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Climate change can impact farmers' incomes as agricultural production still depends on the weather. Currently, the majority of the impoverished rely primarily on agriculture for their income. The connection between poverty and climate change has been extensively studied, but further research is needed in this area. This research was conducted to provide empirical evidence regarding the impact of climate change on poverty using time series data, which has never been done. This research wants to examine the impact of socio-economics (economic growth, agricultural sector growth, inequality, inflation) and climate change on poverty. This research uses time series data from 2007 to 2022. The Central Bureau of Statistics and Climate Change Performance Index (CCPI) reports are the sources of research data. The study results suggest that the government's performance index in combating inflation, agricultural sector growth, and climate change has a positive impact on poverty. Poverty is negatively affected by the Gini index and economic growth. Government efforts to adaptively address climate change are necessary to prevent worsening impacts on poverty rates. To reduce the risk of crop failure, farmers must also practice practical agricultural management. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Voluntary waiting period (VWP), housing systems and the presence of a veterinarian are effective factors on reproductive performance of a dairy farm. Objectives: This study aimed to investigate the management practices associated with VWP and its effects on reproductive performance. Methods: A total of 136,943 records of 21,756 cows that calved between 1990 and 2013 were used. A questionnaire was also conducted with the farms involved to determine if they adjust the timing of insemination based on the body condition score (BCS) of the cows, postpartum health situation (PPHS) or environmental factors such as heat stress and season. The impact of changing the VWP selectively, the presence of a veterinarian and the type of barn on reproductive outcomes like days open (DO), number of services per conception (NSPC) and days to first service (DFS) was examined using a linear mixed model. This model considered animals and herds as random factors and management practices as fixed factors in the analysis. Results: Among herds that reported altering the VWP based on heat stress, DFS significantly increased (61.68 ± 0.68 vs. 58.4 ± 0.83) while DO (119.70 ± 1.86 vs. 126.9 ± 2.29) and NSPC (1.98 ± 0.04 vs. 2.48 ± 0.05) reduced compared to herds that did not alter the VWP. Our results showed that farms with a full‐time veterinarian had a better reproductive performance than those with part‐time care (p < 0.05). Housing system was significantly associated with fertility traits, so that cows in free‐stall barns were more fertile than those kept in open‐shed barns. Conclusions: The obtained results from this study indicated that management decisions to selectively altering the VWP led to difference in DFS and improved reproductive performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nowadays, agricultural practices require special attention due to their important contribution to water pollution, the more so as they are associated with environmental and health impairments. Despite legislation addressing nutrient pollution, there are still high levels of nutrients in water bodies, as evidenced by the results identified in the literature. Among nutrients of environmental concern identified in water and associated with agricultural practices are nitrogen and phosphorus. When applied in excess under fertilizer form, these nutrients accumulate in water bodies with consequences such as eutrophication or human health impairments if water is used for drinking. The purpose of this review paper is to present the current state of nutrient water pollution generated by unsustainable agricultural practices. In addition, are presented the main legislative regulations addressing water quality imposed by the European Union, are described aspects related to nitrogen and phosphorus pollution from agriculture, and levels of nutrients in water bodies from different European countries. Also, effects of agricultural pollution on the environment and humans are discussed, and possible strategies that could be employed to decrease or prevent water pollution are reviewed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The agricultural sector is vital for food production, economic stability, and environmental sustainability. However, it also poses significant occupational health and safety challenges due to factors such as heavy machinery usage, exposure to chemicals, and challenging environmental conditions. Method: This cross-sectional study involved 366 farmers affiliated with the Yozgat Chamber of Agriculture in Turkey. Data on demographic characteristics, occupational factors, and work accidents were collected with interview technique between May and August 2023. While descriptive data were expressed as categories with numbers and percentages, chi-square analysis was used to compare the obtained answers with the status of having or not having a work accident. Binary logistic regression analysis was used to estimate the effect of independent variables on the probability of having a work accident. Results: The study revealed that 33.0% of farmers experienced work accidents in the last year. Most accidents occurred during work shifts (28.8%) and in the fall season (34.8%). Factors contributing to accidents included lack of personal protective equipment (51.5%) and transportation-related issues (36.4%). Logistic regression analysis indicated that working more than 8 h daily, working 5 days or more per week, and using bus/minibus transportation significantly increased the likelihood of experiencing work accidents. Conclusion: Findings underscore the importance of implementing effective occupational health and safety measures, including proper training, provision of personal protective equipment, and improving transportation safety. Addressing these issues can enhance the well-being of agricultural workers and contribute to a safer working environment in the sector. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Inorganic phosphates have been used in shrimp feeds to meet phosphorus (P) needs, which may be quantitatively affected by the dietary content of P and other minerals and digestibility. In the present study, performance and digestibility were determined simultaneously in juvenile shrimp (Litopenaeus vannamei) during the grow‐out period (4–23 g ind wt). Shrimps were fed plant‐based diets supplemented with different phosphate ingredients: monosodium phosphate (MSP), monoammonium phosphate (MAP), magnesium phosphate (MgP), and monocalcium phosphate (MCP). The total P level in test diets was 0.79%. MSP supplementation was tested at two dietary calcium:phosphorus ratios to check for possible effects upon shrimp performance and digestibility. A negative control diet was tested with a similar formulation without inorganic phosphate supplementation (0.47% total P). Shrimp was reared in a recirculated clear water tank system (35 ppt salinity, 30°C, 100 individuals/m3) with continuous feeding provided by automatic pellet delivery. Feces were sampled 4–5 times daily throughout the trial. A negative control diet produced P limitation and significantly reduced shrimp performances compared to P‐supplemented diets (P < 0.05). Performance of shrimp‐fed diets containing inorganic phosphates varied for feed conversion rate: 1.24–1.34, survival: 87%–94%, growth: 2.50–2.59 g/week, and no significant difference was found among dietary treatments (P > 0.05). Inorganic P supplementation resulted in significantly higher dry matter, crude protein, ash, and P apparent digestibility coefficient (ADC) compared to P limited negative control diet (P < 0.05). In addition, reduced P ADC (P < 0.05) was checked with higher dietary Ca:P ratio. Phosphorus digestibility in test diets showed significant differences: MSP > MCP, MgP, and MSP + CaCO3; MAP > MSP + CaCO3 (P < 0.05). Digestible P (%) could then be calculated in test diets: MgP (4.77 g Pdig/kg of feed), MSP + CaCO3 (4.81 g Pdig/kg of feed), MCP (5.0 g Pdig/kg of feed), MAP (5.13 g Pdig/kg of feed), and MSP (5.30 g Pdig/kg of feed). Digestible P in phosphate sources (%) could then be calculated: 88.2% MSP, 84.2% MAP, 79% MCP, 72.2% MgP, and 71.8% MSP + CaCO3. Shrimp whole body and exoskeleton phosphorus content also showed significantly higher values in P‐supplemented diets compared to control, regardless of the source tested (P < 0.05). It is concluded that tested phosphates were suitable for feeding juvenile shrimp with MSP, MAP, and MgP diets showing high feed efficiency, while MSP and MAP diets resulted in numerically increased growth, coinciding with numerically higher P digestibility in these phosphates. The elevated P digestibility in the phosphates seems related to their water solubility, though MgP, less soluble and digestible in comparison to MSP and MAP, could also produce good performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Improving productivity is an important channel for satisfying household food needs through food availability. Increasing the productivity of small-scale farmers is linked to a number of factors, including land access, labor, chemicals, fertilizers and so on. Most farmers resort to expanding their cultivated areas to increase production because of insufficient financial resources available for purchasing inputs during agricultural seasons. This situation, combined with increasing pressure on land, does not favor agricultural production and, by extension, food security. This study therefore assesses the impact of different modes of access to land on agricultural productivity. Regime-switching multinomial regression techniques were used to account for endogeneity bias due to observed and unobserved factors. The results of the study show that access through free loans, tenancy and sharecropping negatively affect agricultural yields. The counterfactual analysis reveals a positive gain estimated at 509.9 kg/ha from land access by landowners. If the lenders were landowners, their gain would be 396.6 kg/ha, whereas the farmers would gain 485.1 kg/ha if they were landowners, and similarly the sharecroppers would gain 389.8 kg/ha if they were landowners. It is clear from these results that improving agricultural yields depends on securing land and requires the establishment of an effective land ownership system. This research impacts land ownership policies, which need to be revised to address customary rights and reduce inequalities in access to secure land. It highlights the way land tenure security drives agricultural advancements and offers actionable recommendations for policy improvements on food security. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract The soil microbiome is crucial for the environment and significantly impacts the ecosystem. Understanding the microbiome and its interaction with soil microorganisms is essential for improving ecological and environmental strategies. In this study, Xiphinema elongatum nematodes were collected from water berry in Sovenga Hills, Limpopo Province, South Africa, and were analyzed their associated bacterial communities using metabarcoding analysis. The findings revealed that X. elongatum forms associations with a wide range of bacterial species. Among the most abundant species identified, we found Sphingomonas sp., a bacterial species commonly found in various habitats and primarily beneficial to plants, and Candidatus Xiphinematobacter, a bacterial species commonly found in nematode species of Xiphinema as an endosymbiont. The analysis using principal component analysis (PCA) revealed that the abundance of X. elongatum in the soil is inversely correlated with clay content (r = -0.52) and soil pH levels (r = -0.98), and directly correlated with soil sand content (r = 0.88). This study provides valuable insights into the bacterial species associated with plant-parasitic nematodes in trees in South Africa. It underscores the presence of various potentially detrimental and beneficial nematode-associated bacteria. The results could potentially influence the overall quality of the soil, leading to implications for the productivity and yield of fruit crops. Additionally, the results help us understand the interaction between bacteria and X. elongatum.

Increasing plant productivity to increase sugar production can be done by developing new superior varieties from crossing superior sugarcane clones. The research aimed to obtain clones from crossing with higher sugar yields than the female parents. The study was done at IP2TP Karangploso, Malang, Indonesia, from December 2020 to November 2022. As many as 24 clones from polycross and one female parent were arranged in a Randomized Block Design with 2 replications. The results showed that 11 polycross clones (19/P3/2, 19/P3/4, 19/P3/7, 19/P3/10, 19/P3/13, 19/P3/16, 19/P3/17, 19/P3/20, 19/P3/28, 19/P3/32, and 19/P3/34) produced sugar 15.54-105.04% higher than the female parent (6.19 t/ha).

Abstract Background The agricultural sector is vital for food production, economic stability, and environmental sustainability. However, it also poses significant occupational health and safety challenges due to factors such as heavy machinery usage, exposure to chemicals, and challenging environmental conditions. Method This cross-sectional study involved 366 farmers affiliated with the Yozgat Chamber of Agriculture in Turkey. Data on demographic characteristics, occupational factors, and work accidents were collected with interview technique between May and August 2023. While descriptive data were expressed as categories with numbers and percentages, chi-square analysis was used to compare the obtained answers with the status of having or not having a work accident. Binary logistic regression analysis was used to estimate the effect of independent variables on the probability of having a work accident. Results The study revealed that 33.0% of farmers experienced work accidents in the last year. Most accidents occurred during work shifts (28.8%) and in the fall season (34.8%). Factors contributing to accidents included lack of personal protective equipment (51.5%) and transportation-related issues (36.4%). Logistic regression analysis indicated that working more than 8 h daily, working 5 days or more per week, and using bus/minibus transportation significantly increased the likelihood of experiencing work accidents. Conclusion Findings underscore the importance of implementing effective occupational health and safety measures, including proper training, provision of personal protective equipment, and improving transportation safety. Addressing these issues can enhance the well-being of agricultural workers and contribute to a safer working environment in the sector.

The study was aimed at identifying the potential of modern methods of rational land use in the Karasai district of the Almaty region of Kazakhstan, taking into account their intensive degradation. The research methodology was represented by the methods of statistical observation, comparison, analytical-structural grouping and forecasting. The priority goals of modernisation of agriculture of the Republic in the technological aspect have been analysed. It was established that innovative approaches to land use have the potential to increase the level of efficiency of the agrarian sector, improve the state of local and regional landscape. The concept of improving the state of degraded lands, including a system of management measures and practical activities, has been developed. It was proved that it should be based on the synergy of economic efficiency and environmental safety, with the mandatory introduction of modern innovative technological approaches. The effectiveness of methods of rational use of degraded lands as an effective tool for the transformation of the agrarian sector has been determined. It was proposed to intensify the development of organic agricultural production, which is positioned as the gentlest for degraded landscapes. It was proved that the implementation of sustainable management of landscape complexes in the innovative context implies the use of information monitoring technology, which anticipates the diagnosis, genesis and forecasting of the state of the studied ecosystems. Such measures will make it possible to develop programmes for the restoration of ecological functions of natural landscapes, which is an integral part of sustainable development programmes. Actualised the situation in the context of ecologisation of land use in Kazakhstan, predicted further destruction of ecosystems of agrarian landscapes in case of use of aggressive methods of soil cultivation. The necessity of introduction of improved methods of rational land use is substantiated, and the specificity of the introduction of organic and biological technologies of agricultural production is outlined, with an indication of tangential risks and challenges in the economic realities of Kazakhstan. The study substantiated that the application of integrated management and ecosystem approach have a synergistic potential to ensure the rational use of land in the Almaty region, the Karasai district in the conditions of their degradation

Background: Arthritis of the diarthrodial zygapophysial joints, located in the posterior column of the spine, commonly known as facet joint arthritis (FJA) is a leading cause of back pain and related disability. In the literature, mainly the anatomy, innervation, diagnostic, and management part of FJA have been adequately published to date. Its etiology and association with various social and physical parameters remain underinvestigated. An insight into these associations can help develop a preventive strategy. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This study was conducted to evaluate its relationship with various purported causative sociophysical factors. A total of 210 participants who underwent computed tomography for nonorthopedic complaints and met the inclusion criteria were consecutively enrolled. The sociophysical profile information was gathered through a structured questionnaire. FJA was defined as at least one joint affected by facet joint disease (Grade ≥2). The data collected were checked, edited, coded, and analyzed using the SPSS 25.0 version. Results: FJA was found in 74.3% of the study population. On multivariate logistic regression analysis, the odds of having FJA were 6 times more in the participants who spent 4 h or more picking fruits, and vegetables (adjusted odds ratio [AOR] = 6.01; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.80–20.057) and 3 times more in participants whose daily milk intake was

This article aims to highlight the importance of climate and environmental challenges for agricultural economics and policy. Empirical research based on the Data Envelopment Analysis (DEA) method determined the average technical efficiency and scale efficiency of farms in the European Union in total and in economic size classes in the period 2004-2020. The results indicate that agriculture is generally characterised by high technical efficiency and scale efficiency. Analysis by economic size classes of farms, defined by the standard sum of their agricultural output, shows that the relationship between the scale of production and technical efficiency of farms is U-shaped. The highest technical efficiency and scale efficiency are characterised by small, large and very large farms economic classes. Economies of scale shift the burden of food production to large farms, which provide food security and are technically efficient but excessively burdensome for the climate and the environment. Small farms produce environmentally friendly food but on a small scale. Therefore, increasing the technical efficiency of medium-sized farms can contribute to more sustainable food production that meets both food security and climate and environmental objectives. The Common Agricultural Policy 2023-2027 provides greater access to financial support for moderate-scale farms and farms undertaking ecosystem restoration activities. This may affect the strength and direction of the relationship between farm scale and productivity, including technical efficiency.

The impact of COVID-19 on Bali, Indonesia, decimated a significant part of the economy, resulting in unemployment and underemployment, which increased economic difficulties and related anxiety. Many people returned to small-holder farming to sustain their families. Away from farming, meditation is widely recognized as a means for equanimity and coping better with anxiety. In solidarity with the return to farming in Bali, the lead author of this paper created a performance art experience involving the planting of rice as a meditative practice. This paper summarizes the process and what was learned during the experience, using elements of qualitative research. The analysis affirms the role of artistic expression in supporting people’s sensemaking about societal disruption, with implications for social learning and mental well-being.

Macroalgae are beneficial for consumers and producers due to their high productivity, their chemical composition and their efficient cultivation without additional feed. Asia dominates global macroalgae production, while European production is still marginal and mainly based on wild harvesting in the North Atlantic. The European Commission has launched initiatives to promote the sustainable production, safe consumption and innovative use of macroalgae products in European regional seas, including the Mediterranean Sea. A variety of coastal and seabed types and a wide range of environmental conditions make the Mediterranean a hotspot of marine biodiversity while providing good conditions for the cultivation of macroalgae. The aim of this paper is to compare the global macroalgae production and macroalgae production in the Mediterranean Sea, focussing on the cultivation of edible macroalgae. The paper also discusses the limitations and possibilities of macroalgae production in the region. Macroalgae production is one of the most promising sectors of the blue economy in the Mediterranean. The production of edible macroalgae suitable for human consumption has great potential, considering future population growth and related food security and health issues, as well as the additional ecosystem benefits of macroalgae production.

Introduction: Considering the need to feed the increasing world population, it is essential to ensure that food production systems are sustainable. Aquaculture has been identified as a potential crucial source of sustainable food with its significant potential for future growth, notably by the recent EU regulations aiming at boosting food security and sustainable food systems. In this context, it is important to reflect on how the aquaculture of carnivorous species, which are exhibiting the highest growth rates, stands in respect of environmental impacts and contribution to the overall food supply. In particular, tuna aquaculture has been largely criticized for its high environmental impacts and general low sustainability. Methods: Here, we present a methodology to assess the sustainability of seafood production systems, with a first analysis applied to Atlantic bluefin tuna (BFT) aquaculture, detailed for both BFT fattening and farming. Results: Results suggest that the limited economic and social contributions of BFT aquaculture do not currently compensate its environmental impacts with an estimate of a 3.4-fold higher long-term social cost than the short-term economic gain. Discussion: However, it is also a species where the production cycle is not closed in commercial operation, and with a significant potential for further improvement as the control of the production process increases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Kirkview Farms in Dalkeith, Ontario practices regenerative agriculture, which emphasizes sustainable farming practices that benefit the environment and produce organic, non-GMO, nutrient-dense food. The farm has partnered with Concordia University's Innovation Lab to allow students to experiment with planting methods, food security, and low-capital practices. The farmers at Kirkview Farms prioritize the symbiotic relationship between animals and the land, ensuring that both thrive in a balanced and healthy environment. They employ rotational grazing and move their animals daily to enrich their diets and maintain the land's fertility. The farm also integrates water management, composting, and biodiversity practices to create a diverse and resilient ecosystem. Despite the challenges, the rewards of regenerative agriculture are significant, as it produces high-quality food and ensures the land remains productive for future generations. [Extracted from the article]

This article explores the role of technology and analytics in achieving sustainable global development, with a focus on agriculture. It discusses the challenges faced in meeting the United Nations' sustainable development goals and highlights the potential of digital technologies to improve decision-making and connect stakeholders worldwide. The article examines various applications of agri-tech, including labor-intensive to technology-intensive farming, resilient agri-food supply chains, smart technologies in animal science, and smart farming for sustainable agriculture. It concludes by introducing five research articles that delve into the role of agri-tech in achieving sustainable development goals. The text emphasizes the importance of early detection and treatment of plant leaf diseases, water management from a socioecological perspective, vertical farming systems in urban environments, and sentiment analytics to study public perception of smart farming. It also highlights the integration of technologies like AI, IoT, and autonomous systems, as well as advancements in genetic engineering and biotechnology, as key drivers of future agricultural practices. The article stresses the need for upskilling and education in agri-tech to support the adoption of these technologies and ensure economic growth and resilience in the agricultural sector. [Extracted from the article]

The work discusses intermittent light scheduling for energy cost reduction in vertical farming, specifically for growing salad crops (Lactuca Sativa). The study explores how dynamically adjusting lighting schedules based on day-ahead energy prices can improve energy efficiency and reduce operational costs. The research uses a growth chamber equipped with LED lights, controlled environmental factors, and real-time data from the Nord Pool energy market to optimize energy use. The results show that intermittent lighting schedules, aligned with cheaper energy periods, lead to higher crop yields and significant energy cost savings compared to continuous lighting. The findings suggest that such adaptive lighting strategies can make vertical farming more economically viable and sustainable by optimizing resource use, aligning with global sustainability goals. The study also highlights the potential of vertical farms to act as flexible power consumers, adjusting their energy usage based on renewable energy availability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Population of the world is now eight billion people, but it is expected to reach 9.7 billion by 2050 due to ongoing population growth. A population of this size confronts several challenges, the most significant being the requirement for expanded global food production to meet nutritional demands. Due to the inefficient use of natural resources that overburdens the ecosystem, traditional agricultural practices are thought to be unable to meet these demands. We are, thus, forced to adopt more ecologically friendly agricultural methods. By lowering the need for external inputs and assisting farmers in coping with unfavorable weather, which is becoming more frequent due to climate change, smart farming technologies (SFTs) can increase crop output in a sustainable manner, enhancing its resilience and lowering carbon dioxide emissions. The United States had a $91 \%$ acceptance rate for SFT as of 2020 , with Canada, Australia, and other European nations lagging behind as the most adopting nations. A wider use of SFT is needed to achieve the objective of feeding the world’s population sustainably, even if certain emerging nations are accelerating their adoption rates. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Macroalgae are beneficial for consumers and producers due to their high productivity, their chemical composition and their efficient cultivation without additional feed. Asia dominates global macroalgae production, while European production is still marginal and mainly based on wild harvesting in the North Atlantic. The European Commission has launched initiatives to promote the sustainable production, safe consumption and innovative use of macroalgae products in European regional seas, including the Mediterranean Sea. A variety of coastal and seabed types and a wide range of environmental conditions make the Mediterranean a hotspot of marine biodiversity while providing good conditions for the cultivation of macroalgae. The aim of this paper is to compare the global macroalgae production and macroalgae production in the Mediterranean Sea, focussing on the cultivation of edible macroalgae. The paper also discusses the limitations and possibilities of macroalgae production in the region. Macroalgae production is one of the most promising sectors of the blue economy in the Mediterranean. The production of edible macroalgae suitable for human consumption has great potential, considering future population growth and related food security and health issues, as well as the additional ecosystem benefits of macroalgae production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Limited feed for pigs encourages using alternative feed such as tamarind seeds using hydroponic fodder technology. The research aimed to examine the nutrient content of tamarind seed hydroponic fodder due to different watering frequencies. The research was conducted in Kolhua Village, Kupang City from April-September 2023. The research used tamarind seeds originating from the Lembata city. The research used a Completely Randomized Design, with 3 watering frequency treatments, namely R0 = 1 watering (07.00 WIT), R1 = 2 times (07.00 and 19.00), R2 = 3 times (07.00, 15.00 and 23.00 Wita) and 8 repetitions. There were 100 seeds per container. Variables include tamarind seed fodder's nutrient content (organic matter, crude protein, crude fiber, crude fat, and ash). Analysis used Analysis of Variance and Duncan's advanced test. The research results showed that watering frequency had a very significant effect (P<0.01) on the nutrient levels of tamarind seed hydroponic fodder except for ash content and the watering frequency that produced the best nutrient levels was twice/day. In conclusion, tamarind seed hydroponic fodder's germination percentage and nutrient content are influenced by watering frequency, with twice/day and three times/day being good watering frequencies. It is recommended that its use be tested on livestock. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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The study was aimed at identifying the potential of modern methods of rational land use in the Karasai district of the Almaty region of Kazakhstan, taking into account their intensive degradation. The research methodology was represented by the methods of statistical observation, comparison, analytical-structural grouping and forecasting. The priority goals of modernisation of agriculture of the Republic in the technological aspect have been analysed. It was established that innovative approaches to land use have the potential to increase the level of efficiency of the agrarian sector, improve the state of local and regional landscape. The concept of improving the state of degraded lands, including a system of management measures and practical activities, has been developed. It was proved that it should be based on the synergy of economic efficiency and environmental safety, with the mandatory introduction of modern innovative technological approaches. The effectiveness of methods of rational use of degraded lands as an effective tool for the transformation of the agrarian sector has been determined. It was proposed to intensify the development of organic agricultural production, which is positioned as the gentlest for degraded landscapes. It was proved that the implementation of sustainable management of landscape complexes in the innovative context implies the use of information monitoring technology, which anticipates the diagnosis, genesis and forecasting of the state of the studied ecosystems. Such measures will make it possible to develop programmes for the restoration of ecological functions of natural landscapes, which is an integral part of sustainable development programmes. Actualised the situation in the context of ecologisation of land use in Kazakhstan, predicted further destruction of ecosystems of agrarian landscapes in case of use of aggressive methods of soil cultivation. The necessity of introduction of improved methods of rational land use is substantiated, and the specificity of the introduction of organic and biological technologies of agricultural production is outlined, with an indication of tangential risks and challenges in the economic realities of Kazakhstan. The study substantiated that the application of integrated management and ecosystem approach have a synergistic potential to ensure the rational use of land in the Almaty region, the Karasai district in the conditions of their degradation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The impact of COVID-19 on Bali, Indonesia, decimated a significant part of the economy, resulting in unemployment and underemployment, which increased economic difficulties and related anxiety. Many people returned to small-holder farming to sustain their families. Away from farming, meditation is widely recognized as a means for equanimity and coping better with anxiety. In solidarity with the return to farming in Bali, the lead author of this paper created a performance art experience involving the planting of rice as a meditative practice. This paper summarizes the process and what was learned during the ex perience, using elements of qualitative research. The analysis affirms the role of artistic expression in supporting people's sensemaking about societal disruption, with implications for social learning and mental well-being. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The 2020 flood had a devastating impact on most villages in Goronyo Local Government, particularly those situated in the Fadama areas. This study employed a mixed-methods approach to obtain cross-sectional information on the impacts of the 2020 flood incident in Goronyo Local Government. Data were collected from respondents through structured questionnaires, which were subsequently sorted and coded into SPSS version 22 for descriptive analysis. The results indicated that the majority of respondents were male, with 32.4% falling within the age range of 31-40 years. Approximately 41.0% of the respondents identified as farmers. The findings also revealed that rice was the primary crop lost during the flood, and houses were the most affected building infrastructure, accounting for 43.8% of the losses. Moreover, 41% of respondents attributed the flooding to the overflow of the river due to intense rainfall and the narrowness of the river. Additionally, 32.8% of respondents believed that the flood resulted from heavy rainfall that exceeded the river's carrying capacity, leading to pressure and subsequent flooding of the affected villages. The flood was also accompanied by outbreaks of waterborne diseases, including cholera, typhoid, and diarrhea in some villages. These findings highlight the critical need for improved flood management and preparedness strategies to mitigate the adverse socioeconomic and health impacts of future flood events in Goronyo Local Government. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bulk commodity row crop production in the United States is frequently subject to narrow profit margins, often complicated by weather, supply chains, trade, and other factors. Farmers seeking to increase profits and hedge against market volatility often seek to diversify their operations, including producing more lucrative or productive crop varieties. Recombinant plants producing animal or other non-native proteins (commonly referred to as plant molecular farming) present a value-added opportunity for row crop farmers. However, these crops must be produced under robust identity preserved systems to prevent comingling with bulk commodities to maintain the value for farmers, mitigate against market disruptions, and minimize any potential food, feed, or environmental risks. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Mediterranean agricultural world is a space in which xenophobic discourse is rife. While the Provençal huerta is a productive space based on the exploitation of a foreign seasonal workforce, the relations between employers and workers are complex. This paper proposes to revisit the manufacture of xenophobic discourse among Provençal farmers from the perspective of a particular position: that of a researcher, but also that of a country’s child, a daughter of local farmers and employers. The aim is to understand how different temporalities coexist in the field, between daily practices, childhood memories and the memory of ancestors. This temporal depth brings to the field a sensitive aspect allowing to recontextualize the construction of the employer's position in Provence in the light of the successive crises that the Mediterranean agricultural world has experienced, leading to a feeling of downgrading among farmers.

The prime goal of this study was to assess the surface water quality and the associated health risks for residents in the Tano South Municipality, Ghana. The WHO drinking water criteria were compared with the findings of an analysis of eight surface waters for parameters such as physiochemical parameters, nutrient levels, and concentrations of selected metals. An evaluation was performed regarding the potential non-carcinogenic and carcinogenic risks associated with metal exposure by oral and dermal absorption. The estimated water quality index indicated that seven water samples were deemed unsuitable for human consumption, while one sample indicated very low water quality. The fluoride levels in all water samples were below the limit of detection, although it guards against dental caries. All of the water samples had mean concentrations of Cd and Fe above WHO guideline values, while one water sample had a Pb concentration that was higher than recommended. Principal component analysis showed that aside from the natural source, human-induced sources such as runoff of excess chemicals and soil erosion from adjacent farm soils were responsible for the substantial levels of contaminants in surface water samples. There was a possibility of non-carcinogenic consequences for children in seven out of eight water samples. However, cancer risk for Cd and Pb was not likely for adults and children in the study area. Findings serve as a representative case study for other districts and call on water managers to treat surface waters to guard against harmful health consequences and safeguard the designated buffer zones.

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) evolution and onward transmission of resistance genes is impacted by interrelated biological and social drivers, with evidence and impacts observed across human, animal and environmental One Health domains. Systems-based research examining how food production impacts on AMR in complex agrifood systems is lacking, with little written on management approaches in the UK that might prevent and respond to this challenge. One approach is the creation of a transdisciplinary network to enhance capacity, capability and collaboration between agrifood-focused disciplines and stakeholders. This co-creation platform for network-wide systems-based activities would reduce inefficiencies in AMR-related activities around agrifood, providing a cross-cutting, cohesive community to deliver transformational guidance on relevant, practical agrifood solutions that add value by reducing AMR, antimicrobial usage and associated costs, and decreasing resultant environmental contamination by prioritising challenges, sharing knowledge and best practice, and co-creating practical solutions with key stakeholders. An online survey determined prospective network focus, structure and priorities, with responses analysed using mixed methods.Survey results suggested respondents have interests in synthesising data using systems-approaches and using certain disciplines such as ‘social sciences’ within network activities. There were disconnects in how and whom to work with on this, with generalised use of ‘social science/scientists’ but lack of disciplinary understanding (e.g., anthropology, sociology) suggesting disciplinary differences awareness-training is useful. A similar generalisation is seen for mathematics/statistics. There are strong interests in working with food system practitioners (e.g., farmers/vets), providing opportunities for farm/field visits/knowledge exchange, and human health, reflecting the need for farm-to-fork understanding of impacts. There were notable mentions of policy/governance, emphasising translational research desires to create meaningful change. Disciplines/fields did not always align with identified interests e.g., systems and implementation science, suggesting the utility of network activity around introducing these disciplines e.g., methodology-focused rather than subject-focused conferences exploring lateral thinking about subjects. We suggest starting by developing understanding of the most important research questions by working with stakeholders, then working back to how we would achieve desirable project outcomes and who else is needed for this.

This study addresses the crucial need for farmer regeneration to promote sustainable agriculture amidst increasing food demand. Many young individuals opt for non-agricultural careers post-college, necessitating the cultivation of initial agricultural interest. Objectives include understanding factors influencing young individuals’ decision to pursue farming and investigating determinants based on education and location. The findings explore various factors like age, land availability, income, education, and gender impacting farming inclination. Theoretical implications are discussed for effectively sparking agricultural interest. The unique aspect lies in differentiating demography and course choice compared to prior studies. Methodologically, data collection involved structured interviews and questionnaire analysis, employing both quantitative and qualitative approaches. Results indicate a significant influence of demographic and educational factors on farming inclination among youth.

The selling price of potatoes fluctuated, and the rising production input costs affected income, leading farmers to work in off-farm and non-farm sectors to meet household economic needs. The research aimed to analyze potato farming income as well as total household income and expenditures. The sampling method used purposive sampling, with a total of 60 respondents. This study employed income analysis and descriptive analysis. The results showed that the income from potato farming was Rp13,465,899.12 per planting season. The total household income of the farmers was Rp20,993,565.78 over four months, consisting of on-farm, off-farm, and non-farm income sources. Household expenditures amounted to Rp7,116,555.56, which included food and non-food expenses. Keywords: Farming; Income Analysis; Farmers' Households

ABSTRACT Background Voluntary waiting period (VWP), housing systems and the presence of a veterinarian are effective factors on reproductive performance of a dairy farm. Objectives This study aimed to investigate the management practices associated with VWP and its effects on reproductive performance. Methods A total of 136,943 records of 21,756 cows that calved between 1990 and 2013 were used. A questionnaire was also conducted with the farms involved to determine if they adjust the timing of insemination based on the body condition score (BCS) of the cows, postpartum health situation (PPHS) or environmental factors such as heat stress and season. The impact of changing the VWP selectively, the presence of a veterinarian and the type of barn on reproductive outcomes like days open (DO), number of services per conception (NSPC) and days to first service (DFS) was examined using a linear mixed model. This model considered animals and herds as random factors and management practices as fixed factors in the analysis. Results Among herds that reported altering the VWP based on heat stress, DFS significantly increased (61.68 ± 0.68 vs. 58.4 ± 0.83) while DO (119.70 ± 1.86 vs. 126.9 ± 2.29) and NSPC (1.98 ± 0.04 vs. 2.48 ± 0.05) reduced compared to herds that did not alter the VWP. Our results showed that farms with a full‐time veterinarian had a better reproductive performance than those with part‐time care (p < 0.05). Housing system was significantly associated with fertility traits, so that cows in free‐stall barns were more fertile than those kept in open‐shed barns. Conclusions The obtained results from this study indicated that management decisions to selectively altering the VWP led to difference in DFS and improved reproductive performance.

The paper discusses the problems of providing clergy with land for farming. It was revealed that the sources of replenishment of land allotments used by the clergy differed markedly depending on the specifics of individual parishes. There is detailed information about the church land received by the clergy from parishioners immediately after taking office (ordination). Another source of land replenishment was the own work of priests and clergy in clearing land from the forest and draining swamps. State measures aimed at improving the financial situation of the clergy and endowing clerics with land sufficient to maintain a stable economy have not been successful for a number of reasons. The Church authority believed that work on arable land brings clergy and laity closer together, contributing to mutual understanding. Among rural pastors, the conviction gradually grew that the basis of a priest’s income should be a government salary.

Limited feed for pigs encourages using alternative feed such as tamarind seeds using hydroponic fodder technology. The research aimed to examine the nutrient content of tamarind seed hydroponic fodder due to different watering frequencies. The research was conducted in Kolhua Village, Kupang City from April-September 2023. The research used tamarind seeds originating from the Lembata city. The research used a Completely Randomized Design, with 3 watering frequency treatments, namely R0 = 1 watering (07.00 WIT), R1 = 2 times (07.00 and 19.00), R2 = 3 times (07.00, 15.00 and 23.00 Wita) and 8 repetitions. There were 100 seeds per container. Variables include tamarind seed fodder's nutrient content (organic matter, crude protein, crude fiber, crude fat, and ash). Analysis used Analysis of Variance and Duncan's advanced test. The research results showed that watering frequency had a very significant effect (P

IoT technology revolutionizes poultry farming by enabling real-time data collection and analysis. Traditional manual methods for monitoring temperature, humidity, and AC voltage are being replaced with automated systems. The IoT setup includes three sensor nodes, CCTV, an IoT gateway, and a web server. Temperature ranges from 27 to 35°C in offfattening periods and consistently above 30°C during fattening. Humidity fluctuates between 60% to 90% in both periods. The CPU temperature remains within safe limits. Uplink data rates exceed 2 Mbps, while AC voltage initially falls below standards but improves over time.

To comprehensively analyze and summarize the current status of research on wastewater treatment technologies in aquaculture, bibliometric methods were employed to screen and organize relevant literature from CNKI and the Web of Science(WoS) Core Collection databases in the past ten years. A total of 1 043 and 233 valid literature samples were obtained from CNKI and WoS, respectively. The literature samples were visualized and analyzed by CiteSpace and VOSviewer software, focusing on aspects such as publication year, country, authors, research institutions, and keywords. The results indicated that research conducted in China holded a dominant position in the field of aquaculture wastewater treatment technology, with research activity far surpassing that of other countries. The core disciplines involved in research in this field both domestically and internationally were primarily environmental sciences, although contributions from agriculture, engineering, biological, and chemical disciplines also played significant roles in the development of this field. This interdisciplinary nature fostered the updating and innovation of treatment technologies and helped to deal with complex pollutants. However, a close global network of cooperation had not yet been formed in this field. Nevertheless, there was considerable potential for inter-institutional collaboration in the future. Over the past decade, research in this field had shifted towards novel treatment approaches that were highly efficient and minimized secondary pollution. There had been an expansion in the types of pollutants effectively treated, and a greater emphasis had been placed on sustainability, resource and energy recovery.

Banjarbaru is a vegetable producing area in South Kalimantan Province. Vegetable farmers in Banjarbaru City not only supply vegetables in Banjarbaru City itself, but also supply vegetable needs in Banjarmasin City. Based on data from BPS Banjarbaru City in 2022, the production of green leaf vegetables that are widely produced is in the form of kale (4,164 quintals), petsai (5,752 quintals), spinach (2,453 quintals). In addition to green leafy vegetables, other vegetables that are also quite high such as mushrooms (13,716 quintals), tomatoes (5,070 quintals), cucumbers (3,671 quintals). All types of vegetable crops tend to experience a decrease in production compared to the previous two years, except for fungal plants. The objectives of this study are: 1) Identify and analyze the family and socioeconomic characteristics of vegetable farming families 2) Analyze the food security of farming families. 3) Analyze socioeconomic characteristics related to the level of food security of vegetable farming families in Liang Anggang District. The analysis used is descriptive analysis, HFIAS (Household Food Insecurity Access Scale) Indicator Guide indicator and biserial point correlation analysis. The results of the analysis show that: 1) The characteristics of vegetable farmer households as independent variables in this study include variables of farmer household income, proportion of percent of food expenditure, number of household members, formal education of housewives, availability of rice and area of vegetable farming. 2) The level of food security of vegetable farmer households in Liang Anggang District Included in the food security category, which is 83.33%, and the remaining 16.67% is included in the category of light food insecurity. 3) All variables of socioeconomic characteristics have a significant relationship with the level of food security of vegetable farmer households in Liang Anggang District.

The sand mining activities leave a wide area ex-sand mining land. In Bambang Village, farmers who live in that area try to get their land back to produce agricultural activities that were used previously for sand mining. However, there are several obstacles to the sustainability of farming in this area, especially the matter of critical land issues, pest and disease attacks, unpredictability of price, and technology used still not optimized suboptimal use of technology. To analyze the sustainability index and the attributes that influence continuity of corn farming on post-mine sand land, a quantitative study was conducted used a five-dimension sustainability approach. This approach included the consist of ecological, economic, social, institutional, and technological dimensions. Data collected by distributing questionnaires to the respondents which are divided into 72 of farmers and five key informants, so that, total of respondents are 77 people. Multidimensional Scaling (MDS) and leverage analysis were used to determine the attributes that influence sustainability. The results of the research show corn farming continuity on post-sand mining land produce a sustainability index for about 54.86%. It is considered quite able to maintain in terms of the economic dimension (62.12%), social dimension (60.82%), and institutional dimension (60.27%). Though, the ecological dimension (46.88%) and technological dimension (44.23%) were classified as weak in terms of sustainability. Additionally, leverage analysis shows about 25 sensitive attributes which is influenced the sustainability of corn farming on post-sand mining land.

Background The use of chemical pesticides without proper health literacy (HL) and necessary pesticide protective behaviors (PPB) can result in adverse effects on human health. Methods This study aims to determine if there is a correlation between HL and PPB among farmers in the Nakhon Ratchasima province, using a random sample of 464 farmers. Structured interviews consisted of three parts: 1. General information, 2. Health literacy (including knowledge, understanding, and other sub-aspects), and 3. Protective behaviors against chemical exposure. Each part of the questionnaire had a reliability index of 0.60 or higher. The reliability of the 2nd and 3rd parts of the questionnaire were as follows: sub-sections of part 2 had a Kuder-Richardson (KR-20) coefficient of 0.79 and Cronbach’s alpha (α) coefficient of 0.85-0.86, while part 3 had an α of 0.88. Risk of chemical exposure was assessed using a Cholinesterase Reactive Paper test administered by a finger-prick blood test. Data was analyzed using the Spearman correlation and binary logistic regression. The study was reviewed by the Human Research Ethics Committee with the approval date: August 9, 2021, and expiry date: August 9, 2022. Results Most participants had moderate levels of overall HL (48.8%) and PPB (44.6%). There was a statistically significant positive correlation between HL and PPB (r s(478) = 0.70, p Conclusions These findings highlight the need for increased health literacy among farmers in Thailand to ensure correct protective behaviors against chemical exposure and reduce the adverse effects of pesticide exposure on human health.

Traditional methods of watering plants based on timers have been shown to be wasteful when compared to sensor based watering. While sensor based irrigation systems do exist, current implementations are both costly and needlessly complex. Our goal was to design an irrigation sensor system is cheap, easy to implement, and saves more water than traditional watering systems. Our approach was to create a sensor node network that is both reliable and cost effective when installing it. With this approach we were able to create a dependable tree like sensor network that could read moisture data from soil and have it visualized in an Android application. In regards to our Android application, we were able to implement features such as sensor calibration in order to obtain accurate readings. Our tree like network was also able to be consistent in being able to send data packets back and forth with each sensor having a reach of up to 100 meters and being able to have a total of 3125 radio modules in use. In conclusion we were able to create a reliable and cost effective irrigation system that could be used for both farms and home gardens. We were able to meet our initial goals which were to create an user friendly application that could be used to read and visualize data as well creating a sensor network that is low-power and is low cost.  Advisor: Professor Sitao Huang, Department of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science

Agricultural farming problems are the main concerns for states and local governments in stabilizing and increasing food production. Agricultural mechanization is an important element in this scenario. Thus, we conduct a systematic analysis to examine the agricultural mechanization level and its effect on grain production by using panel data and scientific literature mining for the last two decades in northeastern China. For this purpose, the autoregressive distributed lag model, the stochastic frontier model, and bibliometric analysis are employed. The results show that the development level of agricultural mechanization is stable in the region. In terms of scientific research progress in agricultural mechanization, researchers are mainly studying to solve problems related to carbon emissions, green energy, and environmental protection, and overall, a 4.39% growth rate for research publications was found. Also, the statistical analysis shows that variables such as fertilizers (9.808) and agricultural machinery (0.003) have a significant positive impact on the agricultural industry, which indicates that the development of agricultural mechanization has a certain impact on the efficiency of food production. Thus, technological innovation in climate agricultural practices and small-scale farming could be more beneficial to fulfilling the future food demand. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Since the 1990s, agribusiness expansion in Argentina involved the exponential growth of pesticide use throughout the country. Pesticide exposure has become a widespread problem in rural areas and farming towns, but protests and conflicts about this issue are the exception rather than the norm. Why? Based on archival work, interviews, and ethnographic observations, in this paper, we scrutinize pesticide governance at the subnational scale to elucidate this puzzle, focusing on a) informal arrangements (face-to-face negotiations between pesticide users and people affected by them), b) juridical conflicts (lawsuits against farmers over exposure of people and crops to herbicides), and c) regulatory challenges (when rural populations and environmentalists push for local ordinances to curb pesticide exposure). We find that local cultural codes encourage informal agreements and that social inequalities prevent conflicts from arising in the public sphere. The interventions of social movements and civil society organizations (or lack thereof) and the mobilization of expertise also shape pesticide governance. Our analysis highlights that pesticide governance is context-dependent or situated, and informed by subtle but significant power asymmetries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Industrial Water Treatment is the property of CNOOC Tianjin Chemical Research & Design Institute and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Copyright of Human Sciences Journal / Revue des Sciences Humaines is the property of Universite des Freres Mentouri Constantine and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Traditional methods for predicting sow reproductive cycles are not only costly but also demand a larger workforce, exposing workers to respiratory toxins, repetitive stress injuries, and chronic pain. This occupational hazard can even lead to mental health issues due to repeated exposure to violence. Managing health and welfare issues becomes pivotal in group-housed animal settings, where individual care is challenging on large farms with limited staff. The necessity for computer vision systems to analyze sow behavior and detect deviations indicative of health problems is apparent. Beyond observing changes in behavior and physical traits, computer vision can accurately detect estrus based on vulva characteristics and analyze thermal imagery for temperature changes, which are crucial indicators of estrus. By automating estrus detection, farms can significantly enhance breeding efficiency, ensuring optimal timing for insemination. These systems work continuously, promptly alerting staff to anomalies for early intervention. In this research, we propose part of the solution by utilizing an image segmentation model to localize the vulva. We created our technique to identify vulvae on pig farms using infrared imagery. To accomplish this, we initially isolate the vulva region by enclosing it within a red rectangle and then generate vulva masks by applying a threshold to the red area. The system is trained using U-Net semantic segmentation, where the input for the system consists of grayscale images and their corresponding masks. We utilize U-Net semantic segmentation to find the vulva in the input image, making it lightweight, simple, and robust enough to be tested on many images. To evaluate the performance of our model, we employ the intersection over union (IOU) metric, which is a suitable indicator for determining the model's robustness. For the segmentation model, a prediction is generally considered 'good' when the intersection over union score surpasses 0.5. Our model achieved this criterion with a score of 0.58, surpassing the scores of alternative methods such as the SVM with Gabor (0.515) and YOLOv3 (0.52). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: The poultry industry is advancing through a focus on nutrition, management practices, and technology to enhance productivity by improving feed conversion ratios, disease control, lighting management, and exploring antibiotic; alternatives. Infrared (IR) radiation, with wavelengths ranging from 760 to 10,000 nm, is being used to improve the well-being of humans, animals, and poultry. IR applications like heating, spectroscopy, beak trimming, and other therapies offer health benefits such as improved skin health, wound healing, and enhanced immune responses. In poultry production, IR radiation positively impacts growth performance, gut health, blood profiles, and food safety. Despite its benefits, applications of IR in poultry are limited but show promise for wider adoption. This innovative approach has the potential to revolutionize traditional practices in the industry by optimizing productivity and efficiency while improving animal welfare. The poultry industry is dynamically advancing production by focusing on nutrition, management practices, and technology to enhance productivity by improving feed conversion ratios, disease control, lighting management, and exploring antibiotic alternatives. Infrared (IR) radiation is utilized to improve the well-being of humans, animals, and poultry through various operations. IR radiation occurs via electromagnetic waves with wavelengths ranging from 760 to 10,000 nm. The biological applications of IR radiation are gaining significant attention and its utilization is expanding rapidly across multiple sectors. Various IR applications, such as IR heating, IR spectroscopy, IR thermography, IR beak trimming, and IR in computer vision, have proven to be beneficial in enhancing the well-being of humans, animals, and birds within mechanical systems. IR radiation offers a wide array of health benefits, including improved skin health, therapeutic effects, anticancer properties, wound healing capabilities, enhanced digestive and endothelial function, and improved mitochondrial function and gene expression. In the realm of poultry production, IR radiation has demonstrated numerous positive impacts, including enhanced growth performance, gut health, blood profiles, immunological response, food safety measures, economic advantages, the mitigation of hazardous gases, and improved heating systems. Despite the exceptional benefits of IR radiation, its applications in poultry production are still limited. This comprehensive review provides compelling evidence supporting the advantages of IR radiation and advocates for its wider adoption in poultry production practices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Alternative Food Networks (AFNs) are important sources of community-driven sustainable food production and consumption. It is apparent that despite the existing environmentally friendly ways of producing food, such networks are not yet multiplying at a rate which could help tackle climate change and biodiversity loss. This study is set in Sado island, Japan, which has become well known for its farming practices protecting the crested ibis, as well as its GIAHS status, but which also has an AFN beyond these accreditations. It investigates the challenges and opportunities of Sado's AFN to find ways to help it thrive, and give potential pointers for developing new AFN's. Methods: In this research I use a mix of experiential sensory ethnography, socially-engaged art and interviews to understand the challenges and opportunities of an AFN in Sado island, Japan. A range of Sado's AFN actors were engaged to provide a more holistic picture. Results: Young and new entrant farmers, food processors and retailers in Sado expressed the need for their work to be fun as well as in coexistence with nature, using innovative practices and models to make this a reality. AFN actors also revealed a great capacity to undertake numerous food and culture related events, for the purpose of community, throughout the year. Despite this, there are gaps in capacity, and a lingering negative image of farming and rural areas as difficult places to live. These factors are stemming the ability for new AFNs to begin and existing ones to thrive. Discussion: Giving farming a fun, empowering and positive image whilst creating greater networking capacity could strengthen this AFN and help create new ones in other ruralities. Further, better acknowledging the importance of the culture and arts through which people connect to nature could form a greater source of pride and motivation to stay in rural areas. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

IoT technology revolutionizes poultry farming by enabling real-time data collection and analysis. Traditional manual methods for monitoring temperature, humidity, and AC voltage are being replaced with automated systems. The IoT setup includes three sensor nodes, CCTV, an IoT gateway, and a web server. Temperature ranges from 27 to 35°C in offfattening periods and consistently above 30°C during fattening. Humidity fluctuates between 60% to 90% in both periods. The CPU temperature remains within safe limits. Uplink data rates exceed 2 Mbps, while AC voltage initially falls below standards but improves over time. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]