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The efficiency of three modified plastic digesters (3.6 m³ each) using food waste for biogas generation in cooking food was evaluated. The experiment was laid out based on a completely randomised design. A plastic tank was modified as a biodegradation system for food waste digestion to generate a biogas. The biochemical and chemical oxygen demand ranged from 44.58 to 49.62% and 130.42 to 139.20%, respectively, before digestion, but decreased significantly (P < 0.05) after digestion. The pH of the fermenting slurry fluctuated (6.24-6.86) and an average biogas of 0.574 m³ (505-601 L.day^-1) per day was generated from the three experimental waste proportions which would be sufficient to cook three meals per day for 3 to 4 people. The methane gas significantly increased (P < 0.05) while the carbon-dioxide significantly decreased (P < 0.05) at the peak of the biogas production. The generated biogas significantly cooked (P < 0.05) faster than kerosene, but not faster than liquefied petroleum gas. The flammable biogas generation and high significant (P <0.05) percentage change in the physico-chemical properties of the wastes after digestion implied high efficiency performance of the digesters modified from the plastic tanks.

The effects of fatty acid composition in artificial feed on the change in the fatty acid composition of carp muscles and the relationship between Δ6-Fad and Elovl5 genes participating in the regulation of fatty acid synthesis were studied. Juveniles were fed three semi-purified diets (D1-D3) for 6 weeks with different lipid sources: D1, fish oil with high highly unsaturated fatty acids (HUFA); D2, corn oil with high linoleic acid (18:2n-6, LA), D3, linseed oil with high α-linolenic acid (18:3n-3, LNA); then, samples were taken to explore the molecular mechanism and the factors which affect the synthesis of carp HUFA. The content of LA and arachidonic acid (20:4n-6, AA) in common carp fed Diet 2 was higher than in carp receiving D3 (P < 0.05), but the contents of eicosapentaenoic acid (20:5n-3, EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (22:6n-3, DHA) were lower than in carp fed D1 and D2 (P < 0.05). The liver transcript abundance of Δ6-Fad and Elovl5 in fish fed D2 and D3 at the end of 6 weeks was generally higher than the abundance in the initial stage and in the fish fed D1 (P < 0.05). The results suggest that the common carp can biosynthesise HUFA, and the type and content of fatty acids in feed affected not only the composition and content of fatty acids in common carp muscles, but also the Δ6-Fad and Elovl5 gene expression involved in the biosynthesis of HUFA. Feeding high levels of n-3 HUFA diet can increase the body content of EPA and DHA in common carp. The results of this research may provide a theoretical basis for choosing an appropriate source of lipid for common carp feeds.

A field campaign was conducted using six treatments under the summer rice-winter wheat cultivation system to evaluate the response of soil greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions to long-term differentiated fertilisation regimes. The treatments included control, phosphorus plus potassium, nitrogen only, nitrogen plus phosphorus (NP), nitrogen plus potassium, and NP plus potassium (NPK). Compared to the control, mineral fertilisation increased CH₄ emissions during the rice season by 69% to 175%. Phosphorus amendment also enhanced seasonal CO₂ emissions by 21% to 34% when compared with the treatments without receiving P, while combined use of P and potassium suppressed seasonal N₂O emission to the same level of control. Net CO₂ and N₂O emissions from the dried fallow and wheat seasons and CH₄ emissions from the flooding rice season dominated annual budgets of individual GHGs. All of the soils under different treatments were net sources of global warming and the overall net global warming potential ranged from 9 799 to 14 178 kg CO₂ eq/ha/year with CO₂ emission contributing 52% to 76%, CH₄ contributing 20% to 40% and N₂O occupying the rest. The annual maximum grain yields and minimum GHG intensity was observed at the NPK treatment, suggesting it to be the environmental-friendly optimum fertilisation regime.

The aim of this study was to determine the suitable conservation treatments to control water erosion from skid trails in ShastKalate forests. Two longitudinal slopes of 20-40% and > 40% were considered as critical slopes for skid trails. Treatments of water diversion ruts, water diversion ruts filled with slash and stones were implemented on each slope. A rubber bar was installed at the end of the slope to convert runoff into collectors. Sampling was done during rainfall events in autumn and winter seasons. Findings indicated that the treatment of water diversion ruts filled with slash was better than the other treatments in the control of sediment and soil loss, especially in the slope class of 20-40%. In the slope class of > 40%, there was not any significant difference between treatments in sediment and soil loss control, but generally water diversion ruts filled with slash and stones were better in soil erosion control than water diversion ruts. In both slope classes, the rainfall intensity of 0.11 mm.h^-1 (2.64 mm in 24 h) was the threshold of soil erosion on skid trails. The control of water erosion of soil on skid trails by the operation of water diversions is a suitable treatment for conserving skid trails.

To study the effect of quinoa and canahua wholemeals on wheat flour quality, addition dosages of 10 and 20% wt. were tested. Both non-traditional materials lowered protein baking quality (Zeleny sedimentation), and present dietary fibre increased the Falling number. The fermentograph and maturograph tests showed differences in the optimal fermentation and proofing times, as well as in dough volumes during both tests (which were somewhat higher for the wheat-quinoa flour composites). Besides this, dough volumes in the third stage of fermentation simulated on the oven-rise apparatus decided about baking trial results; in this regard, wheat-canahua flour composites reached statistically better results. All obtained data together with sensory scores pointed to the maximal tolerable quinoa or canahua dosage up to 15% wt.

The removal of toxic metals like lead (Pb) and cadmium (Cd) is very urgent keeping their hazardous effects in view. In this work, seeds of Albizia lebbeck and Melia azedarach trees were converted into activated carbon adsorbents and applied for the adsorptive removal of Pb and Cd metals from an aqueous solution. The as prepared adsorbents were characterised by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The removal efficiencies of both metals were strongly dependent on their initial concentration, contact time, pH, temperature and the quantity of adsorbents. 0.2 g of both adsorbents removed respectively 75 and 62% Pb and 77 and 66% Cd from from 100 ml of a 40 mg/l concentrated solution in 120 min at pH 5 and a temperature of 20°C. Both the Freundlich and Langmuir isotherms were well fitted to the experimental data. We believe that this work will provide a convenient way to synthesise low cost activated carbon adsorbents for the remediation of highly toxic metals from wastewater to safeguard our environment for future generations.

Respiratory and cardiovascular changes in normocapnic dogs undergoing laparoscopic ovariectomy are described in this report. To-date, changes during a standardised ventilation pattern, irrespective of end-tidal CO₂ (EtCO₂) levels, have not been reported. This study was undertaken to describe these changes. Forty bitches undergoing laparoscopic ovariectomy were enrolled in a prospective double-blind randomised clinical trial. They were first anaesthetised with medetomidine-butorphanol-propofol and then maintained with isoflurane in oxygen-air. Ventilation pattern was pressure-controlled, volume-limited. After stabilisation, atracurium 0.4 mg/kg (ATR group, n = 20) or saline 0.04 ml/kg (SAL group, n = 20) was administered intravenously. Capnoperitoneum was then established with an intra-abdominal pressure setting of 10 mmHg. Collected data included heart rate (HR), non-invasive blood pressure, EtCO₂, oxygen saturation of haemoglobin, and tidal volume and neuromuscular blockade (train-of-four). Data were recorded before administration of atracurium or saline, and at 2, 5, and 10 min thereafter. Subsequently, insufflation of CO₂ was commenced. After capnoperitoneum was established, data were recorded at 2, 5 and 10 min. Time of capnoperitoneum induction and duration, time of ovary searching and excision and total time of capnoperitoneum and surgery were also recorded. For statistical analysis, the Shapiro Wilk test, ANOVA with repeated measures and Student's t-test for independent samples were used (P < 0.05). Significant increases in EtCO₂ were observed in patients 5 min after atracurium administration and 5 min after capnoperitoneum was established in the ATR group, when compared to the SAL group. No other differences were found. Administration of atracurium in dogs undergoing laparoscopic ovariectomy with a standardised ventilation pattern did not result in clinically important differences in selected cardiovascular and respiratory variables and surgical times in comparison with non-relaxed dogs. Thus, the use of atracurium in laparoscopic ovariectomy does not result in any benefit for patients or surgeons.

The purpose of this study was to investigate the relationship between the carcass weight and the level of skatole in boar back fat samples with descriptive sensory profiles (trained sensory panel) immediately after heating the fat samples (warm). A weak correlation was found between the carcass weight and skatole level in fat (P > 0.05). Between skatole levels in the fat of boars, whose carcass weight was below 70 kg, and of those with the carcass weight equal or above 70 kg, there was a statistically significant difference (P < 0.05). The average content of skatole in the fat tissue of the boars < 70 kg, (0.18 ± 0.09 mg/kg fat, respectively) was below the commonly used respective thresholds for tainted meat (0.20 mg/kg fat), 53% of the samples showed the values of ≤ 20 mg/kg, and 73% of the samples the values of ≤ 25 mg/kg. In the group ≥ 70 kg (0.40 ± 0.39 mg/kg fat, respectively), 80% of the samples revealed the values of ≥ 20 mg/kg, and 66% of the samples the values of ≥ 25 mg/kg. Our results show that a positive, compelling and statistically highly significant correlation exists between the skatole level and the sensory assessment of skatole intensity in fat.

Pityogenes chalcographus (Linnaeus, 1758) is a significant pest of young spruce stands up to the age of about 20 years. Predation can be a significant part of decreasing its population density. The aim of the research was to determine the relationships between captured P. chalcographus and its major predator Nemosoma elongatum (Linnaeus, 1761). The research was conducted in 2006 and 2007 in five areas with the following conditions: two clear-cuts covered with freely distributed brushwood, two clear-cuts which had no brushwood remaining and the last locality was an older (more than two years older) clear-cut with no brushwood. The catches from the pheromone baited traps used to lure P. chalcographus showed a strong positive correlation between P. chalcographus and N. elongatum. Furthermore, comparisons were drawn between the N. elongatum catches from each clear-cut. The differences in the proportions of the predator N. elongatum to the trapped P. chalcographus were identified between the types of clear-cuts with the highest proportion of trapped N. elongatum in the clear-cuts with the brushwood and the lowest proportion in the clear-cuts with the removed brushwood.

The aim of this study was to determine the proportion of feed consumed by pigs when they had the choice to meet their nutrient requirements offering a low (LND) or a high (HND) nutrient dense diet on animal performance and feeding behaviour. In total 120 barrows and gilts were allotted to three dietary treatments (LND, HND and a feed choice group, FC). Diets were calculated to keep a constant ratio of megajoule net energy (MJ NE) to nutrient standardised ileal digestible (SID) lysine, SID methionine and cysteine, SID threonine, SID tryptophan, Ca, available P and Na. Pigs of the feed choice treatment that could choose between LND and HND chose an energy content between 13.3 and 13.6 MJ ME or rather 10.1 and 10.4 MJ NE. The ratio between LND and HND changed during the growing period to a higher percentage of HND (26.2% : 73.8% in the starter, 22.0% : 78.0% in the grower and 20.0% : 80.0% in the finisher phase). No differences between barrows and gilts were detected regarding the selected diet. As a result, similar zootechnical performance data were observed for HND and FC, whereas LND led to a declined (P < 0.05) performance. Regarding the feeding behaviour no differences in the parameters meal size and daily feeder visits between LND and HND (P > 0.1) were observed. However, within the FC treatment more and greater meals were consumed (P < 0.05) at the HND feeder compared to the LND feeder. Pigs of modern genetics still have the ability to cover their nutrient requirements choosing between diets differing in nutrient density without impairing performance. Furthermore, the results give no indication for the necessity of different energy levels in diets for sexed pigs.

Guinea pigs are common patients in veterinary clinics. Knowledge of the urine composition is necessary for the evaluation of their health. We, therefore, analysed the urine of fifty guinea pigs, thirty-two males, and eighteen females, aged between four months and seven years. None of these guinea pigs showed clinical signs of urinary tract diseases. The urine samples were obtained as part of a preventive check-up, during a regular dental check-up or another minor procedure. The urine was acquired by spontaneous micturition after inducing a short-term, light isoflurane anaesthesia. A macroscopic evaluation of the urine samples and a urine dipstick test were used for the preliminary examination. The average pH was determined to be 8.5 ± 0.5, and in three animals, moderate glycosuria was detected using the urine dipsticks. No urobilinogen, ketone bodies, haemoglobin, or blood traces were present in any of the samples. Severe proteinuria was detected in all the samples. The samples were subsequently evaluated in a laboratory for the following values: specific gravity 1 024.40 ± 1.83 kg/m³, osmolality 601.14 ± 52.28 mOsm/kg, total protein 290.16 ± 34.73 mg/l, albumin 12.04 ± 1.92 mg/l, glucose 0.77 ± 0.20 mmol/l, urea 217.60 ± 24.23 mmol/l, creatinine 3.98 ± 0.48 mmol/l, bilirubin 9.63 ± 1.73 μmol/l, calcium 6.14 ± 0.40 mmol/l, phosphorus 4.95 ± 1.30 mmol/l, magnesium 9.86 ± 0.57 mmol/l, sodium 49.15 ± 6.67 mmol/l, potassium 152.21 ± 10.62 mmol/l, chloride 51.14 ± 5.81 mmol/l, activity of gamma-glutamyltransferase 0.72 ± 0.14 μkat/l, alkaline phosphatase 0.56 ± 0.11 μkat/l and lactate dehydrogenase 0.68 ± 0.14 μkat/l. The descriptive values of the urine biochemical parameters of guinea pigs were determined for the first time in this study.

This study quantifies the effects of weather conditions, irrigation, and plant age on yield and alpha-acids content of Czech hop cultivars Saaz, Sládek, Premiant and Agnus in a 25-year long period, i.e., from 1993 to 2018. The yields of Czech hop cultivars were increasing for the first three years of plant age until they stabilized and then started to decline slightly for 15 to 20 years until they reached the optimal time for replanting. The highest alpha-acids content in hop cones was achieved in the first year of cultivation, followed by a logarithmic decline in the upcoming years. Rainfall was the most significant factor that positively influenced the yield of Saaz hops with correlations of r = 0.59 and 0.61 (P < 0.01) for total seasonal rainfall (April-August), 0.65 (P < 0.001) and 0.60 (P < 0.01) for daily rainfall above 3 mm, 0.37 (P < 0.05) and 0.58 (P < 0.01) for rainfall in May and 0.50 (P < 0.01) and 0.32 (P < 0.05) in July in the Saaz region and the Stekník farm, respectively. The yield of cultivars Sládek, Premiant and Agnus was not statistically influenced by the amount of precipitation, but there was a positive effect of irrigation level on yield increase with correlations 0.58 (P < 0.01), 0.55 and 0.49 (P < 0.05), respectively. High air temperatures during summer were the most significant factor that negatively influenced the alpha-acids content with the correlations ranging from -0.56 to -0.83. However, cv. Agnus showed a stable weather-independent alpha-acids content.

The main goal of this paper was to evaluate structure dynamics in the fir-beech, old-growth forest Badínsky prales. Measurements were taken on four permanent research plots (0.5 ha each) between 1970 and 2018, typically in ten-year intervals. In order to assess long-term structure dynamics, this study used basic stand characteristics and selected structural indices - the relative density (RD), coefficient of homogeneity (H), and structural complexity index (SCI). Species composition was quantified by the relative importance value (RIV), and a detrended correspondence analysis was carried out for the visualisation of long-term changes. The long-term mean of the stand volume reached 634 ± 99 m3.ha-1, and the mean of the basal area was 36.6 ± 4.0 m2.ha-1. Calculated values of the coefficient of homogeneity (1.46-2.54) were similar to values in other old-growth forests with a comparable tree species composition. An increasing trend in beech RIV values was observed; on the other hand, fir RIV values fell by approximately 20%-25%. In 2018, maximal values of the basal area, stand volume and relative density were recorded. These high values may indicate better growth conditions due to climate change, as well as fewer disturbance events in the last few decades.

Pelleted fertiliser production represents improvements in fertiliser management and ensures several benefits, such as a more accurate dosing (less applications), the slow-release of long-lasting nutrients, the possible application during the whole year, easier storage and transportation and better separation of fertilisers and pesticides. The present research investigated the physical-mechanical properties of a pelleted chicken litter organic fertiliser. The pellet samples' particle density ρ (kg.m^-3), mechanical durability DU (%), compressive strengths in the cleft σc (N.mm^-1) and in simple pressure σp (MPa) were investigated. The last two indicators, σc and σp, demonstrated the pellets' resistance to the compressive stress. The resulting values proved ρ = 1 289.73 kg.m^-3, DU = 95.5%, σc = 58.61 N.mm^-1 and σp = 20.02 MPa, while all the results were evaluated positively. The observed level of the DU (%) did not achieve the mandatory level for the commercial production of pellets (DU = 97.5%), however, such a level is stated for a pellet solid biofuel intended for energy production. Therefore, the achieved level of the DU (%) represents a satisfactory result within the investigated pellet samples' mechanical quality. In general, the viability and practicability of chicken litter pellet production was proven, as well as, the suitability of such a feedstock for pellet production. Moreover, the observed results proved a high level of the investigated pellet samples' mechanical quality.

Two varieties of palm date seeds (PDS), Sukkari and Khalas, were examined for their antioxidant and antibacterial activities. Total phenol content was 2 014.37 ± 212.05 and 2 060.40 ± 176.0 mg GAE 100 g-1 dry weight (DW); and total flavonoid content was 83.98 ± 1.10 and 94.97 ± 1.36 mg QE 100 g-1 DW for Sukkari and Khalas, respectively. PDS extracts showed potential scavenging activity against ABTS, DDPH, and hydroxyl radical; the calculated IC50s were 431.17 ± 12.45, 400 ± 10.87 and 680 ± 18.12 µg for Sukkari, and 476 ± 20.25, 302.24 ± 14.08 and 284.18 ± 11.62 µg for Khalas, respectively. PDS extracts did not show potential activity against superoxide anion. Both extracts showed a high percentage of reducing power as the calculated FRAP (ferric reducing antioxidant power) concentrations were 12.66 ± 1.08 and 16.14 ± 1.94 mmol ascorbic acid equivalent 100 g-1 for Sukkari and Khalas, respectively. Bacillus subtilis showed a remarkable sensitivity to PDS extracts; the inhibition zones were 21 ± 0.82 and 22 ± 0.67 mm for Sukkari and Khalas, respectively. PDS extracts possess good antioxidant and antibacterial activity, and therefore PDS could be effectively used as a natural source of antioxidants and to be detected against gram-positive bacteria.

The high prophylactic doses of ZnO commonly used to control post-weaning diarrhoea (PWD) in piglets have become an environmental problem. The possibility of partial replacement of ZnO by sodium humate (HNa) in PWD treatment was investigated in this study. Weaned piglets (32) were challenged with two enterotoxigenic E. coli strains (ETEC/O149/F4/LT and ETEC/O147/F18/LT) and allocated into four treatments maintained for three weeks: C (no supplementation); ZnO2.5 (2.5 g ZnO/kg diet); HNa + ZnO1.0; HNa + ZnO1.5; HNa + ZnO1.7 (20 g HNa and 1.0, 1.5 and 1.7 g ZnO/kg diet, respectively). The effects on incidence, severity and duration of diarrhoea, faecal shedding of total E. coli and both ETEC strains, growth rate and selected blood parameters were investigated. In contrast with ZnO2.5 and HNa + ZnO1.7, high daily diarrhoea scores, incidence and duration and mortality due to severe dehydration were seen in C, HNa + ZnO1.0 and HNa + ZnO1.5 groups. The administration of ZnO and HNa did not affect the faecal shedding of the challenged ETEC strains for eght days, even in clinically healthy piglets in ZnO2.5 and HNa + ZnO1.7 groups. Signs of growth depression were found in C; HNa + ZnO1.0 and HNa + ZnO1.5 groups during the first week. No difference in growth performance was observed in ZnO2.5 and HNa + ZnO1.7 piglets. Most of the selected biochemical and haematological parameters did not differ significantly among the treatments. However, a significantly higher serum Zn as a result of high dietary ZnO intake in the ZnO2.5 group compared to the control and HNa groups was detected. Significantly lower serum P in ZnO2.5; HNa + ZnO1.7 and HNa + ZnO1.0 groups compared to the control group was most likely induced by the increased Zn in serum. The results indicate the possibility of reducing the high pharmacological levels of ZnO in the prophylaxis of PWD through partial replacement with HNa. Such a treatment maintains the favourable prophylactic effect while lowering the Zn content in faeces.

The cropping of six sweet cherry cultivars that originated in the Research and Breeding Institute of Pomology at Holovousy, and a standard one, 'Burlat', were evaluated on three rootstocks in the period of 2007-2017. Trees planted in a spacing of 1.5 m × 5.0 m were trained as tall spindle axes utilising their natural tendency to develop a central leader. On the standard rootstock, P-TU-2, 'Tim' was the most productive with a mean total harvest of 47.6 kg per tree. 'Sandra' yielded the most on the PHLC rootstock with 56.2 kg per tree and 'Helga' yielded the most on Gisela 5 with a mean total harvest of 55.9 kg per tree. The mean impact of the rootstock on the tree vigour, measured upon the trunk cross section area, ranged from 148.4 cm2 on the standard rootstock P-TU-2 to 114.1 cm2 on the PHLC and 125.2 cm2 on Gisela 5 . On the standard rootstock P-TU-2, the most vigorous one according to this criterion was 'Jacinta' (178.0 cm2) whereas 'Justyna' (109.7 cm2) was the least vigorous. On the PHLC, the most vigorous was 'Sandra' (147.2 cm2) and the least was 'Amid' (94.0 cm2). The other tree characteristics were mainly dependant on the cultivar and minimally, or not at all, influenced by the rootstock vigour.

Phenolic compounds (PCs) - with special reference to secondary plant metabolites - were characterised in two Mediterranean olive groves (Olea europaea L.). Representative pedological profiles were dug to identify and characterise the pedotype. Qualitative and quantitative analyses were carried out on soil core samples gathered at fixed depths (0-20 cm and 20-40 cm) and olive leaf methanol extracts by high-performance liquid chromatography with ultraviolet detection. The total PCs content reflected the soil organic carbon distribution, especially carbon of humic and fulvic acids, corroborating their crucial role in humification pathways. Among the analysed plant secondary metabolites, luteolin-4'-O-glucoside and verbascoside were the most abundant in leaves and soils, respectively. Most of the easily hydrolysed/metabolised phenols were not found in soils. Rutin and verbascoside, despite containing glucose, strongly persisted in the soil environment, probably due to their allelopathic effect. Oleuropein was not found in soils because it is highly soluble and mobile in the soil environment. Furthermore, the presence of clay in soil seemed to determine the accumulation of specific PCs. Our data suggest that PCs persistence in soil seems to be mainly determined by a balance between physicochemical and biochemical instability and allelopathic stability rather than their abundance in the plant.

It has been claimed that artificial insemination (AI) of cows with frozen-thawed semen treated with commercially produced kits, Heiferplus^TM (HP, in favour of female gender) and Bullplus^TM (BP, in favour of male gender), increases the birth chance of calves with desired sex ratio by at least 20-25% and pregnancy rates by at least 5-20%. Hence, this study was conducted to investigate the efficacy of HP and BP kits as combined with AI on the pregnancy rates, foetal sex ratios and some reproductive parameters in cows. For this, a total of 200 cows (100 Holsteins and 100 Simmentals) from three to five years old were used. Fifty Holstein and 50 Simmental cows served as controls. The other half of Holstein and Simmental cows was artificially inseminated with frozen-thawed semen treated with HP and BP, respectively. Findings showed that the AI of cows with frozen-thawed semen treated with HP had no significant effect on the pregnancy rate [52.0% (26/50) in HP group; 56.0% (28/50) in control group], female calf ratio [52.0% (13/25) in HP group; 44.4% (12/27) in control group], embryonic death, abortion, stillbirth, twinning and gestation length as compared to the control group. Similarly, AI of cows with frozen-thawed semen treated with BP did not lead to any significant effect on the pregnancy rate [64.0% (32/50) in BP group; 58.0% (29/50) in control group], male calf ratio [53.1% (17/32) in BP group; 39.3% (11/28) in control group] and other reproductive parameters as compared to the control group. In conclusion, HP and BP treatments of semen used in the AI provided only slight, non-significant increases in female (7.6%) and male (13.8%) calf ratios, respectively.

The study aimed to evaluate the effect of the straw mulch and compost application on the soil losses in potatoes cultivation. The three-year (2016-2018) exact field plot trials with the potato cv. Dicolora was carried out at the experimental station in Prague-Uhříněves. Wheat straw mulch in two doses 2.5 t/ha (SM1) and 4.5 t/ha (SM2) was applied on the soil surface; the compost in a dose of 20 t/ha (CM) was shuffled to the surface soil layer. Both straw mulch and compost application contributed to the significant reduction of the soil losses compared to control untreated (C). In the average of 2016-2018, the lowest soil loss 17.54 g/m² (amount of the soil sediment caught) was found for the variant with the straw mulch treatment (SM2); it means the decrease of soil losses by 71.9% compared to C. Variant SM1 (lower rate of straw mulch in dose 2.5 t/ha) showed the soil loss 18.6 g/m² (the decrease by 70.2% compared to C). The similar results for both variants indicate that for effective soil protection, it is not necessary to use the high doses of the straw mulch. Regarding the distribution of precipitation during the vegetation season, intensive precipitation during the short time, especially when they came after the longer period of drought led to higher soil losses compared to the precipitation distributed regularly.

The objective of this study was to explore the internal variability in six established F7 commercial wheat cultivars for breeding purposes. They are sown traditionally in the region of Western Macedonia, Greece. Spikes of the six cultivars were sown in 2008 in separate rows. A head to row selection scheme was applied for two growing periods in order to select lines within the cultivars, based on various traits such as: the total spike number, the spike weight per row, the 1000-kernel weight and the specific weight . The final selection was based on the specific weight and the four best rows from each cultivar were selected. All selected lines were tested in a field trial with a randomised complete block design (RCB). The original seed of the cultivars were used as controls. Statistically significant differences were found for all the studied traits. The line selections differed from the original cultivars, sometimes highly significantly. In conclusion, commercial cultivars that are sown traditionally for many years may contain exploitable variability, which reveals, that the continuous selection within cultivars is necessary to avoid cultivar deterioration and to improve the yield and other traits. The results indicate a degeneration of grain yield from 8% to 20%. Although eye-selection restricts off-types, our results mainly indicate new variability and cultivar performance deterioration under extreme biotic and abiotic stress.

Developing and employing new, sustainable, and eco-friendly biostimulants that enhance plant growth and alleviate the harmful effects of environmental challenges is a major focus for many researchers. Salt stress is a critical constraint on plant growth and a limiting factor in crop productivity, particularly during the early developmental stages in the nurseries. Syzygium cumini (L.) Skeels (Java plum) is an important fruit tree and widely cultivated in gardens as an ornamental plant. This study was designed to develop Cassia javanica subsp. nodosa leaf extract (CLE) as a new sustainable and eco-friendly biostimulant capable of triggering the metabolic adaptation to salt stress in Java plum seedlings grown in nurseries. CLE successfully mitigated reductions in growth, biomass yield, and secondary metabolite production caused by salinity. Although salt stress depressed morphological characters and biomass yield, CLE foliar spray enhanced these parameters. Moreover, CLE enhanced the ferric reducing antioxidant potential, catalase, and superoxide dismutase enzyme activities, increased phenolic content, and reduced hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂) accumulation and lipid peroxidation. Additionally, CLE application increased seedling biomass and stimulated antioxidant activity, osmoprotectant accumulation, and overall tolerance to salinity stress. These observations provide new insights into CLE’s potential as an eco-friendly biostimulant for enhancing salt tolerance in Java plum seedlings.

Changes in the content of mineral nutrients (Ca, Mg, K, Na) and risk elements (Mn, Cd) in the assimilatory organs of selected plant species were studied along the altitudinal gradient of A‒D zones polluted by alkaline emissions from the magnesite factory Lubeník (Slovak Republic). Multivariate statistical analysis and comparison with background values in other studies demonstrate persistent intoxication of some plants by Mg (all study plants), K (Lactuca saligna, Dryopteris filix-mas), Mn (Quercus polycarpa, Carpinus betulus, Betula pendula, Lactuca saligna) and Cd (Quercus polycarpa, Carpinus betulus, Betula pendula, Lactuca saligna). Overall, Lactuca saligna accumulated the highest amounts of Mg, Cd, Na and K near the magnesite plant, suggesting its potential as an effective bioindicator of elemental pollution. Unbalanced Ca/Mg ratios, lower than 1, were recorded predominantly in all plant species sampled near the magnesite plant; unbalanced K/(Mg + Ca) ratios were predominantly in woody species.

Premature ovarian failure (POF) is a significant cause of infertility and is often linked to autoimmune aetiologies. Lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced inflammation is a well-established model of autoimmune POF in rodents. Immunomodulatory treatments involving corticosteroids, frankincense, and targeted secondary antibodies have been hypothesised to mitigate the autoimmune response, reduce anti-ovarian antibody (AOA) levels, and restore ovarian function in an LPS-induced POF rat model. A POF model was established in female albino rats via the intraperitoneal injection of LPS. The rats were then divided into groups that received no treatment (LPS control), dexamethasone (DEX-treated LPS-treated rats), methylprednisolone (MP-treated LPS-treated rats), frankincense (Frankincense-treated LPS-treated rats), or secondary anti-ovarian antibodies (secondary Ab-treated LPS-treated rats) for 3 to 4 weeks. The serum levels of AOA, 17β-oestradiol, follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), and luteinising hormone (LH) were assayed via commercial enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) kits. Ovarian tissues were examined histopathologically to assess structural damage and recovery. LPS induction successfully created a POF phenotype, as evidenced by significantly elevated AOA levels (P < 0.001), reduced 17β-oestradiol (P < 0.001), elevated FSH/LH (P < 0.001 and P < 0.05, respectively), and severe histopathological damage, including follicular atresia. All the treatments restored 17β-oestradiol levels. Secondary antibody therapy was most effective, normalising all hormonal parameters, significantly reducing AOA levels, and demonstrating complete histological recovery with healthy follicles and corpora lutea. MP potently suppressed AOA but paradoxically elevated FSH, without improving ovarian histology. DEX and frankincense showed intermediate efficacy, improving some hormonal and serological markers but failing to achieve full histological restoration. These findings demonstrate that targeted immunotherapy using secondary antibodies is superior to broad immunosuppression or anti-inflammatory treatment for restoring ovarian function in patients with autoimmune POF. While corticosteroids effectively reduce AOA titres, they may not reverse ovarian damage and can disrupt the hormonal balance. This underscores the need for precise, biomarker-guided therapies over nonspecific immunosuppression in patients with autoimmune ovarian insufficiency.

Mediterranean Quercus forests have great ecological importance but face numerous threats, including pests. The spongy moth, Lymantria dispar L., is a major oak defoliator across its geographical range and has a natural enemy complex that may control its population dynamics. This study aimed to investigate candidate predators (Coleoptera: Carabidae) and parasitoids (Hymenoptera: Encyrtidae, Ichneumonidae, Pteromalidae, Braconidae, Bethylidae, Ceraphronidae, Eulophidae, Eupelmidae and Trichogrammatidae; and Diptera: Tachinidae), for the control of L. dispar in two areas in Andalusia (Spain). We studied 10 Quercus stands (Q. suber, Q. ilex, and Q. pyrenaica), with different L. dispar infestation level. Insects were collected using pitfall and cross-vane traps, during the defoliator's larval period. Four genera comprised 92.2% of all the Carabidae predators found: Steropus Dejean (34.1%), Carabus L. (28.4%), Calathus Bonelli (15.9%), and Platyderus Stephens (13.8%); and four Hymenoptera families comprised 93.7% of the parasitoid specimens collected: Encyrtidae (61%), Ichneumonidae (17.5%), Pteromalidae (10.7%), and Braconidae (4.5%). Both the natural enemy assemblage composition and the abundance per tree varied between geographical areas, as well as between levels of defoliator infestation. The candidate enemy complex was markedly diverse and abundant in stands not infested by L. dispar, where no insecticides had been applied. Our results suggest the importance of generalist predators as natural enemies of L. dispar.

Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are a cornerstone in the management of canine osteoarthritis (OA), despite concerns regarding their long-term safety. Among non-pharmacological alternatives, pulsed electromagnetic field (PEMF) therapy has gained attention for its potential analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects, although veterinary-specific evidence remains limited. This randomised, controlled pilot study compared the clinical efficacy of PEMF therapy versus NSAID treatment (Mavacoxib) in 16 dogs with clinically and radiographically confirmed OA. Dogs were randomly assigned to receive either a 12-session PEMF protocol over 45 days or a standard Mavacoxib regimen. Clinical evaluations included pain scores (VAS), pain on palpation, lameness severity (NRS), gait analysis (GLS and TPI), muscle circumference, and radiographic progression. Assessments were performed at baseline (T0), 30 days (T1), and 60 days (T2). PEMF therapy showed earlier improvements in pain, lameness, and muscle mass, and a favourable trend in joint mobility. No significant differences were detected in gait or radiographic parameters between groups. These preliminary findings suggest that PEMF is non-inferior to NSAIDs and highlight its potential role in multimodal OA management. Limitations include a small sample size and a short follow-up. Further studies are needed to confirm these preliminary results in larger cohorts.

Tea (Camellia sinensis (L.) Kuntze) is a globally important crop valued for its flavour diversity and health benefits. Whole-genome sequencing (WGS) was performed to compare genomic variation and functional potential between clone Yabukita and locally adapted clone I.1.93. Using next-generation sequencing, approximately 10× genome coverage was achieved for both clones, with high mapping efficiency (98.24% for Yabukita and 97.88% for clone I.1.93), ensuring reliable downstream analyses. Single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) analysis revealed distinct genomic patterns, with Yabukita showing a more uniform chromosomal SNP distribution, while clone I.1.93 exhibited higher SNP densities on specific chromosomes, particularly chromosomes 5 and 13. Silent mutations predominated in Yabukita (48.21%), whereas missense mutations were more frequent in clone I.1.93 (57.97%), suggesting greater functional divergence. Most SNPs occurred in non-coding regions, indicating potential regulatory roles. GO and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) analyses revealed highly similar shared pathways, including photosynthesis and protein interactions, alongside clone-specific enrichment related to photosynthesis in Yabukita and stress responses in clone I.1.93. miRNA profiling identified distinct regulatory patterns, including the clone-specific miR530 in clone I.1.93. Biosynthetic gene cluster analysis further predicted secondary metabolite pathways associated with terpenoid, polyketide, and saccharide biosynthesis. These findings provide valuable genomic insights for tea improvement and breeding programs.

Snails, which are high in protein, have the potential to be developed as a flavour enhancer through the hydrolysis process. However, consumer acceptance of the flavour enhancer needs to be fully evaluated. The aim of this study was to determine the consumer acceptance of a snail protein hydrolysate from different snail species (golden apple, apple, and freshwater) and at different hydrolysis durations (3, 6, and 9 h), and to identify the drivers of liking of snail protein hydrolysates through descriptive profiling using Rate-All-That-Apply (RATA) method and consumer testing using Hedonic test. The RATA intensity data were subjected to analysis using analysis of variance, followed by a Tukey's post hoc test (P < 0.05). Furthermore, the sensory profile data were analysed using principal component analysis and preference mapping. Snail species and hydrolysis time influenced the sensory profile of snail protein hydrolysate, with the longer hydrolysis time being the most liked. The most liked flavour enhancer derived from golden apple snail with 9 h hydrolysis time had a strong savoury aroma, salty taste, umami taste, lingering mouthfeel, and yellow colour. Additionally, it exhibited a moderate intensity of seafood aroma, a garlic taste, an umami aftertaste, a liquid mouthfeel, and a salty aftertaste. However, it had a low intensity of bitter aftertaste and burnt taste, and a very low intensity of sweet aroma, sweet taste, bitter taste, and bland taste. Thus, these findings highlight the importance of evaluating the efficacy of flavour enhancers and facilitate the identification of the optimal snail species and hydrolysis time according to consumer preference.

Studies on the sustainability assessment of supply chain performance in tropical fruit still have limitations, whereas similar studies are more widespread in the manufacturing sector. This study aims to assess the sustainability performance of the tropical fruit supply chain in Indonesia. Performance evaluations were conducted for three producer organisations of tropical fruit with members ranging from 70 to 200 people in Banyuwangi Regency, the largest production centre in Indonesia. This study proposes a new approach, the best-worst method (BWM), to prioritise supply chain performance criteria derived from the SCOR (Supply Chain Operations Reference) model based on assessments by experts managing producer organisations. In the SCOR model, environmental and social criteria are added, resulting in seven criteria for evaluating supply chain performance, which include reliability, responsiveness, agility, cost, asset management, GreenSCOR, and social. Thus, the integration of BWM and SCOR can ensure higher consistency and reliability than traditional methods for assessing sustainable supply chain performance. The results revealed that reliability is the most important criterion for supply chain performance, which shows how important the maintenance of product quality is. In contrast, agility received the lowest score, indicating that there is a need to improve performance with respect to responding to high demand, managing safety stocks, and overtime in the shipping process. Moreover, this study gives a glimpse into the importance of evaluating sustainability performance for the tropical fruit sector, having perishable characteristics and great contributions to rural development. Hence, this study provides a solid practical guide for decision-makers in assessing the sustainable supply chain of tropical fruits in Indonesia.

The intensification of agricultural practices in Bangladesh has caused significant environmental challenges. This has also undermined farmers' economic sustainability, mainly due to the excessive use of subsidised chemical fertilisers. To address these issues and align with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), Bangladesh has prioritised the adoption of sustainable farming practices, including the recommended fertiliser application (RFA). However, whether the adoption of RFA ensures economic sustainability remains uncertain. This study evaluates how the Bangladesh Rice Research Institute's (BRRI) proposed RFA affects fertiliser use and cost-efficiency. Drawing on five years (2017–2021) of panel data from 2 025 households across three acidic soil regions in Dinajpur, the findings reveal that RFA adoption reduces fertiliser use by 12% while improving cost efficiency by 4.9–5.1%. These results highlight the potential of RFA to mitigate environmental degradation while enhancing economic outcomes, thereby supporting the SDG agenda. In light of these benefits, the study offers key insights for policymakers and development practitioners, emphasising the need for targeted interventions to accelerate RFA adoption and promote sustainable agriculture.