of Organizations in the Agri-Food Chain Sector from the Northern Region of Portugal Using the PESTEL and MEETHS Frameworks
Authors: Madureira Teresa , Nunes Fernando , Mata Fernando , Vaz-Velho Manuela
Published: September 2024

Research on modern agri-food chains aims to enhance flexibility by analyzing supply chain aspects to identify improvement opportunities. A SWOT analysis of 39 agri-food sector organizations using a SWOT analysis organized using the PESTEL and MEETHS categories was conducted to evaluate the stakeholders’ needs in this sector of activity in Northern Portugal. Logistic regressions were used to compute inferential statistics, which were complemented with a qualitative analysis. Cooperatives and primary sector companies often claim superior product quality without clear evidence, while corporations integrated into competitive national markets, like those with smoked products, adapt better to dietary trends. Small- and medium-sized enterprises struggle with competitive wages, leading to high turnover and difficulty retaining skilled workers. High costs hinder many organizations, particularly cooperatives, from adopting modern communication technologies affecting competitiveness. Challenges include identifying market opportunities and managing global competition for raw materials, like wild fish. Fishing and meat sectors depend heavily on modern distribution and are dominated by large retailers. Low labor costs boost competitiveness but reflect the struggle to add value. Larger organizations are more optimistic though many face challenges with the cost and volatility of key products, like pork and milk. This study offers the following key recommendations: invest in technology and innovation while balancing short-term gains with long-term sustainability; strengthen strategic planning and collaboration among corporations, cooperatives, associations, and academic institutions; and adapt to regulatory changes, invest in market and technological capabilities, and address resource limitations. Research and collaboration with policymakers and academic institutions will support tailored solutions, enabling the sector to anticipate challenges and capitalize on opportunities.
Research on a Novel Heat Treatment Process for Boron Steel Used for Soil-Engaging Components of Tillage Machinery
Authors: Guo Yifan , Sun Zeyu , Guo Shun , Fu Jiale
Published: September 2024

To address the issue of high fracture and wear failure rates caused by the lack of toughness and abrasion resistance in the steel used for soil-engaging components of tillage machinery, a novel composite heat treatment process, “normalizing and intercritical quenching and tempering (NIQT)”, is proposed. By regulating the austenitizing heating temperature in the intercritical area (ferrite/austenite two-phase area), the type, content, and distribution of phases in the 27MnCrB5 test sample could be precisely controlled, which further influenced the mechanical properties of the material. The results demonstrated that a multiphase composite microstructure, predominantly consisting of martensite and ferrite, could be obtained in the 27MnCrB5 steel treated by the NIQT process. The results of an EBSD test indicated that the predominant type of grain boundary following the NIQT heat treatment was a high-angle grain boundary (approximately 59.5%), which was favorable for hindering crack propagation and improving the impact toughness of the material. The results of the mechanical tests revealed that, when the quenching temperature was set to 790 °C, the 27MnCrB5 steel attained excellent comprehensive mechanical properties, with a tensile strength of 1654 MPa, elongation of 10.4%, impact energy of 77 J, and hardness of 530 HV30. Compared with conventional heat treatment processes for soil-engaging components, this novel process has the potential to enhance the performance of soil-engaging components and prolong their service life.
The Effect of Tillage Systems and Weed Control Methods on Grain Yield and Gluten Protein Compositional and Content-Related Changes in Hybrid Bread Wheat
Authors: Buczek Jan
Published: September 2024

The use of simplified tillage systems and weed control methods using reduced herbicide doses in wheat production technology is one of the basic requirements of sustainable agriculture in terms of obtaining high-quality grain of this species. The aim of three-year field studies was to determine the yield and quality characteristics of hybrid wheat grain depending on two tillage systems (CT and RT) and four weed control methods: mechanical (M) and mechanical–chemical, using recommended herbicide doses (MH100) and doses reduced by 25 and 50% (MH75, MH50). A comparable grain yield, number of grains per spike, weight of one thousand wheat grains, and amount of gluten and ω gliadin subunits (GLI) were obtained in the RT and CT systems. The CT system increased protein content (by 15.2 g kg−1) and the increase in the sum of gluten protein fractions was higher for glutenins (GLU) and their LMW and HMW subunits (from 20.9 to 29.8%). The application of the method with the recommended herbicide dose (MH100), compared to M and MH50, resulted in an increase in grain yield by 0.89 and 1.04 t ha−1, respectively, as well as in the sum of GLI (by 8.4 and 12.3%) and GLU (by 13.7 and 25.3%). The application of the herbicide dose reduced by 25% (MH75) compared to the recommended dose (MH100), especially in the RT system, did not cause a significant decrease in protein content and the amount of GLI and GLU, while reducing grain yield (by 0.26 t ha−1) and the amount of gluten (by 3.1%).
Exploring the Fermentation Products, Microbiology Communities, and Metabolites of Big-Bale Alfalfa Silage Prepared with/without Molasses and Lactobacillus rhamnosus
Authors: Wu Baiyila , Ren Tong , Li Changqing , Wu Songyan , Cao Xue , Mei Hua , Wu Tiemei , Yong Mei , Wei Manlin , Wang Chao
Published: September 2024

The influence of molasses (M) and Lactobacillus rhamnosus (LR) on fermentation products, microbial communities, and metabolites in big-bale alfalfa silage was investigated. Alfalfa (Medicago sativa L.) was harvested at the third growth stage during the flowering stage in the experimental field of Linhui Grass Company from Tongliao City, Inner Mongolia. An alfalfa sample without additives was used as a control (C). M (20 g/kg) and LR (106 cfu/g) were added either alone or in combination. Alfalfa was fermented for 7, 14, and 56 d. Lactic acid content in the M, LR, and MLR groups increased, whereas the pH value and butyric acid, 2,3-butanediol, and ethanol contents decreased compared to those of C group after 7, 14, and 56 d of fermentation. A two-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) was performed to estimate the results. The LR group exhibited increased Lactobacillus abundance, whereas the M and MLR groups showed increased Weissella abundance compared to the C group. The relative contents of amino acids (tyrosine, isoleucine, threonine, arginine, valine, and citrulline) in the M and MLR groups were higher than those in the C group. During fermentation, the M, LR, and MLR groups showed decreased phenylalanine, isoleucine, and ferulic acid contents. Amino acids such as isoleucine and L-aspartic acid were positively correlated with Lactobacillus but negatively correlated with Weissella. In conclusion, combining high-throughput sequencing and liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry during anaerobic alfalfa fermentation can reveal new microbial community compositions and metabolite profiles, supporting the application of M, LR, and MLR as feed fermentation agents.
Hybrid Percolation–Ultrasound Method for Extracting Bioactive Compounds from Urtica dioica and Salvia officinalis
Authors: Tăbărașu Ana-Maria , Nenciu Florin , Anghelache Dragoș-Nicolae , Vlăduț Valentin-Nicolae , Găgeanu Iuliana
Published: September 2024

Enhancing the efficacy of biofertilizers and biopesticides for horticultural applications presents numerous challenges, given the need to balance effectiveness with environmental and economic factors. Achieving these goals requires rigorous research into advanced technologies and formulations capable of effectively replacing or complementing traditional chemical inputs, without compromising crop yield or quality. The present study aimed to develop a versatile and yet accessible hybrid percolation–sonication system and method, designed to optimize polyphenol extraction from nettle and sage plants. The resulting extracts were combined and applied on organic tomato crops, to evaluate their biofertilizer and biopesticide effectiveness, in comparison to conventional chemical inputs. Operating the equipment in a hybrid percolation–sonication system led to a 36% increase in polyphenols extraction for nettle and a 29% increase from sage. Regarding the effect on tomatoes, data showed that plants treated with biofertilizer extracts were over 42.88% more productive than control samples and 17.67% more productive than tomatoes treated with chemical fertilizers. Tomato plants treated with biofertilizers grew approximately 10% taller and developed stems that were 5% thicker compared to those treated with chemical fertilizers.
Varying Tolerance to Diesel Toxicity Revealed by Growth Response Evaluation of Petunia grandiflora Shoot Lines Regenerated after Diesel Fuel Treatment
Authors: Wante Solomon Peter , Leung David W. M. , Alizadeh Hossein
Published: September 2024

Continuous efforts are required to find ways to protect crop production against the toxicity of petroleum hydrocarbons, such as diesel, and contamination of soils. There is a need for identification of candidate plants that are tolerant to diesel toxicity that might also have the potential for remediation of diesel-contaminated soils. In this study, petunia, a popular ornamental plant and a model experimental plant in research on phytoremediation of environmental pollutants, was used to evaluate a novel method for rapidly assessing diesel toxicity based on the tolerance of shoots generated through in vitro plant cell culture selection. Petunia shoot lines (L1 to L4) regenerated from diesel-treated callus were compared with those from non-diesel-treated callus (control). Significant morphological differences were observed among the tested lines and control, notably with L1 and L4 showing superior growth. In particular, L4 exhibited remarkable adaptability, with increased root development and microbial counts in a diesel-contaminated potting mix, suggesting that the shoots exhibited enhanced tolerance to diesel exposure. Here, this rapid bioassay has been shown to effectively identify plants with varying levels of tolerance to diesel toxicity and could therefore assist accelerated selection of superior plants for phytoremediation. Further research is needed to understand the genetic and physiological mechanisms underlying tolerance traits, with potential applications beyond petunias to other environmentally significant plants.
Effect of Water Deficit on Secondary Metabolites and Nutrient Content on Forage Sorghum
Authors: Cunha Tayna Lemos de Oliveira , Santana Dthenifer Cordeiro , Theodoro Gustavo de Faria , Seron Ana Carina da Silva Cândido , Cunha Fernando França da , Teodoro Paulo Eduardo , Teodoro Larissa Pereira Ribeiro , Ítavo Luis Carlos Vinhas , Campos Cid Naudi Silva , Silva Manoel Gustavo Paranhos da , Montaño Alejandro Soares
Published: September 2024

Agronomic properties are more likely to be impacted by water deficits that affect the nutrient uptake and production of secondary metabolites based on their timing and intensity. The aim of this study was to assess the effects of the water deficit on the nutritional quality of forage sorghum (Sorghum bicolor) hybrids. For that purpose, a factorial, completely randomized experiment was conducted by considering three forage sorghum hybrids (AGRI 002-E, BREVANT SS318, and BRS 658) and two levels of evapotranspiration water replacement (50% and 100% of ETc). Parameters relating to water consumption, secondary metabolites (isoflavones daidzein, daidzin, genistein, and genistin), leaf nutrients (P, K, Ca, Mg, S, Mn, and Zn), and bromatological attributes (dry matter, crude protein, neutral detergent fiber, and mineral material) were evaluated at the end of the crop cycle. Isoflavone levels differed between the hybrids and were highest in water-deficient sorghum. There was a significant interaction between the factors only for the daidzin. The leaf content of the other compounds was influenced either by hybrids (genistein) or by the replacement of evapotranspired water levels (daidzein). The leaf content of P and S was influenced by the interaction between the factors, while the levels of K, Ca, and Mg were influenced by the effect of a single factor. The leaf contents of Mn and Zn were not influenced by the treatments. There was a difference between the hybrids for dry mass and crude protein contents, and hybrids x water deficit was only significant for dry mass. The hybrids Brevant SS318 and BRS 658 had the highest crude protein. The presented results are novel and demonstrate that water deficits can significantly affect the levels of secondary metabolites and the nutritional quality of forage sorghum, depending on the hybrid. The mentioned indices are important parameters for evaluating the nutritional quality and development of agricultural crops, particularly in response to adverse environmental conditions such as water stress.
Genome-Wide Identification of CAMTA Gene Family in Oat (Avena sativa) and Expression Analysis under Various Abiotic Stresses
Authors: Yang Yanjiao , Li Jin , Yao Mingjiu , Chen Shiyong
Published: September 2024

Oat (Avena sativa) is one of the most important cereal crops and cool-season forage grasses in the world. The calmodulin-binding transcription activator (CAMTA) gene family is one of the largest families in plants, and it plays vital roles in multiple biological processes. However, the CAMTA genes in oats, especially those involved in abiotic stress, have not yet been elucidated. Herein, our findings reveal the presence of 20 distinct AsCAMTA genes, which were clustered into three subfamilies based on their gene structure and conserved motifs, indicating functional similarities within each subgroup. Chromosomal mapping indicated an uneven distribution across 10 chromosomes, suggesting a complex evolutionary history marked by potential gene duplication events. The results showed that most AsCAMTA genes contained stress-related cis-elements. The study further investigated the expression patterns of these genes under abiotic stress conditions utilizing RT-qPCR analysis. The results identified three AsCAMTA genes (AsCAMTA5, AsCAMTA7, and AsCAMTA19) that exhibited significant up-regulation under salt stress, with AsCAMTA7 also showing a marked increase in expression under drought stress. These findings suggest a pivotal role of AsCAMTA5, AsCAMTA7, and AsCAMTA19 genes in mediating the responses to various abiotic stresses by integrating multiple stress signals in oats. This investigation provides valuable insights into the potential functions of AsCAMTA genes in the stress response mechanisms of oats, laying a foundation for further functional studies aimed at enhancing abiotic stress tolerance in crops.
Carbon and Nitrogen Stocks in Vineyard Soils Amended with Grape Pomace Residues
Authors: Kokkonen Allan Augusto , Schemmer Samuel , Brondani Rian , Fornari João Francisco , Papalia Daniéle Gonçalves , Baldi Elena , Toselli Moreno , Moura-Bueno Jean Michel , Loss Arcângelo , Tiecher Tadeu Luis , Brunetto Gustavo
Published: September 2024

Fruit crops under soil conservational management might sequester carbon (C) in soils and mitigate greenhouse gases emissions. Using grape pomace residues as soil amendment holds promise for sustainable viticulture. However, its actual capability to increase soil organic carbon (SOC) and nitrogen (N) is unknown, especially in subtropical climates. This research aims to investigate whether grape pomace compost and vermicompost can increase SOC, total N (TN), and C and N stocks in subtropical vineyards. Two vineyards located in Veranópolis, in South Brazil, one cultivated with ‘Isabella’ and the other with ‘Chardonnay’ varieties, were annually amended with these residues for three years. We quantified SOC and TN in each condition in different soil layers, as well as C and N content in two different granulometric fractions: mineral-associated organic matter (MAOM) and particulate organic matter (POM). C and N stocks were also calculated. Despite potential benefits, neither treatment enhanced SOC, its fractions, or C stocks. In fact, vermicompost was rapidly mineralized and depleted SOC and its fractions in the 0.0 to 0.05 m layers of the ‘Isabella’ vineyard. Our findings indicate that the tested grape pomace residues were unable to promote C sequestration in subtropical vineyards after a three-year period.
Evaluation of Sugarcane Crop Growth Monitoring Using Vegetation Indices Derived from RGB-Based UAV Images and Machine Learning Models
Authors: Ruwanpathirana P. P. , Sakai Kazuhito , Jayasinghe G. Y. , Nakandakari Tamotsu , Yuge Kozue , Wijekoon W. M. C. J. , Priyankara A. C. P. , Samaraweera M. D. S. , Madushanka P. L. A.
Published: September 2024

Crop monitoring with unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) has the potential to reduce field monitoring costs while increasing monitoring frequency and improving efficiency. However, the utilization of RGB-based UAV imagery for crop-specific monitoring, especially for sugarcane, remains limited. This work proposes a UAV platform with an RGB camera as a low-cost solution to monitor sugarcane fields, complementing the commonly used multi-spectral methods. This new approach optimizes the RGB vegetation indices for accurate prediction of sugarcane growth, providing many improvements in scalable crop-management methods. The images were captured by a DJI Mavic Pro drone. Four RGB vegetation indices (VIs) (GLI, VARI, GRVI, and MGRVI) and the crop surface model plant height (CSM_PH) were derived from the images. The fractional vegetation cover (FVC) values were compared by image classification. Sugarcane plant height predictions were generated using two machine learning (ML) algorithms—multiple linear regression (MLR) and random forest (RF)—which were compared across five predictor combinations (CSM_PH and four VIs). At the early stage, all VIs showed significantly lower values than later stages (p < 0.05), indicating an initial slow progression of crop growth. MGRVI achieved a classification accuracy of over 94% across all growth phases, outperforming traditional indices. Based on the feature rankings, VARI was the least sensitive parameter, showing the lowest correlation (r < 0.5) and mutual information (MI < 0.4). The results showed that the RF and MLR models provided better predictions for plant height. The best estimation results were observed withthe combination of CSM_PH and GLI utilizing RF model (R2 = 0.90, RMSE = 0.37 m, MAE = 0.27 m, and AIC = 21.93). This study revealed that VIs and the CSM_PH derived from RGB images captured by UAVs could be useful in monitoring sugarcane growth to boost crop productivity.
Using Multispectral Data from UAS in Machine Learning to Detect Infestation by Xylotrechus chinensis (Chevrolat) (Coleoptera: Cerambycidae) in Mulberries
Authors: Panopoulou Christina , Antonopoulos Athanasios , Arapostathi Evaggelia , Stamouli Myrto , Katsileros Anastasios , Tsagkarakis Antonios
Published: September 2024

The tiger longicorn beetle, Xylotrechus chinensis Chevrolat (Coleoptera: Cerambycidae), has posed a significant threat to mulberry trees in Greece since its invasion in 2017, which may be associated with global warming. Detection typically relies on observing adult emergence holes on the bark or dried branches, indicating severe damage. Addressing pest threats linked to global warming requires efficient, targeted solutions. Remote sensing provides valuable, swift information on vegetation health, and combining these data with machine learning techniques enables early detection of pest infestations. This study utilized airborne multispectral data to detect infestations by X. chinensis in mulberry trees. Variables such as mean NDVI, mean NDRE, mean EVI, and tree crown area were calculated and used in machine learning models, alongside data on adult emergence holes and temperature. Trees were classified into two categories, infested and healthy, based on X. chinensis infestation. Evaluated models included Random Forest, Decision Tree, Gradient Boosting, Multi-Layer Perceptron, K-Nearest Neighbors, and Naïve Bayes. Random Forest proved to be the most effective predictive model, achieving the highest scores in accuracy (0.86), precision (0.84), recall (0.81), and F-score (0.82), with Gradient Boosting performing slightly lower. This study highlights the potential of combining remote sensing and machine learning for early pest detection, promoting timely interventions, and reducing environmental impacts.
The Combined Application of Urea and Fulvic Acid Regulates Apple Tree Carbon and Nitrogen Metabolism and Improves Anthocyanin Biosynthesis
Authors: Wang Laiping , Chen Ru , Jiang Zhenying , Li Huifeng , Xue Xiaomin
Published: September 2024

Improving apple peel color has been an important objective in apple production. To better understand the effect and mechanism of the combined application of urea and FA (fulvic acid) regulation of anthocyanin biosynthesis, a field experiment was performed in 2022 and 2023, respectively, under five treatments of urea + FA (CK, urea only; FA50, urea + 50 kg ha−1 FA; FA100, urea + 100 kg ha−1 FA; FA150, urea + 150 kg ha−1 FA; FA200, urea + 200 kg ha−1 FA), using isotope (13C and 15N) marking to analyze the changes in carbon (C) and nitrogen (N) nutrient distribution as well as anthocyanin biosynthesis in fruits. We observed that, under FA application conditions, anthocyanin content in the peel was elevated in both years, with increases of 15.98~52.88% in 2022 and 15.93~52.94% in 2023. The best promotion effects were observed under FA150 treatment. Apart from the expression levels of anthocyanin biosynthesis-related genes and transcription factors in the apple peel, this positive effect on anthocyanin content induced by FA addition was also found to be associated with the optimization of C and N distribution in leaves and fruits. On the one hand, the application of FA not only enhanced leaf photosynthetic-related indexes (such as Pn, Gs, and Rubisco activity) and influenced (increased) S6PDH, SPS, and SS activities in leaves, but also elevated fruit sugar metabolism-related enzyme (SDH, SS-c, AI, and NI) activity and upregulated fruit stalk sugar transporter (MdSOT1, MdSOT3, MdSUT1 and MdSUT4) gene expression, which ultimately promoted the synthesis and the leaf to fruit transport of photosynthates, thus promoting 13C-photosynthate accumulation in fruits. On the other hand, FA application elevated leaves’ N metabolism-related enzyme (GS and GOGAT) activity and optimized 15N distribution in leaves and fruits. Moreover, we also observed that FA application altered the fate of N fertilizer in apple orchards, showed an elevation in apple tree 15NUE and soil 15N residuals and showed a decrease in soil 15N loss. In summary, the appropriate application of FA150 (urea + 150 kg ha−1) synergistically optimized C and N nutrient distribution, and promoted anthocyanin biosynthesis in apple trees.
Maternal Supplementation with Dietary Betaine during Late Gestation Increased Ewe Plasma Creatine and Lamb Thermoregulation under Field Conditions
Authors: Brougham Billie-Jaye , Weaver Alice C. , Swinbourne Alyce M. , Tscharke Megan R. , Munn Amy L. , Kelly Jennifer M. , Kleemann David O. , van Wettere William H. E. J.
Published: September 2024

Twin lamb mortality is a significant economic problem impacting the Australian sheep industry. Maternal betaine supplementation improved lamb vigour and early post-natal survival when ewes and lambs were housed indoors, suggesting that betaine may be beneficial to feed under extensive pasture systems. This study investigated whether maternal betaine supplementation during late gestation would improve Merino twin lamb live weight, thermoregulation, vigour and survival to weaning under field conditions. Ewes received dietary betaine at either 0 g/day (CTL; n = 115) or 4 g/day from day 110 of gestation (dG 110) until ~49 days post-partum (pp) (BET; n = 115). Measures indicative of lamb viability and survival were collected within 4–24 h of birth and at ~49 days pp and ~93 days pp. BET ewes had higher creatine and creatinine concentrations at dG 130 than CTL ewes (p < 0.05). BET lambs had a higher rectal temperature within 4–24 h following birth than CTL lambs (p < 0.05). CTL lambs were heavier at ~49 days pp and grew faster from birth to ~49 days pp than BET lambs (both p < 0.05). The time taken after release from the researcher to first suckling was quicker in the CTL lambs than BET lambs (p < 0.05). This study demonstrated that supplementing betaine increased creatine concentration in twin-bearing ewes and thermoregulatory capacity in neonatal lambs under extensive grazing systems.
Intensive Multimodal Chemotherapy in a Dog Suffering from Grade III/Stage IV Solid Mammary Carcinoma
Authors: Beaudu-Lange Claire , Lange Emmanuel
Published: September 2024

Very few studies, often with very small cohorts, have proven chemotherapy efficacy against canine aggressive mammary carcinomas, either in terms of metastasis or median survival, in dogs after surgery and chemotherapy, with such outcomes not being confirmed by other studies. As a result, we lack efficient standardized protocols, which exist in human cases, according to the grade and stage of the tumor in dogs. In this case report, we describe a relapsing grade III solid mammary carcinoma evolving into prominent lymphatic intravascular invasion with multifocal nodal extension (stage IV); we applied an intensive treatment combining radical surgery and intensive adjuvant chemotherapy. The latter combined carboplatin maximal-tolerated-dose chemotherapy, with doses adjusted as necessary, and metronomic chemotherapy with firocoxib, toceranib and chloraminophene, progressively administered and carefully monitored. Adapting the doses prevented adverse events and resulted in 218 days of survival with good quality of life. To our knowledge, this is the first description of such a treatment combination. Our result should be confirmed with a large-scale prospective study.
Mapping Worldwide Antibiotic Use in Dental Practices: A Scoping Review
Authors: Soleymani Fatemeh , Pérez-Albacete Martínez Carlos , Makiabadi Mehrdad , Maté Sánchez de Val José Eduardo
Published: September 2024

Antibiotic resistance is a critical issue today, necessitating the monitoring of antibiotic usage across various sectors. To determine the defined daily doses (DDDs) of antibiotics prescribed by dentists globally, a comprehensive search was conducted in PubMed, ProQuest, ScienceDirect, Web of Science, Scopus, and EBSCOhost, resulting in the inclusion of 15 documents in this scoping review. The DDD per 1000 inhabitants per day (DID) for oral antibiotics prescribed by dentists for the studied countries was generally below 2.11, with the exception of South Korea, which had a DDD per 1000 patients per day (DPD) of less than 6.97. Most countries, except Croatia and Belgium, demonstrated a decreasing trend in DID before the COVID-19 pandemic, but restrictions during the pandemic led to an increase in these numbers. Penicillin-derived antibiotics were the most commonly prescribed antibiotic among dentists in most countries. This study highlights significant gaps and missing data regarding antibiotics prescribed by dentists worldwide. However, it also indicates that the publication of guidelines, education, and evaluation of antibiotic use can lead to more controlled and appropriate prescriptions among dental professionals.