Publikationsfonds der Universität Hohenheim

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Über den Publikationsfonds der Universität Hohenheim erhalten Wissenschaftlerinnen und Wissenschaftler der Universität finanzielle Unterstützung bei der Veröffentlichung ihrer Forschungsergebnisse im Open Access. Gefördert werden Zeitschriftenartikel in Fully-Open-Access-Zeitschriften (Gold-OA) und hybriden Subskriptionszeitschriften (Hybrid-OA) sowie Monografien. Autorinnen und Autoren können online einen Förderantrag zur Finanzierungsbeteiligung ihrer Publikation stellen.

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Teacher well-being — a conceptual systematic review (2020–2023)
(2025) Kurrle, Laura Maria; Warwas, Julia; Kaiser, Till; Reintjes, Christian
Teacher well-being (TWB) is increasingly recognized as being influential on educational outcomes, teacher retention, and overall school performance. However, despite a growing body of empirical research, TWB remains conceptually ambiguous, with multiple, often conflicting definitions and models, which hinders the comparability of findings. The essential question ( What are the conceptual models of TWB that form the basis of studies? ) is answered with a Conceptual Systematic Review (CSR), analyzing 168 recent publications, to synthesize the usage and frequency of TWB-related terms. The CSR identifies three perspectives—Conditions, Components, and Outcomes—each comprising multiple categories and subcategories that often show overlaps or inconsistencies. Our review reveals that within a widely shared notion of TWB as a psychological construct with positive cognitive and affective connotations, certain sets of factors, in particular individual factors such as beliefs/evaluations and emotions/affect, are proposed as conditions in some studies and as components in other studies. These results call for clearer distinctions between TWB’s constitutive elements and its (hypothetically) determining elements. By offering a systematic framework for understanding and sorting research on TWB, the reported review provides a foundation for future studies. Ultimately, a precise conceptualization could inform future interventions and policies aiming to foster TWB.
A sensitive bioassay to measure NOD1/2 ligands in human serum reveals differential postprandial NOD2 activation
(2025) Biber, Lucy; Schart, Nadine; Bosy-Westphal, Anja; Kufer, Thomas A.; Biber, Lucy; Department of Immunology, Institute of Nutritional Medicine, University of Hohenheim, Stuttgart, Germany; Schart, Nadine; Department of Immunology, Institute of Nutritional Medicine, University of Hohenheim, Stuttgart, Germany; Bosy-Westphal, Anja; Institute of Human Nutrition and Food Science, Kiel University, Kiel, Germany; Kufer, Thomas A.; Department of Immunology, Institute of Nutritional Medicine, University of Hohenheim, Stuttgart, Germany
Food intake is associated with the occurrence of components and metabolites from the gut microbiota in the bloodstream. Using a widely utilised cell-based assay to measure bacterial peptidoglycan via pattern-recognition receptor activation, we found that the performance of this assay is significantly influenced by the presence of other serum components. To address this challenge, an alternative luciferase-based reporter assay protocol was established to accurately measure NOD1 and NOD2 activation by serum samples with high sensitivity. Utilising postprandial human serum samples, we tested this assay and showed that the concentration of NOD2-activating ligands differed in the postprandial phase. Together, we provide a protocol to measure NOD1/2 activation by human serum samples and highlight a role for NOD2 in the postprandial response.
Dependence of the abundance of reed glass-winged cicadas (Pentastiridius leporinus (Linnaeus, 1761)) on weather and climate in the Upper Rhine Valley, Southwest Germany
(2025) Kakarla, Sai Kiran; Schall, Eric; Dettweiler, Anna; Stohl, Jana; Glaser, Elisabeth; Adam, Hannah; Teubler, Franziska; Ingwersen, Joachim; Sauer, Tilmann; Piepho, Hans-Peter; Lang, Christian; Streck, Thilo; Kakarla, Sai Kiran; Department of Biogeophysics, Institute of Soil Science and Land Evaluation, University of Hohenheim, 70599 Stuttgart, Germany; Schall, Eric; Association of Hessian-Palatinate Sugar Beet Growers e.V., Rathenaustraße 10, 67547 Worms, Germany; Dettweiler, Anna; Association of Hessian-Palatinate Sugar Beet Growers e.V., Rathenaustraße 10, 67547 Worms, Germany; Stohl, Jana; Association of Hessian-Palatinate Sugar Beet Growers e.V., Rathenaustraße 10, 67547 Worms, Germany; Glaser, Elisabeth; Association of Hessian-Palatinate Sugar Beet Growers e.V., Rathenaustraße 10, 67547 Worms, Germany; Adam, Hannah; Association of Hessian-Palatinate Sugar Beet Growers e.V., Rathenaustraße 10, 67547 Worms, Germany; Teubler, Franziska; Center of Excellence for Climate Change Impacts, Research Institute of Forest Ecology and Forestry Rhineland-Palatinate, 67705 Trippstadt, Germany; Ingwersen, Joachim; Department of Biogeophysics, Institute of Soil Science and Land Evaluation, University of Hohenheim, 70599 Stuttgart, Germany; Sauer, Tilmann; Center of Excellence for Climate Change Impacts, Research Institute of Forest Ecology and Forestry Rhineland-Palatinate, 67705 Trippstadt, Germany; Piepho, Hans-Peter; Department of Biogeophysics, Institute of Soil Science and Land Evaluation, University of Hohenheim, 70599 Stuttgart, Germany; Lang, Christian; Association of Hessian-Palatinate Sugar Beet Growers e.V., Rathenaustraße 10, 67547 Worms, Germany; Streck, Thilo; Department of Biogeophysics, Institute of Soil Science and Land Evaluation, University of Hohenheim, 70599 Stuttgart, Germany; Guo, Jianying
The planthopper Pentastiridius leporinus , commonly called reed glass-winged cicada, transmits the pathogens “ Candidatus Arsenophonus phytopathogenicus” and “ Candidatus Phytoplasma solani”, which are infesting sugar beet and, most recently, also potato in the Upper Rhine valley area of Germany. They cause the “Syndrome Basses Richesses” associated with reduced yield and sugar content in sugar beet, leading to substantial monetary losses to farmers in the region. No effective solutions exist currently. This study uses statistical models to understand to what extent the abundance of cicadas depends on climate regions during the vegetation period (April–October). We further investigated what influence temperature and precipitation have on the abundance of the cicadas in sugar beet fields. Furthermore, we investigated the possible impacts of future climate on cicada abundance. Also, 22 °C and 8 mm/day were found to be the optimal temperature and precipitation conditions for peak male cicada flight activity, while 28 °C and 8 mm/day were the optimum for females. By the end of the 21st century, daily male cicada abundance is projected to increase significantly under the worst-case high greenhouse gas emission scenario RCP8.5 (RCP-Representative Concentration Pathways), with confidence intervals suggesting a possible 5–15-fold increase compared to current levels. In contrast, under the low-emission scenario RCP2.6, male cicada populations are projected to be 60–70% lower than RCP8.5. An understanding of the influence of changing temperature and precipitation conditions is crucial for predicting the spread of this pest to different regions of Germany and other European countries.
Genotypic responses to combined effects of VPD and salinity in hydroponically grown tomato and cucumber
(2025) Puppala, Hemanth Kumar; Germer, Jörn; Asch, Folkard; Puppala, Hemanth Kumar; Hans‐Ruthenberg‐Institute for Tropical Agricultural Sciences, Universität Hohenheim, Stuttgart, Germany; Germer, Jörn; Hans‐Ruthenberg‐Institute for Tropical Agricultural Sciences, Universität Hohenheim, Stuttgart, Germany; Asch, Folkard; Hans‐Ruthenberg‐Institute for Tropical Agricultural Sciences, Universität Hohenheim, Stuttgart, Germany
To reduce pressure on arable land and water resources, crops can be grown in controlled environments that allow one to recuperate water transpired by plants. This would reduce water demand and potentially allow the use of saline water. However, condensing atmospheric water affects the vapor pressure deficit (VPD), which will affect plant transpiration, nutrient transport, salt uptake, and ultimate growth. This study examined responses of two genotypes of tomato and cucumber during the vegetative phase to varying VPD levels (3.1 and 1.9 kPa) and NaCl concentrations (0 and 30 mM) grown in hydroponic solutions. Under higher VPD (3.1 kPa), transpiration significantly increased in both tomato and cucumber, driving higher water loss. In tomatoes, higher VPD (3.1 kPa) increased the total dry biomass of the Saluoso genotype from 4.3 to 7.1 g and of the Sweeterno genotype from 4.9 to 7.3 g. Root zone salinity diminished the differences in biomass induced by VPD, with little effect on biomass accumulation in both tomato genotypes. Root zone salinity consistently reduced dry weight in cucumber, lowering Addison's from 15.5 to 9.5 g and Proloog's from 13.5 to 10.0 g, regardless of VPD. Unlike tomato, cucumber did not respond to VPD and was more sensitive to salinity. These findings indicate that in hydroponic cultivation, particularly in protected environments, the possibility of producing clean water alongside crop production depends on species‐specific responses. In tomatoes, high VPD enhanced growth and demonstrated compatibility with the use of saline water, supporting the dual goal of productivity and water recovery. However, in cucumbers, the sensitivity to salinity and lack of response to VPD highlight the need for careful species selection and management to achieve sustainable water use and crop production.
A computer vision approach for quantifying leaf shape of maize (Zea mays L.) and simulating its impact on light interception
(2025) Otto, Dina; Munz, Sebastian; Memic, Emir; Hartung, Jens; Graeff-Hönninger, Simone; Otto, Dina; Institute of Crop Science, Agronomy Department, University of Hohenheim, Stuttgart, Germany; Munz, Sebastian; Institute of Crop Science, Agronomy Department, University of Hohenheim, Stuttgart, Germany; Memic, Emir; Institute of Crop Science, Agronomy Department, University of Hohenheim, Stuttgart, Germany; Hartung, Jens; Department Sustainable Agriculture and Energy Systems, University of Applied Science, Freising, Germany; Graeff-Hönninger, Simone; Institute of Crop Science, Agronomy Department, University of Hohenheim, Stuttgart, Germany
The precise determination of leaf shape is crucial for the quantification of morphological variations between individual leaf ranks and cultivars and simulating their impact on light interception in functional-structural plant models (FSPMs). Standard manual measurements on destructively collected leaves are time-intensive and prone to errors, particularly in maize ( Zea mays L.), which has large, undulating leaves that are difficult to flatten. To overcome these limitations, this study presents a new camera method developed as an image-based computer vision approach method for maize leaf shape analysis. A field experiment was conducted with seven commonly used silage maize cultivars at the experimental station Heidfeldhof, University of Hohenheim, Germany, in 2022. To determine the dimensions of fully developed leaves per rank and cultivar, three destructive measurements were conducted until flowering. The new camera method employs a GoPro Hero8 Black camera, integrated within an LI-3100C Area Meter, to capture high-resolution videos (1920 × 1080 pixels, 60 fps). A semi-automated software facilitates object detection, contour extraction, and leaf width determination, including calibration for accuracy. Validation was performed using pixel-counting and contrast analysis, comparing results against standard manual measurements to assess accuracy and reliability. Leaf width functions were fitted to quantify leaf shape parameters. Statistical analysis comparing cultivars and leaf ranks identified significant differences in leaf shape parameters (p < 0.01) for term alpha and term a . Simulations within a FSPM demonstrated that variations in leaf shape can alter light interception by up to 7%, emphasizing the need for precise parameterization in crop growth models. The new camera method provides a basis for future studies investigating rank-dependent leaf shape effects, which can offer an accurate representation of the canopy in FSPMs and improve agricultural decision-making.
Reduced body mass in a highly insectivorous mammal, the garden dormouse — ecological consequences of insect decline?
(2025) Erhardt, Stefanie; Förschler, Marc I.; Fietz, Joanna; Erhardt, Stefanie; Department of Zoology, Institute of Biology, University of Hohenheim, Stuttgart, Germany; Förschler, Marc I.; Department for Ecological Monitoring, Research and Species Protection, Black Forest National Park, Seebach, Germany; Fietz, Joanna; Department of Zoology, Institute of Biology, University of Hohenheim, Stuttgart, Germany
Biodiversity is decreasing worldwide, and early indicators are needed to identify endangered populations before they start to decline in abundance. In mammals, body mass (BM) is regarded as an indicator of fitness, and its loss is used as an early warning signal preceding population decline. The garden dormouse ( Eliomys quercinus , Gliridae, BM: 60–110 g) is a small mammalian hibernator that has disappeared from over 50% of its former range in the last decades. The aim of this study was to investigate whether garden dormice from a presumably thriving and stable population already show early warning signals, which may precede a population decline. We therefore conducted capture‐mark‐recapture studies during 2003–2005 (Period 1) and 2018–2021 (Period 2) in the Northern Black Forest, one of its last natural distribution areas in Germany. We collected fecal samples, measured BM, and tibia length as a proxy for size and age. Results revealed that in Period 2 adult dormice had a significantly lower (12%) pre‐hibernation BM, corrected for body size, and juveniles showed a significantly lower BM gain after weaning than nearly two decades ago. Fecal samples collected in Period 2 showed that arthropods represented the main food residues in fecal samples during juvenile growth and pre‐hibernation fattening. Ambient temperature during hibernation showed no correlation with BM at emergence. We could not detect a phenological time shift in reproduction; however, we found only one birth peak in Period 2, compared with two birth peaks in Period 1. Observed changes in BM and reproduction pattern represent early warning signals, as they point to an insufficient availability of high‐quality food, which prevents dormice from meeting their nutritional requirements, with potentially serious consequences for their reproductive success and survival. As arthropods are the dominant food resource, their decline may at least partly explain this phenomenon.
Stigmatisation of gambling disorder in social media: a tailored deep learning approach for YouTube comments
(2025) Singer, Johannes; Singer, Johannes; Gambling Research Center, University of Hohenheim, Schwerzstraße 44, 70599, Stuttgart, Germany
Background: The stigmatisation of gamblers, particularly those with a gambling disorder, and self-stigmatisation are considered substantial barriers to seeking help and treatment. To develop effective strategies to reduce the stigma associated with gambling disorder, it is essential to understand the prevailing stereotypes. This study examines the stigma surrounding gambling disorder in Germany, with a particular focus on user comments on the video platform YouTube. Methods: The study employed a deep learning approach, combining guided topic modelling and qualitative summative content analysis, to analyse comments on YouTube videos. Initially, 84,024 comments were collected from 34 videos. After review, two videos featuring a person who had overcome gambling addiction were selected. These videos received significant user engagement in the comment section. An extended stigma dictionary was created based on existing literature and embeddings from the collected data. Results: The results of the study indicate that there is substantial amount of stigmatisation of gambling disorder in the selected comments. Gamblers suffering from gambling disorder are blamed for their distress and accused of irresponsibility. Gambling disorder is seen as a consequence of moral failure. In addition to stigmatising statements, the comments suggest the interpretation that many users are unaware that addiction develops over a period of time and may require professional treatment. In particular, adolescents and young adults, a group with a high prevalence of gambling-related disorders and active engagement with social media, represent a key target for destigmatisation efforts. Conclusions: It is essential to address the stigmatisation of gambling disorder, particularly among younger populations, in order to develop effective strategies to support treatment and help-seeking. The use of social media offers a comprehensive platform for the dissemination of information and the reduction of the stigmatisation of gambling disorder, for example by strengthening certain models of addiction.
Tannic acid and ethacridine lactate attenuate markers of stress-induced intestinal barrier dysfunctions in murine small intestinal organoids
(2025) Filipe Rosa, Louisa; Gonda, Steffen; Roese, Nadine; Bischoff, Stephan C.; Filipe Rosa, Louisa; Institute of Nutritional Medicine, University of Hohenheim, Fruwirthstr. 12, 70599 Stuttgart, Germany;; Gonda, Steffen; MEDICE Arzneimittel Pütter GmbH & Co. KG, Kuhloweg 37, 58638 Iserlohn, Germany; Roese, Nadine; MEDICE Arzneimittel Pütter GmbH & Co. KG, Kuhloweg 37, 58638 Iserlohn, Germany; Bischoff, Stephan C.; Institute of Nutritional Medicine, University of Hohenheim, Fruwirthstr. 12, 70599 Stuttgart, Germany;; Kwok, Hang Fai (Henry); Alaimo, Alessandro
(1) Background: Tannacomp® is a drug consisting of tannin albuminate, a complex of tannic acid (TA) and ethacridine lactate (Eta) used for treating acute and traveler’s diarrhea. TA is thought to modulate gastrointestinal barrier function, but the underlying mechanisms and whether Eta has similar effects remains unclear. (2) Methods: to investigate the effects of TA and Eta on the intestinal barrier, stress responses were induced in murine intestinal organoids by lipopolysaccharide (LPS) exposure or withdrawal of growth factors from cell culture medium (GFRed). Further, organoids were exposed to either TA (0.01 mg/mL) or Eta (0.002 mg/mL) and markers of inflammatory response and gut barrier function were assessed. (3) Results: TA and Eta reduced several inflammatory markers such as interleukin 6, interleukin 1β, tumor necrosis factor α, and myeloid differentiation primary response 88 in stressed organoids. In addition, TA and Eta attenuated LPS- and GFRed-mediated gut barrier dysfunctions, with normalization of tight junction, adherent junction and mucin gene expression and reduction of Nod2- and matrix metalloproteinase 7-dependent activation of antimicrobial peptides. (4) Conclusions: our data show that TA and Eta modulate markers of inflammation and the intestinal barrier and suggest novel mechanisms of action of this drug that could broaden its treatment indications.
Impact of construction measures and heat emissions from the operation of underground power cables on spelt (Triticum spelta L.) growth and yield
(2025) Trenz, Jonas; Ingwersen, Joachim; Schade, Alexander; Memic, Emir; Hartung, Jens; Graeff-Hönninger, Simone
Germany decided to promote the energy supply toward low or zero-carbon sources by the middle of the century. Therefore, massive infrastructural investments in grid expansion are needed. These grid expansions will be conducted with 525 kV High-Voltage Direct Current (HVDC) cables, buried at a depth of 1.5 m, passing mainly through arable land. The expected main effects of these cables on soils and crops are caused by construction measures (soil excavation and backfilling of soil material) and soil warming caused by heat dissipation using HVDC. To date, the impact of subsoil warming on crop growth and yield has not been studied in detail. This study investigates the effects of construction measures and subsoil warming on a field scale level for a 2-yr data set (2022 and 2023) in South Germany. The intricate dynamics between construction measures and subsoil heating on spelt (Triticum spelta L.) growth and yield were analyzed in three treatments: 1) Heated Trench (HT), 2) Unheated Trench (UT), and 3) Control. Construction measures were conducted by excavating the soil with a triple lift method (separated into three layers: A-, B-, and C-layer), storing them separately in ground heaps, and backfilling according to their natural layering. The triple lift method resulted in a 12.1 % decrease in bulk density (BD) for UT and 8.9 % for HT in the subsoil compared to the Control. The changes in soil properties affected spelt growth and yield, resulting in a yield increase of 14 % for the UT treatment. Additional subsoil warming in the HT treatment increased the topsoil temperature by 1.2 °C and spelt yield by 24 %. The triple lift method showed promising results, minimizing the impacts on soil compaction and maintaining the spelt growth and yield level.
Mineral-ecological cropping systems mitigate biodiversity-productivity trade-offs of the organic vs. conventional farming dichotomy
(2024) Kasten, Marit Kinga; Witte, Felix; Sponagel, Christian; Bahrs, Enno; Köhler, Thomas; Morinière, Jérôme; Grass, Ingo; Kasten, Marit Kinga; Ecology of Tropical Agricultural Systems, University of Hohenheim, Garbenstrasse 13, Stuttgart, Germany; Witte, Felix; Department of Farm Management, University of Hohenheim, Schwerzstrasse 44, Stuttgart, Germany; Sponagel, Christian; Department of Farm Management, University of Hohenheim, Schwerzstrasse 44, Stuttgart, Germany; Bahrs, Enno; Department of Farm Management, University of Hohenheim, Schwerzstrasse 44, Stuttgart, Germany; Köhler, Thomas; Ecology of Tropical Agricultural Systems, University of Hohenheim, Garbenstrasse 13, Stuttgart, Germany; Morinière, Jérôme; AIM – Advanced Identification Methods GmbH, Niemeyerstr.1, Leipzig, Germany; Grass, Ingo; Ecology of Tropical Agricultural Systems, University of Hohenheim, Garbenstrasse 13, Stuttgart, Germany
Conventional agriculture significantly reduces biodiversity, while organic farming promotes it, but often yields half as much. Addressing this biodiversity-productivity trade-off is crucial for future agriculture. Mineral-ecological cropping systems (MECS) have been suggested as an alternative, blending organic and conventional methods by avoiding chemical-synthetic pesticides and using mineral fertilizers. In a German experiment with 168 parcels, we compared MECS, conventional, and organic systems in terms of ecological and economic performance. Arthropod diversity was measured through standardized species collections and DNA-metabarcoding. Productivity was assessed via yields and economic profits. MECS showed similar arthropod diversity to other farming systems, achieved 90% of conventional crop yields, and produced 1.8 times of the organic yield. Profits from MECS were on average 37% higher than the conventional system with a short wheat-maize-soy crop rotation. Further farm-level studies are needed, but MECS could be a reasonable alternative to both organic and conventional farming and can mitigate biodiversity-productivity trade-offs.
The daily relations between workplace anger, coping strategies, work outcomes, and workplace affiliation
(2025) Umbra, Robin; Fasbender, Ulrike
This study examines the daily relations among workplace anger, coping strategies, work outcomes, and employee dispositions using a conceptual framework based on affective events theory and cognitive perspectives on emotions. A sample of 214 full-time employees took part in a two-week study, contributing 1,611 daily observations through an experience sampling approach. Contrary to the assumption that workplace anger always detrimentally relates to work outcomes, the results showed a nonsignificant relation between workplace anger and workplace resource depletion, as well as a positive link between workplace anger and goal achievement. These relations were dependent on the coping strategies used by employees in response to anger-inducing situations, as well as their attitudes toward workplace affiliation. These findings suggest the need to expand affective events theory to include coping strategies as a mediator between affective responses and work outcomes. They also highlight the importance of integrating employee-level factors into organizational research models.
Enhanced crop diversity but not smaller field size benefit bats in agricultural landscapes
(2025) Hiller, Thomas; Gall, Friederike; Grass, Ingo; Hiller, Thomas; Ecology of Tropical Agricultural Systems, University of Hohenheim, Stuttgart, Germany; Gall, Friederike; Ecology of Tropical Agricultural Systems, University of Hohenheim, Stuttgart, Germany; Grass, Ingo; Ecology of Tropical Agricultural Systems, University of Hohenheim, Stuttgart, Germany
Context: Farmland biodiversity continues to decline due to the expansion and intensification of agriculture. Historically, efforts to conserve farmland biodiversity have focused on conserving habitats outside agricultural production areas. More recently, attention has turned to the conservation potential of the cropland matrix, where reducing field size and increasing crop diversity to promote crop heterogeneity can significantly benefit farmland biodiversity. Bats are one group of farmland species that have experienced dramatic declines over recent decades. Objectives: Here we investigated the effects of crop heterogeneity (crop diversity, field size) and landscape structural elements (e.g. length of linear structures, distance to forest, proportion of semi-natural habitat) on the activity of bat functional groups. Results: Increasing crop diversity led to greater bat activity, especially for open space foraging bats. However, contrary expectations, bat activity was not affected by heterogeneity in crop configuration, i.e. field edge density. Furthermore, structural landscape elements, including hedgerows and distance to forest, were important predictors of bat activity, especially for species that hunt in highly cluttered spaces. While crop diversity clearly benefited bat activity, the lack of effect of crop configurational heterogeneity on bat foraging activity may suggest heterogeneityarea trade-offs and intensive pesticide use in small-scale vegetable production. Conclusions: Therefore, in addition to maintaining high levels of crop diversity, promoting hedgerows and tree lines between farmland and woodland may facilitate bat activity across the agricultural landscape matrix. The combination of high crop heterogeneity and structural elements provides favorable hunting grounds for bats and may promote their conservation in agricultural landscapes.
Digital maturity of administration entities in a state-led food certification system using the example of Baden-Württemberg
(2025) Francksen, Sabrina; Ghaziani, Shahin; Bahrs, Enno; Okpala, Charles Odilichukwu R.
Digital transformation is increasingly relevant in food certification systems, improving processes, coordination, and data accessibility. In state-led certification systems, public entities hold a political mandate to promote digital transformation, yet little is known about digital maturity in these systems or how to assess it. This study assesses the digital maturity of a state-led food certification system in Baden-Württemberg, Germany, focusing on private sector stakeholders involved in its administration. Additionally, it examines potential measures that the governing public entity can take and evaluates the suitability of the methods used. A total of 25 out of 43 organisations were surveyed using the Digital Maturity Assessment (DMA) framework validated for the European Union (EU). Six dimensions were analysed: Digital Business Strategy, Digital Readiness, Human-Centric Digitalisation, Data Management, Automation and Artificial Intelligence, and Green Digitalisation. Data Management and Human-Centric Digitalisation were the most developed, highlighting strong data governance and workforce engagement. Automation and Artificial Intelligence were ranked lowest, reflecting minimal adoption but also indicating that not all dimensions might be of the same relevance for the variety of organisations. The variability in scores and organisation-specific relevance underscores the European DMA framework’s value, particularly due to its subsequent tailored consultation process and its integration into EU policy.
Prevalence, genetic diversity, and molecular detection of the apple hammerhead viroid in Germany
(2025) Zikeli, Kerstin; Berwarth, Constanze; Born, Ute; Leible, Thomas; Jelkmann, Wilhelm; Hagemann, Michael Helmut; Zikeli, Kerstin; Julius Kühn-Institute, Federal Research Centre for Cultivated Plants, Institute for Plant Protection in Fruit Crops and Viticulture, Dossenheim, Germany; Berwarth, Constanze; Julius Kühn-Institute, Federal Research Centre for Cultivated Plants, Institute for Plant Protection in Fruit Crops and Viticulture, Dossenheim, Germany; Born, Ute; Department of Production Systems of Horticultural Crops, University of Hohenheim, Stuttgart, Germany; Leible, Thomas; Julius Kühn-Institute, Federal Research Centre for Cultivated Plants, Institute for Plant Protection in Fruit Crops and Viticulture, Dossenheim, Germany; Jelkmann, Wilhelm; Julius Kühn-Institute, Federal Research Centre for Cultivated Plants, Institute for Plant Protection in Fruit Crops and Viticulture, Dossenheim, Germany; Hagemann, Michael Helmut; Department of Production Systems of Horticultural Crops, University of Hohenheim, Stuttgart, Germany
Introduction: Apple hammerhead viroid (AHVd) is an emerging plant pathogen infecting apple orchards worldwide. Its genetic variability and geographical distribution remain poorly understood, limiting effective diagnostics and management strategies. Methods: In this study, 192 samples from German apple orchards were analyzed using reverse transcription (RT) and real-time PCR, one-step RT real-time PCR, and Sanger sequencing. Next-generation sequencing (NGS) was employed on pooled RNA extracts to explore genetic diversity. Phylogenetic relationships were inferred using maximum likelihood methods, and viroid-derived small RNAs (vd-sRNAs) were identified from small RNA sequencing data. Results and discussion: AHVd was detected in 78% of samples, with prevalence varying by region: southern (82%), eastern (90%), northern (72%), and western (70%) states of Germany. Phylogenetic analysis revealed distinct clusters linked to geographical origins, indicating isolated evolutionary pathways. NGS analysis uncovered 39% inter-sample variability and 169 polymorphic positions, while Sanger sequencing of RT real-time PCR products derived from the same samples showed only 3% variability, reflecting dominant quasispecies populations. Small RNA analysis mapped 128,388 reads to the AHVd genome, identifying hotspots within and outside the rod-like structure, suggesting structural and regulatory functions of vd-sRNAs. These findings underline AHVd’s genetic diversity. The complex relationship between AHVd genetic variability and symptom expression necessitates the development of highly sensitive diagnostic tools and adaptive management strategies to effectively monitor and control its spread in apple production.
In vitro maturation of bovine oocytes in the presence of resveratrol and ellagic acid but not chlorogenic acid modulates blastocyst antioxidant gene expression without impacting embryo development and oxygen consumption
(2025) Giller, Katrin; Schmid, Dominique; Serbetci, Idil; Meleán, Manuel; Greve, Sarah; von Meyenn, Ferdinand; Bollwein, Heinrich; Herrera, Carolina; Giller, Katrin; Department of Molecular Nutritional Science, University of Hohenheim, Garbenstrasse 30, 70599 Stuttgart, Germany;; Schmid, Dominique; Animal Nutrition, ETH Zurich, Universitaetstrasse 2, 8092 Zurich, Switzerland; Serbetci, Idil; AgroVet-Strickhof, University of Zurich, Eschikon 27, 8315 Lindau, Switzerland; (I.S.); (M.M.); (H.B.); (C.H.); Meleán, Manuel; AgroVet-Strickhof, University of Zurich, Eschikon 27, 8315 Lindau, Switzerland; (I.S.); (M.M.); (H.B.); (C.H.); Greve, Sarah; Department of Molecular Nutritional Science, University of Hohenheim, Garbenstrasse 30, 70599 Stuttgart, Germany;; von Meyenn, Ferdinand; Laboratory of Nutrition and Metabolic Epigenetics, ETH Zurich, Schorenstrasse 16, 8603 Schwerzenbach, Switzerland;; Bollwein, Heinrich; AgroVet-Strickhof, University of Zurich, Eschikon 27, 8315 Lindau, Switzerland; (I.S.); (M.M.); (H.B.); (C.H.); Herrera, Carolina; AgroVet-Strickhof, University of Zurich, Eschikon 27, 8315 Lindau, Switzerland; (I.S.); (M.M.); (H.B.); (C.H.); Jiang, Zhongliang
In vitro fertilization is used to produce embryos from high-genetic-merit cattle. However, these embryos often exhibit inferior quality than those derived in vivo, possibly due to increased oxidative stress. This study investigates whether adding antioxidant polyphenols (resveratrol (RV), chlorogenic acid (CA), ellagic acid (EA)) to the in vitro maturation (IVM) medium at 0.25, 0.5, and 1 μM could improve embryo development. Oxygen consumption and gene expression were evaluated at the blastocyst stage following treatment with 1 μM of each polyphenol. Embryo development (cleavage, blastocyst, and hatched blastocyst rates) and oxygen consumption were not significantly affected by polyphenols. However, RV significantly upregulated the mRNA expression of the antioxidant enzyme glutathione peroxidase 4 (GPX4), while GPX4 expression was significantly downregulated by EA. Expression of other gene markers related to antioxidant defense, apoptosis, development, and metabolism was not significantly affected. The results indicate that applying RV, CA, and EA during bovine oocyte IVM does not enhance in vitro embryo development at the tested concentrations. Given the opposing effects of RV and EA on the expression of GPX4, the effects of those polyphenols regarding the protection of embryos from oxidative stress and potential long-term effects on the offspring remain to be elucidated.
Data on transgenerational memory effects of photosynthetic efficiency of twelve wheat varieties under elevated carbon dioxide concentration and reduced soil water availability
(2025) Berauer, Bernd J.; Chaudhary, Suraj; Kottmann, Lorenz; Schweiger, Andreas H.
This data represents ACi curves of twelve winter wheat varieties, which were grown under elevated and ambient CO2 concentrations within a FACE experiment and the subsequent F1 generation was exposed to ambient and elevated CO2 concentrations in a highly controlled environment using climate chambers. The 12 winter wheat genotypes (Triticum aestivum L.) were selected based on their susceptibilty to leaf rust (Puccinia triticina Eriks.) and Fusarium head blight (Fusarium graminearum Schwabe) according to the descriptive variety list of the German Federal Office of Plant Varietes (Beschreibende Sortenliste, Bundessortenamt 2024). The aim was to obtain a diverse set of varieties with the widest possible range of susceptibilities to leaf rust and fusarium head blight. Photosynthesis was measured using the novel Dynamic Assimilation Technique, thus not with the common steady-state approach. The individual wheat plants were measured twice, once under saturating soil water availability (θFC) and once under reduced soil water availability (θcsoil). θcsoil represents the gravimetric water content when the soil matric potential drops below the root matric potential, thus the onset of plant drought stress (sensu Cai et al. [2]). The photosynthesis data was used to fit ACi curves and extract the maximum Rubisco carboxylation rate [Vcmax], maximum rate of electron transport [Jmax] and dark respiration [Rd]. At both measurements we determined BBCH and plant height to quantify plant morphological development, as well as leaf water potential to quantify plant ecohydrologic status. At the end of the experiment, biomass was harvested and reported. Further, we provide environmental data of the climate chambers in use. Within the data repository, we provide comprehensive experimental data on the investigation of transgenerational memory effects on photosynthetic efficiency. We provide photosynthetic raw data as well as processed (merged) and derived (extracted ACi fit) data. Additionally, we provide the R-code to reproduce the calculation of the derived parameters. Data on transgenerational memory effects (that is, the influence of the parental environment on offspring phenotype and performance) are scarce, i.e. on the adaptive capacity of the photosynthetic apparatus. Thus, the data provided here can contribute to closing this gap. The highly controlled environment allows to closely investigate cause-effect relationships, thereby contributing to a mechanistic understanding of the transgenerational memory effects on photosynthetic efficiency and how this is altered by reduced soil water availability. By using a recently developed methodological approach, the data contributes to further investigate the quality of the method and establish it within the field of plant ecophysiology.
The therapeutic potential of vitamins A, C, and D in pancreatic cancer
(2025) Piotrowsky, Alban; Burkard, Markus; Schmieder, Hendrik; Venturelli, Sascha; Renner, Olga; Marongiu, Luigi
The pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is among the deadliest tumor diseases worldwide. While treatment options have generally become more diverse, little progress has been made in the treatment of PDAC and the median survival time for patients with locally advanced PDAC is between 8.7 and 13.7 months despite treatment. The aim of this review was to explore the therapeutic potential of complementing standard therapy with natural or synthetic forms of vitamins A, C, and D. The therapeutic use of vitamins A, C, and D could be a promising addition to the treatment of PDAC. For all three vitamins and their derivatives, tumor cell-specific cytotoxicity and growth inhibition against PDAC cells has been demonstrated in vitro and in preclinical animal models. While the antitumor effect of vitamin C is probably mainly due to its pro-oxidative effect in supraphysiological concentrations, vitamin A and vitamin D exert their effect by activating nuclear receptors and influencing gene transcription. In addition, there is increasing evidence that vitamin A and vitamin D influence the tumor stroma, making the tumor tissue more accessible to other therapeutic agents. Based on these promising findings, there is a high urgency to investigate vitamins A, C, and D in a clinical context as a supplement to standard therapy in PDAC. Further studies are needed to better understand the exact mechanism of action of the individual compounds and to develop the best possible treatment regimen. This could contribute to the long-awaited progress in the treatment of this highly lethal tumor entity.
Classifying early-stage soybean fungal diseases on hyperspectral images using convolutional neural networks
(2025) Hsiao, Chieh Fu; Feyrer, Georg; Stein, Anthony
Using convolutional neural networks (CNNs) to detect plant diseases has proven to reach high accuracy in the classification of infected and non-infected plant images. However, most of the existing researches are based on RGB images due to the availability and the comparably low cost of image collection. The limited spectral information restricts the detectability of plant diseases, especially in the early stage where often symptoms of pathogen infection have not yet become visible. To this end, in this study, hyperspectral imaging (HSI) data are combined with deep learning models to test the classification ability of two soybean fungal diseases: Asian soybean rust (Phakopsora pachyhizi) and soybean stem rust (Sclerotinia scleroriorum). Different CNNs employing 2D, 3D convolution, and hybrid approaches are compared. The influences of the depth of the convolutional layer and the regularization techniques are also discussed. Besides, image augmentation methods are investigated to overcome the problem of data scarcity. The results indicate the 6-convolutional-layer depth hybrid model to have the best capacity in classifying Asian soybean rust in the early-mid to mid-late stage when there are over 2 % visible symptoms but a limited detectability in the early stages when there are below 2 % visible symptoms on leaves. On the other hand, the optimized CNN model shows a limited capability to detect both diseases when there are no visible symptoms observable. Overall, this study suggests a hybrid 2D-3D convolutional model with augmentation and regularization methods has a high potential in the early detection of fungal diseases. This research is expected to contribute to a new cropping system that vastly reduces the chemical-synthesis plant protection products, where a continuous pathogen disease monitoring plays a key to manage the crop stands.
Predicting tilling and seeding operation times in grain production: a comparison of machine learning and mechanistic models
(2025) Scheurer, Luca; Zimpel, Tobias; Leukel, Jörg
Field operations management in grain production requires accurate and timely predictions of operation times for machine tasks. While machine learning (ML) is being adopted more widely in operations management, little is known about its ability to predict tilling and seeding operation times. The aim of this study was to evaluate the prediction performance of ML models for these operation times by using readily available tractor and operations data rather than dynamic environmental data. We collected data between March 2022 and August 2023 from 70 grain fields in the southwest of Germany, including variables such as tractor speed, engine speed, fuel consumption, and field geometry. Operation times exhibited high variability (coefficient of variation [CV] = 0.88). Nine ML algorithms and two conventional mechanistic models proposed by the American Society of Agricultural and Biological Engineers (ASAE EP496.3) were evaluated in a temporal external validation. Random forest (RF) models outperformed all other models, achieving a normalized root mean square error (NRMSE) of 0.215 and a coefficient of determination (R2) of 0.910. Compared to a conventional mechanistic model, the RF model reduced the mean absolute error (MAE) by 37.8 %, and enhanced the R2 by 0.107. The study results highlight the potential of our approach to predict tilling and seeding operation times in grain production without increasing the effort for data collection, offering an accessible and cost-effective solution for resource-constrained grain farming systems that experience data shortages.
Do regional-specific differences influence smallholder farmers’ climate information use? Evidence from Ghana
(2025) Owusu, Victor; Asravor, Jacob
Mounting evidence underscores the importance of improving smallholder farmers’ use of reliable climate information (CI) in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA). Previous studies have not examined the differences in region-specific climate information use, as well as predictors of the source, type and timing of climate information use. In this study, we provide empirical evidence on how location-specific differences influence the source, type and timing of CI use. Integrating cross-sectional data from 503 households in the Upper West Region (UWR) and Brong-Ahafo Region (BAR) of Ghana into a multivariate probit model, our results indicate that farm households in the two regions exhibit different preferences regarding the source, type and timing of CI use. We find that while households in the BAR are more interested in CI ahead of the season – given that rainfall is relatively secure in that region, CI use ahead of the season is of less interest to those in the UWR where rainfall is more erratic. Our results further show that while CI source, type and timing are considerably influenced by education, distance to the farm, access to credit and extension in the UWR, gender, farm size, education and tractor access tend to drive the source, type and timing of CI use in BAR. These findings underscore the need for a more downscaled and context-specific strategy in disseminating CI services in the various regions of SSA. Practical implications: Notwithstanding evidence that the adverse impacts of the changing climate on smallholder livelihoods continue to vary within and across communities, districts, regions and agro-ecological zones (Abbam et al., 2018) in sub-Saharan Africa, little is known about how location-specific distinctions in climate change impact, infrastructural endowments as well as socioeconomic and plot-level attributes of smallholder farmers influence farm households’ use of climate information (CI). Given that these location-specific distinctions can considerably influence the generation and dissemination of CI, and its subsequent uptake by farm households in various regions, the empirical findings from this study are relevant for policy formulation towards boosting the use of CI. Evidence from this study strongly suggests that the diverse locations of smallholder farmers tend to significantly influence the source, type and period of CI use; for example, farm households in the Brong-Ahafo Region, a relatively more infrastructurally developed region, have better prospects of accessing different types of CI from diverse sources. We further find that the period of the cropping season in which CI is used is considerably influenced by the location of the farmers; and we identify disparities in the plot-level, institutional and socioeconomic characteristics of rural households in these two study regions that significantly influence the types, sources and times of CI used by farm households. Consequently, there is a need to take into account the unique regional, agro-ecological, plot-level, institutional and socioeconomic attributes of farm households. Policy recommendations on CI use should be tailored to the needs of these specific locations rather than being wholesale. Investment in rural infrastructure may trigger economic opportunities in deprived regions such as the Upper West Region. This may motivate rural households in such regions to invest in different CI types and sources for enhanced uptake of climate information.

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