The research investigate the effectiveness from mechanical and chemical control, on the weed species in sugar beet from three agricultural years (2021-2023) including the sensor guided hoe in the Transilvanyan Depresion. Weed control strategies are made strictly chemical with spraying herbicides mixes at several timings in the early growth stage of sugar beet. Precision agriculture including camera recognizing cultivation row and hydraulic steering are used often. Examinating the combinations of the chemical and mechanical weed control in sugar beet, measuring the effects on weed species in four different experimental plots. Data analysis is collected for weed species with two passes involving mechanical control in stage of BBCH 19 and BBCH 31, including the sensor-based hoe set up and herbicide aplications. Results show that is possible to reduce herbicides but not replace them entirely in sugar beet and you can achieve a wider weed management on species.
Soil salinity is a measure of the minerals and salts that can be dissolved in water. The process of increasing the salt content is known as salinisation. The accumulation of salt in the rootzone of grapevines has negative effects on their growth and yield. At very high concentrations, soluble salt will even kill plants. Our studies were performed on the Bejeneasa Farm, Cotnari Vineyard, in the northeast part of Romania. The studied area is about 11.6 hectares. It is situated on the upper part of the slope. The absolute altitude ranges between 152 m and 172.5 m. The average annual precipitation and annual temperature values are 508.9 mm and 10.9℃, respectively. In order to highlight the causes of weak growth of the vine on the slope with a slope of 8% and with the western exposure, five soil profiles were made in representative locations following the cutting clearing of the vine plantation. The soil profiles were made after cutting the vine stems due to the growing stagnation and the small yields obtained from the grapes. The soil profiles were located in the upper and lower parts of the slope, both in the part with a uniform slope and on the diluvial–colluvial glacis located in the contact area with the land with a lower slope. From each soil horizon, soil samples were collected for laboratory analysis. The analytical data showed the presence of a high content of soluble salts. Laboratory data showed that there was weak salinisation in the soil starting at a depth of 30 cm. In the soil layers located at a depth of more than 50 cm, a soluble salt content of more than 1% (w / w-1) was noticed. We consider that the high content of soluble salts in the soil is one of the main causes that has severely limited the production of grapes in the vineyard.
The aim of this study was to observe the effects of Gibberellic Acid 3 (GA3) on the Muscat Hamburg grape variety in the pedoclimatic conditions of Cluj-Napoca in 2023. In the study, the first treatment was carried out before flowering (P1) with 7-14 days; the second treatment was carried out during flowering (P2), and the third treatment was applied during the growth of the berries (P3), when they have a diameter between 3 and 12 mm. Along with the GA3, a pH regulator was also used. GA3 had beneficial, but also unfavorable effects, directly related to the moment of their application. The average weight of the bunches was significantly positively influenced by gibberellins. The mass of 100 berries in treatment P1 and P2 had an unfavorable effect, while in treatment P3 the effect was favorable. The amount of sugar was significantly influenced by the P2 treatment. The mean berries weight of all gibberellin treatments showed significant increases. According to the results, the most favorable application of gibberellins to the Muscat de Hamburg variety was during the growth of the berries, causing an increase in the quality and quantity of the grapes.
Vanilla planifolia Jacks, a member of the Orchidaceae family, holds significant economic value as a natural source of vanillin, which is highly sought after in the culinary, pharmaceutical, and cosmetic industries. However, this species currently faces several biological challenges. The present study aimed to assess chromosomal variation and analyze the mitotic behavior of the morphotype V. planifolia "Mansa" to identify potential chromosomal changes that could impact ongoing genetic improvement efforts in this species. Root apexes from cuttings of the "Mansa" morphotype, sourced from Papantla de Olarte in Veracruz, Mexico, were evaluated cytogenetically. The study involved assessing mitotic behavior, conducting chromosome counts on 10 to 50 cells in metaphase, and editing higher-resolution photographs of the chromosomes. The data revealed notable variation in chromosome numbers, with the most common count in the studied somatic cells being 2n = 32.
Evaluation of genetic parameters is a cornerstone for a successful maize breeding program. Therefore, the study was carried out to examine genetic variability, heritability, genetic advance, and character association for the yield and yield-contributing traits. Twelve promising hybrid maize genotypes were evaluated in Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) with three replications in the farmer’s field of Sundarbazar, Lamjung during March-July, 2022. We observed significant differences for seven quantitative traits studied. Correlation studies revealed grain yield showing positively significant correlation with the days to 90% maturity, ear length and ear weight. Phenotypic expression these traits can be used as a selection index for yield improvement of hybrid maize. Out of fourteen characters evaluated, the grain yield recorded a high estimate of phenotypic coefficient of variation (PCV) and genotypic coefficient of variation (GCV). Days to 90% maturity, plant height, ear height exhibited high heritability. High genetic advance per mean was recorded for grain yield and ear aspects. Traits with high heritability and high genetic advance highlight the presence of additive gene action favoring the selection of trait for improvement of crop.
Gastrointestinal (GI) disorders are among the most common reasons for veterinary visits. Accurate diagnosis often requires imaging, with abdominal ultrasonography playing a key role alongside radiography. This study evaluated the utility of ultrasonography in diagnosing gastroduodenal pathology in dogs. Fifty-five canine patients with digestive signs were examined over 1 year. Ultrasonography was performed after 12-hour fasting using a high-frequency (7.5 MHz) transducer, assessing gastric and duodenal wall thickness, layering, motility, and adjacent structures. Key findings included gastric wall thickening (3.3–6.4 mm) and duodenal wall thickening (5.0–5.8 mm) in dogs with inflammatory gastroduodenal disease, compared to normal thickness of 3–5 mm. Wall layer architecture was preserved in most cases of gastritis, consistent with benign inflammation. Ultrasonography identified intestinal foreign bodies in many obstruction cases and evidenced gastric dilation in others. Approximately one-third of patients (13 of 55) required complementary barium contrast radiography for further evaluation, but in the majority, ultrasound findings alone guided diagnosis and treatment. Inflammatory conditions such as gastritis and gastroenteritis were the most prevalent diagnoses (62% of cases), with fewer cases of foreign body obstruction (25%), gastric dilatation (9%), and acute pancreatitis (4%). We conclude that abdominal ultrasound is a highly valuable first-line diagnostic tool for canine gastroduodenal disorders, revealing lesions and guiding management with minimal invasiveness. It provides detailed information on gastric/duodenal wall structure and motility, often obviating the need for contrast radiography. Ultrasonography should be employed routinely in dogs with chronic vomiting or suspected gastric pathology to improve diagnostic accuracy and clinical outcomes.
Abstract: Computed tomography (CT) is increasingly utilized in veterinary medicine for thoracic imaging due to its high sensitivity in detecting pulmonary nodules, far surpassing traditional radiography. Pulmonary nodules in dogs may represent metastatic disease or primary lung tumors, and accurate characterization of their distribution and radiodensity can inform diagnosis and management. Objective: This study aimed to evaluate the distribution of pulmonary nodules within the lungs of dogs using CT and to determine whether nodule size correlates with radiodensity. Methods: Ten client-owned dogs (6 females, 4 males; age range 2–12 years, mean ~8 years) with suspected pulmonary nodules underwent thoracic CT scanning. Images were acquired in dorsal recumbency using a multi-slice CT scanner at 130 kVp and 130 mA (slice thickness 10 mm). Nodule diameters were measured and categorized as small (3–5 mm), medium (5–10 mm), large (10–30 mm), or mass (>30 mm). For each representative nodule, CT attenuation (Hounsfield units, HU) was measured at three points within the nodule and in perinodular lung regions (at 3 mm and 7 mm around the nodule) to calculate average densities. One-way ANOVA was used to compare mean nodule and perinodular densities among size categories, with significance set at p<0.05. Results: Three dogs had solitary large pulmonary masses (45–120 mm) while seven dogs had multiple nodules (ranging from a few up to “countless” >100 nodules in 3 cases). Nodules were identified in all lung lobes, but the highest aggregate counts occurred in the right caudal (diaphragmatic) lobe. CT attenuation of nodule interiors varied widely, from soft-tissue density (20–100 HU) to mineral-rich density (>150 HU in some nodules), and larger masses often exhibited heterogeneous attenuation with hypoattenuating (necrotic) centers. Mean perinodular lung parenchyma density was consistent with normal aerated lung (–500 to –800 HU). ANOVA analysis showed no significant differences in mean nodule density between size categories (p=0.88). Similarly, perinodular densities at 3 mm and 7 mm from the nodule did not differ significantly by nodule size (p=0.22 and p=0.37, respectively). Conclusion: Thoracic CT provided detailed insight into the number, size, density, and distribution of pulmonary nodules in dogs. No correlation was found between nodule size and radiodensity, underscoring that even small nodules can have high solid-tissue attenuation and that nodule density likely
Soil erosion is a degradation process that affects agricultural land productivity and contributes to the deterioration of water quality in aquatic ecosystems. This study analyzes the erosion phenomenon in the Călina watershed using the Universal Soil Loss Equation (USLE) model adapted to Romania's conditions. Geospatial analysis techniques were employed to map soil losses and identify areas vulnerable to erosion. The results indicate that 28.05% of the analyzed area experiences soil losses below 2 t/ha/year, while 35% of the area falls into the severe erosion category, with values exceeding 10 t/ha/year. The most affected areas are agricultural lands located on steep slopes, where soil losses can exceed 30 t/ha/year. Geomorphological, climatic, and anthropogenic factors have a significant influence on soil stability, highlighting the need for implementing land conservation measures. This study provides a scientific basis for developing sustainable soil protection strategies in erosion-prone regions.
Solar energy significantly affects sustainability and yield in rice (Oryza sativa L.) cultivation. This study examined the effects of different plant spacing on the growth, yield, and conversion efficiency (CE) of three rice varieties (ARICA-3, NERICA L-34, and WITA-4) over three years (2019, 2020, and 2021). The experiment was arranged in a split-plot design, with three replicates. Three different plant spacings were considered: 20 × 20 cm (S1), 25 × 25 cm (S2), and 30 × 30 cm (S3). Results revealed that optimal plant spacing for the three varieties in terms of CE was S3, with NERICA L-34 having the highest CE value of 7.3% at a plant spacing of S3. The crop growth rate ranged from 1.33 to 1.66 mgcm-2days-1 for the varieties and plant spacings. Photosynthetically active radiation ranged from 15.5 18.5 MJm-2day-1. The harvest index decreased as plant spacing increased, whereas CE values and grain yield values increased. The NERICA L-34 variety had the highest grain yield of 4.5 t/ha at plant spacing of S1. These findings suggest that optimal plant spacing for rice cultivation should be carefully considered to maximize yield and CE while minimizing resource use and environmental impact.
Weeds interfere reduce the growth and yield of citrus trees. The use of herbicides to reduce labour demand in suppressing weeds is challenged by weed tolerance to the repeated application of herbicides with the same mode of action. However, an adequate understanding of herbicide rotation on weeds and citrus tree performance is limited. This study aimed to investigate juvenile sweet orange trees as affected by herbicide repetition. Repeated application of paraquat dichloride 276 a.i/L at 4 L/ha, glyphosate 480 a.i/L at 6 L/ha, paraquat followed by (fb) glyphosate, glyphosate fb paraquat, hand slashing (HS) and control variant (without treatment) were evaluated in a randomised complete block design with four replicates. Sweet orange seedlings were spaced at 5 × 5 m2 on a 50 × 20 m2 field/treatment. Data on Weed Control Efficiency (WCE), weed biomass (g/m2), citrus height (m) and fruits yield (kg/plant) were analysed using descriptive statistics and ANOVA at P<0.05. The results revealed that the WCE of glyphosate fb paraquat (95.2%) and glyphosate (93.3%) were similar but differed significantly from the other treatments. The weed dry biomass was in the order: 62.7 (glyphosate fb paraquat)< 71.9 (glyphosate)< 118.3 (paraquat)< 134 (paraquat fb glyphosate)< 181.7 (HS)< 441.7 (control). Citrus heights ranged from 2.7 (control) to 4.3 (glyphosate). Sweet orange fruit yield was in the order: 69.5 (glyphosate) >66.0 (HS) >65.3 (paraquat) >62.5 (glyphosate fb paraquat) >52.0 (paraquat fb glyphosate) >46.0 (control). Rotating glyphosate followed by paraquat dichloride was suggested for suppressing weeds and improving sweet orange fruit yield.
This review analyses the existing literature on how nitrogen (N) fertilisation impacts the growth, yield, physiology and production of secondary metabolites in medicinal plants, given their increased global demand and concerns over unsustainable harvesting practices. It also highlights the environmental impact of N and further recommends possible practices to reduce the negative environmental impacts of N fertilisation. The methodology involved the review of literature using databases such as Web of Science, Scopus, and Google Scholar. Relevant studies were selected based on their focus on medicinal plants and N fertilisation, and findings were extracted to identify common themes and contradictions. The review highlights that N fertilisation generally enhances plant growth and yield, as demonstrated in various studies involving different medicinal plants and N application rates. However, the response to N fertilisation can vary depending on plant species and environmental conditions. In terms of physiological responses, increased N availability is typically associated with higher chlorophyll content, improved photosynthesis, and better overall plant health. Nonetheless, excessive N application can lead to reduced secondary metabolite content, which may compromise the medicinal value of the plants. The review also underscores the importance of optimising N fertilisation to balance plant growth and secondary metabolite production, ensuring both economic and therapeutic benefits. In conclusion, while N fertilisation is crucial for the sustainable cultivation of medicinal plants, careful management is needed to avoid negative impacts on secondary metabolite content. Future research should focus on developing tailored N fertilisation strategies for different medicinal plant species to maximise their medicinal and economic potential.
Ensuring a successful match between shelter dogs and adopters is a key factor in promoting long-term pet ownership and reducing return rates. This study explored the compatibility between behavioral profiles of 49 dogs, assessed via the C-BARQ questionnaire, and demographic and lifestyle profiles of 78 potential adopters. The research was conducted in partnership with two shelters: SVPA in Switzerland and NUCA in Romania. Results indicated that most shelter dogs were excitable but non-aggressive, and adopters were predominantly young, empathetic, and experienced with pets. Active adopters tended to be more compatible with excitable dogs, whereas calmer home environments better suited anxious or fearful dogs. These findings support the use of standardized behavioral assessments and adopter profiling tools to improve adoption outcomes and animal welfare.
Cucurbit powdery mildew (CPM) is an obligate parasite affecting yellow summer squash. Fungicide treatments can be effective at reducing the severity of CPM, but have exposure risks to humans following application, as well as risks of the pathogen developing resistance. Germicidal short-wavelength ultraviolet (UV-C) light applied at night can help control CPM. During field trials carried out over three growing seasons, several doses of UV-C were applied to yellow squash plants and compared to plants receiving conventional fungicide treatments and to untreated controls. In some trials, both UV-C and conventional fungicides were applied. Because UV-C is a line-of-sight treatment requiring direct irradiation of the plant surface in order to deactivate CPM, an air agitation system to provide opportunities for UV-C to irradiate the undersides of leaves was also tested in some of the UV-C trials. Overall, UV-C was usually somewhat less effective than the conventional fungicide applications but was more effective in some trials. Air agitation in conjunction with UV-C resulted in poorer performance than UV-C alone. The combination of UV-C application with conventional fungicide treatments was always more effective than fungicides alone, likely because of the different modes of operation for these two treatments.
Cannabis (Cannabis sativa) is an annual plant that is widely cultivated because of its industrial and medicinal importance. An experiment was carried out in 30 liter pots. in a greenhouse with controlled conditions. Two different strains of Trichoderma harzianum (Th118 y Th 5cc) were investigated in a pot trial on agronomic and quality characteristics of clones of a variety of cannabis (Cannabis sativa L., Var. Nother light). In this sense, the ultimate goal of this study is to shed light on the effect of T. harzianum on the root growth, vegetative development and CBD concentration and the ratio of CBD to THC. The incorporation of T. harzianum (Th118 and Th 5cc) did not improve the growth parameters of the Cannabis plants. No significant differences were observed between treatments for any of the parameters evaluated, under the conditions of this assay. T. harzianum ( Th118) strain, applied to the cannabis plant in two irrigations, showed the lowest values of the THC/CBD ratio (0.025). Anyway, further studies are necessary to verify whether Trichoderma spp. has the potential for implementation of medicinal cannabis production.
This paper is a prospective review with the actual methods of mechanical weed control in sugar beet, from the simple ones to the most sophisticated, using sensors or robots, due to the large amount of pesticides used for a clean field. Weed control strategies are made strictly chemical with spraying herbicides mixes all over the field at several timings in the early growth stage, putting the crops under stress. The number of weed resistant species is increasing and more sustainable methods need to be used in weed control, also for ecological crops. Integrated weed management includes mechanical and chemical applications, that is why precision agriculture including camera recognizing cultivation row, hydraulic steering or autonomous robotic tehnlologies are used often and could be a strong alternative for the actual herbicide control of the weeds.
Developing a robust nutrient management strategy is key to crop productivity, profitability, and nutrient use efficiency. A factorial experiment was conducted to evaluate the effect of four levels of nitrogen (N) (200, 150, 100, and 50 kg/ha) and three levels of potassium (K) (100, 75, 50 kg/ha) on growth (plant height, stem girth, number of leaves/plant, chlorophyll and leaf area index), herbage yield (biomass of fresh and dry leaves and stem) and nutritional content [crude protein (CP), crude fibre (CF), carbohydrate (CHO) and ash] of Amaranth cruentus. Plant growth and development and herbage yield parameters were promoted with an increasing application rate of N and K. Nitrogen increased (P<0.05) the content of the CF, ash, CHO, Ca, P, and Mg with increasing application rates. Potassium application rates had no significant effect (P>0.05) on CP, CF, Ca, K, and Na. The results also showed that, in most cases, the highest N rates (200 kg/ha) and potassium at 100 kg/ha resulted in the highest vegetative yields. The results indicated that the interaction effect (NxK) was not significant on all the measured parameters. In conclusion, increasing nitrogen and potassium application rates generally enhanced plant growth, herbage yield, and nutrient content of Amaranth cruentus, with the highest rates (200 kg N/ha and 100 kg K/ha) producing the best results. However, the interaction between nitrogen and potassium was not significant, suggesting that their effects were largely independent.
Rhinitis, defined as inflammation of the nasal mucosa, is a prevalent and multifactorial condition affecting companion animals, particularly dogs and cats. The condition manifests with diverse clinical symptoms, including nasal discharge, sneezing, congestion, and, in chronic cases, reduced olfactory function, significantly impacting animal welfare. The etiology encompasses infectious agents such as viruses (e.g., canine distemper virus, feline herpesvirus), bacteria (Bordetella bronchiseptica, Pasteurella spp.), and fungi (Aspergillus fumigatus), as well as non-infectious factors like allergies, foreign bodies, and idiopathic lymphoplasmacytic rhinitis. Advanced diagnostic tools, including rhinoscopy, computed tomography (CT), and cytology, have greatly improved the ability to differentiate between infectious, allergic, and neoplastic causes, leading to targeted treatment strategies such as antimicrobial therapy, antifungal agents, and immunosuppressive therapies. Environmental factors, including poor air quality and inadequate husbandry practices, play a critical role in chronic rhinitis, particularly in overcrowded environments. While advances in diagnostics and management have improved clinical outcomes, chronic and idiopathic rhinitis remain significant challenging requiring long-term care. This review synthesizes current knowledge on the etiology, clinical presentation, diagnosis, and management of rhinitis in dogs and cats, emphasizing the importance of a holistic approach to improve animal health and welfare.
The aim of our research was to investigate how different substrate type and biostimulants can influence the process of germination and seedling development of spruce (Picea abies). To carry out this study, seeds from four different location from Romania were used. For the germination and development of spruce seedlings, five distinct types of substrate were used: oligotrophic peat, peat and perlite mixture, perlite, sand and sand and perlite mixture. In the case of germination stimulation, two types of biostimulants were applied, Atonik and Cropmax, and the results were compared with a control variant, without treatment. The results highlighted significant differences depending on the type of substrate and treatment, providing valuable information about the optimal conditions for germination and growth of the seedlings. The results showed that S2 substrate (peat+perlite) proved to be the most effective for seed germination of spruce seeds, achieving remarkable results when combined with Atonik treatment. For seeds from the Miraj provenance, the germination rate reached 92%, highlighting the advantages of using this type of substrate to optimize the germination process and seedling development.
This study assessed the perceptions of secondary school students of agriculture as a career choice in Akoko LGA, Ondo State, Nigeria. A two-stage sampling technique was used to select 120 respondents. Descriptive and inferential statistics were used to analyse data from a structured questionnaire. Respondents were mostly female (60.8%), Christian (72.5%), members of small households and sponsored by parents (90.8%). The perceptions results showed that “peer groups believe agriculture is for low-achieving students” had the highest mean score (x̅=3.96; σ=1.32). The most favourable attitude statement was "I would recommend studying agricultural science to others" (x̅=4.06; σ=4.77), The most serious constraints was insufficient time allotted for agricultural practical sessions (x̅= 2.26; σ=1.08). The most cited way of making agriculture attractive and accepted by students was through curriculum enhancement (x̅= 4.76; σ=0.95). The study recommended that schools should incorporate practical agriculture to spark interest and hands-on learning of the subject.
The aim of the research is to identify a sustainable wine-growing system of the Maramures Region based on the values of some indicators of profitability ratios. The research is carried out on the global activity of the companies having as their scope of business "Cultivation of grapes / Manufacture of wine from grapes". Gathering information from the websites of the Romanian wine cellars as well as from the promotion website of the Romanian wine cellars ( www.cramaromania.ro) documentation based on financial accounting and bookkeeping information for the period 2019-2023 ( www.listafirme.ro ), then the application of the formulas of calculation of the researched indicators have allowed the presentation of some conclusions for the research results.
