bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Automated classification of group B Streptococcus into different clonal complexes using MALDI-TOF mass spectrometry
Authors: Huang Lianfen , Gao Kankan , Zhong Huamin , Xie Yongqiang , Liang Bingshao , Ji Wenjing , Liu Haiying
Published: June 2024

Objectives

To evaluate the performance of Matrix-Assisted Laser Desorption/Ionization Time-of Flight Mass Spectra (MALDI-TOF MS) for automated classification of GBS (Group B Streptococcus) into five major CCs (clonal complexes) during routine GBS identification.

Methods

MALDI-TOF MS of 167 GBS strains belonging to five major CCs (CC10, CC12, CC17, CC19, CC23) were grouped into a reference set (n = 67) and a validation set (n = 100) for the creation and evaluation with GBS CCs subtyping main spectrum (MSP) and MSP-M using MALDI BioTyper and ClinProTools. GBS CCs subtyping MSPs-M was generated by resetting the discriminative peaks of GBS CCs subtyping MSP according to the informative peaks from the optimal classification model of five major CCs and the contribution of each peak to the model created by ClinProTools.

Results

The PPV for the GBS CCs subtyping MSP-M was greater than the subtyping MSP for CC10 (99.21% vs. 93.65%), but similar for CC12 (79.55% vs. 81.06%), CC17 (93.55% vs. 94.09%), and CC19 (92.59% vs. 95.37%), and lower for CC23 (66.67% vs. 83.33%).

Conclusion

MALDI-TOF MS could be a promising tool for the automated categorization of GBS into 5 CCs by both CCs subtyping MSP and MSP-M, GBS CCs subtyping MSP-M is preferred for the accurate prediction of CCs with highly discriminative peaks.
Liver metastasis from hepatoid adenocarcinoma of the stomach: a case report and literature review
Authors: Zhu Hui , Li Qingqing , Qian Linqing
Published: June 2024

Hepatoid adenocarcinoma of the stomach (HAS) represents a rare malignant neoplasm sharing morphological and immunophenotypic similarities with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Pathological morphology serves as the cornerstone for diagnosis, often accompanied by elevated alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) levels, nonspecific clinical symptoms, and imaging features reminiscent of gastric adenocarcinoma (GA). Liver metastases from HAS can mimic the enhancement patterns of HCC, posing challenges in differentiation from high-risk HCC cases. Conversely, HAS typically exhibits poorer prognostic outcomes compared to HCC and GA. This report presents a case of HAS with liver metastasis alongside a comprehensive literature review covering its pathology, molecular mechanisms, clinical presentations, and treatment modalities. Special focus is given to imaging characteristics and the utilization of radiomics for early-stage detection. The integration of imaging findings with laboratory results aids in HAS diagnosis, while radiomics provides novel insights for precise discrimination. In conclusion, the identification of distinct imaging markers distinguishing HAS from HCC and GA shows promise in facilitating optimal treatment strategies and improving patient outcomes.
Lipid metabolism dynamics in cancer stem cells: potential targets for cancers
Authors: Du Juan , Qin Hai
Published: June 2024

Cancer stem cells (CSCs) represent a small subset of heterogeneous cells within tumors that possess the ability to self-renew and initiate tumorigenesis. They serve as potential drivers for tumor initiation, metastasis, recurrence, and drug resistance. Recent research has demonstrated that the stemness preservation of CSCs is heavily reliant on their unique lipid metabolism alterations, enabling them to maintain their own environmental homeostasis through various mechanisms. The primary objectives involve augmenting intracellular fatty acid (FA) content to bolster energy supply, promoting β-oxidation of FA to optimize energy utilization, and elevating the mevalonate (MVA) pathway for efficient cholesterol synthesis. Additionally, lipid droplets (LDs) can serve as alternative energy sources in the presence of glycolysis blockade in CSCs, thereby safeguarding FA from peroxidation. Furthermore, the interplay between autophagy and lipid metabolism facilitates rapid adaptation of CSCs to the harsh microenvironment induced by chemotherapy. In this review, we comprehensively review recent studies pertaining to lipid metabolism in CSCs and provide a concise overview of the indispensable role played by LDs, FA, cholesterol metabolism, and autophagy in maintaining the stemness of CSCs.
Efficacy and safety of Lianhua Qingwen granule combined with azithromycin for mycoplasma pneumoniae pneumonia in children: a systematic review with meta-analysis and trial sequential analysis
Authors: Li Jiawei , Ma Yuqi , Qi Jiawen , Hao Yule , Wang Yiming , Wu Yeke
Published: June 2024

Background

Lianhua Qingwen (LHQW) granule, a botanical drug preparation, is frequently utilized as an adjuvant treatment for mycoplasma pneumoniae pneumonia (MPP). Nevertheless, the clinical efficacy and safety of this treatment remain uncertain.

Purpose

This study aims to evaluate the efficacy and safety of LHQW granule combined with azithromycin (AZM) in treating MPP in children.

Method

To identify all randomized controlled trials (RCTs) of LHQW granule plus AZM, a search was conducted in eight Chinese and English databases (CNKI, Wan Fang, VIP, Sinomed, PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, and Cochrane Library) from their inception until 25 December 2023. Meta-regression and subgroup analysis were employed to investigate heterogeneity. Sensitivity analysis and trial sequential analysis (TSA) were conducted to assess the robustness of the findings. Additionally, the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation (GRADE) system was utilized to evaluate the quality of evidence.

Results

A total of 15 RCTs involving 1909 participants were included in this study. The meta-analysis results indicated combination therapy of LHQW granule and AZM is significant different from AZM alone in both efficacy and safety, which are specifically observed in the following outcomes: response rate (RR = 1.17, 95% CI: 1.12 to 1.22, p < 0.01), antipyretic time (MD = −1.32, 95% CI: −1.66 to −0.98, p < 0.01), cough disappearance time (MD = −1.76, 95% CI: −2.47 to −1.05, p < 0.01), pulmonary rale disappearance time (MD = −1.54, 95% CI: −2.06 to −1.02, p < 0.01), c-reactive protein (CRP) (MD = −5.50, 95% CI: −6.92 to −4.07, p < 0.01), procalcitonin (PCT) (MD = −0.31, 95% CI: −0.38 to −0.24, p < 0.01), interleukin 6 (IL-6) (MD = −5.97, 95% CI: −7.39 to −4.54, p<0.01), tumor necrosis factor α (TNF-α) (MD = −5.74, 95% CI: −7.44 to −4.04, p < 0.01), forced vital capacity (FVC) (SMD = 0.48, 95% CI: 0.34 to 0.62, p < 0.01), forced expiratory volume in the first second (FEV1) (SMD = 0.55, 95% CI: 0.44 to 0.67, p < 0.01), FEV1/FVC (SMD = 0.49, 95% CI: 0.32 to 0.67, p < 0.01), CD4+ T lymphocyte (CD4+) (MD = 4.04, 95% CI: 3.09 to 4.98, p < 0.01), CD8+ T lymphocyte (CD8+) (MD = −3.32, 95% CI: 4.27 to 2.38, p < 0.01) and adverse events (RR = 0.65, 95% CI: 0.43 to 0.96, p < 0.01).

Conclusion

The combination therapy of LHQW granule and AZM may be a better strategy to treat MPP in children. However, the clinical efficacy and safety of LHQW granule require further validation.

Systematic Review Registration:

https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/PROSPERO/.
Delabelling beta-lactam allergy
Authors: Molina-Molina Gustavo-Jorge , Garnica Velandia Diana Rocío , Andrés-López Blanca , Perales Carolina , Marin-Asensio Laura , Jurgens Yanina , Esteso Olga , Escobar Carolina , Vidal Xavier , Vendrell Lourdes , Gómez-Ganda Laura , Rodríguez Dolores , Montané Eva , Cardona Victoria , Agustí Antònia
Published: June 2024

Background: Hypersensitivity to beta-lactam (BL) antibiotics is one of the most frequent reported drug allergies. In our population, it is common to find labels of BL allergy in electronic medical records (EMRs) that have not been assessed. The objective of our study was to detect patients with beta-lactam allergy labels in their EMRs and to assess how many of them are false after a correct diagnostic evaluation.

Methods: A multicentre prospective study was performed with patients labelled as allergic to BLs in their EMRs in the previous 5 years. Demographical and clinical data, as well as variables regarding the BL allergy label and the characteristics of the index reaction from clinical history and EMRs, were recorded. Then, diagnostic assessments including clinical history, skin tests (STs), and drug provocation tests (DPTs) were conducted in order to confirm or exclude the diagnosis of BL allergy.

Results: A total of 249 patients completed the study, of which 160 (64.3%) were women with a median age of 57 years (interquartile range [IQR], 45–68). The most frequent BL allergy labels detected were for penicillin (124), amoxicillin/clavulanic acid (61), and amoxicillin (54). Of the 204 patients who underwent STs, 20.1% were positive. DPTs were performed in 224 patients, showing good tolerance in 87.1% of cases. After the allergy diagnosis work-up, 186 patients (74.7%) were diagnosed as non-allergic to BL antibiotics.

Conclusion: In our study population, the number of patients labelled as allergic to BLs in their EMRs was similar to that in previously published studies, with proportions near to 75%–80% being falsely labelled as allergic to BLs.
Identifying the seeds of heterotic pools for Southern and Eastern Africa from global elite spring wheat germplasm
Authors: John-Bejai Carus , Trethowan Richard , Revell Isobella , de Groot Stephan , Shezi Lindani , Koekemoer Francois , Diffey Simon , Lage Jacob
Published: June 2024

Hybrid breeding can increase the competitiveness of wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) in Sub-Saharan Africa by fostering more public-private partnerships and promoting investment by the private sector. The benefit of hybrid wheat cultivars in South Africa has previously been demonstrated but due to the high cost of hybrid seed production, hybrid breeding has not received significant attention in the past decade. Considering the renewed commitment of the private sector to establish wheat as a hybrid crop globally, coupled with significant research investment into enhancement of outcrossing of wheat, hybrid wheat breeding in Southern and Eastern Africa should be revisited. Our study aimed to identify genetically distinct germplasm groups in spring wheat that would be useful in the establishment of heterotic pools targeting this region. Multi-environment yield testing of a large panel of F1 test hybrids, generated using global elite germplasm, was carried out between 2019 and 2020 in Argentina, Africa, Europe, and Australia. We observed significant genotype by environment interactions within our testing network, confirming the distinctiveness of African trial sites. Relatively high additive genetic variance was observed highlighting the contribution of parental genotypes to the grain yield of test hybrids. We explored the genetic architecture of these parents and the genetic factors underlying the value of parents appear to be associated with their genetic subgroup, with positive marker effects distributed throughout the genome. In testcrosses, elite germplasm from the International Maize and Wheat Improvement Center (CIMMYT) appear to be complementary to the genetically distinct germplasm bred in South Africa. The feasibility of achieving genetic gain via heterotic pool establishment and divergence, and by extension the viability of hybrid cultivars in Sub-Saharan Africa, is supported by the results of our study.
How do anxiety and stress affect soccer referees? An ERPs study
Authors: Zhang Li , Shi Haonan , Zhang Hongfei , Ding Jianlan , Wang Zilong
Published: June 2024

The decision-making of soccer referees is one of the typical forms influenced by factors such as environmental pressure and individual emotions. While previous studies have explored how common factors like personal anxiety and on-field pressure affect the decisions of soccer referees, the mechanisms by which anxiety influences decision-making under pressure remain unclear. This study developed a penalty task based on real soccer match scenarios and recruited 76 experienced soccer referees. These referees were divided into two groups, high anxiety and low anxiety, based on their anxiety levels, to perform decision-making tasks under different pressure environments simulated to mimic real matches. Additionally, this research employed Event-Related Potential (ERP) technology to compare the brain signals of soccer referees with different levels of anxiety when facing foul play under various pressure environments. It was found that referees with high levels of anxiety displayed larger P300 and N400 amplitudes in a low-pressure environment (p = 0.0059, t = 2.9437). However, no significant differences in P300 and N400 amplitudes were observed between referees with high and low levels of anxiety under high-pressure conditions (p = 0.1890, t = 1.3411). This study not only reveals the complex mechanisms of anxiety in the decision-making process of referees but also emphasizes the importance of understanding and managing the psychological state of referees in competitive sports to improve the quality of their decisions. Our findings provide an empirical basis for future efforts to mitigate the impact of anxiety and optimize the decision-making process in similar high-pressure environments.
Associations between alcohol use and outcome of psychological treatment in specialist psychiatric care – a cohort study
Authors: Lundkvist Jan Erik , Georgsson Katarina , Carlbring Per , Johansson Robert , Ljungberg Tomas , Wallhed Finn Sara , Anderbro Therese
Published: June 2024

Background

Alcohol-related issues are widespread worldwide and are fairly substantial. Numerous studies have identified and clarified the effects and prevalence of alcohol use across different contexts. However, when it comes to the prevalence of alcohol in psychiatry and its impact on treatment outcomes compared to other patient groups, studies are relatively scarce, and results often vary, sometimes with different outcomes. This study focuses on investigating the effectiveness of psychological treatment in psychiatric clinics for outpatients, considering those with and without hazardous alcohol use under naturalistic conditions.

Methods

Patients were recruited between 2012 and 2016 from psychiatric clinics in Sormland, Sweden, as part of the regular services. Patients completed symptom assessment instruments regarding depression, anxiety, quality-of-life, and alcohol consumption at the beginning of their psychological treatment, upon completion, and during a follow-up 1 year after completion. Completion of questionnaires was ongoing for some patients until 2021. A total of 324 patients were included in the study, distributed among 59 participating therapists.

Results

Among all patients in the study, 30.2% showed hazardous alcohol use at the start of their psychological treatment, with a higher proportion being men. There was a significant reduction in the proportion of patients with hazardous use and a notable decrease in the mean audit score upon completion of psychological treatment. At follow-up, there was no significant change compared to completion. There were 31.2% of the patients who achieved recovery or improvement in the audit score upon completion of treatment. Patients with hazardous alcohol use consistently scored higher mean values on the symptom assessment instruments and lower on the quality-of-life instrument at the beginning. More individuals with hazardous alcohol use typically achieved better results across all outcome instruments at both at completion and follow-up.

Conclusion

Patients with hazardous alcohol use demonstrate significant improvements in their alcohol consumption through standard psychological treatment in psychiatry, despite the treatment not specifically focusing on alcohol consumption. The progress/improvement appears to be largely maintained at follow-up. Moreover, patients with hazardous alcohol use tend to show greater progress across all outcome instruments. No significant gender differences were detected in this context.
A cross-sectional study of predictive factors of health literacy among rheumatoid arthritis patients in China
Authors: Liu Ting , Meng Weifen , Wang Wenlong , Sun Guomin , Chen Xi , Lu Yan , Qin Weiping , Wang Yan , Zhang Lu , Zheng SuHua
Published: June 2024

Objective

To investigate the factors that influence health literacy (HL) among Chinese patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and furnish theoretical underpinnings for the development of intervention strategies aimed at enhancing patients’ quality of life.

Methods

From May 2022 to December 2022, a comprehensive survey was conducted among both outpatients and inpatients diagnosed with (RA) in a tertiary hospital in China. The survey utilized various instruments, including a general information questionnaire, a chronic disease patient health literacy scale, the Health Assessment Questionnaire-Disability Index (HAQ-DI), the Chinese-translated Rheumatoid Arthritis Self-Efficacy Scale, the Chinese-translated Rheumatoid Arthritis Stigma Scale, and the Chinese-translated Compliance Questionnaire for Rheumatology Treatments.

Results

The average scores of HL, self-efficacy, medication adherence, and disability index were 83.54 ± 17.43, 84.91 ± 14.37, 70.16 ± 11.24, and 0.26 ± 0.44, respectively. HL in Chinese RA patients was negatively correlated with age, erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR), number of tender joints, number of swollen joints, and disease activity, while positively correlated with self-efficacy and medication adherence. Age, disease activity, disability index, self-efficacy, and medication adherence are predictive factors of HL, and a predictive model has been initially constructed.

Conclusion

In the management of RA, healthcare professionals should develop and implement effective intervention measures by focusing on improving medication adherence, enhancing patients’ self-efficacy, improving patients’ physical function, and reducing disease activity. This will help enhance the health literacy and promote clinical outcomes in RA patients.
Relationship between serum inflammatory cytokines and suicide risk in patients with major depressive disorder
Authors: Yang Yiyue , Gu Kaiqi , Li Jing
Published: June 2024

Background

Studies have shown that increased inflammatory cytokines are associated with suicide risk, but the relationship between suicide risk and inflammatory cytokines is not clear. This study aimed to investigate the relationship between specific inflammatory markers and suicide risk in patients with MDD.

Methods

This is a cross-sectional study. Firstly, we measured and compared psychological characteristics and 10 peripheral inflammatory cytokines in 130 MDD patients and 130 healthy controls(HC). Secondly, MDD patients were divided into 4 groups according to the severity of suicide risk for comparison between groups. Finally, multiple linear regression analysis was used to explore the predictors of suicide risk.

Results

We found that the group with higher suicide risk had higher levels of IL-6, CRP, TNF-α, CXCL-2, and IFN-γ, and lower levels of IL-2 and IL-8 (all p<0.01). However, we found no difference in CRP between MIS and LS groups (p=0.337). Regression models were well-fitted. IL-2,IL-8 negatively predicted suicide risk (all p<0.05),IL-6,CRP,TNF-α,CXCL-2, and IFN-γ can positively predict the risk of suicide (all p<0.05).

Limitations

This study employed a self-assessment scale.

Conclusions

The higher the levels of IL-6, CRP, TNF-α, CXCL-2, and IFN-γ and the lower the levels of IL-2 and IL-8 of MDD patients, the higher the risk of suicide.
Case Report: Epithelioid angiosarcoma of the pleura
Authors: Dörr-Jerat Niels Michael , May Claus , Knolle Jürgen , Schmidt Sylke , Krüger Marcus
Published: June 2024

Introduction

We present the case of a patient with recurrent bilateral hemothorax. After misdiagnosis despite several histological samples, a pleural manifestation of epithelioid angiosarcoma was diagnosed by further immunohistological staining. Based on this situation, we aim to sensitize the reader to this rare disease.

Main concerns and important clinical findings

A 73-year-old fully conscious woman presented with dyspnea for 3 days. She was in stable general condition, pain was denied, she had a history of cigarette smoking, she had no cardiopulmonary events, and she was not receiving any anticoagulation medication. Physical examination revealed decreased breath sounds on the left side, and her hemoglobin level was 7.0 mmol/L.

Primary diagnoses, interventions, and outcomes

The initial chest x-ray showed a left-sided effusion. Hemothorax was then diagnosed. Further investigation revealed no evidence of malignancy (CT, EBUS, cytology, etc.). VATS was performed, and biopsies of pleural lesions did not reveal congruent findings for the hemothorax. Due to recurrent bilateral hemothorax with the need for erythrocyte transfusion, the patient underwent several operations, including histological sampling, without evidence of malignancy. After further processing, an additional pathological report revealed an epithelioid angiosarcoma defined by massively proliferating epithelioid cells strongly positive for ERG and CD31 and negative for CD34. The neoplastic cells coexpressed D2-40 (podoplanin). Finally, due to multiple cerebral metastases, palliative therapy was indicated.

Conclusion

Physicians and pathologists treating spontaneous hemothorax need to have broad knowledge of the possible, sometimes rare, etiologies. If the clinical course and intraoperative findings do not agree with the histopathological results, this finding must be questioned, and further immunohistochemical staining is mandatory. Thus, in the case of recurrent hemothorax, angiosarcoma of the pleura should also be considered for differential diagnosis.
Dependency of Long-Term Soil Quality Controls on Summer Fallow Tillage and Soil Layers for Dryland Winter Wheat in Loess Plateau
Authors: Li Hui , Dai Xinjun , Gao Zhiqiang
Published: June 2024

The capacity for winter wheat to produce sufficient yield may be influenced by soil tillage practices and soil quality. However, determining how to quantify the impact of long-term tillage on soil quality is crucial. Here, we address this issue by comparing soil properties and wheat yield under four tillage systems during summer fallow in the Loess Plateau. Twenty-two soil properties were explored to estimate soil quality. Results showed that a rotational tillage (PT/ST) during summer fallow decreased soil bulk density (ρb) and improved soil gravimetric water content (θg), soil organic carbon (SOC), soil capillary porosity (Pc), and total porosity (Pt) in 0–50 cm soil layers. A minimum dataset (MDS) of thirteen indicators was selected to calculate soil quality index (SQI). Treatment of PT/ST had higher SQI value in soil layers of 0–10 cm and 20–50 cm, and PT/ST showed a significant increase in yield since the third year. No tillage (NT) during summer fallow decreased soil physical and chemical indicators, thus decreasing soil quality. These findings suggest that a rotation tillage of PT/ST during summer fallow could enhance soil chemical and biological properties concurrently, and PT/ST may provide a promising management strategy to sustain soil quality and grain yield for dryland winter wheat in the Loess Plateau.
Metabolomic Insights into Primary and Secondary Metabolites Variation in Common and Glutinous Rice (Oryza sativa L.)
Authors: Zhao Mingchao , Huang Jingfen , Ren Junfang , Xiao Xiaorong , Li Yapeng , Zhai Linan , Yan Xiaowei , Yun Yong , Yang Qingwen , Tang Qingjie , Xing Funeng , Qiao Weihua
Published: June 2024

Abstract: Interest in glutinous rice consumption has been expanding in East Asia. However, the extent of metabolite variation between common and glutinous rice has not been fully explored to identify metabolic targets for rice quality improvement. Thus, the objective of this study was to provide insights into the variation of metabolites and nutraceuticals between common and glutinous rice. Two black rice (common rice, BL-N, and glutinous rice, BL-G) and two white rice (common rice, WH-N, and glutinous rice, WH-G) types were analysed via LC-MS-based widely targeted metabolic profiling. We identified 441 and 343 types, including 160 key overlapping differentially accumulated metabolites between BL-N_vs_BL-G and WH-N_vs_WH-G, respectively. Glutinous rice showed a higher relative content of most categories of metabolites, except for quinones (in BL-N) and tannins (in WH-N). Seven vitamins, including B6, B3, B5, B13, isonicotinic acid, N-(beta-D-glucosyl)nicotinate, and 4-pyridoxic acid-O-glucoside, were significantly up-regulated in BL-G compared to BL-N. The biosynthesis of cofactors, zeatin biosynthesis, citrate cycle, amino acid metabolism, alpha-linolenic acid metabolism, and glyoxylate and dicarboxylate metabolism was the most differentially regulated pathway. Key differential metabolites in citrate cycle include citrate, isocitrate, fumarate, malate, succinate, and 2-oxoglutarate; in amino acid metabolism (L-serine, L-cysteine, L-lysine, L-glutamine, L-methionine, and L-tryptophan); and in glycolysis (UDP-glucose, D-glucose-1P, D-glucose-6P, and D-fructose-6P). The data resources in this study may contribute to a better understanding of the function and nutritional value of glutinous rice.
Enhancement of Rhizoma Atractylodis Quality, Soil Nutrients, and Microbial Characters of Vermicompost Preparations from Spent Mushroom and Cow Dung
Authors: Sun Baoyi , Wang Shuqiang , Zhang Ying , Chen Bin , Li Pengcheng , Zhang Xianying , Wang Yonghuan , Zhao Mingyi , Zhang Yulan , Xie Hongtu
Published: June 2024

Organic fertilizers produced from agricultural waste materials using earthworms have many advantages. The impact of vermicompost bio-organic fertilizer (VcF) prepared from waste mushroom bran on the quality of Chinese herbal medicine and soil health deserves attention. We conducted a field experiment to explore the quality of Rhizoma atractylodis and soil, using chemical fertilizer and VcF at dosages of 30 t·ha−1 and 40 t·ha−1. The results demonstrated that VcF significantly increased the contents of atractylenolide II, β-eudesmol, atractylenol, and atractylenolone by 34%, 175%, 72%, and 24%, respectively, along with a 70% increase in yield compared to the control. VcF significantly increased the available phosphorus content and the activity of the soil enzymes (α-Galactosidase, β-Galactosidase, and peroxidase), while reducing the nitrate nitrogen content. The addition of vermicompost did not change the soil bacterial diversity, while it significantly increased the soil fungal diversity. VcF improved the soil fungal diversity and significantly enhanced the relative abundance of the bacterial phylum Actinobacteriota and WPS-2, as well as the fungal phylum Ascomycota. Vermicompost significantly increased the relative abundance of bacteria phylum Actinobacteriota and WPS-2, as well as the fungi phylum Ascomycota. Actinobacteria mainly participate in the decomposition of detritus and the heterotrophic nutrient cycle. A Principal Coordinates Analysis of the soil bacterial and fungi communities suggested a significant impact of vermicompost application on the community structure of the soil bacteria. Conversely, no significant variance was detected in the bacterial community composition across the two levels of vermicompost. This study contributes to the enhancement of fertilization strategies for Atractylodes macrocephala, broadens the application scope of vermicompost, and advances the growth of organic agriculture.
Concurrent Response of Greenhouse Soil NO3− Concentration and N2O Emissions to Nitrogen and Irrigation Management in China: A Meta-Analysis
Authors: Wang Guiliang , Xu Haojie , Huang Kaiyuan , Wang Jinchuang , Zhao Haitao , Qian Xiaoqing , Wang Juanjuan
Published: June 2024

The soil NO3− concentration and N2O emissions plays a crucial role in mitigating greenhouse gas emissions and minimizing greenhouse soil degradation concurrently. However, it is essential to understand the extent to which management practices and environmental factors influence the reduction in NO3− concentration and N2O emissions in greenhouse soils. Here, we conducted a meta-analysis, compiling a database of NO3− concentration and N2O emissions in response to either nitrogen or irrigation management in greenhouse vegetable-based systems in China. In summary, controlling the amount of total nitrogen application and irrigation water within specific ranges can effectively reduce both the greenhouse NO3− concentration and N2O emissions. Compared to chemical nitrogen management, the application of slow-release fertilizer could concurrently reduce the soil NO3− concentration and N2O emissions by 0.20 and 0.36 times, respectively. Positive relationships were observed between soil NO3− concentration and N2O emissions under conditions of higher soil organic carbon (OC), total nitrogen (TN), alkali-hydrolyzed nitrogen (AN), and pH, as well as a lower soil temperature (ST) and bulk weight (BW). Under conditions with a higher OC and pH, an appropriate nitrogen application rate is more effective in reducing N2O emissions. While increasing irrigation can reduce soil NO3− concentrations, it also raises the risk of significant NO3− leaching. Overall, nitrogen and irrigation management should be tailored to local soil physicochemical properties to concurrently regulate soil NO3− concentrations and N2O emissions in greenhouse environments.
Changes in Rhizosphere and Bulk Soil Microbial Communities of Tableland Tea Garden and Ancient Tea Plantation in Southwest China
Authors: Yang Xiongwei , Huang Xiaoxia , Hu Xing , Cheng Xiaomao , Luo Yigui
Published: June 2024

Tea (Camellia sinensis L.), an important economic crop in China, is highly favored by the population. Microorganisms can help plants acquire soil nutrients and cope with various stresses, and the diversity and structural composition of the rhizosphere microbial community of tea plants are crucial for ensuring the growth and quality of tea leaves. Therefore, we studied the differences in soil nutrients, enzyme activities and microbial communities between two different tea gardens (a tableland tea garden and an ancient tea plantation) in different ecological niches (rhizosphere and bulk soil), as well as the impacts they experienced. The results show that the soil pH levels in the ancient tea plantation were within the optimal range (4.5–5.5), and both rhizosphere and bulk soil nutrients in the ancient tea plantation were higher than those in the tableland tea garden, except for TP; the nutrients in the rhizospheres of ancient tea trees were more abundant. Moreover, higher enzyme activities were observed in the rhizosphere soil than those in the bulk soil in both tea gardens, and both the tableland and ancient tea garden soils were subjected to a certain degree of C&N limitations. The microbial communities of the two tea gardens were dominated by bacteria, but the α-diversity of the bacterial and fungal communities in the rhizosphere soil of the tableland tea garden was higher than that in the ancient tea plantation. The bacterial communities were largely dominated by Proteobacteria and Acidobacteriota, and the fungal communities were largely dominated by Ascomycota and Basidiomycota in the two tea gardens. The structure and composition of soil bacterial communities in the two tea gardens were similar, whereas significant differences were observed in the fungal communities. In addition, soil pH and SWC were the key factors influencing the fungal community in both the rhizosphere and bulk soil in the two tea gardens, whereas the bacterial community was more significantly affected by soil TN, NH4+-N, SWC and DON. These findings provide essential foundational information for the preservation of ancient tea plantations, the ecological adaptability of ancient tea trees and the management of tableland tea gardens.
Potential of Thermal and RGB Imaging Combined with Artificial Neural Networks for Assessing Salt Tolerance of Wheat Genotypes Grown in Real-Field Conditions
Authors: El-Hendawy Salah , Tahir Muhammad Usman , Al-Suhaibani Nasser , Elsayed Salah , Elsherbiny Osama , Elsharawy Hany
Published: June 2024

Developing new bread wheat varieties that can be successfully grown in saline conditions has become a pressing task for plant breeders. High-throughput phenotyping tools are crucial for this task. Proximal remote sensing is gaining popularity in breeding programs as a quick, cost-effective, and non-invasive tool to assess canopy structure and physiological traits in large genetic pools. Limited research has been conducted on the effectiveness of combining RGB and thermal imaging to assess the salt tolerance of different wheat genotypes. This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of combining several indices derived from thermal infrared and RGB images with artificial neural networks (ANNs) for assessing relative water content (RWC), chlorophyll a (Chla), chlorophyll b (Chlb), total chlorophyll (Chlt), and plant dry weight (PDW) of 18 recombinant inbred lines (RILs) and their 3 parents irrigated with saline water (150 mM NaCl). The results showed significant differences in various traits and indices among the tested genotypes. The normalized relative canopy temperature (NRCT) index exhibited strong correlations with RWC, Chla, Chlb, Chlt, and PDW, with R2 values ranging from 0.50 to 0.73, 0.53 to 0.76, 0.68 to 0.84, 0.68 to 0.84, and 0.52 to 0.76, respectively. Additionally, there was a strong relationship between several RGB indices and measured traits, with the highest R2 values reaching up to 0.70. The visible atmospherically resistant index (VARI), a popular index derived from RGB imaging, showed significant correlations with NRCT, RWC, Chla, Chlb, Chlt, and PDW, with R2 values ranging from 0.49 to 0.62 across two seasons. The different ANNs models demonstrated high predictive accuracy for NRCT and other measured traits, with R2 values ranging from 0.62 to 0.90 in the training dataset and from 0.46 to 0.68 in the cross-validation dataset. Thus, our study shows that integrating high-throughput digital image tools with ANN models can efficiently and non-invasively assess the salt tolerance of a large number of wheat genotypes in breeding programs.
Effects of Using Thermocomposted Frass from Black Soldier Fly Larvae as a Germination Substrate on the Phytotoxicity, Germination Index, Growth and Antioxidant Contents in Kale (Brassica oleracea)
Authors: González-Lara Hugo , Parra-Pacheco Benito , Aguirre-Becerra Humberto , Feregrino-Perez Ana A. , Garcia-Trejo Juan Fernando
Published: June 2024

Frass generated during the production of black soldier fly larvae is attracting the interest of scientists and horticultural producers because it is a material made from the biotransformation of organic waste, it contains several nutrients that can be used by plants, and it has a biostimulant capacity that has become a recent focus. Thermal composting is a stabilization process that improves the physical and chemical properties of treated wastes, allowing better performance in plants compared to the waste in its fresh state. In this research, thermocomposted frass was evaluated as a germination substrate for kale seeds (Brassica oleracea). To achieve this, the phytotoxicity of increasing concentrations of frass was evaluated by examining the germination of kale seeds, and seedlings were grown for 30 days in germination substrates mixed with 20, 40, 60, 80, and 100% frass under greenhouse conditions. The treatment with 20% frass showed the highest values of seedling height, stem diameter, number of leaves, length and width of the first true leaf and length and width of cotyledons, and reduced the contents of phenols, tannins and antioxidants. However, the content of flavonoids increased compared to the control and the rest of the mixtures.
Influencing Factors and Prediction Models of Mercury Phytoavailability and Transference in a Soil–Lettuce System under Chinese Agricultural Soils
Authors: Ullah Subhan , Hussain Sajjad , Noor Yousaf , Khanam Tasawar , Xia Xing , Darma Aminu Inuwa , Feng Ya , Yang Jianjun
Published: June 2024

Mercury (Hg) is a highly toxic contaminant posing serious ecological and human health risks. This study investigates the Hg transfer characteristics and prediction models in a soil–lettuce system, employing bioconcentration factors (BCF), path analysis (PA), and Freundlich-type functions. A pot experiment was conducted in a greenhouse, where lettuce was grown in a range of Chinese agricultural soils (n = 21) and deliberately spiked with Hg using Hg(NO3)2 solution. The results indicated that lettuce grown in Hg-spiked acidic soils (pH < 6.5) accumulated total Hg (THg) levels up to 14.01 µg kg−1, surpassing the safe consumption limit of 10 µg kg−1. The BCF for lettuce THg was less than 1.0, suggesting a low transfer of Hg from soil to lettuce. Notably, BCF values were significantly higher in acidic soils (0.02) compared to alkaline soils (0.005). Path analysis accounted for 82% of the variation in lettuce THg content, identifying soil THg, pH, and amorphous (Amo) Al and Fe oxides as primary direct factors. Additionally, soil-available Hg (AvHg), exchangeable Hg (ExHg), clay, and organic matter (OM) were significant indirect factors affecting lettuce THg content. To validate the findings of the path analysis, an extended Freundlich-type equation was developed using stepwise multiple linear regression (SMLR). This model exhibited high predictive accuracy (R2 = 0.82, p ≤ 0.001), with soil pH, THg, and amorphous Al and Fe oxides being the key variables for predicting Hg transfer in the soil–lettuce system. The insights from this study can guide the management of safe lettuce production in Hg-contaminated soils, ensuring the mitigation of Hg exposure through agricultural produce.
Initial Evaluation of the Entomopathogenic Fungi Beauveria bassiana and Metarhizium robertsii, and the Entomopathogenic Nematode Heterorhabditis bacteriophora, Individually and in Combination against the Noxious Helicoverpa armigera (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae)
Authors: Alwaneen Waleed S. , Tahir Muhammad , Avery Pasco B. , Wakil Waqas , Kavallieratos Nickolas G. , Eleftheriadou Nikoleta , Boukouvala Maria C. , Rasool Khawaja G. , Husain Mureed , Aldawood Abdulrahman S.
Published: June 2024

The Old-World bollworm, Helicoverpa armigera (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae), is a significant threat to crops worldwide and has become resistant to traditional synthetic insecticides. The present study investigated the pathogenicity of the entomopathogenic fungi (EPF) Metarhizium robertsii (Hypocreales: Clavicipitaceae) strain WG-04 or Beauveria bassiana (Hypocreales: Cordycipitaceae) strain WG-10, and an entomopathogenic nematode (EPN) species Heterorhabditis bacteriophora against the second and fourth instar larvae of H. armigera. Both fungal species and H. bacteriophora were evaluated, singly or in combination. After 24 and 48 h post-application of the fungal spores (106 spores/mL), H. bacteriophora was introduced at a rate of 50 infective juveniles/mL, and mortality was observed at 3-, 5-, and 7-days post-treatment. Adult emergence, egg hatching, and percentage pupation were recorded. The integration of both types of biocontrol agents exhibited additive and synergistic interactions in larval stages, and enhanced mortality was recorded when EPF was used in combination with the nematodes. In the individual application of all three biocontrol agents alone, the order of efficacy was H. bacteriophora > B. bassiana > M. robertsii; however, in joint treatments, the increase in mortality and decrease in percentage egg hatching, pupation, and adult emergence was determined to be directly linked to the exposure period of the H. bacteriophora. The results of this study suggest that combining H. bacteriophora with EPF could provide a solid foundation for an economically viable method for managing H. armigera larvae in chickpea fields.
Improving High Light Tolerance of Tobacco Plants: Adequate Magnesium Supply Enhances Photosynthetic Performance
Authors: Xie Rongrong , Gao Jingjuan , Yang Zongfeng , Wang Yuemin , Tong Liangyuan , Ke Yuqin , Li Chunjian , Zheng Chaoyuan , Li Wenqing
Published: June 2024

High light (HL) significantly impacts plant photosynthesis. This study investigated the effects of different magnesium (Mg) levels (0, 1, 2, and 5 mol Mg plant−1; HMg0, HMg1, HMg2, and HMg5) on tobacco (Nicotiana tabacum L. cv. Cuibi No. 1) under HL (1500 μmol m−2 s−1), aiming to understand the role of Mg in mitigating the impact of HL on photosynthesis and carbon–nitrogen metabolism. Plants treated with 1 mol Mg plant−1 under 750 μmol m−2 s−1 light conditions served as the control. HL led to a reduced chlorophyll (Chl) content and inhibited the maximum photosynthetic rate (Pmax). It also decreased energy involved in photosynthetic electron transfer (ET) and electron flux to reduction end-electron acceptors at the photosystems I (PSI) acceptor side (RE) and caused photosynthetic system damage. H2O2 accumulation exacerbated membrane lipid peroxidation damage, disrupting carbon and nitrogen metabolism, and inducing antioxidant enzyme activity. HMg2 increased Chl content, stomatal conductance, intercellular CO2 concentration, and the net photosynthetic rate compared to HMg0. It enhanced ET efficiency, PSI and PSII functionality, reduced dissipated energy flux (DI), and minimized photosynthesis damage. Conversely, excessive Mg application (HMg5) decreased Pmax and PSII activity, increasing DI. Adequate Mg supply alleviated HL’s detrimental effects by enhancing Chl content and ET and RE efficiency.
Survey of Potato Growers’ Perception of Climate Change and Its Impacts on Potato Production in Germany, Switzerland, and Austria
Authors: Bomers Svenja , Ribarits Alexandra , Kamptner Anita , Tripolt Tanja , von Gehren Philipp , Prat Noémie , Söllinger Josef
Published: June 2024

Among climate-change related effects, drought, heat, and waterlogging are the most important adversely affecting the production of potatoes in Europe. As climate change progresses, agricultural practices must adapt to maintain potato yields. This study is based on a European-wide survey. It presents potato growers’ perception of climate change, its impact, and possible adaptation strategies, focusing on the results from Germany, Switzerland, and Austria. Potato growers strongly agreed that climate change had affected their potato production in the last ten years, as indicated by 98% of German and more than 90% of Swiss and Austrian respondents. Drought caused the most severe impact, and to varying extents damage was caused by heat and the occurrence of pests and pathogens. The most preferred adaptation measure was the planting of adapted varieties. In line with the comparably low access to at least partial irrigation that Austrian potato growers reported, Austria appeared to be the country most affected by drought. Other more pronounced challenges were late spring frost, flash floods, and soil erosion. The study highlights and discusses specific differences between the countries, as well as between conventional and organic potato production based on the Austrian responses. The results underline that to successfully develop effective climate change mitigation strategies, country-specific and local challenges and needs should be considered.
Pain Relief Interventions in Australian Livestock Husbandry: A Review of Animal Welfare and Pain Duration
Authors: Metcalf Lee , Lomax Sabrina , Van der Saag Dominique , Garg Sanjay , White Peter J.
Published: June 2024

In veterinary medicine and livestock production, ensuring good animal husbandry is vital for the physical and emotional wellbeing of animals under our care. Pain poses challenges for assessment and mitigation, especially in species unable to express pain overtly. This review examines current pain mitigation interventions in routine husbandry, focuses on the duration of pain after procedures and implications for animal welfare. Pain behaviours have been observed for days or weeks after regular husbandry procedures, and many studies have noted pain-related behaviour persisting until study finalisation, suggesting potential undocumented pain beyond study completion. Current products registered in Australia for pain mitigation in livestock primarily target immediate pain associated with procedures. The future of pain relief in livestock demands longer-acting solutions to address post-procedural pain adequately. Providing pain relief for at least 72 h post surgery is recommended, but current products require retreatment intervals to achieve this, posing practical challenges, especially in livestock. Methods of pain relief provision, such as voluntary consumption of medicated feed, transdermal medication delivery and long-acting formulations offer potential solutions for prolonged pain relief, with research ongoing in these areas. There is a need for further research and development of longer-acting pain relief to ensure optimal welfare of livestock.
Effect on Feeding Behaviour and Growing of Being a Dominant or Subordinate Growing Pig and Its Relationship with the Faecal Microbiota
Authors: Ochoteco-Asensio Juan , Zigovski Gustavo , Batista Costa Leandro , Rio-López Raquel , Clavell-Sansalvador Adrià , Ramayo-Caldas Yuliaxis , Dalmau Antoni
Published: June 2024

Pigs are a social species, and they establish hierarchies for better use of resources and to reduce conflicts. However, in pig production, the opportunities for growth can differ between dominant and subordinate animals. In the present study, a system was tested to perform a dominant versus subordinate test in growing pigs to investigate how the hierarchy affects feeding behaviour, growth, and gut microbiota assessed in faeces. Sixty-four animals housed in eight different pens were used, with four castrated males and four females in each one, weighing 18 kg at arrival and maintained during the whole growing period, until 140 kg. Three stool samples were obtained from the animals directly from the anus to avoid contamination of the faeces 58, 100, and 133 days after the start of the study to investigate the microbiota composition. The dominant animals had higher gains during the growing period than the subordinates. In addition, they were performing more visits to the feeder throughout the day. Differential abundance patterns were observed in five bacterial genera, with Oliverpabstia, Peptococcus, and Faecalbacterium being more abundant in dominant animals and Holdemanella and Acetitomaculum being overrepresented in subordinate ones. This microbial biomarker accurately classified dominant versus subordinate groups of samples with an AUC of 0.92.
Evaluating the Energy Efficiency of Combining Heat Pumps and Photovoltaic Panels in Eco-Friendly Housing
Authors: Rabczak Sławomir , Mateichyk Vasyl , Smieszek Miroslaw , Nowak Krzysztof , Kolomiiets Serhii
Published: June 2024

This article aims to analyze the energy efficiency of combining heat pumps with photovoltaic (PV) panels in energy-efficient homes. The research methodology involved a detailed energy balance analysis, assessment of the impact of mechanical ventilation, location, heat loss, and the choice and operation of heat sources, with a particular focus on heat pumps in synergy with PV installations. The results demonstrate that integrating heat pumps with PV panels can significantly reduce the demand for external energy sources and lower the operating costs of buildings, while contributing to their energy self-sufficiency. This study highlights that such a combination of technologies is key to promoting sustainable development and achieving energy efficiency goals in the residential sector. The results of this analysis expand knowledge about the effectiveness of such systems and provide practical recommendations for designers and engineers interested in implementing renewable energy technologies in modern energy-efficient buildings, taking into account the impact of these solutions on reducing CO2 emissions as well.