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Leaf rust is an important wheat disease that considerably reduces the wheat production in most wheat growing regions worldwide. This study aimed to identify leaf rust resistance genes in 42 wheat varieties to find genetic sources with the broadest spectrum of resistance against leaf rust pathotypes, to enable effective breeding for disease resistance. In this study, 42 wheat cultivars were inoculated with 18 pathotypes of Puccinia triticina Eriks. at the seedling stage to postulate the Lr genes in the cultivars. Resistance to leaf rust at the adult stage was then tested in field trials under natural infection during the 2019 to 2020 cropping seasons at Baoding, Hebei Province. Gene postulation together with molecular marker detection identified ten Lr genes (Lr1, Lr10, Lr14a, Lr26, Lr2a, Lr17, Lr20, Lr34, Lr37, and Lr46) among the 42 accessions.  Lr1 was present in 16 accessions, Lr14a in three accessions, Lr17 in five accessions, Lr2a in five accessions, Lr34 in one accession, Lr10 in two accessions, Lr37 in two accessions and Lr46 in 29 accessions. Additionally, 15 wheat accessions displayed adult-plant resistance or other unknown genes. These results suggest that a high level of leaf rust resistance can be achieved by combining known resistance genes and adult-plant resistance genes in wheat cultivars.

This study aimed to investigate the effects of phytase supplementation in phosphorus (P)-reduced diet on the productive performance, egg quality, calcium (Ca) utilisation, and blood profile of Japanese quails. Phytase breaks down phytic acid; thereby, increasing the availability of its bound nutrients, enabling poultry to hydrolyse and utilise these nutrients effectively. A total of 480 female Japanese quails (Coturnix coturnix japonica; 28-day-old and average body weight = 94.3 ± 5.7 g) were assigned to four dietary regimens, each consisting of six replicates of 20 birds. The control diet (T0) contained 0.5% nonphytate P. The other experimental diets included: T1 = comprising 0.4% nonphytate P supplemented with 0.1% phytase equivalent to 500 Phytase Unit (FTU)/kg; T2 = comprising 0.3% nonphytate P supplemented with 0.15% phytase equivalent to 750 FTU/kg; and T3 = comprising 0.2% nonphytate P supplemented with 0.2% phytase equivalent to 1 000 FTU/kg. The addition of phytase to P-reduced diets did not affect the overall productive performance in quails. Moreover, yolk weight increased by 3.04% to 10.5% (P = 0.01) and the haugh unit increased by 0.56% to 1.11% (P = 0.04) compared to the control, whereas other quality traits, such as albumen weight, albumen and yolk indices, and eggshell weight, thickness, and breaking strength, remained unaffected following the supplementation of phytase in the P-reduced diet. Additionally, an increase in Ca output in eggshells (5.26% to 15.79%; P = 0.14) and the ratio of Ca in eggshells to Ca intake (5.59% to 16.47%; P = 0.49) correlated with the increase in blood Ca levels in the quails on the P-reduced diet (P = 0.16). In conclusion, the addition of phytase to P-reduced diets has proven effective in maintaining the laying performance, egg quality, and blood biochemical profiles of Japanese quails.

This study investigated the effects of dry cow feeding on colostrum quality. A survey was conducted, and samples of colostrum and feed ingredients were collected from 25 dairy farms in Northern Italy. Colostrum was analysed for quality in terms of Brix value and gamma globulins, while diets and feed ingredients were analysed for their chemical constituents. The mean colostrum quality (n = 163) was 24.3 ± 4.41% Brix and 54.2 ± 20.8 g/l gamma globulin. The refractometer method effectively assessed colostrum quality, correlating accurately with laboratory gamma globulin measurements (R = 0.729). Factor analysis indicated that key nutrients, such as protein and fat daily intakes in dry cow diets, influenced colostrum immunoglobulin G. Furthermore, supplementation of selenium, vitamin A, vitamin B12, and vitamin E also improved colostrum quality. Colostrum feeding occurred, on average, 5.44 ± 2.63 h post-calving, with a quantity of 2.74 ± 0.71 l per meal, which is below the recommended 10% of the calf body weight. However, the maximum feeding time was 12 h, and the minimum colostrum quantity was 1.25 l, highlighting considerable room for improvement.

Medetomidine, an alpha-2 adrenoreceptor agonist, is used for sedation. This study aimed to determine the influence of the alpha-2 adrenoreceptor antagonist vatinoxan, co-administered with medetomidine, on healthy dogs’ intraocular pressure (IOP) and pupil diameter (PD). A prospective, randomised, masked clinical study was performed. A total of 40 conscious dogs were allocated to one of two groups: medetomidine 0.01 mg/kg with vatinoxan 0.2 mg/kg intravenously (MV-group, n = 20) or medetomidine 0.01 mg/kg intravenously (M-group, n = 20). The IOP, PD, heart rate, and mean arterial pressure were measured prior to baseline and 5, 10, and 20 min after drug administration. Data were analysed using one- and two-way repeated measures ANOVA or their non-parametric equivalents (P < 0.05). No significant differences in IOP within or between groups were recorded. In the MV-group, PD remained unchanged compared to baseline. In the M-group, PD significantly (P = 0.007, P < 0.001, P < 0.001) decreased compared to baseline at all observation times. PD was significantly (P = 0.010, P < 0.001, P < 0.001) smaller in the M-group at all observation times compared to the MV-group. Vatinoxan co-administered with medetomidine, as well as medetomidine alone, did not significantly influence IOP. Vatinoxan with medetomidine did not affect PD, while medetomidine alone significantly reduced it.

Farmland transfer is a practical need for China to achieve agricultural mechanisation and modernisation, and also an important way for farmers to optimise their family resource allocation. The existing studies ignore the impact of farmland transfer on the environment, especially carbon emissions. The practical significance of this paper lies in exploring the likely mechanisms driving the effect of the farmland transfer on agricultural carbon emissions from a microeconomic perspective using data from rural households, based on the heterogeneity of land management scale. Results show: (i) Land transfer impacts carbon emissions differently. Land transfer of small-scale farmers increases carbon emissions, while large-scale farmers reduce them. The threshold value of land management scale is 1 ha. (ii) The impact mechanisms are water-saving technology adoption and input of fertilizers and pesticides. Small-scale farmers increase fertiliser and pesticide input after land transfer, increasing carbon emissions. Large-scale farmers mostly reduce irrigation electricity consumption, as well as fertilizer and pesticide input, thus reducing agricultural carbon emissions. In conclusion, it is recommended to guide farmers to expand farmland transfer scale through subsidy policies; guide small-scale farmers' green agricultural production behaviours; and increase the adoption rate of water-saving technologies.

Effective weed management is crucial in the critical period of sugar beet production, but often lacks sustainability and environmental protection. Recent advancements in sensor-based weed control systems have rendered the latter a realistic prospect, which demands detailed analyses, especially under suboptimal field conditions. The present study analysed six robotic-assisted weed control systems (RAWS) in three experiments on sugar beets in 2024, conducted under dry soil and high weed pressure. The experiments included sensor-based inter-row and intra-row hoeing, spot- and band-spraying and were compared to a broadcast herbicide treatment and an untreated control. Weed control efficacy (WCE) in the intra- and inter-row areas, as well as weed species composition and crop plant damage, were assessed after treatment. The data show that intra-row WCE of two hoeing robots (Farming GT® and Robovator®) equipped with selective intra-row blades achieved up to 80%, which was higher than the broadcast herbicide control with 67% WCE. In the inter-row area, Farming GT® robotic hoeing and ARA® spot-spraying resulted in more than 90% WCE, which was equal to the broadcast herbicide application. Weed species composition was not affected by the different RAWS. Crop plants were affected by all hoeing treatments with maximum non-lethal burial rates of 33%. The highest lethal uprooting of crop plants occurred after Farming GT® robotic hoeing, at 5.5% overall. The results demonstrate the great potential of robotic weeding to replace broadcast herbicide applications.

This study investigates the effects of salt stress and gamma irradiation on growth, biochemical, and physiological responses in three sugar beet (Beta vulgaris L.) cultivars. Control plants were irrigated with fresh water (EC = 1.1 dS/m), whereas salt stress was imposed with an irrigation of 9 dS/m. Seeds were irradiated with gamma rays (0, 50, 100, 200, 400 Gy) before sowing. Exposure to salt stress reduced root yield (RY), sugar yield (SY), chlorophyll content, and antioxidant enzyme activities (catalase (CAT) and superoxide dismutase (SOD)). In contrast, oxidative damage increased, as indicated by elevated malondialdehyde (MDA) concentrations. Interestingly, salt stress enhanced sugar content, with the Eudoro cultivar showing the greatest resilience, maintaining higher RY and SY and lower MDA compared to the other cultivars. Gamma irradiation at moderate doses (50–200 Gy) alleviated the effects of salt stress, with the strongest improvements in SY observed at 100 and 200 Gy. These treatments enhanced RY, chlorophyll content, and antioxidant activities, while also improving photosynthetic efficiency (Fv/Fm) and cellular integrity. Higher doses (> 200 Gy) reduced sugar content, indicating dose-specific effects. Eudoro exhibited superior salt tolerance, maintaining higher root and sugar yields (RY, SY) and reduced oxidative damage (lower MDA) under salt stress. These findings demonstrate that gamma irradiation at optimal doses enhances salt tolerance in sugar beet, offering cultivar-specific benefits for breeding programmes in saline environments.

Puerperal diseases are major postpartum complications in dairy cattle and may compromise both survival and production performance. This study evaluated how specific puerperal diseases influence early culling risk and standardised 305-day milk traits in Slovak Spotted cows. A total of 792 animals were clinically assessed during early postpartum and classified as healthy or affected by ketosis, metritis, retained foetal membranes, parturient paresis, or by comorbid diseases, defined as the concurrent occurrence of two or more disorders. Logistic regression models indicated that ketosis was associated with the highest odds of culling compared with healthy cows (odds ratio = 2.23; P = 0.05). The multivariable model had a predictive discrimination of 0.75, as indicated by the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve, suggesting moderate performance. After excluding the cows culled during the puerperium to avoid bias from incomplete lactation data, the dataset was restricted to 546 animals. Within this group, metritis was associated with the lowest 305-day milk yield, with an average decrease of 1 124 kg compared with healthy cows (P < 0.05). Protein content was slightly lower in cows affected by puerperal disease (P < 0.05), with no significant differences in milk yield, fat or lactose content, nor lactation persistency index. Parity and sire line still remained the primary determinants of variation in milk traits. The results can be used to support decision-making in herd health management and genetic improvement strategies aimed at enhancing cow longevity and production efficiency.

The potato is a pivotal food crop on a global scale. Nitrate reductase (NR) and nitrite reductase (NiR) are the key enzymes in nitrogen assimilation. In previous research, we found that the nitrogen assimilation process was effectively regulated by StNR and StNiRs in potato and that there were significant differences in nitrogen utilisation efficiency between different potato varieties. In this study, three potato variants with different nitrogen use efficiency (NUE) were subjected to various nitrogen supply levels and photoperiod treatments. The results indicated that the relative expression levels of StNR and StNiRs in their leaves and roots, along with the enzyme activity of NR and NiR, were proportional to the nitrogen supply levels and photoperiod. This study further clarified the expression patterns of StNR and StNiRs, as well as the enzyme activity changes of NR and NiR in leaves and roots under different nitrogen supply levels and different photoperiod treatments. This provides a theoretical basis for further in-depth exploration of the specific functions related to nitrogen absorption and assimilation efficiency in potato.

Rapeseed (Brassica napus L.) is a major global oilseed crop and exhibits significant heterosis. The discovery and characterisation of novel male-sterile accessions remain fundamental for harnessing heterosis in rapeseed breeding. Previously, we developed a male sterile two-type line system 19F08AB in B. napus. In this study, anther abortion in 19F08A was characterised using the squash method. The inheritance of male sterility in 19F08A and its genetic relationship to reported male sterile accessions in rapeseed was investigated using classical genetic analysis and male-sterility-gene-specific molecular markers. Results indicated that male sterile flowers of 19F08A exhibit flat petals, reduced floral organs, short filaments, and completely degenerated stamens devoid of pollen. Pollen mother cells in 19F08A degenerated at the pre-meiotic stage and aborted completely at the tetrad stage, with no dyad or tetrad formation observed. This suggested that 19F08A represents a meiosis abnormality-type male sterility. Classical genetic and molecular marker analysis revealed that male-sterile plants 19F08A carry the genotype of pol (RfpRfpMsms), whereas fertile plants 19F08B possess pol (RfpRfpmsms). The effect of the pol cytoplasm was masked by the Rfp gene. Therefore, fertility in 19F08AB is controlled by a pair of nuclear genes (Ms/ms), with male sterility exhibiting dominance over fertility. The application prospects of this male-sterile accession are also discussed. These findings expand the pool of male-sterile resources available for B. napus hybrid breeding and contribute to plant male sterility theory.

This study has evaluated the genetic characteristics and wheat processing-related properties of four Korean wheat landraces (KWLs). The KWLs were found to possess the vernalization alleles vrn-A1, vrn-B1, and Vrn-D1 and the photoperiod alleles Ppd-A1b, Ppd-B1b, and Ppd-D1a. The Korean cultivated variety Keumgang also shared these alleles with the exception of vrn-D1. With regard to grain hardness, KWL 2 was shown to possess Pina-D1a and Pinb-D1b like Keumgang, while other KWLs were classified as carrying Pina-D1a and Pinb-D1a. All KWLs were found to be non-waxy, carrying the alleles Wx-A1a, Wx-B1a, and Wx-D1a. With regard to the polyphenol oxidase (PPO) genes, all four KWLs carried low-activity alleles, in contrast to the Keumgang sample. The assessment of physicochemical properties revealed that KWL 1, 3, and 4 had a higher amylose content but a lower protein content than KWL 2 and Keumgang. In tests of solvent retention capacity KWL 1 and KWL 2 exhibited the lowest and highest values, respectively, for all four solvents used in the tests. With regard to the dough properties, the results of Mixolab analysis indicated a faster starch gelatinisation in KWL1, while in KWL 2 a high water absorption and the longest dough development and stability times were found. KWL 3 and 4 exhibited similar dough behaviours. Principal component analysis of the four KWL lines revealed distinct clustering based on their physicochemical and dough-related traits.

This study investigates the impact of supplementing extruded flaxseed to the diet of yearling bulls during the indoor fattening on beef carcass quality, meat composition, and fatty acid profile. Twenty male crossbred calves (Holstein × Simmental) were divided into two groups: control group and flaxseed-supplemented group, each with 10 calves. The control group received a conventional diet, while the flaxseed group was fed the same diet enriched with 5% extruded flaxseed on a dry-matter basis. The study revealed no significant differences in growth performance, carcass weight, or yield between the two groups. However, the flaxseed-supplemented group exhibited a higher intramuscular fat content, which was likely due to the increased energy intake from the flaxseed lipid content. Additionally, flaxseed supplementation improved the fatty acid profile of beef by increasing the percentage of monounsaturated fatty acids (MUFA) and reducing the saturated fatty acid (SFA) percentage and the n-6/n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acid ratio. Despite these improvements, the study did not reveal any significant increase in the proportion of n-3 fatty acids in the meat. These findings suggest that while flaxseed supplementation enhances the nutritional profile of beef, further research is needed to optimise the balance of energy intake to maximise the increase in n-3 fatty acids.

This study investigates the effect of varying concentrations of potato fibre (PF) (1, 2, and 3%) on wheat flour (WF) dough rheological properties and the resultant pan bread quality. Chemical analysis, physical characteristics (weight, loaf volume, and specific volume), and colour attributes were estimated to assess bread quality. The impact of PF on bread sensory evaluation was estimated. The addition of PF significantly affected the properties of the dough. Moreover, the data indicated a substantial increase in water absorption (P ≤ 0.05) from 57.2% for the control to 65.5, 73.3, and 77.6% with the addition of 1, 2, and 3% PF to WF, respectively. Protein, crude fibre, and ash levels significantly increased (P ≤ 0.05) with higher PF ratios. Moisture and carbohydrate contents were markedly reduced (P ≤ 0.05). The specific volume considerably decreased from 3.15 cm³·g^–1 in the control to 2.9, 2.74, and 2.53 cm³·g^–1 with the addition of 1, 2, and 3% PF to WF, respectively. All replacement samples exhibited no significant alterations (P ≤ 0.05) in L* values and substantially (P ≤ 0.05) increased values of yellowness (b*) in all fortified samples relative to the control. Sensory assessments revealed that PF can be incorporated into WF at concentrations of 1% and 2% without compromising the overall acceptability of bread compared to the control.

Resveratrol and polydatin are stilbenes with notable antioxidant and health benefits, making them important compounds in health promotion, grapevine production, and oenology. This study aimed to monitor the trans isomers of these compounds in twelve grape varieties (red and white), grown under organic production (OP) and conventional production (CP) systems. A novel high-performance liquid chromatography coupled with a diode array detector (HPLC-DAD) method was developed and validated, demonstrating sensitivity and reliability for the quantification of the mentioned stilbenes. The method was applied to real samples, enabling the evaluation of the influence of production systems on the presence of the analysed compounds. The research included some of the most widely cultivated domestic and international varieties in the examined region. The obtained results revealed a significant impact of the production system and grape colour on resveratrol and polydatin content. OP consistently yielded a higher content of both compounds, compared to CP. Furthermore, red varieties showed higher overall stilbene levels than white ones. ‘Shiraz’ variety was an exception, with high levels of both compounds under CP. All the obtained findings highlight the role of the production system in enhancing bioactive compound content in grapes. The study provides valuable insights for optimising viticulture, supporting plant resilience, and improving the nutritional qualities of grape-derived products.

‘Cerason’ is an interspecific cultivar of grapevine that has been bred and selected in the Czech Republic (2008). The cultivar is a result of crossing the cultivars ‘Merlan’ and ‘Fratava’ and shows very promising potential within the framework of a fungus-resistant (PIWI) cultivar, making it particularly suitable for organic wine-making. This paper presents the results of an experiment performed with seven selected rootstock cultivars (viz. ‘Kober 125AA’, ‘Amos’, ‘Börner’, ‘Crâciunel 2’, ‘Kober 5BB’, ‘K1SO4’ and ‘Teleki 5C’) and some data about the effects of these rootstocks on the quantitative variables of the cultivar ‘Cerason’. The aim of this study was to choose and specify the rootstock cultivars that would be the most suitable for a given locality. The following traits were monitored and recorded: plant vitality, the yielding capacity of the individual plants, and the number and weight of clusters per vine. The weight of 100 berries was also an important variable. The rootstock cultivars ‘Kober 125AA’ and ‘Kober 5BB’ were evaluated as the best for optimal growth and fertility (especially a higher fertility index, pruning weight and weight of clusters). The experimental results indicated that the cultivar ‘Crâciunel 2’ could also be a suitable rootstock. The ‘Kober 125AA’ rootstock also showed the most optimal Ravaz index, with an average of 5.9 over the three-year observation period.

Apart from the roots, the bulb is the most important organ for plant development of the lily plant. In this experiment, the effects of mycorrhizal, vermicompost and promalin applications on the root architecture of Lilium oriental hybrid ‘Adelante’, a bulbous plant, were to be investigated. It was found that the effect of the treatments on root length (128.6 cm), root surface area (8 cm³), number of tips (111.5), number of forks (354.4) and number of crossings (86.2) was lower than that of the control. In terms of root volume, the applications of vermicompost (3 cm²) and promalin (3 cm³) were the most effective. The most effective application on root diameter (3.5 mm) was promalin. In conclusion, the effect on mycorrhizal root development was lower than the control but higher than other applications. In addition, machine learning (ML) algorithms, including linear regression (LR), sequential minimal optimisation for regression (SMOreg), Gaussian process (GP) and artificial neural network-based multilayer perceptron (ANN-based MLP), were used in the study. The input variables were evaluated for modelling and predicting root traits. The performance values of the ML algorithms were noted in the following order: LR > SMOreg > GP > MLP. These results have important implications for the prediction of root growth in lily crops.

This study was conducted to evaluate the effects of three nutrient solutions (Hoagland, Knop, and Hydro Umat F) on the growth, yield, and fruit quality of hydroponically cultivated yardlong bean (Vigna unguiculata subsp. sesquipedalis L.). Results showed that Hydro Umat F extended the plant lifespan (105.4 days) and flowering time (58.65 days), increased the number of branches per plant, and enhanced leaf SPAD values. Plants grown in Hydro Umat F also exhibited the highest yield, as indicated by the number of flowers per plant (46.12), number of pods per plant (20.81), pod length (54.15 cm), pod weight (20.06 g), and total pod weight per plant (417.45 g). The Hoagland solution also promoted plant growth and yield, with a growth duration of 96.74 days, an average of 17.63 pods per plant, a pod length of 47.34 cm, a pod weight of 17.14 g, and a total yield of 302.17 g per plant. In contrast, the Knop solution, containing only six essential nutrients, shortened the plant’s growth duration (76.37 days) and significantly reduced the growth and yield of the hydroponic yardlong bean. Regarding pod quality, the pods from plants grown in Hydro Umat F had higher vitamin C content (4.12 mg/g), total protein content (3.21 mg/100 g), and reducing sugar content (13.06 mg/g) compared to those grown in Hoagland and Knop solutions. The findings suggest that Hydro Umat F is a suitable nutrient solution for hydroponic cultivation of yardlong bean, contributing to increased plant yield and fruit quality. These results suggest that Hydro Umat F is a promising nutrient solution for enhancing yield and pod quality in hydroponic yardlong bean cultivation, particularly in the context of the decline in available agricultural land and the rise of urban agriculture in Vietnam.

Circular bioeconomy is rapidly gaining ground in the agricultural sector with priority given to the utilisation of more environmentally friendly materials for production and processing. Thus, in this study, biodegradable seedling pots were developed using sawdust (SD) and spent mushroom compost (SMC) as a sustainable alternative to plastic containers. Four pots composed of SMC : SD ratios of 100 : 0, 70 : 30, 60 : 40, and 50 : 50 were developed and evaluated. The mechanical properties, structural characteristics, and water absorption capacity of the pots were assessed and seedlings were made to grow in them to monitor the growth support potential. A universal tensile test machine was used to assess the indirect tensile strength (mechanical properties), while a scanning electron microscope was used to examine the morphology of the samples. Also, images of the seedling roots were segmented and analysed in ImageJ and WinRHIZO software to determine the root system architecture. The results demonstrated that the 60 : 40 ratio exhibited superior performance including having optimal water absorption capacity, indirect tensile strength, and structural properties. The 70 : 30 ratio also showed comparable tensile strength values. However, increasing the SMC content in the pot improved the root developments. This research presents a viable solution for converting agricultural waste into environmentally friendly seedling containers and suggests a potential option for reducing the dependency on plastic pots in agriculture.

The circular economy (CE) has proven to be an effective solution for sustainable development in the last two decades, especially in the context of multiple crises. As a long-term strategy, business managers are seeking a sustainable business model that harmoniously and efficiently integrates prosperity, social security, and resource conservation. This research highlights the essential role of components such as green logistics (GL) and green human capital (GHC) in sustainable production (SP), which is necessary for the successful implementation of CE. The study, based on data collected from 117 companies in the Romanian food industry, uses partial structural equation modelling to explore the causal relationships between these variables. The results show that both green logistics and green human capital are important factors for circular economy, and sustainable production significantly mediates the relationships between green human capital, and circular economy, but not significantly for green logistics. Thus, it is concluded that sustainable production has a determining positive effect on circular economy. Although the research is limited by the geographical and sectoral context, it contributes theoretically and practically by analysing the relationships between these concepts and the relevant managerial implications.

Cerebellar hypoplasia caused by feline panleukopenia virus (FPV) is well documented in domestic cats. Still, it remains unreported in wild felid species, including the Amur leopard cat (Prionailurus bengalensis euptilura). Understanding the impact of such viral diseases on wild populations is crucial for advancing conservation efforts and protecting wildlife. An orphaned Amur leopard cat exhibiting idiopathic ataxia was rescued. Initial diagnostics, including physical examination, radiography, and blood analysis, yielded no remarkable findings, though its clinical signs indicated an underlying neurological problem. Subsequent real-time polymerase chain reaction tests detected FPV. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) revealed brain lesions, including reduced cerebellar parenchyma and cerebrospinal fluid occupying the space where the cerebellum should be located. These findings suggested cerebellar hypoplasia caused by in utero FPV infection. The Amur leopard cat was euthanised owing to its permanent disability, and the necropsy confirmed a markedly shrunken cerebellum. At the same time, histopathology identified decreased cellularity of the molecular and granular layers of the cerebellar cortex. These results coincided with the MRI findings. This report suggests that cerebellar hypoplasia caused by FPV can occur in wild felid species.

Membranous structures within the right atrium (RA), such as the Chiari network, eustachian valve, Thebesian valve, and cor triatriatum dexter (CTD), can present with overlapping imaging features and complicated diagnoses. A 17-year-old male Maltese presented with a cardiac murmur, cough, anorexia, and exercise intolerance. Echocardiography revealed a mobile membrane in the RA, dividing it into two chambers. Computed tomography (CT) confirmed this finding, demonstrating differential attenuation of contrast between the chambers. The vascular connections and anatomical relationships of the structure differed from those of previously reported CTD types. Although other sinus venosus valve remnants were considered, the findings supported a provisional diagnosis of atypical CTD. This case highlights the utility of multimodal imaging for the characterisation of right atrial membranous structures. In human medicine, a detailed anatomical comparison of sinus venosus valve remnants aids in the differential diagnosis. Applying a similar approach in veterinary medicine, especially in geriatric patients, may improve diagnostic accuracy. Comprehensive imaging evaluations, including echocardiography and CT, are recommended to assess RA membranes that may be misinterpreted as variants of the CTD or other embryological remnants.

This study systematically investigated the synergistic improvement of expansive soil using organic fertiliser (OF), slow-release fertiliser (SRF), and rice straw (RS) through Box-Behnken design (BBD) and response surface methodology (RSM). Key findings include: the quadratic models demonstrated high statistical significance (root density: R² = 0.765, F = 25.84; shear strength: R² = 0.885, F = 18.65; swelling rate: R² = 0.20, F = 15.23; all P < 0.001) with low prediction errors (root content: ± 0.08 mg/cm³; shear strength: ± 0.58 kPa; swelling rate: ± 0.38%); The combination of 12.30% OF + 0.7 kg/m³ SRF + 0.4% RS achieved 58% improvement in shear strength, 32% improvement in root content, 42.7% reduction in swelling rate; OF exhibited negative linear effects on root density (β = – 0.18, P = 0.002) with >10% dosage reducing root growth by 9.0%; SRF showed positive linear impacts on shear strength (β = +0.25, P = 0.001) and root density (β = + 0.12, P = 0.023); RS enhanced shear strength below 0.5% (β = + 0.08, P = 0.042) but impaired root density due to pore clogging (β = – 0.15, P = 0.008). The optimised formulation, validated by triplicate centre-point tests (coefficient of variation ≤ 2.1%), is recommended for slope stabilisation while limiting OF to ≤ 10% to prevent performance degradation. This data-driven approach provides actionable insights for balancing agricultural waste utilisation and geotechnical performance in expansive soil improvement.

Diarrhoea in newborn piglets represents a significant challenge to pig production. Controlled oral exposure, also known as “feedback”, whereby sows are exposed at least two weeks before farrowing to pathogens that cause health problems in piglets, is a traditional method of diarrhoea prevention. One type of feedback involves fermenting cow’s milk with faeces from piglets suffering from diarrhoea and administering it to sows before farrowing. The bacterial composition of the faecal inoculum and fermented milk was compared in this study, and the safety of administering the fermented milk to pregnant sows was evaluated. Using microbiota characterisation by 16S rRNA gene sequencing, the genera Acetobacter, Lactobacillus and Lactococcus formed the core microbiota of the fermented milk. However, Clostridium perfringens accounted for up to 33% of the total microbiota in some fermented milk samples. Interestingly, the drop in pH during the later stages of fermentation inactivated C. perfringens and the samples were thus enriched for inactivated C. perfringens antigen. Our findings contribute to a better understanding of the mode of action of fermented milk when used as a form of feedback.

The research was conducted in a long-term stationary experiment established on light grey forest surface-gleyed soil in 1965. Data presented in this study were collected during 2022–2024 growing seasons within the framework of this long-term experiment. The experiment is registered in the NAAS long-term field experiments registry (certificate No. 29) and the Global Long-Term Agricultural Experiments Network (GLTEN). The study examined the effect of growing red clover in a four-field crop rotation on nutrient balance at different fertiliser and lime doses and ratios. Red clover was used for feed and feed-green manure purposes. The research aimed to substantiate optimal methods of utilising this valuable forage crop and optimise fertilisation systems to ensure sustainable agricultural development. Growing the first cut of red clover for feed purposes and the second as green manure with fertilisation (N₁₀₅P₁₀₁K₁₀₁ + organic fertilisers + liming) ensures a positive surface balance of 402 kg/ha of nitrogen, 150 kg/ha of phosphorus, and 204 kg/ha of potassium. These data are almost twice higher than indicators under minimal fertilisation doses. Despite the reduction in symbiotic nitrogen fixation from 217 kg/ha to 147 kg/ha when growing red clover in crop rotation with intensive fertilisation, it remains an effective phytobiological ameliorant.

Ocular squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) is an epithelial neoplasm that affects the ocular and periocular tissues, often associated with factors such as exposure to ultraviolet radiation. The disease is rarely reported in buffalo, particularly regarding its progression and treatment. This report describes a case of a buffalo with a pink mass in the right eye showing signs of inflammation. After clinical examination and initial treatment with topical solutions and systemic drugs, the tumour continued to grow. As a result, surgery was performed to remove the mass while preserving the eyeball and third eyelid. The procedure was successful, and histopathological analysis confirmed the diagnosis of OSCC. Postoperative recovery was satisfactory. It was concluded that early surgical treatment followed by medical treatment allowed complete recovery in the buffalo with OSCC.

A cross-sectional study was conducted in western Algeria between February and October 2024, aimed at determining the prevalence of bovine mastitis, Gram-negative bacilli, and their associated risk factors. A total of 524 cows were sampled using clinical examination and the California mastitis test. Milk samples from the affected quarter were subjected to bacteriological assays. Three generalised linear mixed models were used to identify the risk factors for clinical mastitis (CM) and subclinical mastitis (SCM), as well as Gram-negative bacilli isolates associated with bovine mastitis. Model selection was performed using the Akaike information criterion. The prevalence of mastitis was 59.7% at the cow level, of which 12.6% was CM and 47.14% SCM. Overall, 65.5% of the mastitis cows showed a positive culture for Gram-negative bacilli. The most commonly isolated bacteria were Escherichia spp. (44%), Klebsiella spp. (23.1%), and Pseudomonas spp. (11.6%). The parity, contact with visitors, and daily milk yield (l/day) were identified as risk factors for SCM in dairy cows. However, foremilk discarding reduced the risk of developing SCM. A history of mastitis, udder injuries, udder and leg hygiene scores, and parity were identified as risk factors for CM. Nevertheless, none of the variables examined were risk factors for an udder infection by the Gram-negative bacilli isolates.

This study examines the floristic composition, structural attributes, diversity patterns, and distribution of endemic woody species along an altitudinal gradient in the Al-Jabal Al-Akhdar mountain of northeastern Libya. Stratified sampling was conducted across four elevation zones on the northern and southern slopes. Phytosociological parameters – including density, basal area, importance value index, and diversity indices – were assessed, and Pearson correlations were used to evaluate relationships with altitude and aspect. A total of 61 woody species from 43 genera and 26 families were recorded, highlighting the region's biodiversity. Tree and shrub density and basal area increased with elevation, particularly on northern slopes. Juniperus phoenicea L. emerged as the most dominant tree, while Phlomis floccosa D. Don and Pistacia lentiscus L. dominated the shrub layer. Diversity indices showed negative correlations with altitude, indicating declining species richness and evenness at higher elevations under cooler temperatures and greater environmental stress. Ten endemic woody species were documented, with endemic richness positively associated with altitude, reflecting the role of habitat isolation and environmental filtering. These findings provide essential insights for biodiversity conservation, climate adaptation, and ecosystem management in Al-Jabal Al-Akhdar and comparable mountainous ecosystems.

Climatic microrefugia allow some forest tree species to persist outside their main distribution range by locally decoupling site conditions from the regional climate. At its western, oceanic range margin in the Swiss Prealps, the Swiss stone pine (Pinus cembra L.) occurs on large boulders embedded within subalpine forests dominated by Norway spruce [Picea abies (L.) H. Karst.]. We hypothesised that these landforms generate a continental-like microclimate enabling P. cembra persistence under otherwise sub-oceanic conditions, and we aimed to quantify this phenomenon. Using high-resolution data loggers, we measured air and soil temperature, thermal amplitudes, and soil moisture on the summits and at the bases of ten limestone boulders over a two-year period. Linear mixed-effects models revealed a pronounced microclimatic decoupling between positions. Boulder summits were consistently warmer and drier during the growing season. In contrast, during winter, summits were significantly colder, while boulder bases remained thermally stable due to persistent snow insulation. The strongest microclimatic divergence occurred in spring, when temperatures at the bases remained stable near 0 °C, whereas summit temperatures were markedly warmer and more variable. This continental-like microclimate likely promotes P. cembra persistence. Our results highlight the importance of topographic heterogeneity for maintaining marginal tree populations.