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Sulphite is a food additive used worldwide. Globally, for concentrations above 10 mg·kg^–1, sulphite compounds must be labelled as sulphur dioxide (SO₂) on the packaging due to their potential health risks. This study compares spectrophotometric (S), titration (T) (modified optimised Monier-Williams, OMW), and reflectoquant (R) methods for measuring sulphur dioxide in twenty fruit and vegetable products. The samples comprise sulphited, unsulphited, and naturally sulphur-containing products (Allium genus such as garlic and onion). The article discusses the strengths and weaknesses of the method used. Allium genus samples yielded false-positive results, especially in fresh garlic samples with average SO₂ concentrations of 46, 1 152, and 40 mg·kg^–1 obtained by titration, spectrophotometric, and reflectoquant methods, respectively, therefore, none of the methods is suitable for testing this type of vegetables or products containing a low proportion of them. For other types of samples, the methods showed acceptable working characteristics. Recovery tests showed 89.5, 82.0, and 75.2% recovery with 2.8, 3.9, and 13.2% repeatability and the limit of quantification of 1, 10, and 25 mg·kg^–1 in the spectrophotometric, titration, and reflectoquant methods. The result highlights the importance of method selection based on sample characteristics and regulatory compliance.

This study evaluated the quality changes of fresh-cut potatoes during storage by treating with different concentrations of tea polyphenol (0.125, 0.25, 0.5, and 1.0 g·L^–1). During the storage, the ∆E value (colour change of fresh-cut potatoes), browning degree, chewiness, malondialdehyde (MDA) content, polyphenol oxidase (PPO) and peroxidase (POD) activity gradually increased. But the hardness and elasticity first increased and then decreased. Compared with the control, the tea polyphenol treatment could effectively inhibit the increase of ∆E value, browning degree, chewiness, MDA content, PPO and POD activity of potato slices, and delay the decrease of slice hardness, elasticity and brittleness in the later storage period. Among them, 0.25 g·L^–1 tea polyphenol has the best effect. It can maintain the colour of fresh-cut potatoes, inhibit the increase of PPO and POD active enzyme activities, reduce the production of browning substances, and improve the storage quality of fresh-cut potatoes.

This study investigates the characteristics associated with the adoption of smart farming technologies in Turkish agriculture. By surveying 325 farmers across six regions in Türkiye, the research identifies key attributes influencing adoption patterns. Four distinct profiles emerge: technology users, non-users, young educated female farmers, and traditionalists. Exploratory findings from Multiple Correspondence Analysis (MCA) indicate that attributes such as agricultural insurance, credit utilisation, knowledge of smart farming systems, and tractor ownership are commonly observed among technology users. Ordinal logistic regression further quantifies these associations, highlighting the significant role of financial accessibility and knowledge dissemination in shaping adoption likelihoods. Non-users, on the other hand, are characterised by smaller landholdings, lack of credit use, limited awareness, and absence of tractor ownership, reflecting structural barriers to adoption. Tailored financial solutions and shared machinery parks could help address these challenges. Empowering young, educated women farmers, identified as a key demographic for innovation, offers an opportunity to catalyse broader technology adoption. By addressing knowledge gaps and fostering inclusive policies, this study provides actionable insights to accelerate the technological transformation and sustainability of Türkiye's agricultural sector.

Periodic waterlogging is more common due to more frequent extreme precipitation but its impact on soil organic carbon (SOC) loss is obscure in straw-return farmland. We compared soil properties and biochemical characteristics of SOC (compositions of non-cellulosic and amino polysaccharides) in adjacent periodic waterlogged farmland (PWF) and non-waterlogged farmland (NWF) in a semi-humid warm temperate region. SOC mineralization was also measured at 60% (aerobic) or 100% (anaerobic) of field capacity at 25 °C for 82 days. The negative effect of periodic waterlogging on SOC contents and soil aggregate stability were observed in the 20–80 cm depth but were offset in topsoil (0–20 cm) due to straw-return. Periodic waterlogging increased the non-cellulosic sugar content and amino sugar content in SOC and the mass ratio of (galactose plus mannose) to (arabinose plus xylose) at 40–80 cm depth except at 0–40 cm depth. By the end of 82 days’ incubation, when aeration status changed from anaerobic to aerobic conditions, total C loss as CO₂ increased similarly (123.9%) in PWF and NWF soils in the top 40 cm, but more C loss occurred under PWF than under NWF (78.9% vs. 46.9%) in the 40–80 cm depth, which was probably ascribed to its higher non-cellulosic sugar and amino sugar content. Our result emphasized the importance of straw-return for maintaining soil quality under periodic waterlogged farmland.

The aim of this study was to analyse the conformation traits and body dimensions of Haflinger mares registered in the Czech Republic studbook. The study focused on the effects of age at studbook entry, year of birth, proportion of Arabian genes, and country of origin on various parameters. Data were collected from 825 mares, including scores obtained during the studbook entry evaluation and body measurements such as withers height measured with a stick (WHS), withers height measured with a tape (WHT), chest girth (CG), and cannon bone circumference (CBC). Based on these data, the bone index (BI) and body massiveness index (MI) were calculated. Statistical analysis was performed using multifactor analysis of variance (ANOVA) and Scheffe’s post-hoc testing method. The results showed that the age at studbook entry significantly affected conformation scores, chest girth, cannon bone circumference, and both indices (MI, BI). Mares aged 3–4 years had significantly higher conformation scores compared to mares aged 5–6 years (P = 0.001) and mares aged 7 years and older (P = 0.000). Mares aged 5–6 years and those aged 7 years and older showed higher CG values (P = 0.002, P = 0.000) and CBC values (P = 0.010, P = 0.001). Furthermore, the year of birth had a highly significant impact on all variables studied. The withers height of mares born between 2011 and 2020 was, on average, 3.49 cm higher (144.84 cm) than that of mares born between 1987 and 2000 (141.35 cm) (P < 0.000). Regarding CG, a statistically significant increase was observed in mares born in 1987–2000 and 2001–2010, with chest girth increasing from 180.45 cm to 183.76 cm (P = 0.016). However, a subsequent decrease to 179.91 cm was noted in mares born between 2011 and 2020 (P = 0.002). The influence of the proportion of Arabian genes was significant for WHS, where mares with a higher proportion of Arabian genes (>1.56%) showed lower WHS (141.74 cm) compared to mares with a lower proportion (143.86 cm) or no Arabian genes (143.01 cm). While ANOVA demonstrated a significant effect of Arabian genes on CBC, Scheffe’s post-hoc test did not confirm this finding. No statistically significant differences were observed in other body dimensions based on the proportion of Arabian genes. The influence of the country of origin was statistically significant for all variables except WHS and WHT. Regarding the conformation scores, mares from the Czech Republic scored lower (6.98) than Austrian mares (7.22, P = 0.000). Additionally, CG was significantly lower in Austrian mares (178.58 cm) compared to Czech mares (182.54 cm, P = 0.000). Austrian mares also had significantly lower MI (P = 0.000) and BI (P = 0.040), with Austrian indices at 124.71/13.31 and Czech indices at 127.77/13.41. Based on this empirical evaluation of the current and original population of Haflingers in the Czech Republic, the connections and influence of individual factors during breeding are revealed. The results of our analysis have built an objective scientific basis and they allow the breeding organisation to determine the further breeding process.

Controlling weed populations in agricultural land is challenging due to various factors, such as soil conditions, crop type, and environmental conditions. Substantial experience is needed to develop a strategy for minimising pressure from weed infestation. For a relatively longer period, weed control was taken care of using herbicides and mechanical and manual weeding. While herbicides simplify weed control, they pose issues like residual effects and the development of herbicide resistance in weeds, necessitating the deployment of alternate smart weed-management technologies. Lately, smart weeding robots and sensor-based site-specific spraying systems have been developed. Sensors as varied as hyperspectral imaging cameras, Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS), Real Time Kinematics-Global Positioning System (RTK-GPS), optoelectronic, fluorescence sensors, laser and ultrasonic systems can help to improve weed control efficacy when combined with mechanical and spraying robotic systems. Camera-steered mechanical weeding robots and unmanned aerial vehicles are now widely available for weed management. This review focuses on the developments in sensor-based mechanical and chemical weeding, identification of herbicide-resistant weeds, and herbicide effect assessment. This is a comprehensive overview of studies of sensor-based weed-management strategies being adopted worldwide. Furthermore, an outlook towards future sensor-based weed control strategies and necessary improvements are given.

The decline in the bee colony strength due to high levels of Varroa destructor infestations necessitates the development of new control methods. This study evaluates the effectiveness of glycerin-oxalic acid strips and essential oils in managing Varroa destructor. The experiment was conducted in 2022 at the experimental apiary in Debelec, part of the Institute of Animal Husbandry in Kostinbrod. Six experimental groups, each treated with a different preparation, were compared to a control group of untreated colonies. Treatments included Beevital Hiveclean (20 ml per colony), Varro Red (2 ml per frame), ammonium nitrate strips (1.3 mm), glycerin-oxalic acid strips (1.3 mm), and glycerin-oxalic acid strips of paper-cellulose (2.3 mm) or cellulose-cotton (2.3 mm). The control group remained untreated. The glycerin-oxalic acid strips made of cellulose and cotton (2.3 mm) showed the highest efficacy, reducing the mite infestation by 17.79% compared to the control. The glycerin-oxalic acid strips of paper-cellulose (2.3 mm) were also effective, achieving a 17.05% reduction in mite levels. These results provide valuable insights for beekeepers seeking alternative and sustainable methods for controlling Varroa destructor infestations.

This study investigates differences in carbon storage between managed and unmanaged forests in the growth conditions of Central Europe. Norway spruce (Picea abies), European beech (Fagus sylvatica) and pedunculate oak (Quercus robur) dominated forest types were considered, as these are the most common forest species in the Czech Republic. Scots pine (Pinus sylvestris), as the second most common species, was excluded due to lacking relevant reference data on unmanaged forests. Managed and unmanaged variants of each forest type were assessed in terms of carbon sequestered in biomass, dead wood and harvested wood products (in the managed variant). Harvested wood products yielded during two rotation periods were considered, including their substitution effect as well as respiratory losses, to fully assess their contribution to carbon balance. Average carbon storage in the above-ground biomass and deadwood was lower in the managed forest compared to the unmanaged forest in comparable growth conditions. However, this difference is in our model examples compensated by carbon stored in the harvested wood products including their substitution effect in the managed forests of Norway spruce and pedunculate oak. Contrarily, managed European beech forests showed, in our case, slightly lower carbon storage compared to the unmanaged alternative. The estimates for all species are considered to be rather conservative due to the assumed factors affecting the results. Due to generally limited comparative data on unmanaged forests in the region, the results should be interpreted with caution.

The tomato occupies a prominent place in the Philippines’ agricultural economy. However, tomato leaf diseases are challenges in tomato crop production leading to economic losses. Among the tomato leaf diseases, early blight and Septoria leaf spot are prevalent in the Philippines due to the climate. Thus, the accurate identification of diseases affecting tomato leaves is essential. Currently, a visual inspection is the primary method for diagnosing tomato leaf diseases which is time-consuming and inefficient. This study aims to develop a quantized Residual Network with convolutional 50 layer (ResNet-50) based model to classify tomato leaves as healthy or affected by Septoria leaf spot or early blight. Furthermore, to enhance the reliability of the models’ classification, gradient-weighted class activation mapping (Grad-CAM) was implemented. In contrast with the visual inspection, a programmed system does not get tired and can provide consistent performance results. As a result, the original 32-bit floating point model attained an accuracy rate of 91.22%. The quantized 16-bit floating point model demonstrated comparable performance with 90.10% accuracy with a 50% reduction in the model size and inference time of 0.3942 seconds. The minimal accuracy loss of the 16-bit model relative to the 32-bit model is due to the post-training quantization. The reduction to 16-bit precision is significant for the future deployment of edge devices where resources are limited.

With the increase in the world population and the ensuing surge in organic waste, effective management strategies are crucial to prevent environmental pollution. This study aims to address this challenge by utilising organic waste (OW) as the substrate for the production of lactic acid (LA) and volatile fatty acids (VFAs) through anaerobic bioprocessing. The substrates used, included grass, starch, and fruit wastes inoculated with non-sterile inoculum landfill soil (LS). The anaerobic bioconversion was performed by varying the substrate to the inoculum. The results unveil that a digester loaded with 150 g·L^–1 of fruit waste, exhibits the highest concentration of LA, reaching a significance of 25 mmol·L^–1. A digester fed with 100 g·L^–1 starch, also manifests significant LA production (18.50 mmol·L^–1). A digester, supplied with 150 g·L^–1 starch waste, showcases the highest VFA (92.5 mmol·L^–1). Intriguingly, the anaerobic bioprocessing of the grass substrate did not produce LA at all, yet al. the substrates showcased VFA production, albeit with fluctuating and lower concentrations. This study highlights the potential of incorporating simple sugar for enhanced LA production and starch-based substrates for increased VFA production when utilising LS as the inoculum. The anaerobic bioprocessing shows promising outcomes for the future development in sustainable waste utilisation.

Reference crop evapotranspiration (ET_o) is a vital hydrological component influenced by various climate variables that impact the water and energy balances. It plays a crucial role in determining crop water requirements and irrigation scheduling. Despite the availability of numerous approaches for estimation, accurate and reliable ET_o estimation is essential for effective irrigation water management. Therefore, this study aimed to identify the most suitable machine learning model for assessing ET_o using observed daily values of limited input parameters in tropical savannah climate regions. Three machine learning models – a long short-term memory (LSTM) neural network, an artificial neural network (ANN), and support vector regression (SVM) – were developed with four different input combinations, and their performances were compared with those of locally calibrated empirical equations. The models were evaluated using statistical indicators such as the root mean square error (RMSE), coefficient of determination (R²), and the Nash-Sutcliffe efficiency (NSE). The results showed that the LSTM model, using the combination of temperature and wind speed, provided more reliable predictions with R² values greater than 0.75 and RMSEs less than 0.63 mm·day^–1 across all the considered weather stations. This study concludes that, especially under limited data conditions, the developed deep learning model improves the ET_o estimation more accurately than empirical models for tropical climatic regions.

Conventional irrigation practices result in a substantial amount of water loss with okra cultivation. Although micro-irrigation can address this issue by delivering water directly near the rootzone, it requires manual operation. These issues, however, can be resolved with the introduction of a smart micro-irrigation system. This study aims to develop a smart micro-irrigation system for okra, in conjunction with the sub-components of drip irrigation, a microcontroller, and a soil sensor. The experiment was laid out with a randomised complete block design (RCBD) having three treatments: (i) control irrigation (T₁), (ii) drip irrigation (T₂), and (iii) smart micro-irrigation (T₃). The experimental field was irrigated based on soil moisture regimes in the crop rootzone. The plant growth, yield, and water use efficiency were assessed to evaluate the system. The results showed no significant differences among these treatments (at P < 0.05). The best water usage efficiency (15.98 kg·m^–3) was observed in the T₃ treatment, which also provided about 13.10% water savings compared to the conventional irrigation. This study indicates that a smart micro-irrigation system could be a promising technology for water-efficient okra cultivation.

Vehicle collisions with wild animals are a common problem on roads, having a significant impact on road safety and wildlife populations. Collisions with wild animals are one of the most frequent road accidents. According to police statistics, there were nearly 16 000 road accidents caused by collisions with animals in the Czech Republic
in 2019. Collisions with deer are the most common. There are several technologies and measures that can help reduce the risk of a vehicle colliding with a wild animal. One of the technologies used is a night vision system based on infrared spectrum sensing. This technology is slowly becoming part of the equipment of, in particular, premium car brands dueto its high cost. This paper tested a low-cost solution using a commercially available thermal imaging camera and found a substantial reduction in the time to detect wild animals along the road, namely in the order of seconds.

The potential of lotus seed paste (LSP) as a fat substitute in pork patties was investigated. Pork patties were prepared by substituting varying levels of fat (0, 20, 40, and 60%) with LSP. LSP addition increased moisture while reducing fat content. Compared to control, LSP-added pork patties had significantly higher thiobarbituric acid reactive substances, L* values and microbial counts (P < 0.05), but lower thawing, centrifugal, and cooking losses, and diameter reduction. Furthermore, LSP incorporation enhanced hardness, springiness, chewiness and adhesiveness of the patties. Patties with 60% fat replacement by LSP had the highest b* value and cohesiveness, and the lowest a* value. Substituting 40% or more fat significantly improved the colour, taste, texture and overall acceptability of pork patties (P < 0.05).

In 2007, the Chinese government introduced a temporary corn storage policy targeting four regions: Heilongjiang, Jilin, Liaoning and Inner Mongolia. This policy aimed at stabilising grain markets and ensured farmers' income by providing price support for corn. Its implementation significantly impacted corn prices and the regional distribution of corn cultivation, offering a valuable case for analysing the economic outcomes of China's agricultural policies. This study adopts the adaptive expectations hypothesis to explore the policy's effects, focusing on its influence on farmers' price expectations (mean) and price volatility (variance). Using a Spatial Durbin Model (SDM), we empirically investigate the policy's dynamic regional impacts on corn planting areas. The results show that the temporary corn storage policy significantly increased corn planting areas in the targeted regions, while simultaneously reducing planting areas in non-targeted regions due to negative spatial spillover effects. At the national level, the policy had no statistically significant impact on total corn planting areas, indicating that abolishing the policy alone is unlikely to rationalise or optimise the agricultural planting structure.

Assessments of routine ejaculated samples were used to evaluate the conventional semen variables (sperm motility, semen volume, sperm concentration) as initial decision-making criteria to freeze or not to freeze. However, the association of these attributes to the cryotolerance of ram sperm has not been adequately studied yet. The aim of this study was therefore to analyse if the semen volume, sperm motility and concentration can be used to predict post-thaw ram sperm motility. Additionally, in the present study we tested if the order of ejaculate sampling (first versus second, within a single collection session) and the breed of rams influenced cryopreservation outcomes.

The negative benefits derived from the long-term separation of agriculture and animal husbandry in China have hindered the sustainable development of agriculture and the transformation of agricultural modernisation. The relationship between agriculture and animal husbandry is reconstructed from separation to reintegration. Focusing on the micro-agricultural production level, it relies on farmers to moderately adjust the existing family management structure and choose the family management mode combining planting and breeding. Structural and synergistic contradictions exist between agricultural economic development and ecological protection in the main corn-producing areas. Therefore, based on the micro-survey data of Jilin Province, China, the paper analyses the factors and mechanisms that influence farmers' choice of the combined management mode of planting and breeding. The results showed that the scale of land management, the stability of cultivated land management rights, the policy insurance of animal husbandry, the average profit of beef cattle head, and the cognition of income growth of animal husbandry were positively correlated with farmers' choice of the combined management mode. The spatial distance between farming and animal husbandry was negatively correlated with farmers' choice of management mode. There are mediating effects of animal husbandry breeding technology in farmers' choice of combined management mode, and there is regional heterogeneity in farmers' choice of combined management mode. Therefore, the reconstruction of the relationship between agriculture and animal husbandry should rely on large-scale farmers, optimise the planting structure of the main corn-producing areas, take multiple measures to stabilise the management right of cultivated land, and further improve the policy insurance and breeding technical support system of animal husbandry. This study can provide a theoretical framework and practical reference for reconstructing the relationship between agriculture and animal husbandry in China and other developing countries.

Sorbus domestica L. is a deciduous shrub-like tree in the Rosaceae family that reaches different heights (3–25 m). The service tree commonly grows in the Marmara region, Central and Western Black Sea regions, and Central Anatolia in Türkiye. The fruit of the service tree called Sorbus domestica, has an essential place in regards to human health in terms of its antioxidant values. The aroma components and phenolic compounds it contains display a variety of physiological traits. This study was carried out to determine the changes in the pomological characteristics and volatile compounds of Sorbus domestica L. fruits in the Tokat region at harvest and the consuming maturities in 2019 and 2020. The aroma extraction from the Sorbus fruits identified esters, alcohols, ketones, aldehydes, terpenes, and other volatile aroma compounds. As a result of the study, differences in aldehydes, esters, and terpene compounds were notable within the scope of the volatile aroma compounds. According to the obtained information, our results identified total aldehydes of 70.64%, esters of 7.49%, and terpenes of 21.35% in Sorbus domestica during the harvest maturity. When Sorbus fruits were left at room temperature until consuming for consumption was reached, the volatile compound rates varied which were 60.59% for the aldehydes, 22.49% for the esters, and 13.20% for the terpenes.

The aim of the research was to demonstrate the possibility of using hydrogen peroxide with silver (H₂O₂-Ag+) and selected fungicides for treating narcissus bulbs and their impact on plant growth and development. In the experiments were used compounds such as hydrogen peroxide with silver (H₂O₂-Ag+) and captan (Biszop 80 WG), pyraclostrobin + boscalid (Signum 33 WG) and methyl thiophanate + tetraconazole (Yamato 303 SE) to soak narcissus bulbs before planting for the period of 20 minutes. The research showed that stimulation of growth and development by some of the tested concentrations of H₂O₂-Ag+ used to treat bulbs was shown with regard to plant height, leaf length, fresh flower weight, dry flower weight, the number of days from taking plants out of cold storage to flowering, the weight of fresh above-ground parts without flowers, the weight of dry above-ground parts without flowers, the diameter of the flowers, the height of the flowers, petals length, the width of the petals and the length of the corolla. In turn, the tested fungicides stimulated the length of leaves, the fresh weight of plants without flowers, and Signum 33 WG and Biszop 80 WG also the dry weight of flowers. No phytotoxicity of hydrogen peroxide with silver and tested fungicides was found for narcissus.

A root detector is a non-destructive technology developed to indicate the radial distribution of tree roots, which are not often visible on the surface. This study aims to assess the accuracy of the root detector in estimating the radial distribution of both exposed and buried tree roots. Six Agathis loranthifolia Salisb. trees were selected, three with exposed roots and three with buried roots. The Fakopp® root detector, an acoustic-based tool, was used in this study. Root estimation was based on a combination of threshold values (> 400 m·s^–1), average values, and the peak of the sound wave velocity. Soil excavation was manually conducted at a depth of 30 cm within a 100 cm radius of the tree trunk. The results showed that under similar soil conditions, the root detector achieved an accuracy of over 80% in detecting the actual radial root distribution, as validated by the excavation method. Root diameter exhibited the strongest correlation with sound velocity in detecting lateral roots. However, root depth and inclination angle contributed to detection inaccuracies in estimating the radial distribution of lateral roots.

The global focus on the relationship between digitisation and agricultural carbon emissions remains high. However, research on the systemic ramifications of comprehensive digital policy implementation remains limited. Against the backdrop of China's pursuit of carbon neutrality and carbon emission peaking targets, we employed the difference-in-differences method to investigate the impact of applying a digital policy on agricultural carbon emissions. Our findings indicated that the implementation of the National Big Data Comprehensive Pilot Zone policy could effectively mitigate agricultural carbon emissions, resulting in a sustained positive influence. The intermediary mechanism test results validated the beneficial effects of financial expenditures on science and technology, as well as the number of information practitioners. The regional heterogeneity analysis results revealed that the policy effect was obvious in the major grain-producing areas but not in the major grain-selling areas or production–marketing balance areas. Additionally, differences in policy effectiveness were observed across different crop types. This study not only offers valuable insights for agricultural carbon reduction in China but also provides robust case data and guidance for other developing countries worldwide in the formulation and execution of digital policies aimed at promoting agricultural carbon emission reduction.

The paper explores the influence of global pandemic uncertainty (GPU) on food prices (FP) by using the mixed-frequency vector autoregression (MF-VAR) model. Empirical findings indicate that the influence of GPU on FP varies across different scenarios, exhibiting either positive, negative, or insignificant effects. A positive influence implies that GPU fuels panic-buying and stockpiling behaviours, thereby boosting food demand. Concurrently, disruptions in agricultural production and food export restrictions tighten the market supply, potentially pushing FP upwards. Conversely, a negative effect suggests that the global economic downturn and food safety anxieties stemming from pandemic-related uncertainty may dampen food demand, causing FP to decline. In some instances, FP remains unaffected mainly by GPU due to the competing pressures from adverse climate change risks on the food market. Notably, FP's predictive error variance decomposition underscores that the net impact of GPU on FP is stimulatory. This overall effect aligns with the inter-temporal capital asset pricing model (ICAPM), which posits a positive influence of GPU on FP. The findings recommend that consumers and investors diversify their food sources, while policymakers should bolster food supply chain resilience, promote sustainable agriculture, establish emergency reserves and coordinate aid.

To evaluate the effects of organic fertilizer and microbial agents on soil water and salt distribution, microorganisms, and crop yield on coastal saline-alkaline land, eight treatments were established, i.e., two maize varieties (Dajing Jiu 26 (J) and Quchen Jiu (Q)) and four organic fertilizer and microbial agent application methods (no organic fertilizer or microbial agent application (O₀M₀), single organic fertilizer application (O₁M₀), single microbial agent application (O₀M₁), and combined organic fertilizer and microbial agent application (O₁M₁)). The soil water content in the 40–50 cm soil layer under JO₁M₁ was 3.35% greater than that under JO₀M₀ at the mature stage. The soil organic carbon (SOC) and soil total nitrogen (STN) in the 0–10 cm soil layer under JO₁M₁ were 16.69% and 21.37% greater, respectively, than those under JO₀M₀ at the jointing stage. The actinomycete content was 58.79% greater in QO₁M₁ than in QO₀M₀. The urease activity was greater in O₁M₀ than in the other management practices. Compared with that in JO₀M₀ and QO₀M₀, the alkaline phosphatase activity in JO₁M₁ and QO₁M₁ was 47.36% and 33.97% higher, respectively. Compared with those of JO₀M₀, the catalase activity and sucrase activity of JO₁M₁ were 57.62% and 22.78% higher, respectively. Compared with JO₀M₀ and QO₀M₀, JO₁M₁ and QO₁M₁ increased the grain yield by 20.69% and 16.42%, respectively, and increased the biomass by 23.36% and 26.45%, respectively. In summary, organic fertilizer and microbial agents provide a scientific model for the rational use of saline soils and the development of their potential.

Global food security is increasingly threatened by the vulnerability of agricultural systems to climate variability, especially in sub-humid regions. Northeast China, a major maize-producing region, experiences low spring temperatures and erratic rainfall, which have prompted the widespread adoption of plastic-film mulching (PFM) combined with drip irrigation. However, systematic evaluations of how different PFM patterns affect crop productivity and resource use efficiency remain limited. This study systematically evaluated three PFM strategies – full ridge-furrow mulching (FM), ridge mulching (RM), and no mulching (NM) – in combination with 240 kg N/ha and a zero-nitrogen control under drip irrigation to determine their effects on maize (Zea mays L.) yield, water use efficiency (WUE), and nitrogen utilisation. Field experiments over two consecutive growing seasons assessed crop growth, dry matter (DM) accumulation, nitrogen dynamics, grain yield, and related efficiency parameters. Both FM and RM significantly enhanced early maize growth. At the seedling stage, FM and RM increased plant height by 43.0% and 40.1%, and leaf area index (LAI) by 141.4% and 120.4% over NM, respectively. During the same stage, DM accumulation increased by 228.9% (FM) and 224.9% (RM). These improvements reflected favourable soil hydrothermal conditions under PFM. Before heading, PFM treatments increased pre-anthesis DM accumulation by up to 19.6%, and at maturity, FM and RM raised DM by 6.1% and 5.1% over NM. PFM significantly improved grain nitrogen accumulation, with FM and RM increasing it by 31.0% and 26.9% over NM, respectively, and nitrogen harvest index (NHI), with FM and RM increasing it by 6.8% and 6.1% over NM, indicating enhanced nutrient translocation to grain. PFM also improved grain yield, with FM and RM increasing it by 15.0% and 13.5%, WUE by 17.2% and 15.7%, and nitrogen partial productivity by 16.8% and 14.1%. No significant differences in yield or WUE were observed between FM and RM. Fertilisation consistently enhanced these benefits without changing the relative efficiency ranking of treatments. Notably, the advantages of mulching diminished after the heading stage as temperature and rainfall increased. PFM (both FM and RM) under drip irrigation improves maize yield, water use, and nitrogen efficiency in sub-humid regions. This integrated practice offers a scalable and sustainable strategy to increase maize productivity and resource efficiency, supporting food security in regions facing similar climatic challenges.

In this study, we used psychology and organisational behaviour theories to determine the main elements affecting Chinese farmers' grain loss-reduction efforts (LREs). We established social factors (SFs), policy factors (PFs) and buyer's strategies (BSs) as the three central factors and constructed a theoretical framework linking these factors to grain producers' LREs. Using this framework, we designed a survey questionnaire and an interview guide; we subsequently collected 1 536 valid questionnaire responses and 25 interview transcripts. The findings revealed that SFs, PFs and BSs had a significance positive effect on the LREs of grain producers. Critically, grain producers from significant Chinese grain-producing regions did not always minimise the effects of the independent variables (SF, PF and BS) on the dependent variable (LRE). This research provides a new viewpoint on grain farmers' LREs activities and may be used to tailor policy and commercial strategies.

The testing and evaluation of native populations of perennial ryegrasses (Lolium perenne L.) collected from the Republic of Srpska, Bosnia and Herzegovina were conducted from 2020 to 2022 at experimental fields and laboratories of the Institute for Genetic Resources and the Agricultural Institute of the Republic of Srpska in Banja Luka. Six native populations (labelled G1–G6) and two cultivars, Esquire and Tivoli (labelled G7 and G8), were analysed in this study. The following traits were examined: the plant height (cm), number of generative stems per plant, inflorescence length (cm), number of spikes per inflorescence, seed mass per inflorescence (g), and seed yield per plant (g). The results showed that all the native populations exhibited higher average plant heights compared to the Esquire standard (G7). Population G2 had the highest average number of spikes per inflorescence (26.8), while population G4 achieved the greatest average inflorescence length (27.7 cm). Statistically significant differences in the inflorescence length were observed between populations G2, G3, G4, and G6, compared to the standards G7 and G8 (Esquire and Tivoli). The genotype and year had a significant impact on the seed yield per plant. The average yield ranged from 32.4 g (G7) to 53.4 g (G4). The seed yield per plant showed a strong positive correlation with the number of generative stems per plant, the inflorescence length, and the number of spikes per inflorescence. The native populations G4 and G5 achieved significantly higher seed yields per plant compared to the other populations and may serve as highly valuable material for breeding programmes.

The jandaíra bee (Melipona subnitida) is a species native to northeastern Brazil that produces geopropolis, a mixture of clay and propolis, used in folk medicine. Geopropolis has traditionally been used in folk medicine because of its potential therapeutic properties, including antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and wound-healing effects. Recent studies have highlighted the rich composition of bioactive compounds such as flavonoids and phenolic acids, contributing to their pharmacological potential. Despite these findings, the gastroprotective properties of geopropolis and the underlying mechanisms remain underexplored and warrant further investigation. Therefore, we aimed to evaluate the gastroprotective effects of a hydroethanolic extract of geopropolis (HEG) produced by M. subnitida in Wistar rats, focusing on its antioxidant activity and the role of its bioactive compounds in preventing gastric mucosal damage. The gastroprotective potential was evaluated in Wistar rats pre-treated with HEG (250, 500, and 1 000 mg/kg, orally) for seven days and subjected to acute gastric lesions with ethanol (0.2 ml/animal, orally). One group of rats that received only distilled water served as the negative control, whereas the other group that received only ethanol served as the positive control. The stomachs were evaluated to determine the following parameters: evidence of macroscopic and histological changes, volume of mucus-containing mucin, stomach pH, and index of ulcerative lesions. Kolmogorov-Smirnov and Levene tests were performed, followed by the Tukey test, with values considered significant at P < 0.05. HEG reduced the severity of the ulcerative lesions at all doses tested. Additionally, there was no significant difference in the pH values of gastric secretions, mucus volume, and mucin content in the stomachs of animals pretreated with HEG compared to the negative control group. These results indicate that HEG has gastroprotective activity, which may be related to the presence of phenolic compounds and its high antioxidant activity.

Management of chronic non-healing wounds in cats requires a comprehensive approach. This report describes the treatment of a severe open skin wound on the skull using a combined approach involving allogeneic adipose-derived mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) and autologous platelet-rich plasma (PRP). A 12-year-old neutered male mixed-breed domestic cat presented with a non-healing chronic wound on the skull. The wound extended from the orbital to the occipital area and from the left to the right temporal region. Laboratory test results were positive for feline immunodeficiency virus and impaired kidney function. Sensitivity tests revealed resistance to several antibiotics. Due to limited skin reconstruction options, MSCs were administered subcutaneously at the wound edge once a month for three months. PRP was collected one month after the initial MSC administration and injected at the wound edge monthly between MSC treatments. The wound diameter was measured daily during saline cleaning. The cat received protein-supplemented food daily. Wound healing was observed two weeks after the MSC administration, gradually decreasing in size and closing completely within 5 months. This case demonstrates the successful application of MSCs and PRP for treating chronic wounds in cats.

The increasing global demand for energy and the negative environmental impacts of fossil fuel exploitation have driven interest in sustainable energy solutions, such as wood. The Russian Federation, as one of the world's largest pellet producers, has an opportunity to utilise pellets domestically. This study addresses the lack of publicly available life cycle assessment (LCA) studies on pellet production and utilisation in Russia, specifically examining the environmental impact of residential heat production from locally produced wood pellets. Utilising primary data from the Northwest region, the study follows ISO 14040 and 14044 standards and employs the ReCiPe 2016 (H) Midpoint v. 1.1 method to assess environmental impacts. The results indicate that the production of pellets is the dominant contributor to the global warming impact category, marine eutrophication, and fossil resource scarcity, while transportation has the least impact across all categories. Sensitivity analyses confirm the robustness of these findings, revealing that using natural gas for pellet drying increases emissions for global warming and fossil resource scarcity, and increasing transportation distance significantly raises emissions across all categories. The findings provide valuable insights for policymakers and stakeholders aiming to enhance the sustainability of similar bioenergy systems.

Lithium (Li) plays a significant role in human physiology and psychology; however, it is non-essential for plants. The extensive use of Li in industrial processes and battery-powered devices poses a potential global threat to living organisms. This study assessed the impact of varying soil Li concentrations (0, 20, 40, 60, and 80 mg/kg) on carrot (Daucus carota L.) plants. Results revealed that Li concentrations exceeding 40 mg/kg soil had detrimental effects on carrot growth. Compared to 0 mg/kg soil, Li concentrations of 60 and 80 mg/kg reduced shoot fresh biomass by 51% and 82%, respectively, and root fresh biomass by 68% and 89%, respectively. Elevated Li levels in the soil also increased hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂) content in shoots and triggered enhanced activity of antioxidant enzymes, including superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase (CAT). Additionally, soil Li disrupted the uptake and translocation of essential nutrients such as potassium (K) and calcium (Ca) from roots to shoots. This study concludes that while low Li levels may elicit a positive response in plants, higher concentrations significantly impair growth and could contribute to the accumulation of Li in the food chain.