Introduction Abiotic stress is one of the major constraints limiting crop productivity, plant growth, and fruit quality worldwide. Environmental stresses such as drought, salinity, temperature extremes, heavy metals, and oxidative stress adversely affect plant metabolism, development, and survival. Materials and Methods This review synthesizes published literature on the role of plant secondary metabolites in mediating tolerance to major abiotic stresses. Particular emphasis is placed on the functions of terpenes, phenolic compounds, and nitrogen-containing compounds in plant stress adaptation. Nitrogen-containing compounds have greater effects against biotic stress than abiotic stress. Results The reviewed studies indicate that secondary metabolites play significant roles in mitigating abiotic stress. Phenolic compounds, particularly flavonoids and stilbenes, function as powerful antioxidants and photoprotective agents, while terpenes contribute to cellular stability under stress conditions. Nitrogen-containing metabolites, including alkaloids, glucosinolates, and cyanogenic glycosides, also participate in defence responses and stress tolerance. Collectively, these compounds contribute to Reactive Oxygen Species (ROS) scavenging, antioxidant activity, osmotic regulation, membrane stability, and stress signalling pathways. Discussion The findings highlight the diverse mechanisms through which secondary metabolites enhance plant resilience to environmental stresses. Their accumulation and activity are critical components of plant adaptive responses and may influence stress tolerance across different crop species and stress conditions. Conclusion Secondary metabolites play a crucial role in enhancing plant adaptation to adverse environmental conditions. A better understanding of their mechanisms of action may facilitate the development of stress-resilient crops and support sustainable agricultural production under changing climatic conditions.
IntroductionCassava Mosaic Disease (CMD), caused by Cassava Mosaic Geminiviruses and transmitted by Bemisia tabaci, is a major constraint to cassava production in Africa. The objective of the study is to determine the prevalence, spatial distribution, and diversity of Cassava Mosaic Geminiviruses in the Volta Region of Ghana. MethodsA field survey was conducted between June and August 2019 to ascertain the prevalence, spatial distribution, and diversity of CMGs in the Volta Region. A total of five farms were selected from each of the three communities within each of the six districts, resulting in a total of 90 farms. From each farm, 30 plants (25 symptomatic and 5 asymptomatic) were randomly sampled, ensuring a minimum distance of 30 km between farms. Data were collected on disease incidence, disease severity, and whitefly population across all sites. Incidence and whitefly data were appropriately transformed prior to analysis, while severity scores were calculated. The resulting data were analysed using Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) in GenStat statistical software, version 11. ResultsThe incidence and severity of CMD were high, ranging from 77.20 ± 1.64 in Hohoe to 96.67 ± 0.23 in Krachi Nchumuru, and from 2.93 in Adaklu to 4.37 in Hohoe, respectively. Whitefly populations were generally high, with Krachi Nchumuru and Adaklu recording 10.01 ± 0.22 and 5.93 ± 0.25, respectively. DiscussionPearson’s coefficient of correlation indicated a strong positive significant correlation (r=0.719; p<0.05) between whitefly population and incidence, and a significant weak negative correlation (r=-0.177; p<0.05) between rainfall and disease severity and temperature. A higher percentage (more than half) of leaf samples were co-infected with African Cassava Mosaic Virus (ACMV) and East African Cassava Mosaic Virus (EACMV) than either species alone in all six districts surveyed. ConclusionThe severe CMD prevalence in the Volta Region, compounded by whiteflies, susceptible varieties, and high ACMV–EACMV co-infections, highlights the urgency of resistant planting materials, farmer awareness, and enhanced monitoring to curb disease spread and prevent the emergence of new CMG species.
IntroductionGreenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from flooded rice soils, specifically methane (CH4) and nitrous oxide (N2O), are major contributors to agricultural global warming potential. While agronomic strategies, such as water and nutrient management, are used to mitigate, they often involve trade-offs among different gases. This review synthesizes effective GHG mitigation measures, including water management, rice straw management, chemical fertilizer management, rice cultivar selection, improved cultivation practices, and the role of purple nonsulfur bacteria (PNSB) as a multi-functional microbial solution for simultaneously mitigating CH4 and N2O emissions in rice systems. ResultsThis review synthesizes current knowledge on GHG emissions from flooded rice systems and evaluates the emerging role of purple nonsulfur bacteria (PNSB) as a microbial strategy for mitigation. While conventional approaches such as water and fertilizer management can reduce emissions, their effectiveness is often constrained by agronomic trade-offs and environmental variability. Recent studies suggest that PNSB may contribute to reducing CH4 and nitrous oxide N2O emissions through multiple mechanisms, including modulation of carbon substrate availability, stimulation of methanotrophic activity, competition with methanogens, and enhancement of plant nutrient uptake. DiscussionCompared with existing reviews, this study provides a mechanistic synthesis linking microbial metabolism with agronomic outcomes in rice systems. Evidence from laboratory and field studies indicates that PNSB inoculation can reduce CH4 emissions while improving plant growth. However, results remain inconsistent due to differences in soil type, management practices, and microbial strains. Key knowledge gaps include limited understanding of microbial interactions in situ, scalability of inoculation strategies, and long-term field performance. ConclusionFuture research should integrate advanced analytical tools, including molecular techniques and data-driven approaches, to better resolve microbial processes and optimize PNSB-based biofertilizers. Overall, PNSB represents a promising but underexplored tool for sustainable rice production and climate change mitigation.
IntroductionGlobal warming is reducing the availability of conventional feedstocks for bioethanol production, particularly corn. Therefore, grain sorghum is a viable choice because it is naturally drought-resistant and cost-effective. In Ukraine, sorghum can reduce raw material expenses by 15–20% in arid regions. The aim of this study is a comparative assessment of the technological characteristics of mash and wort from grain sorghum and corn prepared using VHG technology. Materials and MethodsThe grain sorghum hybrid “Brigga” was compared with the corn hybrid “DKS 3730”. Wort with dry matter >270 g/L was prepared via hydroenzymatic treatment. Dynamic viscosity was measured using a rotational viscometer. Fermentation was conducted using dry yeast, followed by distillation and chromatographic analysis to determine ethanol concentration and by-products. ResultsBoth grains have similar starch levels (64–78%), but differ in protein and non-starch polysaccharide content. After 72 hours of fermentation, both wort types contained approximately 14% vol. ethanol, with a yield of 1.52–1.54 g/(l·h). Raw sorghum wort distillates showed 11.1% lower levels of volatile by-products than corn. DiscussionStudies show that sorghum wort maintains a low viscosity despite higher hemicellulose and β-glucan content. This thinner consistency of sorghum mash is advantageous for VHG fermentation as it allows for higher grain loading while maintaining efficient fermentation. ConclusionGrain sorghum demonstrates a technological advantage over corn in bioethanol production using VHG technology. Understanding these approaches will help achieve post-fermentation ethanol concentrations exceeding 18% v/v, improving the economic efficiency of biofuel production.
Introduction Seed priming is widely used to improve crop establishment, but there are limited field studies that compare different priming methods considering plant growth throughout the season. This study compares physical and chemical seed priming methods in safflower under field conditions and evaluates their effects on growth and yield. Methods A randomized complete block design was conducted with four treatments (Magnetic Field (MF), Hydropriming (HP), Gibberellic Acid (GA 3 ), and control) and five replications. Plant growth was assessed using parameters related to canopy development, biomass accumulation, and photosynthetic efficiency. Data were analyzed using Analysis of Variance (ANOVA), and treatment effects were considered significant at P < 0.05 and P < 0.01. Results Seed priming significantly improved growth and yield compared with the control ( P < 0.01). Magnetic field priming resulted in the highest canopy development, with a maximum leaf area index of 3.72 and leaf area duration of 1794. Seed yield reached 4007 kg ha −1 , representing a 199% increase over the control (1338 kg ha −1 ), and exceeding GA 3 and HP treatments by 32% and 62%, respectively. GA 3 mainly improved early photosynthetic efficiency, whereas HP enhanced initial seedling vigor. Discussion In contrast, MF priming promoted sustained canopy development and biomass accumulation throughout the growth cycle. Conclusion Treatments supporting longer canopy activity were more effective for improving safflower yield than those primarily affecting early growth stages. Magnetic field priming improved safflower growth and yield and may serve as a useful non-chemical seed treatment approach. Further studies are needed to confirm these responses under different environmental conditions.
Sustainable livestock production is crucial for ensuring food security, sustaining natural ecosystems, and supporting rural livelihoods. In Moldova, the livestock sector faces challenges such as climate variability, limited forage availability, and the need to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. This review synthesizes the current literature on strategies for developing resilient livestock systems, with a focus on efficient feed management. Innovative approaches considered include the cultivation of alternative forage species, optimization of feed use, and the adoption of environmentally friendly production practices. Policy frameworks, research initiatives, and technological advancements relevant to sustainable livestock development were also analysed. Evidence indicates that alternative forage species and optimized feed strategies can enhance livestock productivity while reducing environmental impact. When combined with supportive policies and technological innovations, these environmentally friendly practices improve both system resilience and overall efficiency. Integrating feed management strategies with policy support and technological tools is critical for sustainable livestock production. Stakeholders, including farmers and decision-makers, can implement these approaches to mitigate the effects of climate variability and resource limitations. The review provides actionable guidance for improving livestock productivity in Moldova while maintaining ecological balance. The adoption of innovative feeding strategies and environmentally sustainable practices can strengthen resilience and sustainability in the livestock sector.
Introduction Algeria is among the countries most severely affected by water scarcity due to its arid and semi-arid climate, irregular rainfall, and high evaporation rates. Agriculture, which consumes over 70% of the nation's freshwater resources, is vital to national food security. Method This study evaluates agricultural water management in Algeria by integrating climatic, hydrological, and agricultural data from national institutions to estimate crop water requirements using the FAO CROPWAT 8.0 model. Results Results indicate that total water requirements range from 1,423 hm 3 in the Oranie–Chott Chergui basin to 3,315 hm 3 in the Sahara, with groundwater supplying about 67% of irrigation demand; irrigated areas expanded from 350,000 ha in 2000 to over 1.3 M ha in 2020, while regional disparities persist, especially in southern basins where irrigation efficiency remains below national averages. Discussion The findings emphasize the urgent need to improve irrigation efficiency, enhance water productivity, and strengthen coordination among basin institutions, as current trends indicate that without significant efficiency gains, agricultural water demand may exceed 11.3 Bm 3 by 2030, intensifying competition for water resources across sectors. Conclusion Sustainable water management in Algeria demands the adoption of modern irrigation technologies, the implementation of basin-scale governance, and effective groundwater regulation, as the integration of these strategies is essential to ensure water security and sustain agricultural productivity amid increasing scarcity.
The increasing global demand for animal-derived products, alongside concerns about sustainability and animal welfare, has accelerated the adoption of Precision Livestock Farming sensories. Among these, smart collars for dairy cows represent a key innovation, offering continuous, objective monitoring behaviour of animal . Despite their advantages, such as early disease detection and support for preventive management aligned with One Health principles, significant limitations persist. Current devices suffer from poor multisensory integration, limited interoperability, energy inefficiency, and high operational costs, especially for small to medium farms. This editorial critically examines the technological and functional gaps of existing solutions, advocating for a paradigm shift towards modular, interconnected, user-centered smart collars. Achieving this transformation requires a transdisciplinary effort to ensure that future wearable technologies fully meet the biological, operational, and ethical demands of modern dairy farming.
Introduction The disease caused by Phytophthora capsici is a major constraint in black pepper cultivation, with infections beginning as early as the seedling stage. Enhancing seedling resistance is crucial to mitigating losses, especially for replanting on infected land. This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of Arbuscular Mycorrhizal Fungi (AMF) and monopotassium phosphate (KP) fertilizer in suppressing foot rot disease in black pepper seedlings. Methods A split-plot randomized complete block design (RCBD) was employed. The main plot comprised two levels of AMF application (with and without), while the subplot consisted of five KP fertilizer doses (0, 1.g, 2.g, 3.g, and 5.0 g per seedling or polybag). Each treatment was replicated three times, with 10 seedlings per replicate. Observed variables included disease severity, disease incidence, disease infection rate, AUDPC, incubation period, and shoot length increment to evaluate seedling resistance to P. capsici. Results The AMF application enhanced black pepper seedling resistance to P. capsici, reducing disease severity and incidence, latent period, and AUDPC value, while promoting shoot growth. The application of KP fertilizer, up to a dose of 5.0 g per polybag on non-mycorrhizal seedlings, effectively induced resistance, as reflected by lower AUDPC values, slower disease progression, and delayed symptom onset. Discussion Black pepper seedling resistance to P. capsici is related to K nutrient uptake and AMF-induced resistance. Mycorrhizal fungi assist plants in K uptake. Evidence of the seedling resistance developed in land affected by basal stem rot is needed. Conclusion The combined use of AMF and KP fertilizer during the seedling stage offers a promising strategy to strengthen black pepper resistance against the disease, while also potentially reducing dependence on chemical inputs.
Introduction The acoustic environment can provide fitness-enhancing information to dispersing animals. Tropical irrigated rice ecosystems host an exceptionally rich assemblage of sound-producing animals, including meadow katydids (Tettigoniidae, Conocephalinae, Conocephalini) which produce ultrasonic choruses. We aimed to test whether aerial arthropods were attracted to, deterred by, or indifferent to an experimental ultrasonic katydid chorus. Methods A 100-speaker array installed in a newly planted Philippine rice paddy served as a “phantom chorus” and was turned on and off hourly for 2-4 hours on 30 nights during the first half of the growing cycle which is naturally katydid-free. Aerial arthropods were sampled hourly using three passive intercept traps: one nested within the speaker array paddy, one in a paddy with poles and lines but no speakers, and one in an empty paddy. Arthropods were subsequently identified and sorted by functional guild and family. Results We captured 2078 arthropods representing 158 species. Detritivores comprised 34% of captured arthropods and decreased significantly in abundance with days after planting. Alternatively, (aquatic and general) predators and herbivores both increased over time and represented 48% and 8% of captures, respectively. None of the analyzed arthropod functional guilds or taxonomic families exhibited a statistically significant response to the phantom chorus. Discussion Our results suggest that meadow katydid choruses may neither attract nor deter arthropods characteristic of early-stage rice. We recommend further experiments deploying a more robust ultrasonic playback system at sites and during rice stages with more herbivorous rice pests. Conclusion Ultrasonic noise treatments applied during early rice growth stages may have a neutral effect on non-pest species; however, we encourage further studies to test whether ultrasonic katydid choruses serve as natural pest repellents in tropical irrigated rice.
Introduction Low phosphorus (P) availability, despite adequate total P, is a major constraint to maize production in dyked alluvial soils (DAS) of the Mekong Delta, Vietnam. Conventional P fertilizers are inefficient in these soils, leading to low P use efficiency and reduced yield. Thus, the aim of this study was to identify phosphate-solubilizing rhizosphere bacteria (PSRB) from maize cultivation soil and assess the performance of selected indigenous bacteria in maize cultivation in DAS. Methods A total of 36 maize rhizosphere samples from DAS were collected to isolate PSRB and determine which was most beneficial for maize cultivation. Additionally, the pot experiment consisted of nine groups as follows: 100% phosphate according to the recommended fertilizer formula (P-RFF), 75% P-RFF, 50% P-RFF, 25% P-RFF, 75% P-RFF and PSRB, 50% P-RFF and PSRB, 25% P-RFF and PSRB, 0% P-RFF and PSRB, and 0% P-RFF in DAS with low phosphorus availability. Results The results indicated that among the 67 isolates, strains ASD-15, ASD-43, and ASD-56 exhibited the highest phosphorus concentrations, solubilizing 74.1 mg Al-P/L, 42.2 mg Ca-P/L, and 98.0 mg Fe-P/L, respectively, after five days of incubation. The strains were identified as Enterobacter asburiae by 16S rDNA sequencing. The application of PSRB increased soil-soluble P by 7.1 mg kg −1 compared with the uninoculated control, enhanced total P uptake in maize by 31%, and improved grain yield by 20.2%. Discussion Notably, combining PSRB with 75% P-RFF achieved yield and P uptake equivalent to 100% P-RFF, indicating that biofertilizer use could reduce chemical P fertilizer input by 25% without yield reduction under controlled conditions. This PSRB biofertilizer can be utilized to contribute to the sustainability of maize cultivation both economically and ecologically. However, in-depth measurements and on-field trials are still required. Conclusion Indigenous PSRB, E. asburiae , can improve soil P availability and maize productivity in DAS, supporting reduced reliance on chemical fertilizers. Future work should validate these findings under field conditions and explore PSRB-based biofertilizer formulations for large-scale application.
Introduction The specific relevance and effectiveness of various financing avenues across different farmer groups largely remain unclear. Notably, the evidence on the Agricultural Credit Corporation, widely regarded as the core government-backed organization in Jordan, remains largely narrative. The same applies to any other microfinance institution, if it exists. There is little clarity on the conditions that enable or limit these organizations in effectively serving small-scale farmers. This research explores the financial needs and demands of small-scale farmers based on their agricultural activities. It also examines the impact of government-backed loans on small-scale farmers. Finally, it discusses best practices for lending organizations and highlights the role of government in implementing agricultural lending operations in Jordan. Methodology Based on the information gathered through analysis of relevant literature, comprehensive interviews with recognized experts in the field, and focus group discussions. This case study demonstrates how the Agricultural Credit Corporation has supported and developed the agricultural sector in Jordan. Results The Agricultural Credit Corporation has an important role in the agricultural finance sector, expanding its influence and maintaining its commitment to comprehensive agricultural and rural development by providing financing services that meet farmers’ needs efficiently and effectively. Findings show that government agricultural loans have a significant impact on small-scale farmers. The results indicated that higher levels of schooling, greater farming experience, larger landholdings, better transportation access, and more frequent interactions with extension services positively and markedly influence the likelihood of seeking formal financial assistance. Discussion The results indicate that financial support programs, coupled with stronger institutions and better credit access, are crucial to improving rural livelihoods, food security, and sustainable agriculture. Strengthening the agricultural credit system through coherent policies and effective governance could be pivotal for advancing financial inclusion and ensuring the sustainable development of Jordan’s agricultural sector. Conclusion Government policies and financial institutions’ lending criteria may change after the study period, potentially affecting the long-term applicability of the findings. This study adds to the body of knowledge on agricultural finance by highlighting the effectiveness and limitations of government-backed loans in a developing economy with semi-arid farming conditions.
Introduction Eleusine indica (L.) Gaertn. is a common grass weed frequently found in oil palm plantations. In the West Kalimantan and Riau Provinces of Indonesia, oil palm growers are increasingly reporting reduced herbicide efficacy, raising concerns about the long-term sustainability of current weed management practices. This study aimed to (1) confirm the levels of resistance to glyphosate and paraquat in E. indica and (2) evaluate the effectiveness of the herbicide propaquizafop in controlling resistant populations. Methods Seeds of E. indica suspected to be herbicide-resistant were collected from oil palm fields in West Kalimantan and Riau, while seeds of the susceptible biotype were obtained from West Java. Resistance testing was conducted using the whole-plant pot assay method. Glyphosate, paraquat, and propaquizafop were applied at seven dose levels: 0, 0.25, 0.5, 1, 2, 4, and 8 times the recommended field rate. Results Eleusine indica populations from Riau and West Kalimantan were confirmed to be multiple herbicide resistant to both glyphosate and paraquat. The resistance index values were 2.58 and 4.36 for glyphosate and 2.30 and 3.37 for paraquat, respectively. However, the resistant biotypes remained susceptible to propaquizafop, with resistance index values of less than 2. Discussion These findings are consistent with previous reports indicating that E. indica in Malaysia has developed multiple resistance to fluazifop-P-butyl, paraquat, glufosinate, and glyphosate [23]. However, further research is needed to identify effective herbicide mixtures and alternative herbicides with different modes of action for managing resistant populations. Additionally, a comprehensive investigation of the underlying resistance mechanisms is essential to inform sustainable weed management strategies. Conclusion The findings of this study suggest that propaquizafop is a promising alternative herbicide for managing Eleusine indica populations resistant to paraquat and glyphosate.
Burkholderia is a versatile bacterial genus, and from a biotechnological point of view, it is a source of diverse secondary metabolites with enormous application potential, especially in agriculture. This study aimed to isolate diazotrophic Burkholderia bacteria-associated rice roots and study the genetic and PGPR diversity among strains and the effect of their inoculation in two rice cultivars. Strains were isolated using nitrogen-free semisolid media and tested by specific amplification of the recA gene. The production of auxins, siderophores, phosphate solubilization, and antagonism against phytopathogenic fungi was evaluated, and finally, their inoculation into two rice varieties was also examined. Only 5.13% of the isolated strains were positive for the amplification of the recA gene with Burkholderia-specific primers. Sequence analysis showed high similarity with Burkholderia vietnamiensis. These strains produced auxins in tryptophan-supplemented broth (up to 13.98 µg mL-1), siderophores (up to 139.52%), phosphate solubilization (up to 15.99 mg PO4 mL-1), as well as antibiotic and antagonistic capacities against five pathogenic fungi of rice. These strains increased the vigor index in two rice cultivars compared to the non-inoculated or non-fertilized treatment. The antibiotic and antifungal activities of B. vietnamiensis strains against two pathogenic fungi, Nakataea sigmoidea and Nigrospora oryzae, are described for the first time. Due to the taxonomic affinity of our strains within the Burkholderia cepacia complex, their direct use in agriculture is not recommended; however, further research is required to exploit their biotechnological potential for the synthesis of useful metabolites.
The Birch polypore fungus (Fomitopsis betulina), a well-known brown-rot macromycete parasitizing Betula spp., is recognized as a medicinal mushroom due to its antimicrobial, antiviral, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anticancer, and other bioactivities. Recently, mushrooms have been explored as potential therapeutic agents in veterinary medicine and livestock farming, suggesting that F. betulina could contribute significantly to these fields. This study aimed to evaluate the antibacterial and antioxidant activities, as well as the phenolic compounds content, in ethyl acetate extracts of 22 F. betulina strains. The agar well diffusion method was used to assess antibacterial activity. Antioxidant activity and total phenolic content (TPC) were measured spectrophotometrically using the 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) assay and the Folin-Ciocalteu method, respectively. All 22 F. betulina strains exhibited antibacterial and antioxidant activities, as well as phenolic compound content, with variations attributed to strain-specific characteristics. The fungal extracts demonstrated susceptibility against Bacillus subtilis, Escherichia coli, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Staphylococcus aureus. Zones of bacterial growth inhibition ranged from 8.0±0.0 mm to 22.5±0.5 mm. The free radical scavenging activity varied from 7.74±2.40% to 96.66±0.40%. TPC ranged from 0.01±0.00 to 8.57±0.18 mg GAE/g of dry sample. Ethyl acetate extracts derived primarily from the mycelia of F. betulina strains were identified as particularly beneficial, with strains F. betulina 2777 and 2778 emerging as promising biotechnological producers. F. betulina mycelium has a wide potential for human use, including as feed additives for livestock and the development of veterinary therapies.
Aims This research aims to investigate the reduced hepatoprotective effect of virgin olive oil if olive fruits are boiled before being pressed. The hepatoprotective activity of virgin olive oil with boiled oil is also determined whether boiled oil still exhibits hepatoprotective activity in the rat’s liver. Background The Olive tree ( Olea European L ) is the most cultivated fruit tree, and olive oil is one of the main products in Jordan. The hepatoprotective activity of virgin olive oil (VOO) was earlier attributed to phenolic compounds' antioxidant activity. In some villages in Northern Jordan, villagers boil olive fruits in tap water for 10 minutes and sundry them for two weeks before oil extraction to enhance the colour and obtain an intense taste. Moreover, the locals claim that this oil has healing properties and refer to this oil as “boiled oil”. Methods Forty-two male Wistar albino rats were divided into six groups of 7 rats/group. Corn oil was used as a negative control. The positive control groups were fed corn oil, virgin olive oil, or “boiled oil” in addition to 3 g/Kg body weight of paracetamol (acetaminophen, N-acetyl- P -aminophenol) as a hepatotoxin on the penultimate day. The experimental groups were fed virgin olive oil (VOO) and boiled oil only. All groups were fed 7.5 ml/kg/day for 21 days. On the slaughter day, the rats were anaesthetised with ether, and blood samples were collected via heart puncture, then liver function tests, alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), and bilirubin, were conducted. The liver was excised, washed, paper toweled and weighed to calculate the liver weight/body weight ratio (LW/BW ratio). Results Virgin olive oil decreased ALT significantly ( p <0.05) from (108.42 ± 3.79 U/L) in the corn oil group to ((26.86 ± 8.22 U/L) in the VOO group and (71.50 ± 5.13 U/L) in the boiled group. VOO and boiled oil also affected AST similarly. AST decreased significantly from (117.07 ± 2.13 U/L) in the corn oil group to (41.16 ± 1.61 U/L) in the VOO group and (66.35 ± 4.78 U/L) in the boiled oil group. Bilirubin also decreased significantly from (0.86 ± 0.12 mg/dl) in the control group to (0.27 ± 0.02 mg/dl) in the VOO group and (0.62 ± 0.02) mg/dl) boiled oil group. Liver weight/ body weight ratio also decreased from (3.67 ± 0.10%) to (3.50 ± 0.09%) using VOO and to (3.88 ± 0.038%) using boiled oil. All positive control groups (receiving paracetamol) showed a significant increase ( p <0.05) in all parameters compared with their negative controls. Moreover, VOO with paracetamol decreased ALT significantly ( p <0.05) from (191.06 ± 4.23 U/L) in the corn oil group to ((70.17±17.89U/L) in the VOO group and (110.50 ± 18.69U/L) in the boiled group. AST decreased significantly from (208.94 ± 4.68U/L) in the corn oil group to (74.58 ± 3.87 U/L) in the VOO group and (116.48 ± 15.73 U/L) in the boiled oil group. Bilirubin decreased significantly from (1.65 ± 0.10 mg/dl) in the control group to (0.57±0.04 mg/dl) in the VOO group and (0.90 ± 0.08mg/dl) in the boiled oil group. LW/BW ratio also decreased from (3.76 ± 0.15%) to (3.61 ± 0.12%) using VOO and to (3.93 ± 0.12%) using boiled oil. Conclusion Boiling olive fruits before pressing (boiled oil) decrease hepatoprotective activity compared to VOO, but is not completely diminished.
Agricultural development has the potential to strengthen food security, reduce poverty, and accelerate economic growth, especially in the early stages of development. Considering the important roles that agriculture can play in economic development, foreign aid donors have supported agriculture across developing countries. This study examined agricultural aid practices by bilateral donors in two African countries, Ghana and Ethiopia using official aid data. The two economies rely on agriculture, continue to receive agricultural aid, and have widely different governance qualities, with Ghana being considered better governed than Ethiopia. The study found that donors to Ghana prioritized agriculture over other aid sectors, whereas donors to Ethiopia did not prioritize agriculture, partly because of urgent humanitarian needs that included direct food assistance. Overall, donors to Ghana appeared to give the country more flexibility with agricultural aid by allocating more budget support, making greater use of the state channel, and partnering more with developing country-based nongovernmental organizations. Donors to Ethiopia, by contrast, appeared to exert stricter control over agricultural aid by providing minimal budget support, making limited use of the state channel, and engaging negligibly with nongovernmental organizations based in developing countries. The largest donor, the US, shaped the overall profile of agricultural aid to Ghana and Ethiopia. While supporting two identical agricultural sub-sectors in both African countries, the US involved different aid agencies, reflecting greater confidence in Ghana. Effective institutions in recipient governments may encourage donors to loosen their control over foreign aid, granting greater flexibility to recipient countries
Introduction/Objective Soybean is a major source of various nutrients. Increasing demand for soybeans has created considerable impetus for exploring the nutritional quality of soybeans. We aimed to collect soybean varieties rich in nutrients. Materials and Methods Metabolite analysis was carried out for seed compositions, including protein, phenolics, and flavonoids, along with gene expression of protein and phenolic metabolism-related enzymes in 10 soybean accessions collected from different geographical regions. Results Total protein content ranged from 29.7% to 35.7%, depending on soybean germplasm accessions. Among them, Vang Ha Giang (VHG) exhibited relatively high protein content, while Cuc Vo Nhai (CVN) had comparatively low protein content. Further analysis of seed compounds indicated that the phenolic compounds were higher in cultivars Dau Tuong Den (DTD) and CVN, with a total phenolic content of 37.7 µg g-1 and total flavonoid of 2.1 mg g-1. These results were reinforced by analysis of gene expression levels of candidate genes β-conglycinin (7S) and glycinin (11S) involving protein storage, phenylalanine ammonia-lyase 1 (GmPAL1) and chalcone synthase 8 (GmCHS8) genes related to phenolic and flavonoid synthesis, which showed similar correlation. We revealed that protein content was correlated with seed weight but not with seed color, even though significant variations were found among soybean genotypes, while flavonoid was affected by seed coat color. Furthermore, the negative correlation of protein with flavonoids demonstrated intricate relationships among seed components. Conclusion Protein and flavonoid alteration in seeds is subject to major-effect-genotypes in landrace and breeding cultivar selection, and genotype variants are relevant to geographical regions. Our study provides intricate relationships among seed nutritional components and offers insight into the alteration of soybean quality.
Background The application of animal slurry to the soil improves its quality, as manure contains many nutrients for plants. However, this could negatively impact the environment. Objective This field study investigated the effects of the addition of biochar after the mechanical separation of Whole pig Slurry (WS) into Solid (SF) and Liquid Fractions (LF) on Greenhouse Gases (GHG) emissions (N2O, CO2, and CH4) and ryegrass (Lolium multiflorum Lam. cv magnum) yield. Methods Biochar (1.0 kg m-2) was applied in plots alone or together with each of the three slurries (80 kg N ha-1) in a total of eight treatments with three replications, including just soil with and without biochar as controls. Soil properties, Greenhouse Gas (GHG) fluxes, and yield were measured during theautumn/winter growing season. Results The results showed that the addition of biochar to these three slurries significantly increased the soil pH and showed no impact on the other physicochemical properties. The GHG emissions were not significantly different between treatments with and without biochar. The N use efficiency increased significantly in SF > WS > LF, whereas no differences were observed among these three slurries with and without biochar. Conclusion It can be concluded that the addition of biochar combined with WS or SF/LF to sandy-loam soil appears to have no impact on GHG emissions and ryegrass yield during the autumn/winter season. Overall, this finding suggests that amounts higher than 1.0 kg m-2 of biochar combined with SF may need to be applied to soil to reduce GHG emissions and nitrate leaching and increase N use efficiency and crop yield.
