bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Extending the breeder’s equation to take aim at the target population of environments
Authors: Cooper Mark , Powell Owen , Gho Carla , Tang Tom , Messina Carlos
Published: February 2023

A major focus for genomic prediction has been on improving trait prediction accuracy using combinations of algorithms and the training data sets available from plant breeding multi-environment trials (METs). Any improvements in prediction accuracy are viewed as pathways to improve traits in the reference population of genotypes and product performance in the target population of environments (TPE). To realize these breeding outcomes there must be a positive MET-TPE relationship that provides consistency between the trait variation expressed within the MET data sets that are used to train the genome-to-phenome (G2P) model for applications of genomic prediction and the realized trait and performance differences in the TPE for the genotypes that are the prediction targets. The strength of this MET-TPE relationship is usually assumed to be high, however it is rarely quantified. To date investigations of genomic prediction methods have focused on improving prediction accuracy within MET training data sets, with less attention to quantifying the structure of the TPE and the MET-TPE relationship and their potential impact on training theG2Pmodel for applications of genomic prediction to accelerate breeding outcomes for the on-farm TPE. We extend the breeder’s equation and use an example to demonstrate the importance of the MET-TPE relationship as a key component for the design of genomic prediction methods to realize improved rates of genetic gain for the target yield, quality, stress tolerance and yield stability traits in the on-farm TPE.
Exogenous silicon promotes cadmium (Cd) accumulation in Sedum alfredii Hance by enhancing Cd uptake and alleviating Cd toxicity
Authors: Hu Ying , Zhou Xueqi , Shi An , Yu Yanshuang , Rensing Christopher , Zhang Taoxiang , Xing Shihe , Yang Wenhao
Published: February 2023

Soil Cadmium (Cd) pollution has become a serious environmental problem. Silicon (Si) plays key roles in alleviating Cd toxicity in plants. However, the effects of Si on mitigation of Cd toxicity and accumulation of Cd by hyperaccumulators are largely unknown. This study was conducted to investigate the effect of Si on Cd accumulation and the physiological characteristics of Cd hyperaccumulator Sedum alfredii Hance under Cd stress. Results showed that, exogenous Si application promoted the biomass, Cd translocation and concentration of S. alfredii, with an increased rate of 21.74-52.17% for shoot biomass, and 412.39-621.00% for Cd accumulation. Moreover, Si alleviated Cd toxicity by: (i) increasing chlorophyll contents, (ii) improving antioxidant enzymes, (iii) enhancing cell wall components (lignin, cellulose, hemicellulose and pectin), (iv) raising the secretion of organic acids (oxalic acid, tartaric acid and L-malic acid). The RT-PCR analysis of genes that involved in Cd detoxification showed that the expression of SaNramp3, SaNramp6, SaHMA2 and SaHMA4 in roots were significantly decreased by 11.46-28.23%, 6.61-65.19%, 38.47-80.87%, 44.80-69.85% and 33.96-71.70% in the Si treatments, while Si significantly increased the expression of SaCAD. This study expanded understanding on the role of Si in phytoextraction and provided a feasible strategy for assisting phytoextraction Cd by S. alfredii. In summary, Si facilitated the Cd phytoextraction of S. alfredii by promoting plant growth and enhancing the resistance of plants to Cd.
Transcriptome and proteome depth analysis indicate ABA, MAPK cascade and Ca2+ signaling co-regulate cold tolerance in Rhododendron chrysanthum Pall.
Authors: Zhang Qingyi , Li Yue , Cao Kun , Xu Hongwei , Zhou Xiaofu
Published: February 2023

Introduction

Cold stress is a global common problem that significantly limits plant development and geographical distribution. Plants respond to low temperature stress by evolving interrelated regulatory pathways to respond and adapt to their environment in a timely manner. Rhodoendron chrysanthum Pall. (R. chrysanthum) is a perennial evergreen dwarf shrub used for adornment and medicine that thrives in the Changbai Mountains at high elevations and subfreezing conditions.

Methods

In this study, a comprehensive investigation of cold tolerance (4°C, 12h) in R. chrysanthum leaves under cold using physiological combined with transcriptomic and proteomic approaches.

Results

There were 12,261 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) and 360 differentially expressed proteins (DEPs) in the low temperature (LT) and normal treatment (Control). Integrated transcriptomic and proteomic analyses showed that MAPK cascade, ABA biosynthesis and signaling, plant-pathogen interaction, linoleic acid metabolism and glycerophospholipid metabolism were significantly enriched in response to cold stress of R. chrysanthum leaves.

Discussion

We analyzed the involvement of ABA biosynthesis and signaling, MAPK cascade, and Ca2+ signaling, that may jointly respond to stomatal closure, chlorophyll degradation, and ROS homeostasis under low temperature stress. These results propose an integrated regulatory network of ABA, MAPK cascade and Ca2+ signaling comodulating the cold stress in R. chrysanthum, which will provide some insights to elucidate the molecular mechanisms of cold tolerance in plants.
Energy saving behavior in university organizations: The value of norm constructions in a “rational choice” action model
Authors: Heib Sascha , Hildebrand Jan , Kortsch Timo
Published: February 2023

Introduction

In times of rising energy prices and increasing importance of climate change, saving energy becomes even more important. Universities are large public institutions with significant energy-saving potential. This study investigated the energy-saving behavior of students and employees at a German university. In contrast to previous studies, which often focused on individual buildings, this study took a comprehensive approach and addressed all university members (employees and students). A extended model of the Theory of Planned Behavior (TPB) served as the theoretical basis. Considering the specific organizational context, the main question of the study was to explore the interlinkages between the intention to save energy, corresponding consumption behavior, and the effects of injunctive and descriptive social norms within the social system of the organization. Furthermore, the impact of “not energy related” factors like the identification with the organization was tested.

Methods

As methodological approach a university-wide quantitative online survey was conducted. For the survey, a standardized questionnaire containing several scales on energy consumption behavior and TBP-constructs was used. All in all, data from a total of 1,714 members of the university participating in the study was analyzed.

Results

Structural equation modeling showed that the extended TPB model yields a satisfactory amount of explained variance (approximately 40%) for intention and a moderate amount (approximately 20%) for behavior. The strongest predictors are personal norm and behavioral control. The organizational influence factor identification was also significant for intention, but only to a small extent.

Discussion

The results extend the understanding of the TPB in the context of energy conservation in universities and emphasize that the sense of behavioral control and the personal norm must always be considered when intervening in this context to promote energy conservation and thus provide valuable hints for practical measures.
Toddler home math environment: Triangulating multi-method assessments in a U.S. Sample
Authors: Miller Portia , Elliott Leanne E. , Podvysotska Tamara , Ptak Chelsea , Duong Shirley , Fox Danielle , Coulanges Linsah , Libertus Melissa , Bachman Heather J. , Votruba-Drzal Elizabeth
Published: February 2023

Introduction

Current research has documented the home math environment (HME) of preschoolers and kindergarteners. Very few studies, however, have explored the number and spatial activities in which parents engage with children during their toddler years.

Methods

This study examined the HME of 157 toddlers using several methodologies, including surveys, time diaries, and observations of math talk. Further, it examined correlations within and across data sources to identify areas of convergence and triangulation, and correlated HME measures with measures of toddlers’ number and spatial skills.

Results

Findings showed that, in general, uses of different types of math activities, including both number and spatial, were intercorrelated within method. Across methods, there was high intercorrelation between the frequency of math activities reported on parent surveys and the diversity of types of math activities endorsed in time diary interviews. Parent math talk gleaned from semi-structured interviews functioned as a separate aspect of the HME; different types of math talk shared few intercorrelations with engagement in math activities as reported in either surveys or time diaries. Finally, several HME measures positively correlated with toddlers’ math skills.

Discussion

Given extant research demonstrating that both math activities and math talk predict children’s math skills, our results stress the need for multimethod studies that differentiate among these HME opportunities.
Psychological capital, quality of life, and well-being in mother caregivers of individuals with down syndrome
Authors: Chiracu Alina , Cosma Germina-Alina , Stepan Amalia Raluca , Cosma Marian Alexandru , Corlaci Ionuț , Călugăru Eleonora Daniela Ciupeanu , Voinea Florin , Zăvăleanu Mihaela , Burileanu Horia Alin , Avramescu Taina
Published: February 2023

Introduction

Caused by an error in cell division that produces an additional chromosome 21, Down syndrome (DS) is one of the most common developmental disorders in the world. This study aims to analyze the relationship between psychological capital, quality of life and well-being of caregivers of individuals with Down syndrome (DS).

Methods

The participants were 98 caregivers (mothers, M = 52.13, SD = 11.39) of individuals with Down syndrome. The instruments used were the Psychological Capital Questionnaire (measuring self-efficacy, resilience, optimism, and hope), Quality of Life Questionnaire (including social support, general satisfaction, physical/psychological health, absence of excessive workload/free time), and Psychological Wellbeing Scale, investigating the following dimensions: self-acceptance, positive relationships with others, autonomy, environmental mastery, purpose in life, and personal growth.

Results

The mediation analysis showed that self-efficacy, hope, and resilience are positively associated to quality of life, and optimism is positively associated to well-being. The total effects of psychological capital on well-being are positive and significant and quality of life mediates the relationship between psychological capital and well-being.

Discussion

These results show that psychological capital is an important inner resource for caregivers of DS individuals and must be improved through support services, so that caregivers have a higher perception of the quality of life and implicitly of well-being.
Probing the relevance of the accelerated aging mouse line SAMP8 as a model for certain types of neuropsychiatric symptoms in dementia
Authors: Bergamini Giorgio , Massinet Helene , Hart Aaron , Durkin Sean , Pierlot Gabin , Steiner Michel Alexander
Published: February 2023

Introduction

People with dementia (PwD) often present with neuropsychiatric symptoms (NPS). NPS are of substantial burden to the patients, and current treatment options are unsatisfactory. Investigators searching for novel medications need animal models that present disease-relevant phenotypes and can be used for drug screening. The Senescence Accelerated Mouse-Prone 8 (SAMP8) strain shows an accelerated aging phenotype associated with neurodegeneration and cognitive decline. Its behavioural phenotype in relation to NPS has not yet been thoroughly investigated. Physical and verbal aggression in reaction to the external environment (e.g., interaction with the caregiver) is one of the most prevalent and debilitating NPS occurring in PwD. Reactive aggression can be studied in male mice using the Resident-Intruder (R-I) test. SAMP8 mice are known to be more aggressive than the Senescence Accelerated Mouse-Resistant 1 (SAMR1) control strain at specific ages, but the development of the aggressive phenotype over time, is still unknown.

Methods

In our study, we performed a longitudinal, within-subject, assessment of aggressive behaviour of male SAMP8 and SAMR1 mice at 4, 5, 6 and 7 months of age. Aggressive behaviour from video recordings of the R-I sessions was analysed using an in-house developed behaviour recognition software.

Results

SAMP8 mice were more aggressive relative to SAMR1 mice starting at 5 months of age, and the phenotype was still present at 7 months of age. Treatment with risperidone (an antipsychotic frequently used to treat agitation in clinical practice) reduced aggression in both strains. In a three-chamber social interaction test, SAMP8 mice also interacted more fervently with male mice than SAMR1, possibly because of their aggression-seeking phenotype. They did not show any social withdrawal.

Discussion

Our data support the notion that SAMP8 mice might be a useful preclinical tool to identify novel treatment options for CNS disorders associated with raised levels of reactive aggression such as dementia.
Acupuncture ameliorates Mobile Phone Addiction with sleep disorders and restores salivary metabolites rhythm
Authors: Yang Hong , Yang Kun , Zhang Lu , Yang Ni , Mei Ying-Xiu , Zheng Ya-Li , He Yan , Gong Yan-Ju , Ding Wei-Jun
Published: February 2023

Objectives

Mobile Phone Addiction (MPA) is a novel behavioral addiction resulting in circadian rhythm disorders that severely affect mental and physical health. The purpose of this study is to detect rhythmic salivary metabolites in MPA with sleep disorder (MPASD) subjects and investigate the effects of acupuncture.

Methods

Six MPASD patients and six healthy controls among the volunteers were enrolled by MPA Tendency Scale (MPATS) and Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI), then the salivary samples of MPASD and healthy controls were collected every 4-h for three consecutive days. Acupuncture was administered for 7 days to MPASD subjects, then saliva samples were collected again. Salivary metabolomes were analyzed with the method of LC-MS.

Result

According to our investigation, 70 (57.85%) MPA patients and 56 (46.28%) MPASD patients were identified among 121 volunteers. The symptoms of the 6 MPASD subjects were significantly alleviated after acupuncture intervention. The number of rhythmic saliva metabolites dropped sharply in MPASD subjects and restored after acupuncture. Representative rhythmic saliva metabolites including melatonin, 2′-deoxyuridine, thymidine, thymidine 3′,5′-cyclic monophosphate lost rhythm and restored after acupuncture, which may attribute to promising MPASD treatment and diagnosis biomarkers. The rhythmic saliva metabolites of healthy controls were mainly enriched in neuroactive ligand-receptor interaction, whereas polyketide sugar unit biosynthesis was mainly enriched in MPASD patients.

Conclusion

This study revealed circadian rhythm characteristics of salivary metabolites in MPASD and that acupuncture could ameliorate MPASD by restoring part of the dysrhythmia salivary metabolites.
The outcome of neoadjuvant chemotherapy and the current trend of surgical treatment in young women with breast cancer: A multicenter real-world study (CSBrS-012)
Authors: Li Yijun , Chen Heyan , He Jianjun , Fan Zhimin , Zhang Huimin
Published: February 2023

Background and objectives

The relationship between age and the outcome of breast cancer neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NAC) remains controversial, and little is known about the choice of surgical treatment for young patients. In this multicenter real-world study, we sought to analyze the outcome of NAC as well as the current status and trend of surgical decision-making after NAC in young breast cancer patients.

Methods

The medical records of patients from 20 hospitals in different regions of China were collected retrospectively. The study population included females diagnosed with cT1-4N0-3M0 breast cancer who received NAC from January 2010 to December 2020.

Results

A total of 9,643 eligible patients were included, 1,945 (20.2%) of whom were ≤40 years old. Young patients tend to have a higher tumor stage and a higher proportion of Luminal B and triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) tumors compared with the >40-year-old group. The breast pathological complete response (pCR) rate in the young group was 20.3%, and Luminal B tumor was more likely to obtain pCR in young patients. The implementation rate of breast-conserving surgery (BCS) and breast reconstruction surgery was higher in young patients and tended to increase over time. In different regions of China, there were great differences in the choice of surgical treatment after NAC among young patients.

Conclusion

Breast cancer in young women has unique clinical characteristics, but age does not affect the overall pCR rate. In China, the BCS rate after NAC is increasing over time but is still at a low level.
Standardized tools for assessing balance and mobility in stroke clinical practice guidelines worldwide: A scoping review
Authors: dos Santos Renato B. , Fiedler Annabelle , Badwal Anchal , Legasto-Mulvale Jean Michelle , Sibley Kathryn M. , Olaleye Olubukola A. , Diermayr Gudrun , Salbach Nancy M.
Published: February 2023

Background

Use of standardized tools to assess balance and mobility limitations is a recommended practice in stroke rehabilitation. The extent to which clinical practice guidelines (CPGs) for stroke rehabilitation recommend specific tools and provide resources to support their implementation is unknown.

Purpose

To identify and describe standardized, performance-based tools for assessing balance and/or mobility and describe postural control components challenged, the approach used to select tools, and resources provided for clinical implementation, in CPGs for stroke.

Methods

A scoping review was conducted. We included CPGs with recommendations on the delivery of stroke rehabilitation to address balance and mobility limitations. We searched seven electronic databases and grey literature. Pairs of reviewers reviewed abstracts and full texts in duplicate. We abstracted data about CPGs, standardized assessment tools, the approach for tool selection, and resources. Experts identified postural control components challenged by each tool.

Results

Of the 19 CPGs included in the review, 7 (37%) and 12 (63%) were from middle- and high-income countries, respectively. Ten CPGs (53%) recommended or suggested 27 unique tools. Across 10 CPGs, the most commonly cited tools were the Berg Balance Scale (BBS) (90%), 6-Minute Walk Test (6MWT) (80%), Timed Up and Go Test (80%) and 10-Meter Walk Test (70%). The tool most frequently cited in middle- and high-income countries was the BBS (3/3 CPGs), and 6MWT (7/7 CPGs), respectively. Across 27 tools, the three components of postural control most frequently challenged were underlying motor systems (100%), anticipatory postural control (96%), and dynamic stability (85%). Five CPGs provided information in varying detail on how tools were selected; only 1 CPG provided a level of recommendation. Seven CPGs provided resources to support clinical implementation; one CPG from a middle-income country included a resource available in a CPG from a high-income country.

Conclusion

CPGs for stroke rehabilitation do not consistently provide recommendations for standardized tools to assess balance and mobility or resources to facilitate clinical application. Reporting of processes for tool selection and recommendation is inadequate. Review findings can be used to inform global efforts to develop and translate recommendations and resources for using standardized tools to assess balance and mobility post-stroke.

Systematic Review Registration

https://osf.io/, identifier: 10.17605/OSF.IO/6RBDV.
Research on automatic emergency steering collision avoidance and stability control of intelligent driving vehicle
Authors: Liu Zhaoyong , Wen Gaobo , Liu Wudong , Tan TanXiaoqiang , Wu Guangqiang
Published: February 2023

In view of the need for emergency steering to avoid collision when the vehicle is in a dangerous scene, and the stability control of the vehicle during collision avoidance. This paper proposes a planning and control framework. A path planner considering the kinematics and dynamics of the vehicle system is used to formulate the safe driving path under emergency conditions. LQR lateral control algorithm is designed to calculate the output steering wheel angle. On this basis, adaptive MPC control algorithm and four-wheel braking force distribution control algorithm are designed to achieve coordinated control of vehicle driving stability and collision avoidance safety. The simulation results show that the proposed algorithm can complete the steering collision avoidance task quickly and stably.
A user-generated content analysis of tourists at wildlife tourism attractions
Authors: Kredens Claire , Vogt Christine A.
Published: February 2023

Introduction

Captive wildlife tourism is an increasingly complex subsector of ecotourism due to the varying degrees of care given to the animals, interpretation or education provided, and tourist expectations of potential interaction with the animals. Two recent tourism trends are the growing wildlife tourism sphere of ecotourism and the increased use of social media in both marketing and for tourists to share their experiences. In scientific literature, the connection between social media and tourism was largely under-studied, and tourist behavior on Instagram after visiting wildlife tourism attractions (WTAs) has not been studied. Some researchers call for more tourism research using social media data created by tourists, called user-generated content (UGC), to understand tourist behaviors.

Methods

This netnographic study examines tourists who visited a WTAs by analyzing their post-visit photos and captions on Instagram through the lens of involvement theory to evaluate the strength of their connection to wildlife and conservation. Previous research indicated wildlife tourism can have extraordinary benefits to conservation and communities, but some WTAs, some of which are photo-prop tourism attractions where animals are handed over to tourists for close-contact selfies, produce negative impacts on individual animals and entire species due to illegal sourcing, improper care, human interaction, and habituation.

Results

Findings from this study suggest WTAs with good or excellent conservation and welfare practices were found to lead to more highly involved tourists, ultimately benefitting community investment, animal welfare, and conservation efforts via the flow of tourist dollars and spread of information on social media, the tourist changing their behavior, or all the aforementioned. Conversely, WTAs with negative conservation and welfare practices were found not to foster the same level of tourist involvement as their counterparts, often leading to more anthropocentric Instagram posts that do not spread conservation messaging or imply appropriate tourist-animal interactions.

Discussion

The implications from this research suggest that WTA management practices should move toward a model focusing on conservation-themed interpretation, education, and positive animal welfare for the improvement of conservation efforts within wildlife and eco-tourism. Such models should keep up with evolving sustainability, responsible, and regenerative practices adopted by the tourism and outdoor recreation industry.
Multiscale hybrid modeling of the impact response of the Earth’s magnetotail to ionospheric O+ outflow
Authors: Omelchenko Yuri A. , Mouikis Christopher , Ng Jonathan , Roytershteyn Vadim , Chen Li-Jen
Published: February 2023

Ionospheric outflow plays an important role in coupling the ionosphere with the solar wind-magnetosphere system. Previous multi-fluid MHD studies explored the global influence of oxygen ions of ionospheric origin (O+) on magnetospheric dynamics. A detailed exploration of the interaction of ionospheric ions with the magnetotail requires kinetic treatment for ions. We perform a self-consistent investigation of these processes with a three-dimensional space-time adaptive hybrid code, HYPERS, powered by an intelligent Event-driven Multi-Agent Planning System (EMAPS). By comparing simulations with and without outflow we conclude that oxygen ions, flowing from the ionosphere through the lobes into the tail or directly entering the inner magnetosphere, are able to significantly modify the magnetotail configuration and induce X-points and current sheet structures at locations where magnetic reconnection does not occur in a simulation without outflow, potentially very close to the Earth. This finding may have implications for interpreting substorms and magnetotail reconnection events observed for southward magnetic field simultaneously with significant contents of oxygen ions of ionospheric origin.
Comparison of discover cervical disc arthroplasty and anterior cervical discectomy and fusion for the treatment of cervical degenerative disc diseases: A meta-analysis of prospective, randomized controlled trials
Authors: Wang Ziqi , Luo Gan , Yu Hongwei , Zhao Hui , Li Tianhao , Yang Houzhi , Sun Tianwei
Published: February 2023

Objective

This study aims to evaluate the clinical efficacy and safety between Discover cervical disc arthroplasty (DCDA) and anterior cervical discectomy and fusion (ACDF) in Cervical degenerative disc diseases.

Methods

Two researchers independently conducted a search of PubMed, EMBASE, and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trails (CENTRAL) for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) following the Cochrane methodology guidelines. A fixed-effects or random-effects model was applied based on different heterogeneity. Review Manager (Version 5.4.1) software was used to perform data analysis.

Results

A total of 8 RCT studies were included in this meta-analysis. The results indicate that the DCDA group had a higher incidence of reoperation (P = 0.03) and a lower incidence of ASD (P = 0.04) than the CDA group. There was no significant difference between two groups regarding NDI score (P = 0.36), VAS ARM score (P = 0.73), VAS NECK score (P = 0.63), EQ-5D score (P = 0.61) and dysphagia incidence (0.18).

Conclusion

DCDA and ACDF have similar results in terms of NDI scores, VAS scores, EQ-5D scores, and dysphagia. In addition, DCDA can reduce the risk of ASD but increases the risk of reoperation.
Life expectancy tables for dogs and cats derived from clinical data
Authors: Montoya Mathieu , Morrison Jo Ann , Arrignon Florent , Spofford Nate , Charles Hélène , Hours Marie-Anne , Biourge Vincent
Published: February 2023

There are few recent and methodologically robust life expectancy (LE) tables for dogs or cats. This study aimed to generate LE tables for these species with clinical records from >1,000 Banfield Pet hospitals in the USA. Using Sullivan's method, LE tables were generated across survey years 2013–2019, by survey year, and for subpopulations defined by sex, adult body size group (purebred dogs only: toy, small, medium, large and giant), and median body condition score (BCS) over life. The deceased population for each survey year comprised animals with a recorded date of death in that year; survivors had no death date in that year and were confirmed living by a veterinary visit in a subsequent year. The dataset totaled 13,292,929 unique dogs and 2,390,078 unique cats. LE at birth (LEbirth) was 12.69 years (95% CI: 12.68–12.70) for all dogs, 12.71 years (12.67–12.76) for mixed-breed dogs, 11.18 years (11.16–11.20) for cats, and 11.12 (11.09–11.14) for mixed-breed cats. LEbirth increased with decreasing dog size group and increasing survey year 2013 to 2018 for all dog size groups and cats. Female dogs and cats had significantly higher LEbirth than males: 12.76 years (12.75–12.77) vs. 12.63 years (12.62–12.64), and 11.68 years (11.65–11.71) vs. 10.72 years (10.68–10.75), respectively. Obese dogs (BCS 5/5) had a significantly lower LEbirth [11.71 years (11.66–11.77)] than overweight dogs (BCS 4/5) [13.14 years (13.12–13.16)] and dogs with ideal BCS 3/5 [13.18 years (13.16–13.19)]. The LEbirth of cats with BCS 4/5 [13.67 years (13.62–13.71)] was significantly higher than cats with BCS 5/5 [12.56 years (12.45–12.66)] or BCS 3/5 [12.18 years (12.14–12.21)]. These LE tables provide valuable information for veterinarians and pet owners and a foundation for research hypotheses, as well as being a stepping-stone to disease-associated LE tables.
Predictive equations for dietary energy are improved when independently developed for dry and wet food which could benefit both the pet and the environment
Authors: Jewell Dennis E. , Jackson Matthew I.
Published: February 2023

Introduction

Measuring energy availability through metabolizable energy feeding studies is the “gold standard” for establishing metabolizable energy concentration. However, predictive equations are often used to estimate metabolizable energy in dog and cat pet foods. The goal of this work was to evaluate the prediction of energy density and compare those predictions to each other and the energy needs of the individual pets.

Methods

Feeding studies used 397 adult dogs and 527 adult cats on 1,028 canine and 847 feline foods. Individual pet results for the estimate of metabolizable energy density were used as outcome variables. Prediction equations were generated from the new data and compared to previously published equations.

Results and discussion

On average the dogs consumed 747 kilocalories (kcals) per day (SD = 198.7) while cats consumed 234 kcals per day (SD = 53.6). The difference between the average prediction of energy density and the measured metabolizable energy varied from the modified Atwater prediction 4.5%, 3.4% (NRC equations), 1.2% (Hall equations) to the new equations calculated from these data at 0.5%. The average absolute values of the differences between measured and predicted estimates in pet foods (dry and canned, dog and cat) are: 6.7% (modified Atwater), 5.1% (NRC equations), 3.5% (Hall equations) and 3.2% (new equations). All of these estimates resulted in significantly less variation in the estimate of the food expected to be consumed than the observed variation associated with actual pet consumption to maintain body weight. When expressed as a ratio of energy consumed to metabolic body weight (weight in kilograms3/4) the within species variation in energy consumed to maintain weight was still high as compared to the energy density estimates variance from measured metabolizable energy. The amount of food offered as the central point in a feeding guide, based on the prediction equations, would on average result in an average variance between 8.2% error in the worst case estimate (feline dry using modified Atwater estimates) and approximately 2.7% (the new equation for dry dog food). All predictions had relatively small differences in calculating food consumed when compared to the differences associated with the variation in normal energy demand.
Benchmark study for evaluating the quality of reference genomes and gene annotations in 114 species
Authors: Park Sinwoo , Lee Jinbaek , Kim Jaeryeong , Kim Dohyeon , Lee Jin Hyup , Pack Seung Pil , Seo Minseok
Published: February 2023

Introduction

For reference genomes and gene annotations are key materials that can determine the limits of the molecular biology research of a species; however, systematic research on their quality assessment remains insufficient.

Methods

We collected reference assemblies, gene annotations, and 3,420 RNA-sequencing (RNA-seq) data from 114 species and selected effective indicators to simultaneously evaluate the reference genome quality of various species, including statistics that can be obtained empirically during the mapping process of short reads. Furthermore, we newly presented and applied transcript diversity and quantification success rates that can relatively evaluate the quality of gene annotations of various species. Finally, we proposed a next-generation sequencing (NGS) applicability index by integrating a total of 10 effective indicators that can evaluate the genome and gene annotation of a specific species.

Results and discussion

Based on these effective evaluation indicators, we successfully evaluated and demonstrated the relative accessibility of NGS applications in all species, which will directly contribute to determining the technological boundaries in each species. Simultaneously, we expect that it will be a key indicator to examine the direction of future development through relative quality evaluation of genomes and gene annotations in each species, including countless organisms whose genomes and gene annotations will be constructed in the future.
Design of High-Performance and General-Purpose Satellite Management Unit Based on Rad-Hard Multi-Core SoCand Linux
Authors: Li Lu , He Junwang , Xu Dongxiao , Chen Wen , Yu Jinpei , Li Huawang
Published: February 2023

Since deep space exploration tasks, such as space gravitational wave detection, put forward increasingly higher requirements for the satellite platform, the scale and complexity of the satellite management unit (SMU) software are also increasing, and the trend of intelligentization is showing. It is difficult for the traditional SMU based on single-core system on chip (SoC) to meet the various requirements brought by the above trends. This paper presents a high-performance general-purpose SMU design. Based on rad-hard multi-core SoC, we configure and tailor Linux, and design an SMU software architecture with three modes. It has the characteristics of high performance, high reliability, general purpose and scalability, which can meet the needs of the SMU of future complex satellites. Finally, through the application experiment in the background of the space gravitational wave detection project, the performance and application prospect of our proposed SMU are demonstrated.
Shape Parameterization Optimization of Thermocouples Used in Aeroengines
Authors: Wang Yufang , Zhao Jian , Zhao Ruijia
Published: February 2023

Aiming at the problem that thermocouples used in different parts of aeroengines need a lot of repeated design work in application and the high precision requirements as special test sensors, a parameterized optimization method for a thermocouple shape combined with a numerical simulation method is proposed. The performance of a dual-screen thermocouple (DST), single-screen thermocouple (SST), and no-screen thermocouple (NST) is tested by a numerical simulation method, and is represented by the velocity error σV and the restitution coefficient r. The dual-screen thermocouple (DST) is the best one, and it is selected as the object to parametric optimization, and the parametric optimization methods based on it, geometrically modeled parametrically, adaptive mesh generation and parametric numerical simulation, are proposed. For a dual-screen thermocouple (DST), eight design structural parameters and four environment parameters are suggested for geometrically modeled parametrically and parametric numerical simulation, respectively. The dichotomy method is used to find the optimal length of the screen L, which is considered the most relevant parameter for thermocouple performance. It can be found that the length of the screen L corresponding to the optimal restitution coefficient r ranges from 56.25 to 62.5 mm.
Competitive Positioning of Mexican Pork in Japan
Authors: Méndez-León Jaciel Ramsés , Camarena-Gómez Dena María Jesús , Salgado-Beltrán Lizbeth
Published: February 2023

Historically, Mexico has distinguished itself by its strong participation in exports to the US market; however, the pork sector’s main destination is the Asian market, particularly Japan. Hence, this document aims to show the competitive position of Mexican pork in Japan during the period of 2000–2020, particularly by using Mexico, the United States, Canada, Denmark, and Chile as selected countries and considering these as the leading purveyors in the supply chain to the Japanese market. To achieve the proposed objective, a competitiveness analysis is developed through the Comparative Export Advantage methodology, strengthening it through the Constant Market Share (CMS). The results convey the growing competitiveness that Mexico is gaining in pork trade for the Japanese market, as well as globally. In addition, this research suggests that Mexican pork producers take the necessary steps toward increasing their level of competitiveness.
Real-Time Plant Health Detection Using Deep Convolutional Neural Networks
Authors: Khalid Mahnoor , Sarfraz Muhammad , Iqbal Uzair , Aftab Muhammad , Niedbała Gniewko , Rauf Hafiz
Published: February 2023

In the twenty-first century, machine learning is a significant part of daily life for everyone. Today, it is adopted in many different applications, such as object recognition, object classification, and medical purposes. This research aimed to use deep convolutional neural networks for the real-time detection of diseases in plant leaves. Typically, farmers are unaware of diseases on plant leaves and adopt manual disease detection methods. Their production often decreases as the virus spreads. However, due to a lack of essential infrastructure, quick identification needs to be improved in many regions of the world. It is now feasible to diagnose diseases using mobile devices as a result of the increase in mobile phone usage globally and recent advancements in computer vision due to deep learning. To conduct this research, firstly, a dataset was created that contained images of money plant leaves that had been split into two primary categories, specifically (i) healthy and (ii) unhealthy. This research collected thousands of images in a controlled environment and used a public dataset with exact dimensions. The next step was to train a deep model to identify healthy and unhealthy leaves. Our trained YOLOv5 model was applied to determine the spots on the exclusive and public datasets. This research quickly and accurately identified even a small patch of disease with the help of YOLOv5. It captured the entire image in one shot and forecasted adjacent boxes and class certainty. A random dataset image served as the model’s input via a cell phone. This research is beneficial for farmers since it allows them to recognize diseased leaves as soon as they noted and take the necessary precautions to halt the disease’s spread. This research aimed to provide the best hyper-parameters for classifying and detecting the healthy and unhealthy parts of leaves in exclusive and public datasets. Our trained YOLOv5 model achieves 93 % accuracy on a test set.
Colletotrichum Species on Cultivated Solanaceae Crops in Russia
Authors: Yarmeeva Maria , Kutuzova Irina , Kurchaev Michael , Chudinova Elena , Kokaeva Ludmila , Belosokhov Arseniy , Belov Grigory , Elansky Alexander , Pobedinskaya Marina , Tsindeliani Archil , Tsvetkova Yulia , Elansky Sergey
Published: February 2023

Colletotrichum species are the causal agents of potato and tomato diseases, such as black dot and anthracnose. Several new species and species complexes were recently established. Thereby, a reassessment of the genus diversity is required. The study revealed two species, Colletotrichum coccodes and Colletotrichum nigrum, as Russia’s main disease agents of cultivated Solanaceae plants. Black dot and anthracnose in potato were caused exclusively by C. coccodes, whereas the same diseases in tomato, eggplant, and pepper were predominately caused by C. nigrum. However, one isolate of C. coccodes was also identified as an agent of the tomato disease. Five potentially hybrid isolates were discovered. Morphological examination and pathogenicity assessment revealed no significant differences between the two Colletotrichum species. All isolates were sensitive to the fungicides azoxystrobin, difenoconazole, and thiabendazole, which are currently used in agriculture. This is the first report of the occurrence of C. nigrum in Russia.
Opposite Root Morphological Responses of Chinese Cabbage to Poly-γ-glutamic Acid When Applied with Urea and Ammonium Sulphate
Authors: Zhang Lei , Wang Lingli , Sun Yu , Dong Xiaoyan , Wei Zhanbo , Zhang Lili , Shi Yuanliang
Published: February 2023

Poly-γ-glutamic acid (γ-PGA) significantly promotes the fertilizer N uptake efficiency of crops and evidently affects soil available N (nitrate, ammonium and glutamate) status. As an adaptive strategy to forage N, root morphology responds variably to soil available N dynamics. Detailed knowledge of how root morphology responds to γ-PGA remains unexplored. A pot trial was conducted to investigate the response of root morphological traits to γ-PGA when applied with CO(NH2)2 or (NH4)2SO4. The results showed that γ-PGA significantly improved the dry weight, total carbon and total nitrogen content of roots, and with a higher improvement with CO(NH2)2 compared to (NH4)2SO4. γ-PGA significantly increased the root length, total surface area, tips and forks with CO(NH2)2. Contrarily, γ-PGA significantly reduced root length, specific root length, specific root area, root volume, tips and forks with (NH4)2SO4, with its inhibition on root growth mainly caused by the high ammonium content in soil. In conclusion, γ-PGA gives opposite effects on root morphological traits when applied with CO(NH2)2 or (NH4)2SO4. This finding provides a new insight to reveal the promotion mechanism of γ-PGA on plant N acquisition in the rhizosphere and offers a practical reference for optimizing γ-PGA and fertilizer application management.
Study on the In-Field Water Balance of Direct-Seeded Rice with Various Irrigation Regimes under Arid Climatic Conditions in Egypt Using the AquaCrop Model
Authors: Elsadek Elsayed , Zhang Ke , Mousa Ahmed , Ezaz Gazi Tawfiq , Tola Tolossa Lemma , Shaghaleh Hiba , Hamad Amar Ali Adam , Alhaj Hamoud Yousef
Published: February 2023

Crop growth models are cost-effective and user-friendly tools for decision-makers to develop efficient in-field management strategies. These models are particularly important in countries such as Egypt, where the risk of water scarcity is inevitable. The present study aimed to examine the in-field water balance of direct-seeded rice (Giza 178) under various irrigation regimes and arid conditions during two growing seasons (2019 and 2020). Four irrigation regimes, namely, continuous flood irrigation with a fixed water depth of 5 cm, and 3-, 6-, and 10-day irrigation frequencies (FI, 3IF, 6IF, and 10IF, respectively), were arranged in a randomized complete block design with three replicates. Then, the feasibility of using AquaCrop in simulating direct-seeded rice development and in-field water balance was assessed. Five statistical indicators, including normalized root-mean-squared error (NRMSE), index of agreement (d), coefficient of determination (R2), Nash–Sutcliffe efficiency coefficient (EF), and percent deviation (Pd), were used to evaluate the performance of AquaCrop. The field trial results demonstrated that both the 3IF and 6IF irrigation regimes were the best for achieving the highest biomass (21.0 t·ha−1, under 3IF), yield (9.8 t·ha−1, under 3IF), and saving irrigation water (18.3–22.4%, under 6IF), making them the best to apply in Egypt. Moreover, the AquaCrop simulation results showed a good correlation between the observed and simulated rice yield (Y) in both seasons (R2 = 0.99 and 0.98 in 2019 and 2020, respectively). AquaCrop showed excellent performance in simulating canopy cover (CC) and biomass (B) during both growing seasons (5.0 ≤ NRMSE ≤ 15.0, 0.97 ≤ d ≤ 0.99, 0.92 ≤ R2 ≤ 0.99, and 0.92 ≤ EF ≤ 0.99). In addition, the model showed acceptable performance in simulating in-field water balance components. Reasonably good model efficiency was recorded in simulating crop actual evapotranspiration (ETact). Meanwhile, the average Pd for percolation (P) was between −15.3% and 5.4% during both growing seasons. Overall, AquaCrop showed adequate accuracy in simulating CC, B, Y, ETact, and P but relatively low efficiency in simulating ETact and P under severe water scarcity. Therefore, AquaCrop may serve as a valuable tool for irrigation management and crop yield prediction even in arid regions, such as Egypt.
The Study of Possible Soybean Introduction into New Cultivation Regions Based on the Climate Change Analysis and the Agro-Ecological Testing of the Varieties
Authors: Belyshkina Marina , Zagoruiko Mikhail , Mironov Denis , Bashmakov Igor , Rybalkin Dmitry , Romanovskaya Anna
Published: February 2023

Analyzing agro-climatic conditions for the period of 1981–2020 has revealed a tendency for local climate warming under the condition of its aridization in the territory of the Central region of the Russian Non-Chernozem zone, and the new northern borders for soybean growing in the region have been marked. The isotherm of the sum of active temperatures has been established to have shifted towards high latitudes by 150–200 km. The values of the sum of active temperatures have increased from 1700–2200 °C to 1950–2400 °C, while the amount of precipitation during the growing season has decreased by 20–40 mm on average, from 270–280 mm to 190–230 mm. Three agro-climatic subzones—northern (NAS), central (CAS) and southern (SAS)—have been identified, each characterized by similar temperature and humidity conditions during the growing season. Thus, in the northern agro-climatic subzone, the sum of temperatures during the growing season is 2000–2200 °C, the HTC (hydrothermal coefficient) is 1.4–1.7, and the sum of precipitation is 285–295 mm; in the central subzone, the sum of temperatures is 2200–2400 °C, the HTC is 1.1–1.4, and the sum of precipitation is 265–285 mm; in the southern one, the sum of temperatures is 2400–2600 °C, the HTC is 0.7–1.1, and the sum of precipitation is 255–265 mm. Along with the northern ecotype varieties recommended for this zone, the vegetation features of early maturing soybean varieties of other ecological types—southern and Far Eastern—were studied. As a result of the agro-ecological analysis of early maturing soybean varieties, it has been found that the soybeans belonging to the group of very early or early maturing with a determinant type of growth are recommended for cultivation in the northern agro-climatic subzone of the Central region of the Non-Chernozem zone; the soybean varieties belonging to the group of very early or early maturing with a determinant or semi-determinant type of growth—in the central zone; the soybean varieties belonging to the group of very early or early maturing with a determinant, semi-determinant, and indeterminant type of growth—in the southern zone. Considering the variety characteristics and the agro-ecological tests conducted, it has been found that the northern ecotype varieties can sustainably ripen in all agro-climatic subzones in the Central region of the Non-Chernozem zone, the southern and the Far Eastern varieties—in the central and the southern zones.