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The objective of the study is to determine the impact of shock from climate change, such as drought and flood, on various technology adoptions in rice production in Vietnam. This study utilised VARHS (The Vietnam Access to Resources Household Survey) panel data from 2012 to 2018 and employed regression analysis following the application of propensity score matching (PSM) to address potential selection bias caused by drought and flood shocks. The findings indicated that households tend to adopt the improved variety of rice and organic fertilisers since households suffer the shock from the drought. Another finding showed that households used more chemical fertiliser and reduced the probability of using improved seeds in rice production since the household was affected by floods. Based on the findings, policies should prioritise promoting and implementing environmentally friendly farming methods that are customised to address specific climate-related difficulties.

The labile fractions of organic carbon (OC), which are a reflection of the properties of soil and its use, appear to be suitable parameters for their use as indicators. The aim of this study was to determine the reliable and relatively simple indicators for detecting the chemical and physical stabilizations of OC, which would respond sensitively to land use. The study includes forest ecosystem (FE) and agroecosystem (AE) with different tillage intensities (reduced tillage, RT and conventional tillage, CT) on real farms. Parameters of the labile C and N were tested. For a depth of < 0.1 m in the FE, the hot water extractable organic carbon (HWEOC) for chemical stabilization and labile nitrogen (N_L) for physical stabilization appear as the most suitable indicators. Higher values of HWEOC indicate the OC stabilization by decreasing decomposition, pH or by increasing carbonates, recalcitrant fractions, and higher values of N_L by OC incorporation into the silt fraction and larger macro-aggregates. In the AE with RT, these are the HWEOC for chemical stabilization and carbon pool index (CPI) or index of carbon lability (LI_C) for physical stabilization. Higher values of CPI and LI_C indicate the stabilization by the formation of size-optimal dry-sieved (DSA; 1–3 mm) and wet-sieved (WSA; 1–2 mm) soil aggregates. In the AE with CT, it was the N_L. Its higher values point to the stabilization through the carbonates, alkaline cations, size-fraction of > 0.01 mm and the formation of DSA (1–3 mm). For a depth of < 0.3 m in the AE, these are the C_L (for RT), higher value of which points to the stabilization by clay and alkaline cations, and HWEOC (for CT), higher value of which indicates the stabilization in the conditions of the soil acidification.

The lowering of loads at gradual tree felling is the riskiest activity performed by tree climbers. During this activity, great forces emerge and act on the felled tree, while the tree climbers use the tree itself to anchor and secure their stance. This research aims to find out whether certain methods of work or the use of certain rigging for lowering loads exhibit positive features in reducing the forces acting on the anchoring point of the rigging system. The work methodology consists of three operations: (i) the calculation of the coefficient of shear friction for the combination of 4 ropes and 5 lowering devices – altogether 20 combinations; (ii) the mathematical modelling of the maximum forces acting on the lowering loads of known weight; and (iii) the verification of mathematical modelling using a series of measured experiments of lowering loads of known weight. The research results present the calculation of the shear friction coefficient for 20 combinations of rigging rope and lowering devices. The maximum magnitudes of the forces which may act on the upper anchoring point of the rigging system at the known load weight were additionally calculated. A total of 240 force values were measured when a load of 12 kg in weight falls according to a predetermined model situation. The results indicate that the greatest influence on decreasing the impact force generated by the falling load is that of the load attachment, reduced load weight, shortened length of the fall or elongation of the total rope length in the rigging system. The differences in the coefficients of shear friction are apparent in the results of measurements, too.

The aim of this work is to characterize the physicochemical and techno-functional properties of dried fig flour to investigate its effect on the qualities of biscuits on the one hand and to encourage the use of this aromatic and medicinal plant in the agri-food industry. During this study, figs and wheat grains were dried and subsequently ground to obtain a flour that was used in various proportions of 0%, 50% and 100%, respectively in the manufacture of the biscuit. The flours were examined for proximate composition, polyphenol and tannin levels, along with functional properties. Flour derived from dried figs showed higher levels of crude ash, sugar, fiber, polyphenol and tannin, as well as greater water absorption capacity and density. The results indicated that incorporating dried and rehydrated fruits increased the total antioxidant activity of the biscuits compared to the control sample. The detailed organoleptic analysis, conducted through a tasting test revealed that all tasters found the dry biscuits acceptable. Biscuits formulated with 50% fig powder exhibited improved sensory attributes, including attractive colour, a crispy texture, and a more pronounced flavour. The use of this aromatic and medicinal plant in the food industry, particularly in biscuit production, holds significant potential. It enhances the nutritional value while imparting a sweet taste, distinctive flavour and natural colour. Additionally, its use contributes to improving the functional attributes of biscuit products, offering a sustainable approach to valorizing dried fig flour.

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.

A 6-year-old female neutered Turkish Angora cat was referred due to tachypnoea. The patient was diagnosed with cardiomegaly at a local hospital during a health screening two years ago. Tachypnoea occurred one year ago. On physical examination, the patient presented with a respiratory rate of 72 breaths per minute and a systolic blood pressure of 70 mmHg. Thoracic radiographs revealed severe cardiomegaly, left atrium (LA) enlargement, right atrium (RA) enlargement, right ventricular enlargement, and dilation of pulmonary arteries and veins. An alveolar pattern was identified in the right and left cranial lung lobes. Echocardiography revealed a membrane that divided the LA into two chambers, a defect in the lower atrial septum, and elongation of anterior or posterior tricuspid valves (TV). However, septal TV was not observed. During systole, blood flow from LA to RA was confirmed through a defect in the atrial septum. During diastole, blood flow from LA to left ventricular was confirmed. These findings suggest cor triatriatum sinister (CTS) with partial atrioventricular septal defect (AVSD). This report describes echocardiographic diagnosis of CTS with partial AVSD in a cat.

This study evaluated test-day records of clinical mastitis (CM), somatic cell count, and nine udder conformation traits. Somatic cell count was log-transformed into somatic cell score (SCS) in 10 periods, each 30 days long and overall, for the first lactation. CM is a complex disease closely connected with somatic cell count. The optimum udder conformation traits significantly affect dairy cattle health. The CM binary trait was monitored in seven periods throughout lactation, each 50 days long, and for the whole lactation. A logistic regression model was used to estimate the risk of CM. The model included a fixed effect of herd-year-season, age at first calving, and a fixed effect of the linear type traits of the random effect of the animal. The phenotypic correlations for udder conformation traits, CM, and SCS ranged from –0.13 to 0.69 and standard errors were 0.01–0.99. The highest CM incidence and SCS were observed for the medial ligament scores 1–2: convex base of the udder. According to the logistic regression assessment, the medial ligament scores 1–2: convex base of the udder and the CM incidence to 50 days in milk reported a 3.79 times higher probability of the CM incidence at the reference level (extremely deep medial ligament) at the same stage of the lactation. CM incidence and SCS significantly decreased with decreasing udder depth. Udder depth below the hock was associated with the highest risk of CM. For udder depth and the whole lactation, the CM ODDS ratio was 1.00–2.56, CM least squares means were 0.18–0.44, and SCS least squares means were 3.20–4.10. Our study confirmed that the start of lactation is critical for the onset of CM, and somatic cell count is manifested throughout lactation. The effect of the udder conformation is then observable in somatic cell count and CM during the whole lactation.

In the experiments, two compounds were used: hydrogen peroxide with silver (H2O2-Ag+) and captan, pyraclostrobin + boscalid and methyl thiophanate + tetraconazole to soak narcissus bulbs before planting for the period of 20 minutes. The bulbs were planted in such a way that 2/3 of the bulb was above the surface of the substrate. All the pots with bulbs were subsequently placed in plastic boxes and transferred to a cooling chamber adjusted precisely for 9 °C and 94–99% air humidity. During the rooting of the bulbs in the cold room after 4, 8, 12 and 15 weeks, and then in the greenhouse after cutting the above-ground parts, the observations of the bulbs and percentage substrate coverage by the fungi most frequently isolated in the previous observations. The research showed that H2O2-Ag+ and fungicides used for soaking significantly limited the fungal development on bulbs and also on the substrate during the rooting period in the cold store and after they were placed in the greenhouse until the flowering.

Based on strip-tillage technology, this study explores the optimal seedbed environment for maize growth through a three-year field agronomic experiment. A comparative analysis of two planting modes, flat planting and ridge planting, was conducted, and a two-factor, three-level experimental design was implemented (furrow-breaking width: 8, 10 and 12 cm; furrow-breaking depth: 2, 3 and 4 cm), with manual soil covering without furrow breaking as the control group. Analysis of the averaged data over three years indicates that furrow-breaking treatment significantly increased maize yield under both flat and ridge planting modes, highlighting the importance of furrow breaking for maize growth. Ridge planting increased yield by an average of 7.58% compared to flat planting. The optimal yield was achieved at a furrow-breaking width of 10 cm and a depth of 4 cm, where ridge and flat planting yields were 10.37% and 10.43% higher than the average values at each level, respectively. Additionally, at the optimal yield level, the chlorophyll soil-plant analysis development (SPAD) values for ridge and flat planting were 15.36% and 17.06% higher than the average values. The emergence rates of ridge and flat planting maize were 5.43% and 4.93% higher than the average values, respectively. This not only enhanced crop stress resistance but also improved overall economic benefits.

The aim of the research was to examine the influence of different light treatments on the growth, phytochemicals and antioxidant potential of broccoli microgreens. Plants were grown in a growth chamber under LED (light-emitting diode) cold white, red and blue light and under fluorescent cold white light (control). The results showed that white and blue light treatments were the best for microgreen growth. Higher concentration of pigments was recorded in plants grown under LED light compared to those grown under FL (fluorescent lamp) light. The content of phenols and flavonoids had a positive and significant correlation with DPPH (2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl) antioxidative capacity (r = 0.66 and r = 0.90, respectively). The first two principal components account for 97.92 % of the total variation of all observed traits in this trial. Based on the PCA (principal component analysis) results, it can be concluded that the traits total phenols content, carotenoid content, chlorophyll a and b content make up the largest share of variability in the obtained results and that the red light conditions were the most unfavourable for the content of phytochemical compounds and antioxidant potential.

The introduction of non-native tree species is considered a potential adaptation strategy to global climate change (GCC) in the forestry sector. As some of the most widespread native species are undergoing stand disintegration due to both abiotic and biotic stressors, the search for alternative species becomes essential. These species can overwhelm native species with both production potential and adaptation to a changing climate. The research focused on climate-growth relationships of two introduced species of the Cupressaceae family, western redcedar (Thuja plicata Donn ex D. Don) and Lawson's cypress [Chamaecyparis lawsoniana (A. Murray) Parl.], in comparison with the native Scots pine (Pinus sylvestris L.) in the northeast part of the Czech Republic. The constructed tree ring chronologies were used as a basis for dendroclimatological analyses: basal area increment (BAI), linear growth trends, Pearson's correlations between climate variables and growth, resilience indices and others. Among the analysed species, Thuja plicata revealed the highest BAI and the most positive growth trend in the last 35 years, with values 2–3 times higher. The Chamaecyparis lawsoniana exhibited the highest negative correlation with mean summer temperatures. In general, Pinus sylvestris showed the highest correlations with precipitation. No clear pattern in resilience indices has been observed. Among the two introduced tree species examined, Thuja plicata emerges as a particularly promising candidate for future application in Central European conditions under ongoing GCC.

As essential natural carbon sinks, woody plants play a key role in urban ecological restoration. The lignite-derived organic fertiliser (LOF) may promote plant growth and carbon sequestration by improving soil properties. This study investigated LOF effects on three typical woody plants – Styphnolobium japonicum (L.) Schott. with taproots, Malus × micromalus Makino with fibrous roots, and Malus domestica Borkh. with both taproots and fibrous roots – focused on soil properties improvement during a three-year planting experiment (2021–2023). The results indicated that LOF application significantly increased soil organic matter (SOM) content, with and without woody plants, by 82.3% and 54.9%, respectively. Concurrently, LOF influenced soil microbial characteristics, especially enhancing the 16S rRNA gene copy number by 0.99 times. For plant growth, LOF application increased root length, volume, and tip number in Malus domestica Borkh. by 37.4, 27.4, and 26.0%, respectively, and in Styphnolobium japonicum (L.) Schott by 43.8, 76.7, and 26.6%, respectively. However, in Malus × micromalus Makino, while root volume increased by 3.8%, root length and tip number decreased by 10.0% and 26.9%, respectively. Additionally, the LOF application increased the soil plant analysis development (SPAD) values of woody plant leaves by 5.3%, indicating improved chlorophyll content and plant health. These findings demonstrate that LOF applications may significantly enhance soil quality and promote plant growth, contributing to improved terrestrial carbon sequestration.

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.

This study compares the bioactive compound contents and volatile profiles of products obtained from the ‘Nero’ variety of aronia (Aronia melanocarpa L.) fruits subjected to three different drying methods: freeze drying, vacuum drying, and hot air drying. Total phenolic content, total flavonoid content, and antioxidant activity were evaluated. The highest values were observed in the freeze-dried samples, with 67.9 mg GAE·g^–1 dry weight (DW), 41.7 mg CE·g^–1 DW, and 88.6% antioxidant activity, respectively. Vacuum drying resulted in moderate levels of bioactive compounds, while hot air drying yielded the lowest values. Volatile compound analysis, based on relative peak areas obtained from Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS), indicated that freeze drying retained the highest levels of key aroma compounds, including hexanal (15.4%), ethyl acetate (13.9%), methyl acetate (5.7%), benzaldehyde (5.2%), 1-butanol (4.4%), linalool (3.5%), hexane (3.3%), and 2-nonanol (3.1%). The heatmap and ANOVA analyses consistently demonstrated that the drying method had a significant effect on volatile compound retention, with freeze drying identified as the most effective technique for preserving the native aroma profile. One-way ANOVA showed statistically significant differences between groups (P < 0.001). Multivariate analysis via Principal Component Analysis (PCA) revealed clear distinctions in both bioactive profiles and volatile compositions across the drying methods. Overall, freeze drying proved to be the most effective method for preserving both bioactive and volatile components in dried ‘Nero’ aronia fruits.

The sorption isotherm (SI) of dried tomatoes was studied at three different temperatures, 15, 25, and 35 °C, using a static gravimetric method. The modified forms of the Guggenheim-Anderson-de Boer (mGAB), Halsey (mHAL), Henderson (mHEN), and Oswin (mOSW) models that incorporate the temperature term in their equation were selected and used to describe the experimental data of dried tomatoes. The mGAB model best described the SI of dried tomato samples at individual temperatures, having the highest coefficient of determination (R²) and the lowest sum of squares of errors (SSE), the root mean square error (RMSE), and the corrected Akaike information criterion values (AIC_c). However, based on the statistical indices, three other tested models outperformed the mGAB model in describing the multi-temperature estimation to differentiate the temperature effect. The mOSW and mHAL models were superior in this case.

Drip irrigation is a highly efficient method for watering crops, as  it delivers water directly to the roots and minimises wastage due to evaporation or runoff. This paper presents the development and implementation of  a low-cost drip irrigation control system that uses both time- and soil sensor-based approaches. The system’s efficiency was compared through a field experiment of melon growing, divided into three categories and four replications using a completely randomised design. The treatments include: T1 [time-based irrigation (TBI)], T2 [soil moisture-based irrigation (SMI)], and T3 [hand watering irrigation system (HWI)]. Results indicated that the TBI technique resulted in faster plant growth compared to the other treatments, as evidenced by increased leaf widths, lengths, numbers, and stem diameter. All irrigation techniques showed significant differences in yield characteristics, with TBI and SMI producing no differences in the first flowering day of female fruit widths, lengths, and weight of melon. However, the HWI treatment resulted in lower fruit length and weight yields. Cost analysis showed that the system is beneficial as  a very low-cost device that is affordable, precise, and useful for measuring and controlling irrigation-related parameters for melon cultivation.

The present study investigated the properties and antimicrobial activity of silver nanoparticles synthesised through a green method using Salvia officinalis. Extracts were obtained from sage at two different temperatures, and these extracts were then used to synthesise silver nanoparticles through a reaction with AgNO₃. The characteristics of resulting silver nanoparticles and their antimicrobial effects on foodborne pathogenic bacteria were examined. During the synthesis, the colour of the silver nanoparticle solution changed from yellow to dark brown, and a significant absorbance peak was observed at 360 nm. The sizes of the synthesised silver nanoparticles were found to be 53.77 and 57.08 nm for the two different extraction temperatures, respectively. The nanoparticles exhibited spherical-rod shapes with silver contents of 83.91% and 84.38% and crystal sizes of 37.15 nm and 34.81 nm, corresponding to the two temperatures. The reduction of silver ions involved functional groups like C=C or C=O. The antimicrobial activity of the synthesised silver nanoparticles was evaluated at concentrations of 10 and 25 mg·mL^–1 using the paper disc method against several foodborne pathogenic bacteria. Notably, the sage extract displayed antimicrobial efficacy against Salmonella Typhi, Listeria monocytogenes, and Staphylococcus aureus. However, no significant antimicrobial effect was observed against Escherichia coli O157:H7.

The widespread application of Internet technology in rural development has significantly facilitated the modernisation of agriculture and profoundly and positively impacts sustainable rural development. This study empirically investigates the effect of Internet access on farmers‘ participation in farmer professional cooperatives based on a sample of 3 349 participants from the 2020 China Rural Revitalization Survey (CRRS), using both probit regression and instrumental variable probit (Ivprobit) regression models. The results indicate that, firstly, Internet access significantly enhances farmers‘ participation in farmer professional cooperatives. Secondly, Internet access influences farmers' decisions to join professional cooperatives differently, with older farmers, those with less education, and non-cadre individuals being more significantly affected in their willingness to participate. The findings deepen the understanding of the relationship between digital technology and organisational participation in rural development and provide empirical evidence for formulating more targeted rural development policies.

The issue of heavy metals (HMs) contamination poses a significant challenge in the environment, exerting a severe impact on the growth and productivity of crops. Cadmium (Cd) is specifically identified as the seventh heavy metal among the top 20 pollutants, primarily due to its elevated phytotoxicity and its solubility in water. In the current study, foliar application of glycine betaine (GB) (500 µmol) investigated the toxic effects of cadmium in maize plants subjected to two Cd concentrations (50 and 100 µmol) as CdCl2. The maize plants exposed to Cd stress exhibited a massive reduction in growth, biomass, photosynthetic pigments [chlorophyll a (Chl a), chlorophyll b (Chl b), carotenoids, and total pigments], gas exchange parameters [transpiration rate (Tr), net photosynthetic rate (Pn), intracellular CO2 concentration (ci), and stomatal conductance (gs)], relative water content (RWC), and organic osmolytes content [total soluble protein (TSS), and total soluble sugar (TSS)]. These impacts were significant with the 100 µmol CdCl2 treatment. Moreover, Cd led to remarked increase in proline, nonenzymatic antioxidants levels [ascorbic acid (AsA) and glutathione (GSH)] as well as the activity of antioxidant enzymes such as superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), ascorbate peroxidase (APX), and glutathione reductase (GR). On the other hand, GB application efficiently relieved the Cd toxic impacts on maize and maintained higher growth criteria, gas exchange parameters, photosynthetic pigments, RWC, and organic osmolytes. In addition, the exogenous application of GB added more enhancement to the antioxidative system (enzymatic and nonenzymatic). These results imply that GB could significantly preserve maize growth under Cd toxicity conditions by maintaining photosynthetic characteristics, water status, and antioxidant system. This suggests an enhancement in the plant’s resilience to stress induced by heavy metals.

This study was conducted to evaluate the wound-healing activities of a Cannabis sativa L. plant extract and cannabidiol on incision wounds. An incision was created and sutured in rats under anaesthesia. Routine wound care procedures were applied for 10 days, followed by histological wound examinations. The cellular bioactivities of the hemp extract and CBD were assessed for MCP-1, EGF, BFGF, IL-8, and COL-1 using ELISA on the rat skin wound healing activity. A one-way ANOVA was used for the data analysis. The EGF values in the plasma were similar in the povidone-iodine, hemp seed oil, and hemp essential oil groups (P > 0.05). However, the EGF levels were lower in the CBD group compared to the other groups (P < 0.001, P < 0.005). The MCP-1 values in the hemp seed oil, hemp essential oil, and CBD were similar (P > 0.05), whereas povidone iodine exhibited lower MCP-1 levels compared to the other groups (P < 0.001, P < 0.005). It was determined that the plasma BFGF, IL-8, and COL 1 values of the groups were similar (P > 0.05). To our knowledge, this study is the first to evaluate the effects of CBD, seed oil, and hemp leaf extract on incision wound healing. It demonstrates that hemp extract holds greater potential benefits for wound healing compared to CBD.

To elucidate the genetic factors contributing to melon resistance against Phelipanche aegyptiaca and comprehend the role of differentially resistant materials in responding to changes in P. aegyptiaca parasitisation, we investigated the P. aegyptiaca-resistant line K16 and the susceptible line K27. The parasitism rate of P. aegyptiaca was assessed at 25 days. Results revealed significant differences in parasitisation rates between K16 (15.35%) and K27 (34.2%). We compared inoculated K16 and K27 to their respective controls through transcriptome analysis and contrasted inoculated K16 with inoculated K27. Eight hundred eighteen genes exhibited differential expression across all comparisons. Gene ontology (GO) functional enrichment analysis revealed that differentially expressed genes were significantly enriched in nitrate transport and assimilation, cellular components, extracellular regions, binding and enzyme activities. KEGG pathway enrichment underscored the importance of phytohormone signaling, phenylpropanoid biosynthesis, linolenic acid and linoleic acid metabolism, cyanoamino acid metabolism and nitrogen metabolism in the interaction between melon and P. aegyptiaca. Nine genes potentially associated with P. aegyptiaca resistance were identified, encoding cytochrome protein P450, peroxidases, β-glucosidase, acyltransferase family proteins, histidine phosphotransfer protein, and D-type cyclins. This study aims to provide insights into the mechanism of P. aegyptiaca parasitism on melons and offers implications for breeding resistant varieties

The aim of the study was to prepare and test the effect of diets with 50% and 100% replacement of soybean meal with dehulled seeds of white lupin (Lupinus albus) variety Zulika. One hundred and eighty Cherry Valley duckling were divided to control group (C) and two experimental groups E₅₀ (50% replacement of soybean meal with dehulled white lupin meal) and E₁₀₀ (100% replacement of soybean meal with dehulled white lupin meal). There were evaluated the production parameters and the amino acid spectrum of breast and thigh muscles up to 42 days of age. The effect of diets containing lupin meal had no negative effect on the yield of duckling. In particular, positively can be evaluated higher growth rate in the experimental groups compared to the control (C 3.22 ± 0.28 kg, E₅₀ 3.40 ± 0.27 kg, E₁₀₀ 3.48 ± 0.28 kg), at the same time significantly lower mortality in the experimental groups compared to the control (C 5.88%, E₅₀ 1.47%, E₁₀₀ 1.49%) and, except for E₁₀₀, minimal differences in feed conversion ratio (C 2.33 kg/kg, E₅₀ 2.27 kg/kg, E₁₀₀ 2.71 kg/kg). Feeding diets based on lupin meal resulted in the reduction of most essential and non-essential amino acids (P ≤ 0.05) in the dry matter content of both breast and thigh muscle (E₅₀, E₁₀₀). Lupine meal-based diets positively influenced ducks’ health, which was reflected by lower mortality rate in the experimental groups. Therefore, the results show that diets based on lupin meal had a positive effect on the health and welfare of intensively fattened ducks and that they affected positively the economic aspect of breeding.

Bemisia tabaci is a significant insect pest that causes extensive agricultural damage. The MEAM1 (Middle East-Asia Minor) and MED (Mediterranean) genetic groups of B. tabaci are the most prevalent cryptic species. This study investigated the potential for resistance development in the MED and MEAM1 genetic groups of B. tabaci against cyantraniliprole. Additionally, multiple-resistance development within each genetic group for pyriproxyfen, spirotetramat, and acetamiprid insecticides was determined. To assess the susceptibility of the first-larval stage of B. tabaci, we employed a systemic uptake method with cyantraniliprole. Additionally, we utilized a leaf-dipping method to apply acetamiprid, spirotetramat, and pyriproxyfen to second-instar larvae, adults, and eggs of B. tabaci, respectively, to determine the LC50 values for each insecticide. Each genetic group was subjected to six selections using cyantraniliprole. After six rounds of selection, a 1.8-fold resistance was observed in the B. tabaci MEAM1 population, whereas the MED population exhibited a 1.4-fold resistance. While B. tabaci MED and MEAM1 genetic groups exhibited very low resistance to cyantraniliprole, it's important to note that no multiple-resistance was observed with pyriproxyfen, spirotetramat, or acetamiprid in either group. These findings provide valuable insights for future monitoring and developing insecticide resistance management strategies for B. tabaci.

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.

Forest headwater streams serve as critical interfaces between terrestrial forests and downstream aquatic ecosystems, playing essential roles in the storage and movement of carbon (C) and nutrients. However, despite their importance, our understanding of the dynamics of plant litter calcium (Ca) and magnesium (Mg) stocks within these streams remains limited. In this study, we conducted a quantitative analysis of the spatiotemporal dynamics of plant litter Ca and Mg concentrations and stocks in a subtropical forest headwater stream from March 2021 to February 2022. We found that: (1) the average concentrations of litter Ca and Mg were 9.9 and 0.7 mg/g, respectively, with mean stocks of 8 792.3 and 620.8 mg/m², respectively; (2) significant variations in litter Ca and Mg concentrations were observed among non-woody debris (13.1 and 0.9 mg/g), fine woody debris (9.0 and 0.5 mg/g), and coarse woody debris (6.1 and 0.4 mg/g), though plant litter type did not significantly affect the stocks of Ca and Mg; and (3) the stocks of Ca and Mg were positively correlated with factors such as rainfall amount, rainfall frequency, water temperature, flow velocity, water depth, electrical conductivity, and discharge, while negatively correlated with stream water alkalinity and dissolved oxygen levels. These findings highlight the critical role of plant litter in headwater streams as a component of forest nutrient stocks and provide empirical support for incorporating headwater streams into the assessment of nutrient stocks and fluxes in forest ecosystems.

The forest dynamics of the Ore Mountains (Krušné hory), Czech Republic, reveal a historical decline of natural mixed forests, especially those dominated by the Hercynian mixture and European beech (Fagus sylvatica L.), due to the expansion of metallurgy and glassmaking in the 15^th century. This led to large-scale reforestation with Norway spruce [Picea abies (L.) Karst.], resulting in single-layered monocultures. Although these monocultures provided valuable timber, they proved highly susceptible to both biotic and abiotic stressors. Throughout the 20^th century, the stability of these forests further deteriorated due to air pollution (notably SO₂ emissions), the unsuitable selection of substitute species, and the proliferation of pathogens. The cumulative impact of these disturbances caused soil acidification, degradation, and weed encroachment, severely limiting the regenerative capacity of forest ecosystems in this region. This article presents model examples of species composition shifts, spatial structure changes, and evolving management practices in the Ore Mountains. It discusses strategies for establishing diverse and resilient stands that align with long-term forest planning goals. These approaches aim to maintain both productive and ecological functions of forests under changing environmental conditions while minimising restoration costs. Importantly, forest management and conversion strategies must also account for economic optimisation, ensuring that ecological goals are met in a financially viable manner. The strategies and case studies presented here offer promising, albeit preliminary, directions for future forest management. Their broader application will require further refinement and long-term experimental validation to ensure sustainability in both ecological and economic terms.

Gerbera flowers are the best-selling cut flowers worldwide owing to their attractive appearance. Nevertheless, one significant challenge for gerbera flowers is their relatively short vase life. Commercially, synthetic chemicals are used to prolong the vase life of flowers; however, they are not environmentally friendly, posing sustainability concerns. Therefore, we used different concentrations of the biocontrol spore suspension of Streptomyces exfoliatus FT05W and evaluated their effect on vase life, bacterial population, and different morphology and physiological indices of gerbera cut flowers, with the objective of determining the optimal concentration for maximum efficiency. The results revealed that all spore suspensions of S. exfoliatus FT05W (1 × 106 CFU mL) significantly extended vase life and were 4 days longer than the control. S. exfoliatus FT05W treatment also increased bottle life extension days, blossom diameter, and fresh weight, and maintained water balance. In addition, it decreased malondialdehyde (MDA) levels and relative electrolyte leakage (REL), leading to decreased oxidative stress. S. exfoliatus FT05W significantly increased antioxidant enzymes, including superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity, catalase (CAT) activity, peroxidase (POD) activity, soluble sugar (SS), and soluble protein (SP), compared to the control. Furthermore, it can effectively inhibit bacterial proliferation, resulting in a decline in colonies and a significant delay in the flower ageing process. The beneficial impacts of S. exfoliatus FT05W were most pronounced at a concentration of 1 × 106 CFU/mL. The findings of this research suggest that S. exfoliatus FT05W has great potential as a bio-fertiliser for cut flowers, as it is capable of addressing the challenges associated with flower cultivation.

Employing the Comprehensive Demonstration of E-commerce in Rural Areas (CDERA) policy as a quasi-natural experiment, this paper explores the impact of rural e-commerce development on agricultural total factor productivity (ATFP) and its underlying mechanisms, using a difference-in-differences model. The analysis utilises panel data from 1 495 counties in China from 2001 to 2021. The findings indicate that the CDERA policy implementation enhanced ATFP in treated counties by approximately 1.6 percentage points compared to control counties, other factors being equal. Mechanism analysis further reveals that the CDERA policy enhances ATFP by improving agricultural technological efficiency and fostering agricultural industrial development. This study highlights the significant role of CDERA policy in enhancing agricultural productivity in China and offers policy insights for advancing rural e-commerce and promoting sustainable agricultural development.

Panax japonicus (T. Nees) C.A. Mey is a rare plant that is used in Chinese herbal medicine. Two-year-old Panax japonicus seedlings were grown in open-top chambers under ambient CO₂ (aCO₂), moderately (e1CO₂: 550 ± 15 μmol/mol) or substantially (e2CO₂: 750 ± 15 μmol/mol) elevated CO₂ to study their effects on plant growth and nitrogen (N) content. After 27 days, the net photosynthetic rate (P_n) of e2CO₂-treated seedlings was significantly higher (20.09%) than that of seedlings grown under aCO₂. However, by day 51, the Pn of e1CO₂- and e2CO₂-treated seedlings was 12.87% higher and 9.57% lower, respectively, than that of seedlings grown under aCO₂. On day 27, chlorophyll a + b content, Rubisco activity, soluble protein and starch content of e1CO₂- and e2CO₂-treated seedlings showed no significant change and significant increase compared to aCO₂-treated. By contrast, at 51 days, chlorophyll a content, Rubisco activity, starch and N content of P. japonicus was significantly increased by moderately eCO₂ condition but was significantly decreased by substantially eCO₂ condition. The results suggest that exposure to moderately eCO₂ was beneficial for P. japonicus growth, whereas under substantially eCO₂, growth were promoted in short-term but inhibited in long-term. Owing to the temporal effect of eCO₂ on P. japonicus growth, there was no significant correlation between N content and P_n of P. japonicus under eCO₂.

Geographical indication (GI) represents the specific good quality and reputation of the regional characteristics of agricultural products, which is a positive approach for stabilising the export of agricultural products, realising high quality and high prices for agricultural products and rural revitalisation. Based on the China-EU Geographical Indications Agreement, this paper discusses the differences between China and the European Union (EU) in terms of GI protection from three aspects: the institutional framework, the operational system, and the operational status of GIs. The purpose of the study is to identify the differences between China and the EU in the protection of GIs, China's shortcomings, and gaps, and to propose policy recommendations for China to protect GI products better, exploit the economic impact of GIs and enhance the competitiveness of China's exports.