The cabbage root fly (Delia radicum L.) is a significant pest of cabbage and other brassicaceous crops. It can produce three to four generations per year, with adult activity spanning from early spring through late autumn. The most severe damage typically occurs on young seedlings, although in cases of heavy infestation, even mature plants and developing heads may be affected. Control measures must be implemented preventively and initiated at the first signs of adult activity. Management is challenging because the larvae feed within plant tissues, making them difficult to reach with conventional treatments. Therefore, efforts should focus on preventing infestations through integrated pest management approaches.
Chicken meat is increasingly recognized as a valuable source of high-quality protein and essential fatty acids, including linoleic acid and alpha-linolenic acid, which must be obtained from the diet because the human body cannot produce them. This study provides a critical evaluation of the nutritional value of various chicken cuts, including breast, back, drumstick, and thigh, focusing on their chemical composition, physicochemical properties, and fatty acid profiles. Representative samples were collected from retail markets in North Macedonia, handled under controlled hygienic conditions, and analyzed for protein, fat, moisture, ash content, pH, water-binding ability (WBA), color parameters, and fatty acid composition using standardized methods. Results revealed that chicken breast contains the lowest fat content (2.40 g/100 g) and the highest protein levels (20.95%), along with a favorable ratio of polyunsaturated to saturated fatty acids. Increased amounts of saturated fatty acids are associated with higher LDL cholesterol. Thigh and back cuts exhibited higher fat content (up to 26.17 g/100 g) but maintained substantial levels of essential fatty acids. Variations in water-binding capacity, pH, and color among cuts were also observed, influencing sensory attributes, juiciness, and technological functionality. These findings highlight the role of chicken meat as a lean, nutritionally beneficial source of essential fatty acids, supporting cardiovascular health and improved lipid balance. The observed differences among cuts emphasize the importance of selecting specific portions to optimize dietary intake of bioactive fatty acids. From a health perspective, consumption of chicken breast is recommended, while meat from higher-fat cuts should be consumed in moderation.
Glyphosate (N-(phosphonomethyl) glycine) is the most widely used herbicide globally, with applications exceeding 125 million kilograms annually across more than 160 countries. Its broad-spectrum efficacy and cost-effectiveness, especially in genetically modified glyphosate-tolerant crops, have made it indispensable in modern agriculture. However, its extensive use has raised concerns regarding environmental persistence and potential health effects. Although it binds strongly to soil particles, glyphosate and its main metabolite, aminomethylphosphonic acid, are frequently detected in soil, water, and, to a lesser extent, air and food. Human exposure occurs primarily through diet, environmental contact, or occupational activities. Biomonitoring studies confirm widespread low-level exposure, with glyphosate and AMPA detected in human urine samples worldwide. Toxicological and epidemiological data remain inconsistent. While the International Agency for Research on Cancer classified glyphosate as “probably carcinogenic to humans,” other agencies, including EFSA and the U.S. EPA, found no evidence of carcinogenicity. Evidence linking glyphosate exposure to non-Hodgkin lymphoma and other cancers remains inconclusive. Environmental studies highlight adverse effects on soil microorganisms, aquatic systems, and non-target species, prompting regulatory reassessment in the EU and beyond. Future research should prioritize formulation-specific toxicity, long-term biomonitoring, and mechanistic studies addressing endocrine, metabolic, and microbiome effects. Integrating toxicological, epidemiological, and environmental data will be essential for refining risk assessment, guiding sustainable weed management, and balancing glyphosate’s agricultural benefits against its potential ecological and health risks.
The paper presents an analytical overview of the occurrence, movement, and accumulation of both natural and anthropogenic radionuclides in food of animal origin. The research encompasses the main pathways through which these substances enter animal organisms, together with the environmental and agricultural factors influencing their distribution in soil, vegetation, and animal tissues such as meat, milk, eggs, and fish during the period 1989 to 2025. The review was conducted based on a literature search performed in the Elsevier, Hinari, PubMed, and other relevant scientific databases. The study focuses on isotopes including uranium-238, thorium-232, potassium-40, cesium-137, and strontium-90 as key indicators of naturally occurring and technologically induced radioactivity within the biosphere. The analysis demonstrates the interconnection between geological, climatic, and agricultural conditions that determine the levels and variability of radionuclides in animal-derived food. It was established that radionuclide concentrations in North Macedonia fall within internationally accepted limits and correspond with values observed in other European countries. The study emphasizes the importance of continuous monitoring of both natural and anthropogenic sources of radioactivity to enable timely detection of fluctuations in radiological balance and to ensure the long-term safety of food and public health protection.
Micropropagation is a key biotechnological method for rapid and large-scale propagation of horticultural crops. Nowadays, micropropagation plays a key role in production of disease-free plants, conservation of genetic resources and it is an essential tool in crop breeding programs. Cucumber (Cucumis sativus L.) and cucurbits (Cucurbita spp.) are economically important species that have been widely studied for in vitro regeneration. This review synthesizes research protocols reported over the past decades, focusing on explant type, culture media, and plant growth regulator combinations. A total of 29 studies on cucumber and 11 studies on cucurbits were analyzed to identify research trends over time and critical factors affecting micropropagation. Cytokinins, mainly BAP, have been consistently effective for adventitious shoot induction, while auxins such as 2,4-D promoted callusogenesis in cucumber. Optimal regeneration of cucumber often relied on cytokinin–auxin combinations, with cotyledons and hypocotyls showing high morphogenetic potential. For cucurbits, shoot tips, nodal segments, and cotyledons have been the most responsive explants where BA-based treatments have achieved superior shoot proliferation, and IBA has supported efficient rooting. Genotype-specific responses and hormonal balance are critical factors for successful micropropagation for both crops. Well-designed micropropagation protocols are essential for efficient regeneration and genetic improvement of both crops. Understanding explant-specific and genotype-dependent responses to plant growth regulators can enhance the reproducibility and scalability of in vitro systems, opening the way for advanced breeding and biotechnological applications.
The present study was carried out to evaluate the different soil indices in respect of physico-chemical and biochemical properties as affected by two different farming systems viz. conventional and organic. To do this, soil samples were collected from different crop fields practiced under conventional and organic systems. All the soil samples were analysed following standards procedures. The results showed significantly (p<0.05) lower pH and higher electrical conductivity (EC) of soils in most of the crop fields under organic farming system compared to their corresponding conventional fields. Though organic carbon (OC) was non-significantly (p>0.05) higher in soils of organic crop fields, total nitrogen (TN) was significantly (p<0.05) higher in organic crop fields than the conventional one. The activities of urease, phosphatase and aylsulfatase among different crop fields significantly differed (p<0.05) under both organic and conventional farming systems. With the exception of brinjal field, the urease enzyme activity was found higher in all the crop fields under organic farming practices compared to their corresponding crop fields of conventional system. On the other hand, the aylsulfatase activity was found higher in soils of all the crop fields except for tomato under conventional farming system relative to their respective organic crop fields. A negative significant (p<0.05) correlation between OC and pH while a positive significant (p<0.05) correlation between OC and TN was observed in organic farming system. The hierarchical clustering dendrogram based on soil enzyme activities and physico-chemical properties showed clear separation between organically and conventionally managed soils. The present study concludes that management practices significantly shape soil biochemical properties.
In Bangladesh, brinjal (Solanum melongena L.) is suffering from a huge loss of yield caused by whitefly (Bemisia tabaci) which sucks the sap from the plant and transmits viruses. Farmers often use chemical insecticides which leads to pest resistance and harm to the environment. Intercropping is another sustainable alternative that can control pest spread and benefit the ecosystem. An experiment was carried out at the Regional Agricultural Research Station (RARS), Bangladesh Agricultural Research Institute (BARI), Jamalpur during three winter seasons (2022-2025) involving brinjal intercropped with onion, calendula, coriander, garlic, chilli and a control with brinjal only. Research findings revealed that intercropping significantly suppressed the population of whiteflies in comparison to the control. The brinjal-coriander intercropping showed the greatest efficacy against whiteflies, reducing the pest count by 58-59%. Moreover, the intercropping significantly augmented the yield by 64-66%. The lowest whitefly density was recorded at 13.3-14.2 per leaf. Chilies were the least effective on whitefly incidence whereas onion, calendula and garlic slightly reduced it. Regression analysis showed that there was a strong negative correlation between the whitefly population with yield (R2 = 0.94). Intercropping of brinjal with coriander is a low-cost and sustainable management measure to control whitefly and enhance brinjal yield.
Pectobacterium carotovorum subsp. carotovorum (formerly Erwinia carotovora subsp. carotovora) is a plant pathogen that causes soft and stem rot diseases in several economically important vegetables such as carrot, cabbage, cucumber, eggplant, garlic, onion, pepper, potato, radish, sweet potato, squash and tomato, where the disease can be detected in the field, transmit, storage and market. Agricultural producers face many challenges in trying to grow crops and ensure stable, high-quality yields. The risk factors involved in agricultural production include climatic conditions, the occurrence of diseases, pests, and weeds. During our field observation, we examined the production of pepper, its economic and nutritional value, and the factors contributing to its decline. Our primary focus is the present status of diseases in pepper, specifically the occurrence of Pectobacterium carotovorum subsp. carotovorum, the causative agent of bacterial soft rot. P. carotovorum subsp. carotovorum is a well-known plant pathogen that causes severe soft rot disease in various crops, resulting in significant economic loss. The aim of this study is to highlight the economic importance of the bacterial agent responsible for soft rot in peppers grown in the open fields in Strumica region. For this purpose, standard bacteriological tests were performed. These tests confirmed the pathogenic, morphological, biochemical, physiological, and growth properties of the pathogen, compared with the control strain KFB85 from the Republic of Serbia.
This study provides a physicochemical, and agrochemical characterization of vineyard soils in the Ovche Pole Vine District, located within the Povardarie Wine Region of North Macedonia. Two representative vineyard locations, Tri Cheshmi and Dolno Trogerci, were selected for comparative assessment based on their contrasting geological conditions. The analysis focused on key soil parameters, including pH, electrical conductivity (EC), organic matter (OM), organic carbon (OC), calcium carbonate (CaCO3) content, texture, as well as available nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P) and potassium (K). The soils in Tri Cheshmi, developed over Neogene lacustrine sediments rich in marl and calcareous clay, showed alkaline pH, moderate carbonate levels and elevated EC, reflecting a strong pedogenic influence from the carbonate-rich parent material. In contrast, the soils in Dolno Trogerci, formed by colluvial-alluvial deposits with contributions from volcanic and metamorphic rocks from the Vardar zone, showed greater textural variability and higher levels of CaCO3 content. The semi-arid climate of the region, characterized by hot, dry summers and moderately cold winters, further shapes soil development and fertility. This study provides a basic understanding of the physicochemical and nutrient-related soil properties in the Ovche Pole Vine District and supports the development of site-specific sustainable vineyard management practices.
Effective disease management is essential to mitigate the rapid emergence of resistant pathogen populations. An important group of fungicides that play a pivotal role in the integrated management systems, among others, also because of their low environmental toxicity, are succinate dehydrogenase inhibitors, which act by binding to the mitochondrial complex II of the respiratory system. Unlike first-generation SDHIs (e.g., carboxin and oxycarboxin), which exhibit high efficacy against basidiomycetes, newer compounds in this class (e.g., cyclobutrifluram, furametpyr, and inpyrfluxam) demonstrate broad-spectrum activity against a wide range of fungal species. However, their repeated and inadequate application strategies, can exert strong selection pressure, favoring the development of resistant fungal genotypes, which may ultimately compromise fungicide efficacy. This review examines both historical and recent advancements in understanding the molecular mechanisms underlying SDHI resistance, as well as other factors influencing the evolution of resistance. In addition, it provides an insight into strategies for the effective use of newly developed SDHI molecules and highlights key research directions for combating resistance in the future.
The aim of this paper is to examine the state and quality of the water from Koselska river, as well as its influence on the quality of water in the coastal zone, more precisely where the mouth of the river flows into the lake. Also, the goal of this research was to look at the nature and degree of possible water pollution, due to anthropogenic influence, based on the results obtained from the testing of microbiological and physio-chemical parameters, which would make it possible to predict and recommend remedial measures and minimize pollution. To correctly interpret the results of the microbiological analysis of water, physical and chemical tests of water temperature and BOD5 were also performed. The microbiological examination included testing the composition and dynamics of heterotrophic, psychrophilic and mesophilic bacteria, determining the index of mesophilic and psychrophilic bacteria (M/P), the index of facultative oligotrophic and heterotrophic bacteria (FO/X), as well as the total number of coliform bacteria. It was determined that the representation and abundance of all types of microorganisms is higher in the river water than in the lake water. The total number of bacteria from Daljan region is greater in the summer period compared to other periods of the year. Likewise, consistently high values of the number of coliform bacteria were determined in the two types of water. Based on the results obtained in this research, it was determined that the water from the river affects the quality, health and safety of the water in Ohrid Lake.
Effective disease management is essential to mitigate the rapid emergence of resistant pathogen populations. An important group of fungicides that play a pivotal role in the integrated management systems, among others, also because of their low environmental toxicity, are succinate dehydrogenase inhibitors, which act by binding to the mitochondrial complex II of the respiratory system. Unlike first-generation SDHIs (e.g., carboxin and oxycarboxin), which exhibit high efficacy against basidiomycetes, newer compounds in this class (e.g., cyclobutrifluram, furametpyr, and inpyrfluxam) demonstrate broad-spectrum activity against a wide range of fungal species. However, their repeated and inadequate application strategies, can exert strong selection pressure, favoring the development of resistant fungal genotypes, which may ultimately compromise fungicide efficacy. This review examines both historical and recent advancements in understanding the molecular mechanisms underlying SDHI resistance, as well as other factors influencing the evolution of resistance. In addition, we provide insights into strategies for the effective use of newly developed SDHI molecules and highlight key research directions for combating resistance in the future.
The purpose of this research was to study the yield and yield components in seven wheat varieties grown under the soil-climatic conditions of Kochani region. As an experimental material were used six introduced varieties (Rajna, Igra, Epoha, Falado, Grivna and Pobeda) and one domestic variety (Mila). The field trial was conducted in 2022/23 growing season, in randomized block design with three replications. The grain yield, plant height, spike length, number of spikelets per spike, number of grains per spike, grains weight per spike, weight of 1000 grains, number of spikes per m2 and the biological yield were analyzed. Analysis of variance showed high genetic variability and significant differences between the examined varieties for all studied properties. The highest average grain yield was obtained by Falado variety (0,68 kg/m2). Also, this variety showed the highest average value for the grains weight per spike (2,49 g), weight of 1000 grains (43,0 g) and biological yield (3,1 kg/m2). The variety Falado was followed by Grivna variety which had the highest value for number of spikes per m2 (1380 spike per m2) and number of grains per spike (64,86). High values of genotypic and phenotypic coefficients of variation (GCV and PCV) were noted for grain yield, biological yield, grains weight per spike, number of grains per spike, spike length, which indicate high variability between tested genotypes. All examined traits showed high heritability. The grain yield was in positive significant correlation with grains weight per spike (r=0,928) and number of grains per spike (r=0,793). High values of genotypic and phenotypic coefficients of variation (GCV and PCV) were noted for grain yield, biological yield, grains weight per spike, number of grains per spike, spike length, which indicate high variability between tested genotypes. All examined traits showed high heritability. The grain yield was in positive significant correlation with grains weight per spike (r=0,928) and number of grains per spike (r=0,793).
This study investigates the elemental composition of a diverse selection of fruits and vegetables collected from the Vinica region in eastern North Macedonia, aiming to evaluate the use of minerals as tracers for identifying functional properties in plant-based foods. A total of 27 plant species were analyzed, including commonly consumed fruits (orange, grapes, melon, banana, apple, kiwi, pomegranate and others) and vegetables (carrot, spinach, broccoli, beetroot, arugula, ginger and others), using inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS). Concentrations of 34 elements, from essential nutrients (K, Ca, Mg, Fe, Zn, Se) to potentially toxic trace elements (Pb, Cd, As, Hg), were quantified. Descriptive statistics and multivariate techniques, such as factor and cluster analysis, were applied to explore patterns of mineral association, inter- and intra-species variability, and differentiation between fruit and vegetable groups. The results revealed clear differences in mineral content, with leafy and root vegetables showing higher levels of macro-elements and trace metals, while fruits were richer in elements linked to reproductive and metabolic functions. Mineral clustering revealed co-association trends influenced by botanical, physiological, and environmental factors. These findings highlight the utility of elemental composition as a reliable indicator for evaluating nutritional value, functional potential, and geographic provenance of plant-based foods.
This study is a field experiment of using clove tea as an effective treatment against varroa mites (Varroa destructor), by spraying the tea directly on all the frames in the beehive. Two experiments were conducted, one for 14 weeks, with an application of clove tea once every 2 weeks and the other for 8 weeks with an application once per week. In both experiments after 6 applications, the tea-treated varroa-infected beehives were completely varroa-free, concluding complete eradication.
The microbiological examination of water is used worldwide to monitor and control the quality and safety of various types of water. Peracetic acid (PAA) has garnered increasing attention as an alternative oxidant and disinfectant in water treatment due to the rising demand to reduce chlorine usage and control disinfection byproducts. The main aim of the research was to assess the well water microbiological quality before and after disinfection with PAA. The water samples were taken from 5 wells in the rural areas of Probishtip and Kocani regions of North Macedonia. Sampling was conducted twice (before and after disinfection) per season during the four seasons of the year. Water samples from 5 shallow wells were analysed for microbiological parameters using reference methods. The results were compared with the quality of control water and the permissible values according to the national legislation. Water quality parameters indicated that all well water samples failed to meet safe drinking water limits. A significant improvement in the microbiological quality of the water was observed during the seasons when a PAA working solution with concentrations of 0.05% and 0.1% was used. The regression statistical model revealed that disinfection with PAA and the seasonal variation in its concentration had a statistically significant influence on the microbiological quality of well water (p<0.001). Identification and management of groundwater quality are of utmost importance for maintaining freshwater resources, which are essential for sustainable rural development.
Fruit brandy is a traditional alcoholic beverage widely consumed in the Republic of N. Macedonia and other Balkan countries, produced by distillation of fermented fruits such as plum, apricot, quince and apple, using either homemade or industrial methods. This study aimed to evaluate the safety of 24 homemade fruit brandy samples by determining the content of free hydrocyanic acid (HCN), a potentially toxic compound. HCN is formed during alcoholic fermentation as a result of enzymatic hydrolysis of cyanogenic glycosides naturally present in fruit seeds. The quantification of free HCN was performed spectrophotometrically using König reaction, a colorimetric method based on the formation of cyanogen chloride, which reacts with pyridine and barbituric acid to form a stable pink complex with maximum absorbance at 580 nm. results were recalculated to a 100% v/v ethanol basis to allowed comparison with the EU legal limit of 70 mg/L. All samples were within the permissible safety threshold. The highest HCN concentration were found in apricot and apple brandies (up to 9.81 mg/L), while plum and quince brandies contained significantly lower levels. A moderate correlation was observed between HCN levels and several chemical parameters, including methanol, aldehydes, ethanol, total esters, furfural and fusel alcohols. These results suggest that fruit type, fermentation conditions and the extend of seed contact during the preparation of the fruit mash prior to fermentation play a critical role in HCN formation. This highlights the importance of controlled processing practices to ensure the safety of traditional fruit brandies.
The quality of the soil plays a fundamental role in agricultural productivity, particularly in tobacco cultivation, where both high yields and superior leaf quality are essential. The elemental composition of the soil, in particular the balance between essential nutrients and the presence of potentially toxic elements, plays a crucial role in shaping soil quality and influencing overall plant health and development. In this study, the soil quality in the Prilep region in North Macedonia, the main cultivation area for oriental tobacco, is investigated. During the 2021 and 2022 growing seasons, soil samples were collected from selected tobacco fields and analyzed using ICP-MS to determine the concentrations of selected macro and microelements (K, Mg, Fe, and Na) as well as potentially toxic elements (As, Cd, Cr, Cu, Ni, Pb, and Zn). In addition to elemental analysis, several key agrochemical properties were also assessed: organic matter content (ranging from low to moderate), total nitrogen content (0.03–0.14%), soil pH (mean 6.55, indicating slightly acidic to neutral conditions), the availability of essential nutrients (phosphorus and potassium), the physical structure of the soils (classified as medium loam), and clay content (20.6% to 58.7%). The content of macro- and microelements were closely related to the geological and pedological characteristics of the region. The concentration of potentially toxic elements remained below the internationally accepted thresholds for heavy metals in agricultural soils, indicating a low risk of contamination and confirming the suitability of these soils for sustainable tobacco cultivation.
This study investigates the dynamics of active and titratable acidity in white brined cheese throughout its ripening period. Monitoring these parameters is crucial for understanding the biochemical changes that influence the cheese's flavor, texture, and overall quality. Using standard analytical methods, we measured pH and titratable acidity at regular intervals during the ripening process. The results indicated a significant decrease in pH, coupled with an increase in titratable acidity, reflecting the ongoing microbial and enzymatic activities. These changes were correlated with the development of desirable organoleptic properties. The findings provide valuable insights for cheese producers to optimize ripening conditions, ensuring consistent product quality. This research highlights the importance of acidity monitoring as a critical control point in cheese production.
