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Septins are a family of cytokinesis-related proteins involved in regulating cytoskeletal design, cell morphology, and tissue morphogenesis. Apart from cytokinesis, as a fourth component of cytoskeleton, septins aid in forming scaffolds, vesicle sorting and membrane stability. They are also known to be involved in the regulation of intracellular calcium (Ca2+) via the STIM/Orai complex. Infertility affects ~ 15% of couples globally, while male infertility affects ~ 7% of men. Global pregnancy and live birth rates following fertility treatment remain relatively low, while there has been an observable decline in male fertility parameters over the past 60 years. Low fertility treatment success can be attributed to poor embryonic development, poor sperm parameters and fertilisation defects. While studies from the past few years have provided evidence for the role of septins in fertility related processes, the functional role of septins and its related complexes in cellular processes such as oocyte activation, fertilization, and sperm maturation are not completely understood. This review summarizes the available knowledge on the role of septins in spermatogenesis and oocyte activation via Ca2+ regulation, and cytoskeletal dynamics throughout pre-implantation embryonic development. We aim to identify the currently less known mechanisms by which septins regulate these immensely important mechanisms with a view of identifying areas of investigation that would benefit our understanding of cell and reproductive biology, but also provide potential avenues to improve current methods of fertility treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to evaluate the nitrogen fertilisation supply method on wheat silage fermentation parameters and nutritional value. Eighteen experimental plots were used in a randomised block design to assess the following treatments: (1) control (CON): crop without nitrogen fertilisation; (2) surface (SUR): 100 kg/ha N during the crop, applied in surface; (3) furrows (FUR): 100 kg/ha N during the crop, applied in furrows during the seeding. Whole plants were manually harvested at 5 cm height 83 days after the sowing. One experimental silo (PVC tubes) was produced for each agronomical plot and stored for 69 days. In general, N fertilisation did not affect silage pH and ammonia-N (NH3-N) content, but silos FUR had less NH3-N than those with SUR. Fertilisation increased the CP and DM content and reduced starch in the silage. FUR increased DM and reduced CP compared to SUR. Furthermore, N fertilisation increased non-protein nitrogen and decreased in vitro degradation of DM and OM. Fertilisation methods did not affect N fractions in silage or in vitro degradation. Therefore, N fertilisation, especially FUR, reduces NH3-N and CP and increases DM content of silage, but decreases in vitro DM and OM degradation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of the use of biostimulants, such as humic acid preparation, Seaweed algae extract and microbial preparation BaikalEM, on plant growth and yield. The impact of biostimulants on plant development and crop yields was studied on sugar beet (Beta vulgaris) and maize (Zea mays). To achieve this goal, field studies were conducted to compare different biostimulants in terms of germination and yield (total crop weight, weight of a single fruit, sugar, starch and protein content). The study was conducted in April-August 2023 in the Sumy district of the Sumy region. Standard agronomic methods, including soil cultivation, measurement of plant growth and yield parameters, and statistical processing of the data were used in the study. The results showed that humic acids and algae extract, when applied separately, provided the highest seed germination and yield. Among all the variants of combined application, the most significant increase in germination rates for beetroot was provided by treatment with a combination of Seaweed and Baikal-EM – 91.7%. For maize, Seaweed with humic acids and Seaweed with Baikal-EM are 92% each. The combination of Seaweed and humic acids had the best effect on the yield of both crops: 460.9 c/ha for beetroot (compared to 325 c/ha without treatment) and 61 c/ha for corn (41.5 c/ha without treatment). The microbial preparation Baikal also demonstrated a positive effect, but its results were lower, and it proved effective in combination with humic acids. The results obtained indicate the feasibility of using humic acids and algae extract to increase plant productivity, while Baikal can be useful for improving the general condition of soil and plants in combination with other fertilisers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Septins are a family of cytokinesis-related proteins involved in regulating cytoskeletal design, cell morphology, and tissue morphogenesis. Apart from cytokinesis, as a fourth component of cytoskeleton, septins aid in forming scaffolds, vesicle sorting and membrane stability. They are also known to be involved in the regulation of intracellular calcium (Ca2+) via the STIM/Orai complex. Infertility affects ~ 15% of couples globally, while male infertility affects ~ 7% of men. Global pregnancy and live birth rates following fertility treatment remain relatively low, while there has been an observable decline in male fertility parameters over the past 60 years. Low fertility treatment success can be attributed to poor embryonic development, poor sperm parameters and fertilisation defects. While studies from the past few years have provided evidence for the role of septins in fertility related processes, the functional role of septins and its related complexes in cellular processes such as oocyte activation, fertilization, and sperm maturation are not completely understood. This review summarizes the available knowledge on the role of septins in spermatogenesis and oocyte activation via Ca2+ regulation, and cytoskeletal dynamics throughout pre-implantation embryonic development. We aim to identify the currently less known mechanisms by which septins regulate these immensely important mechanisms with a view of identifying areas of investigation that would benefit our understanding of cell and reproductive biology, but also provide potential avenues to improve current methods of fertility treatment.

The study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of the use of biostimulants, such as humic acid preparation, Seaweed algae extract and microbial preparation BaikalEM, on plant growth and yield. The impact of biostimulants on plant development and crop yields was studied on sugar beet (Beta vulgaris) and maize (Zea mays). To achieve this goal, field studies were conducted to compare different biostimulants in terms of germination and yield (total crop weight, weight of a single fruit, sugar, starch and protein content). The study was conducted in April-August 2023 in the Sumy district of the Sumy region. Standard agronomic methods, including soil cultivation, measurement of plant growth and yield parameters, and statistical processing of the data were used in the study. The results showed that humic acids and algae extract, when applied separately, provided the highest seed germination and yield. Among all the variants of combined application, the most significant increase in germination rates for beetroot was provided by treatment with a combination of Seaweed and Baikal-EM – 91.7%. For maize, Seaweed with humic acids and Seaweed with Baikal-EM are 92% each. The combination of Seaweed and humic acids had the best effect on the yield of both crops: 460.9 c/ha for beetroot (compared to 325 c/ha without treatment) and 61 c/ha for corn (41.5 c/ha without treatment). The microbial preparation Baikal also demonstrated a positive effect, but its results were lower, and it proved effective in combination with humic acids. The results obtained indicate the feasibility of using humic acids and algae extract to increase plant productivity, while Baikal can be useful for improving the general condition of soil and plants in combination with other fertilisers

A three-year field experiment was carried out to investigate the methane (CH4) and nitrous oxide (N2O) emissions and calculate the global warming potential (GWP) according to all energy input in response to the nitrogen (N) rate in the typical rice-wheat rotation system in Jiangsu, China. Four N treatments, including R220W180 (local practice), R220W140 (cutting 10% total N in wheat season), R180W180 (cutting 10% total N in rice season) and R180W140 (cutting 20% total N in rice and wheat seasons separately), were designed in the study. Results showed that annual CH4 emission was decreased by 25.7% in response to cutting 20% N, which was ascribed to the 24.6% reduction of CH4 emission in rice season (P < 0.05) compared to local practice. The mitigation of N2O emissions in R220W140 and R180R180 treatments contributed to the 8.5% and 15.7% decrease in annual N2O emission, which was the 23.5% decrease in cutting 20% N treatment compared to local practice, respectively. Specifically, under the same amount of N rate condition (10% N cutting), the transfer N from rice season (R220W140) to wheat season (R180W180) led to the 8.5% increase in N2O emission (P < 0.05). In the end, the cutting of 20% N decreased GWP and yield-scale GWP by 19% and 17%, which mainly originated from CH4 and N2O emissions. However, cutting N did not significantly decrease grain yield (P > 0.05). These results suggested that the 180 kg N/ha for rice and 140 kg N/ha for wheat in one rotation season were the beneficial N rate to achieve the co-benefit of yield and GWP in the typical rice-wheat rotation system in Jiangsu, China.

In this study, the effect of NPK fertilization with different nitrogen rates on the dry matter yield and botanical composition of a Festucetum pratense natural grassland was analysed in a 10-year field trial. The experiment was conducted in the period 2011–2020 in central Serbia, 1000 m above sea level. The fertiliser treatments included: control without fertilisers, N60:P40:K40, N100:P40:K40, and N140:P40:K40 kg/ha per year. The mineral fertilisation treatments had a significant effect on the dry matter yield and botanical composition of the grassland, especially in the first cut, resulting in a lower total number of plant species in the grassland. The effect of fertilization on dry matter yield and botanical composition was largely dependent on weather conditions. In the last years of the trial, the dry matter yield gradually decreased under the fertiliser treatments, which is a consequence of the decrease in diversity. Satisfactory results on this grassland can be achieved with low nitrogen fertiliser applications combined with the maintenance of plant diversity as a basis for sustainable grassland management in temperate latitudes.

Summary: Climate warming is severely affecting high‐latitude regions. In the Arctic tundra, it may lead to enhanced soil nutrient availability and interact with simultaneous changes in grazing pressure. It is presently unknown how these concurrently occurring global change drivers affect the root‐associated fungal communities, particularly mycorrhizal fungi, and whether changes coincide with shifts in plant mycorrhizal types.We investigated changes in root‐associated fungal communities and mycorrhizal types of the plant community in a 10‐yr factorial experiment with warming, fertilisation and grazing exclusion in a Finnish tundra grassland.The strongest determinant of the root‐associated fungal community was fertilisation, which consistently increased potential plant pathogen abundance and had contrasting effects on the different mycorrhizal fungal types, contingent on other treatments. Plant mycorrhizal types went through pronounced shifts, with warming favouring ecto‐ and ericoid mycorrhiza but not under fertilisation and grazing exclusion. Combination of all treatments resulted in dominance by arbuscular mycorrhizal plants. However, shifts in plant mycorrhizal types vs fungi were mostly but not always aligned in their magnitude and direction.Our results show that our ability to predict shifts in symbiotic and antagonistic fungal communities depend on simultaneous consideration of multiple global change factors that jointly alter plant and fungal communities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) facilitate ecosystem functioning through provision of plant hosts with phosphorus (P), especially where soil P is limiting. Changes in soil nutrient regimes are expected to impact AMF, but the direction of the impact may depend on context. We predicted that nitrogen (N)‐only enrichment promotes plant invasions and exacerbates their P limitation, increasing the utility of AMF and promoting AMF diversity. We expected that enrichment with N, P and other nutrients similarly promotes plant invasions, but decreases the benefit and diversity of AMF because P is readily available for both native and exotic plants.We tested these hypotheses in eucalypt woodlands of south‐western Australia, that occur on soils naturally low in P. We evaluated AMF communities within three modified ground‐layer states representing different types of nutrient enrichment and associated plant invasions. We compared these modified states to near‐natural reference woodlands.AMF richness varied across ground‐layer states. The moderately invaded/N‐enriched state showed the highest AMF richness, while the highly invaded/NP‐enriched state showed the lowest AMF richness. The reference state and the weakly invaded/enriched state were intermediate. AMF richness and colonisation were higher in roots of exotic than native plant species.AMF community composition differed among ground‐layer states, with the highly invaded/NP‐enriched state being most distinct. Distinctions among states were often driven by family‐level patterns. Reference and moderately invaded/N‐enriched states each supported distinct groups of zero‐radius operational taxonomic units (zOTUs) in Acaulosporaceae, Gigasporaceae and Glomeraceae, whereas Gigasporaceae and Glomeraceae were nearly absent from the highly invaded/NP‐enriched state. Further, Diversisporaceae and Glomeraceae were most diverse in the moderately invaded/N‐enriched state.Synthesis. Both the nature of soil nutrient enrichment and plant provenance matter for AMF. N‐only enrichment of low‐P soils increased AMF richness, likely due to the introduction of AMF‐dependent exotic plant species and exacerbation of their P limitation. In contrast, multi‐nutrient enrichment, decreased AMF richness potentially due to a decrease in host dependence on AMF, regardless of host provenance. The changes in AMF community composition with nutrient enrichment and plant invasion warrant further research into predicting the functional implications of these changes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) is an assisted reproductive technology for treatment of severe male infertility introduced into clinical practice in 1992. This review provides a brief history of the development of ICSI by acknowledging major developments in the field. The review addresses key developments in pre-clinical and early studies, how ICSI compares with in vitro fertilisation, long-term consequences, how the mechanistic approach to ICSI has changed in both manual and semi-automated approaches, and how sperm selection procedures are integrated into ICSI. From the beginnings using animal models in the 1960–1970s, the development of ICSI is a remarkable and transformative success story. Indeed, its broad use (70% of cycles globally) exceeds the need required for treating infertile males, and this remains a controversial issue. There remain questions around the long-term health impacts of ICSI. Furthermore, advances in automation of the ICSI procedure are occurring. An estimated 6 million children have been born from the ICSI procedure. With further automation of sperm selection technologies, coupled with automation of the injection procedure, it is likely that the proportion of children born from ICSI will further increase. Intracytoplasmic sperm injection, better known by its acronym 'ICSI', is a technique that enables the injection of a single sperm into an egg. Since first practiced in 1992 with human sperm and eggs, it has revolutionised the treatment of male infertility, and an estimated 6 million children have since been born. However, it is not without controversy, especially concerning the long-term health of children conceived through ICSI, as well as the recent push towards automation of sperm selection and injection. Image by M. Inge. This article belongs to the Collection Dedication to Jim Cummins. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of the study was to investigate the changes in ultimate, proximate analysis, and calorific properties of Miscanthus x giganteus with three types of planting materials (two rhizomes - R1 and R2 - and one seedling - S) and three ash fertiliser treatments (P0, P2, and P5) were included in the study. The research further examined their effects on crop yield, stem height and various chemical properties. The results showed that the maximum yield was obtained with the R1 x P2 plant type, while the minimum yield was recorded with the R2 x P2 plant type. In addition, the greatest average stem height (3.34 m) was recorded for the R2 x P5 plant type. Significant differences were also found in the chemical components between the plant types and treatments. For example, the highest ash content of 2.25% was found in plant type 'S' x P5, while the highest coke content of 14.48 % was found in plant type R1 x P5. The statistical analysis confirmed that planting material and ash fertilisation had significant influence on the physicochemical properties of Miscanthus x giganteus. This consequently affects the calorific value, with the average higher and lower heating value being 18.32 and 17.04 MJ/kg, respectively. The neural regression network models showed robust predictive performance for the higher heating value and lower heating value, with low chi-square values, X², and high coefficients of determination, R². [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Context: Aubria subsigillata is such a highly valued, edible species for the citizens of Benin that over exploitation has led to a rarefaction of wild populations. Aims: The aim of captive breeding is to develop breeding protocols and farming practices for the species which will reduce hunting pressure on wild populations. Methods: The methodology consisted of determining the concentration of ovulatory hormone and its method of injection into the breeding stock, followed by in vitro fertilisation of the unfertilised eggs of the females by the spermic urine of the males to determine the optimum injection method, hormone concentration for ovulation and sperm collections, and the development of in vitro fertilisation protocols using gametes obtained via the aforementioned methodologies. Key results: Results indicated that 0.2I U/g concentration of gonadotropin-releasing hormone agonist administered intrafemorally enabled spontaneous release of spermic urine and ova in the breeding animals. The latency time between injection and collection of gametes was 13 h in males and 27 h in females at a temperature of 28.5°C. Females laid an average of 172 eggs weighing 1 mg mass. Conclusions: Aubria subsigillata is a frog that reproduces using stimuli (hormone), and in vitro fertilisation resulted in a high rate of fertilised eggs. Implications: Artificial reproduction in A. subsigillata is carried out in five phases: (1) selection of mature broodstock; (2) hormonal injection; (3) gamete collection; (4) in vitro fertilisation; and (5) incubation. However, work should continue on improving the egg hatching rate. The frog Aubria subsigillata is an edible species that is highly valued in the human diet in Benin. However, a strong rarefaction of the species due to its uncontrolled exploitation is observed in the wild. The 0.2 IU/g of Ovulin hormone administered intrafemorally enabled collection of gametes at 13 h in males and 27 h in females, and 172 eggs of 1 mg were incubated after 167 h. A. subsigillata reproduction goes through five phases: (1) selection of mature broodstock; (2) hormonal injection; (3) gamete collection; (4) in vitro fertilisation; and (5) incubation. Photograph by Houénafa A. C. Gansa. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Partial slow-release fertiliser substitution for urea combined with water-saving irrigation may synergistically improve rice yield, quality, water, and nitrogen (N) utilisation. A field experiment to evaluate different combinations of irrigation regimes: alternate wetting and drying irrigation (AWD) and flooding irrigation (FI), and N strategies: N0 (no N fertiliser); N1 (100% conventional fertiliser); N2 (100% SCF - sulphur-coated fertiliser); N3 (70% SCF + 30% urea), and N4 (50% SCF + 50% urea) on efficient rice production. Results indicated that higher substitution rates of SCF (N2 and N3) increased total N and ammonia N in surface water, leachate, and soil while reducing nitrate N relative to N1. The N3 strategy showed the highest yields, dry matter, total N uptake, and water N utilisation due to a nutrient release pattern that matched rice growth requirements. AWD yielded 5% lower than FI, except for the N3 strategy, but protein content increased by 12%, and amylose content dropped by 17%. The structural equation model analysis suggested that SCF positively impacted yield by influencing surface water total N and soil total N. Our findings indicate that implementing AWD alongside a 70% SCF basal fertiliser and 30% urea topdressing can optimise rice yield and quality while effectively managing water and fertiliser resources in the middle-lower Yangtze River Basin.

The volatile composition of grapes has a direct impact on the final aromatic composition of wine and plays a crucial role in determining its quality. Various factors, such as agronomic practices, climatic conditions or grape variety, can influence the volatile composition of grape juices. This study aimed to determine the influence of three doses of urea, applied at two different phenological stages (pre-veraison and veraison), on the volatile composition of Tempranillo musts, during two consecutive seasons. The urea application did not have an impact on the yield of the vineyard or the general parameters of the Tempranillo must. However, the three different concentrations of urea modified the volatile composition. Specifically, the higher concentration of urea improved the terpenoids, C13 norisoprenoids, and benzenoid compounds in grape juice. Additionally, when urea treatments were applied at pre-veraison, terpenoids, C13 norisoprenoids, esters, and benzenoid compounds were improved in Tempranillo must. However, the weather was an important factor influencing the volatile compounds in Tempranillo musts. Consequently, foliar applications of urea could be an interesting viticulture practice in order to enhance the volatile compounds in Tempranillo musts.

Climate change is a notable challenge for agriculture as it affects crop productivity and yield. Increases in droughts, salinity, and soil degradation are some of the major consequences of climate change. The use of microorganisms has emerged as an alternative to mitigate the effects of climate change. Among these microorganisms, dark septate endophytes (DSEs) have garnered increasing attention in recent years. Dark septate endophytes have shown a capacity for mitigating and reducing the harmful effects of climate change in agriculture, such as salinity, drought, and the reduced nutrient availability in the soil. Various studies show that their association with plants helps to reduce the harmful effects of abiotic stresses and increases the nutrient availability, enabling the plants to thrive under adverse conditions. In this study, the effect of DSEs and the underlying mechanisms that help plants to develop a higher tolerance to climate change were reviewed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The current energy demand requires new energy sources. The use of biomass is an attractive option. In this work, the combustion thermal behaviour and kinetic of custard apple (Annona cherimola) crop remains derived from different plot fertilisation conditions (organic and inorganic) were studied. Thermogravimetry procedures were applied to seeds and wood under four heating rates (5, 10, 20 and 40 °C/min). Iso-conversional methods (Friedman, Flynn–Wall–Ozawa and Kissinger–Akahira–Sunose) were used to determine the activation energy and the frequency factor. Fuel results showed a higher high heating value for seeds (~ 24.78 MJ/mol) when compared with wood (~ 19.33 MJ/mol). Thermogravimetric profiles denoted that, while seed samples were only affected by heating ramps, pruning remains were also influenced by the type of fertiliser. Organic fertiliser was responsible for higher maximum values on the second decomposition peak for wood samples, at 20 and 40 °C/min (56.78%/min and 23.03%/min). Kinetic indexes were also notably influenced by the fertiliser nature. Organic manure reduced the average activation energy results, being more perceptible in seeds (135.51–172.32 kJ/mol) than wood (140.32–144.43 kJ/mol). Hence, it is proven that the type of fertilisation affects the thermal behaviour of custard apple residues. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective. The purpose of this narrative review paper was to review the state and development of the field of donor gametes in Kazakhstan, compare its legislative and technical capabilities with other countries and identify key steps towards the establishment of a unified register of donor gametes in the Republic. Materials and Methods. The narrative review paper conducted an analysis of scientific publications and legal documents to examine the implementation of Assisted Reproductive Technologies (ART), focusing on Donor Sexual Gametes (DSG), globally. It utilized medical publications from 2019 to 2023, legal acts, and recommendations from global health organizations to analyze eligibility criteria, legal regulations, and the social aspects of ART across different regions. Results. In Kazakhstan, ART is regulated by legislation, with DSG procedures governed by age limits, medical screening, and restrictions on the number of children born from donated gametes. Worldwide, practices vary, but there is growing interest in establishing a unified register of reproductive donor material to enhance transparency and accountability. However, legal gaps and ethical considerations must be addressed. Conclusion. The study identifies gaps in Kazakhstan's legislation compared to Western countries, emphasizing the necessity for enhanced legal rights for donors and recipients, including options for anonymity. Ethical concerns highlight the importance of confidentiality and data security in accessing the donor registry. Overall, implementing such a register promises to enhance transparency, safety, and accountability in reproductive medicine. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Genetic data show that many nominal species are composed of more than one biological species, and thus contain cryptic species in the broad sense (including overlooked species). When ignored, cryptic species generate confusion which, beyond biodiversity or vulnerability underestimation, blurs our understanding of ecological and evolutionary processes and may impact the soundness of decisions in conservation or medicine. However, very few hypotheses have been tested about factors that predispose a taxon to contain cryptic or overlooked species. To fill this gap, we surveyed the literature on free‐living marine metazoans and built two data sets, one of 187,603 nominal species and another of 83 classes or phyla, to test several hypotheses, correcting for sequence data availability, taxon size and phylogenetic relatedness. We found a strong effect of scientific history: the probability of a taxon containing cryptic species was highest for the earliest described species and varied among time periods potentially consistently with an influence of prevailing scientific theories. The probability of cryptic species being present was also increased for species with large distribution ranges. They were more frequent in the north polar and south polar zones, contradicting previous predictions of more cryptic species in the tropics, and supporting the hypothesis that many cryptic species diverged recently. The number of cryptic species varied among classes, with an excess in hydrozoans and polychaetes, and a deficit in actinopterygians, for example, but precise class ranking was relatively sensitive to the statistical model used. For all models, biological traits, rather than phylum, appeared responsible for the variation among classes: there were fewer cryptic species than expected in classes with hard skeletons (perhaps because they provide good characters for taxonomy) and image‐forming vision (in which selection against heterospecific mating may enhance morphological divergence), and more in classes with internal fertilisation. We estimate that among marine free‐living metazoans, several thousand additional cryptic species complexes could be identified as more sequence data become available. The factors identified as important for marine animal cryptic species are likely important for other biomes and taxa and should aid many areas in biology that rely on accurate species identification. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In organic fruit production, permitted fertilisers contain multiple nutrients with stoichiometries differing from the nutrient offtakes of the fruit trees. Furthermore, some pesticides contain nutrients resulting in additional inputs. These conditions may cause unbalanced nutrient supplies and thereby influence the long-term sustainability of the system. An analysis of nutrient management practices in organic apple farms was conducted in three Southern and one Northern German apple-growing region. Data on nutrient inputs (via fertilisers and pesticides) and outputs (via fruit) per orchard were collected along with soil samples from up to five orchards per farm on 19 farms. On average, farmers fertilised 37 kg N and harvested 23 Mg apples per ha and year. Nutrient budgets showed imbalances for N (+ 25 kg ha−1 year−1), P (+ 3 kg), K (− 4 kg), Ca (+ 37 kg), Mg (+ 4 kg), S (+ 53 kg), Na (+ 4 kg) and Cl (+ 3 kg). Base fertilisers like compost or manure contributed to higher nutrient inputs due to a larger P and K-to-N-ratio. Commercial organic fertilisers such as keratins or vinasse contained much lower ratios. The main S input sources were pesticides (46 kg). N inputs by base (p = 0.06) and commercial (p = 0.37) fertilisers had no significant effect on the yield. Balanced nutrition can best be achieved by applying a combination of 20% of the total N demand via base fertilisers, complemented with commercial fertilisers with low element-to-N-ratios (e. g. keratin fertilisers, vinasse or biological N2 fixation). No correlation was found between soil nutrient status and nutrient budgets. Site conditions and internal field nutrient flows (transfer of the inter-row biomass via mulching into the tree row) had a stronger influence on the soil nutrient content than fertilisation strategy. In addition, fruit orchards showed a spatial differentiation of soil nutrient contents. Elevated P and K contents above the recommended range in the tree row were found in 67% of the orchards, while tendencies of depletion were found in the inter-row area. Mulching schemes which transfer biomass from the inter-row area to the tree row need to be adapted to this condition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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In a pot experiment, we investigated synergistic interaction of N and P fertilisation on barley biomass (Hordeum vulgare) on both shoot and root level with the aim to determine whether N-P interaction would be the same for all levels of N and P fertilisation. We further aimed to determine whether there was a critical level of N and/or P fertilisation rate, above which, a decrease in resource allocation to roots (as nutrient availability increased) could be demonstrated. Barley plants were grown from seed on a nutrient poor substrate and subjected to a two-way NxP fertilisation gradient using a modified Hoagland fertilisation solution. We observed N-P interactions in shoot and root biomass, and N and P useefficiencies. A synergistic response in biomass was observed only above a critical level of P fertilisation when P was not limiting growth. Furthermore, we found that the same incremental increase in N:P ratio of applied fertiliser elicited different responses in shoot and root biomass depending on P treatment and concluded that barley plants were less able to cope with increasing stoichiometric imbalance when P was deficient. We provide, for the first time, stoichiometric evidence that critical levels for synergistic interactions between N-P may exist in crop plants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nitrous oxide (N2O) emissions are closely linked to agricultural fertilisation. European and national policy incentives have been set to reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions; however, only a few evaluations have been conducted. Avoiding such emissions is an important climate change mitigation measure, but it is still uncertain which management measures over a long‐term, best out‐balance crop yield and GHG balances in agricultural systems. We here used the process‐based LandscapeDNDC model to simulate N2O emissions and trade‐offs in yield and soil nitrogen budget for four alternative arable cropping systems in three Austrian agricultural production zones belonging to different climatic regions. We evaluated statistical data on crop rotations and management practices, predominant soil types, and 10‐year daily weather conditions for four cropping systems: (1) conventional farming receiving the maximum allowed nitrogen fertilisation rate (Nmax), (2) conventional farming receiving 15% less fertiliser, (3) conventional farming receiving 25% less fertiliser, and (4) organic farming. Our results showed that soil N2O emissions could be best reduced in wet, high‐yield regions. Reducing nitrogen fertilisation by 15% and 25% mitigated N2O emissions by, on average, 22% and 39%, respectively, while the yield was reduced by 5% and 9%, respectively. In comparison, the same crops grown in the organic cropping system released 60% less N2O, but yield declined on average by 23%. Corn, winter barley, and vegetables showed the highest N2O reduction potential under reduced fertiliser input in conventional farming. In addition to N2O emissions, reduced fertilisation substantially decreased other nitrogen losses into the water and atmosphere. Generally, the soils under all cropping systems maintained a positive mean nitrogen budget. Our results suggest a significant emission reduction potential in certain production zones which, however, were accompanied by yield reductions. Knowledge of the emission patterns from cropping systems under different environmental conditions is essential to set the appropriate measures. In addition, region‐specific measures to reduce soil N2O emissions have to be in line with farmers' interests in order to facilitate the successful implementation of targeted nitrogen management. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A field experiment on the effect of zinc and molybdenum application on the yield of lentil was carried out at The University of Agriculture Peshawar during the Rabi season of 2021. The experiment was carried out in a randomised complete block design with three replications. Four levels of molybdenum (0, 1, 2 and 3 kg ha-1) and 0.5% zinc foliar spray at different intervals of lentil crop (control, 50 days after sowing, 100 days after sowing, 50 days after sowing + 100 days after sowing) were tested in the experiment. The results revealed that 3 kg ha-1 of molybdenum enhanced plant height (55 cm), nodules plant-1 (25), branches plant-1 (7), days to flowering (107) and maturity (159), dry matter of leaves at the flowering stage (64 g m-2), dry matter of leaves at the maturity stage (113 g m-2), dry matter of branches at the physiological maturity stage (304 g m-2), dry matter of pods at the maturity stage (439 g m-2), pods plant-1 (92), seeds pod-1 (2.0), 1000-seed weight (31 g), biological yield (3207 kg ha-1), and seed yield (1002 kg ha-1). Zinc foliar spray (0.5%) at 50 days after sowing + 100 days after sowing of lentil crop improved the dry matter of leaves at the flowering stage (62 g m-2), days to first flowering (109), days to physiological maturity (157), dry matter of leaves at the physiological maturity stage (111 g m-2), dry matter of pods at the physiological maturity stage (435 g m-2), pods plant-1 (91), 1000 seed weight (32 g), biological yield (3236 kg ha-1) and seed yield (1026 kg ha-1). Lastly, scatterplots revealed a significant correlation of grain and biological yield with their components. It is concluded that molybdenum application at a rate of 3 kg ha-1 and 0.5% zinc foliar spray at 50 days after sowing + 100 days after sowing of the lentil crop increased seed yield and is thus recommended for the Peshawar region. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Taking into consideration its physico-chemical properties, digestate should be used primarily as a fertiliser. The possible ways of using digestate as a fertiliser in agriculture were identified, and digestate collected from an agricultural biogas plant was tested for its macroelement and heavy metal content. The research was conducted on Haplic LUVISOLS soil according FAO classification. The area of the land plots was 75 m2. All measurements were carried out in ten replicates. Seed yield was determined at 2.6 t ha−1. The thousand-seed weight was similar in the three growing seasons, and averaged 171.49 g to 184.44 g for the three years under analysis. For the control object, the average thousand-seed weight from the three years of the experiment was 168.56 g. This parameter was significantly influenced by the year of analysis. The highest protein content was obtained in 2022 (an average of 20.3%), which was significantly higher than in 2021 (20.13%) and 2020 (20.12%). The analysis showed an increase in the average value for the three harvest years regarding the fat content of the multiflora bean seeds depending on the post-harvest digestate dose, ranging from 0.47% to 0.61%. In the control object, the average fat content for the three harvest years under analysis was 0.41%. The year under analysis had no significant impact on fat content. A positive correlation was found between the digestate dose and protein, fat, and carbohydrate contents per 100 g of beans. Increasing the dose resulted in statistically significant differences from the lower dose. The obtained results show an increase in macroelement content depending on the digestate dose applied. The average carbohydrate content per 100 g of beans for the three years under analysis ranged from 49.78 g to 54.01 g, while the calcium content per 100 g of beans ranged from 109.23 mg to 124.00 mg. In contrast, the magnesium content in 100 g of bean ranged from 129.91 g to 137.01 mg, the phosphorus content in 100 g of bean from 366.99 mg to 387.00 mg, and the potassium content in 100 g of bean from 1341.20 mg to 1394.06 mg. Statistical analysis revealed statistically significant differences except for potassium, where no differences were found for the two highest doses. In addition, no differences were found in the average phosphorus and potassium content between the years under analysis. The study showed an increase in yield depending on the amount of digestate applied. The highest dose used in the experiment provided the most nitrogen and macronutrients, with a positive effect on yield velocity, protein and fat content, micronutrients, and macronutrients in beans. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Background Shortening the vegetative cycle of slow-growing crops is a significant challenge for breeders, agronomists, and growers. This reduction is particularly crucial for the mangosteen (Garcinia mangostana) as it would make it easier for farmers to adopt this crop. The mangosteen tree is notoriously slow-growing, taking between 8 and 15 years to produce its first fruits. The plant's slow growth and late fruiting pose a significant obstacle to its adoption and spread in rural areas. In Côte d'Ivoire, these constraints have limited its cultivation to small farms owned by a few producers. However, it could be an alternative for diversifying agricultural income and contributing to poverty reduction in rural areas. This study aims to evaluate the effects of soil type and fertiliser on the agronomic parameters of mangosteen tree growth. The goal is to contribute to shortening its vegetative phase. Results The study results indicate that soil type and fertiliser have a significant effect on mangosteen growth parameters. Evaluating the agronomic performance of mangosteen, it was found that lowland soil promotes better plant growth. Growth rate and height growth were found to be significantly influenced (p = 0.03). After 36 months of monitoring, the growth rates for mangosteen trees grown on lowland soil were 53.08 ± 7.30%, while those grown on forest soil were 41.51 ± 13.43%. Additionally, the use of foliar and granular N-P-K fertilisers resulted in earlier fruiting, starting from the 5th year of cultivation. Conclusions The results showed that fertilisers play a crucial role in managing and shortening the juvenile phase of the mangosteen tree. Foliar and NPK fertilisers performed exceptionally well, resulting in earlier fruiting of mangosteen trees, starting from the 5th year of cultivation.

This paper presents the results of a two-year trial on the yield, total phenolic and flavonoid contents and total antioxidant capacity of the 'Willamette' red raspberry under organic and conventional farming. A trial was conducted in a commercial plantation of 'Willamette' raspberries located in the southwestern part of Serbia. The total phenolics and flavonoids in the raspberry fruits were determined by the Folin-Ciocalteu reagent and aluminium chloride assay, respectively. The ferric reducing antioxidant power assay was used to evaluate the total antioxidant capacity of the raspberry fruits. The results of this study showed that the raspberry yields were significantly affected by the different farming systems. The raspberry yield in conventional farming was higher than that of organic farming. Contrastingly, the raspberries from the organic farming contained higher levels of the total phenolics and flavonoids and also had a higher total antioxidant activity compared to those from the conventional farming in both 2021 and 2022. This study also showed that the total phenolic and flavonoid contents of the 'Willamette' red raspberry have a significant and positive correlation with their total antioxidant capacity, indicating that the phenolic compounds play an important role in the antioxidant activity of the raspberry.

Background: Shortening the vegetative cycle of slow-growing crops is a significant challenge for breeders, agronomists, and growers. This reduction is particularly crucial for the mangosteen (Garcinia mangostana) as it would make it easier for farmers to adopt this crop. The mangosteen tree is notoriously slow-growing, taking between 8 and 15 years to produce its first fruits. The plant's slow growth and late fruiting pose a significant obstacle to its adoption and spread in rural areas. In Côte d'Ivoire, these constraints have limited its cultivation to small farms owned by a few producers. However, it could be an alternative for diversifying agricultural income and contributing to poverty reduction in rural areas. This study aims to evaluate the effects of soil type and fertiliser on the agronomic parameters of mangosteen tree growth. The goal is to contribute to shortening its vegetative phase. Results: The study results indicate that soil type and fertiliser have a significant effect on mangosteen growth parameters. Evaluating the agronomic performance of mangosteen, it was found that lowland soil promotes better plant growth. Growth rate and height growth were found to be significantly influenced (p = 0.03). After 36 months of monitoring, the growth rates for mangosteen trees grown on lowland soil were 53.08 ± 7.30%, while those grown on forest soil were 41.51 ± 13.43%. Additionally, the use of foliar and granular N-P-K fertilisers resulted in earlier fruiting, starting from the 5th year of cultivation. Conclusions: The results showed that fertilisers play a crucial role in managing and shortening the juvenile phase of the mangosteen tree. Foliar and NPK fertilisers performed exceptionally well, resulting in earlier fruiting of mangosteen trees, starting from the 5th year of cultivation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Luvic Greyzemic Phaeozems have been farmed for centuries in Western Ukraine. We investigate their stocks of major nutrients and stoichiometry under arable crops receiving conventional NPK fertilisation and an unfertilised control. Total carbon stocks increase only with parallel increases in total N, P, Ca and Mg. Likewise, total N increases along with parallel increases in total Ca and Mg, P and Ca, P and C. Under winter barley, application of the background fertilisation (N23P60K60) + N97 (urea) before sowing, with or without nitrapyrin as a nitrogen stabiliser, improved the status of C, N, Ca and Mg to P in the 0–20 cm soil layer. The best ratio of total C, N, Ca and Mg to P and the best C:N, C:P, N:P, and Ca:N ratios were achieved with the background fertilisation plus nitrapyrin and urea or ammonium nitrate. The system cannot hold onto nutrients, nitrogen in particular, applied in excess of the harmonic stoichiometry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Organic waste can provide an alternative to synthetic fertilisers for maintaining productivity with limited environmental impact. Our research evaluates the potential use of processed animal waste in corn fertilisation, which may represent a partially closed nutrient cycle of importance in a sustainable agricultural system. The objective of this study was to evaluate the quantity and quality of fat obtained from corn grain fertilised with meat and bone meal (MBM) produced from animal waste. A static field experiment using MBM was conducted at the Experimental Station in Tomaszkowo (53°71′ N, 20°43′ E), Poland. The field experiment was conducted in 2014–2017 with continuous corn cultivation. The course of weather conditions in the years of this study influenced the fat content, with the lowest amount found in 2016. The application of fertilisers in the form of MBM and mineral fertilisation resulted in a slightly lower fat content compared to the variant without fertilisation. The application of mineral fertilisers and MBM influenced an increase in the content of the predominant C18:2 acid compared to the variant without fertilisation, while the opposite was shown for C18:1 cis-9 acid. The fertiliser variants are most correlated with fat yield and total polyunsaturated fatty acids. The fertiliser variants in their effects on fat yield, fat content, fatty acid profiles, and their ratios can be divided into three groups, which were related to the effects of organic fertilisers during the years of this study. The use of meat and bone meal as fertilisers cannot be regarded as a factor in increasing the fat content of corn grain. Meat and bone meal applied over several years to the same field in the quantities required to achieve optimum yield can be an element that shapes fatty acid profiles. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fertilisation with ash from biomass combustion has a positive effect on the quality of nutrients in agrifood raw materials, improving their chemical composition and bioavailability. In the experiments carried out, the protein content and the profile of free amino acids in barley flour were examined from cultivation fertilised with biomass ash at various doses. Barley flour from Haplic Luvisol soil was characterised by a significantly higher (by 13.8% on average) total protein content compared to flour obtained from grains from Gleyic Chernozem soil. The highest protein content but a low content of free amino acids were found in the grains of plants fertilised with the mineral NPK (D1). An increase in the total pool of free amino acids in flour was observed, especially in the case of Haplic Luvisol soil. On average, after fertilising, significantly more ASP, ASN, GLU, GLY, ALA, and CYS were obtained in variant D4 (1.5 t·ha−1), and there were also significantly more TAU and GABA than in the control, up by 30.2% and 23%, respectively. A beneficial effect of fertilisation on the essential amino acid content in barley flour was found, but only up to the dose of D4, when it was significantly higher than in the control and under mineral fertilising (D1), up by 23.7% and 9.2%, respectively. High ash doses reduced the content of free amino acids in the tested barley flour. This study confirmed that using an alternative method of fertilising with plant biomass ash has a beneficial effect on protein quality and nutritional value. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Existing research has primarily focused on investigating the impacts of the maternal environment, female fertility phenotype, and genetics on pregnancy loss in dairy cattle. Recently, attention has been directed toward understanding the role the sire has on embryo quality and viability. Studies have shown there is a paternal influence on early pregnancy loss, but the specific mechanisms impacting pregnancy establishment and maintenance remain unclear. Despite clear differences that sires have on pregnancy outcomes, there is a lack of evidence regarding specifically how sires influence pregnancy. Sperm characteristics, such as motility, concentration, and morphology, have been extensively studied, but further research is needed to understand what makes one sire more or less fertile than another sire and how this affects pregnancy. To effectively address pregnancy loss, a deeper understanding of the processes involved from fertilisation to blastocyst formation is essential, particularly for understanding early pregnancy loss. Sire characteristics can influence several events during fertilisation and preimplantation development including the binding of a spermatozoon to the oocyte, oocyte activation, paternal chromatin remodelling, centriole function, degradation of paternal mitochondria, and regulation of gene expression in the embryo through microRNAs. Defects in any of these processes can hinder embryonic development and lead to pregnancy loss. Some candidate genes have been associated with sire fertility, however, a comprehensive genetic predictor for sire fertility is yet to be fully elucidated. Image created with Biorender. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Mixed hybridisation trials involving Clarias gariepinus (CG), Heterobranchus longifilis (HL), and Heterobranchus bidorsalis (HB) were carried out with success using Ovulin as inducing agent. The crossing was followed by an early growth trial using post-yolk sac larvae that lasted ten days. Latency periods in the two catfishes differ, with 11 hours in crosses involving female CG and 12 hours in crosses involving female HL. The fertilisation rates of eggs from the females of the two species indicate that there is no significant discernment in fertilisation (p>0.05), with values ranging from 68.38% (CG×HB) to 80.94% (HL×CG). However, rates <80% indicate egg quality problems. The hatching rate was significantly higher (p<0.05) in both C. gariepinus (62.12%) and Heterobranchus sp. (47.75%) line crosses than the hybrids. There is an additive genetic effect due to the combination of pure-line male and female gametes that elicit better growth as against survival in crosses involving C. gariepinus. The genotype for better survival is in the maternal line of H. longifilis. These culminate into heterosis for growth in hybrid CG×HB and survival in hybrid HL×CG. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Assisted reproductive techniques can help many infertile couples conceive. Therefore, there is a need for an effective method to overcome the widespread problems of infertile men and women. Oocyte and sperm quality can increase the chances of successful in vitro fertilisation. The maturation environment in which gametes are present can affect their competency for fertilisation. It is well established that myo-inositol (MI) plays a pivotal role in reproductive physiology. It participates in cell membrane formation, lipid synthesis, cell proliferation, cardiac regulation, metabolic alterations, and fertility. This molecule also acts as a direct messenger of insulin and improves glucose uptake in various reproductive tissues. Evidence suggests that MI regulates events such as gamete maturation, fertilisation, and embryo growth through intracellular Ca2 + release and various signalling pathways. In addition to the in-vivo production of MI from glucose in the reproductive organs, its synthesis by in vitro-cultured sperm and follicles has also been reported. Therefore, MI is suggested as a therapeutic approach to maintain sperm and oocyte health in men and women with reproductive disorders and individuals of reproductive age. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In a pot experiment, we investigated synergistic interaction of N and P fertilisation on barley biomass (Hordeum vulgare) on both shoot and root level with the aim to determine whether N-P interaction would be the same for all levels of N and P fertilisation. We further aimed to determine whether there was a critical level of N and/or P fertilisation rate, above which, a decrease in resource allocation to roots (as nutrient availability increased) could be demonstrated. Barley plants were grown from seed on a nutrient poor substrate and subjected to a two-way NxP fertilisation gradient using a modified Hoagland fertilisation solution. We observed N-P interactions in shoot and root biomass, and N and P use-efficiencies. A synergistic response in biomass was observed only above a critical level of P fertilisation when P was not limiting growth. Furthermore, we found that the same incremental increase in N:P ratio of applied fertiliser elicited different responses in shoot and root biomass depending on P treatment and concluded that barley plants were less able to cope with increasing stoichiometric imbalance when P was deficient. We provide, for the first time, stoichiometric evidence that critical levels for synergistic interactions between N-P may exist in crop plants.

Introduction: Good Sexual and Reproductive Health (SRH) encompasses complete physical, mental, and social well-being in all matters related to the reproductive system. Access to accurate information is crucial for maintaining SRH. Adequate knowledge and perception regarding sexual health play a vital role in reducing Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs), teenage or unwanted pregnancies, and empowering individuals against sexual violence. Aim: To evaluate the knowledge and perception of sexual health and associated factors among college students in Perinthalmanna, Malappuram District, Kerala. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 540 students from January to April 2022 among 540 students attending MES Arts and Science College in Perinthalmanna, Malappuram District, Kerala, India. A semistructured questionnaire was used to assess their demographic details, knowledge, and perception regarding sexual health. The Chi-square test and Independent t-test were employed, and multivariate logistic regression was performed to identify independent predictors, including the students' academic qualification, educational status of their mothers, and prior information on sexual health. Results: The respondents were predominantly male (60.4%), with a mean age of 19.32±1.262 years. The majority (95.4%) were undergraduate students, while 4.6% were postgraduate students. Muslims accounted for the majority of respondents (83%), followed by Hindus (14.6%). More than 90% of the participants were unmarried. Approximately 60% of the respondents’ mothers and 51% of the fathers had a high school education. Out of 540 respondents, 487 (90.2%) reported having obtained information on sexual health. Friends (41.7%) were the most preferred sources of information. The mean score for respondents’ knowledge was 3.79±1.3, and the mean score for perception was 31.26±4.5. Being a postgraduate student (p=0.035), having a higher educational status of the mother (p=0.034), and prior information on sexual health (p

The aim of the study was to determine the heavy metal content of soils after sewage sludge application and to calculate the costs associated with fertilising the soil with sewage sludge, which have not been analysed in the available literature so far. The soil for the pot experiments came from villages where the soil was contaminated with heavy metals. Sewage sludge was proposed as a material for the reclamation of land degraded by the mining industry in the aforementioned settlements, and its effect on improving the physical and chemical properties of the soil after application was demonstrated. The cost of applying three doses of municipal sludge to restore areas damaged (degraded) by human activity was estimated. The calculation was carried out on the basis of KNR (National Contractors Estimator) No. 2-21 Tereny Zieleni (Green Areas) and the current prices from Sekocendbud Bulletin 5/2023 (2145), 1st quarter 2023. The cost of fertilising with stabilised sewage sludge for category II land is relatively low. The cost difference between the lowest sludge application of 50 Mg·ha-1 and the highest of 200 Mg·ha-1 is 85%. Therefore, it is cost-effective to apply the highest possible sludge dose per unit area. The study used sewage sludge that was suitable for natural purposes, including agricultural use, and that met the requirements [Journal of Laws 2015, item 257]. In Karniowice, no contamination of the soil with copper, cadmium, zinc and lead was found, although the content of these metals clearly increased after sludge application at the aforementioned sludge doses. The application of sludge, even in multiple doses, had no influence on exceeding the permissible concentration for these metals according to the Regulation of the Minister of the Environment of 2015, which allowed the area to be classified as uncontaminated after sludge application. In Lgota, soil contamination standards were exceeded for cadmium, lead and zinc after sludge application. In the case of copper after sludge application, the results were in line with the Regulation.

The formation of soil aggregates, including water-stable aggregates, is linked to soil organic matter (SOM). Biochar (B) is carbon-rich, which, in addition to storing carbon in a stable form for many years, has important benefits for soils and plants, but the mechanisms of soil structure formation after B and mineral fertiliser application are not sufficiently studied. For this reason, the study aimed to answer the following questions: How (1) the rate of B and (2) varying levels of nitrogen fertiliser (N) being applied to the soil affect the dynamics of soil aggregation due to the increase in the content of soil organic carbon, labile carbon in the bulk soil and in the content of water-stable aggregates (WSA) size-fractions. In 2014–2021, in Dolná Malanta (experimental site of Slovak University of Agriculture on silty loam Haplic Luvisol) during the growing seasons, soil samples were collected from all the B (0, 10 and 20 t ha–1) and N (0, 1st and 2nd level of N fertilisation) treatments. The results have shown that the highest values of many variables were associated with B20 treatment for all the N fertilisation levels. B compared to N more significantly affected the content of almost all the size-fractions of WSA. In all the treatments, the content of WSAma >5 mm, 5–3 mm, 3–2 mm and 1–0.5 mm in size was increasing over time – a yearly increase from 0.31 to 2.14% for 8-years. Based on the changes in the SOM content, WSA were divided into 3 groups: 1) Water-stable microaggregates (WSAmi < 0.25 mm), 2) Smaller size-fractions of water-stable macroaggregates (WSAma 1–0.25 mm), and 3) Medium and large fractions of WSAma (WSAma ≥1 mm).

Using natural fertilisers in agriculture improves quantity and quality yields. They introduce macronutrients (nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium) and micronutrients into the soil. Enriching the soil with organic substances through fertilisation with digestates requires the farmer to have considerable knowledge and accuracy in dosing due to the need to comply with permissible concentrations of macronutrients. The availability of nutrients in a digestate is closely dependent on the substrates used in the biogas plant, and it cannot be stated unequivocally that better yields of field crops will be achieved by using it as manure. Therefore, the authors conducted a two-year study of the effect of the fertilisation method on maise yields. Based on the research carried out, the fertiliser suitability of the digest was confirmed. Plants fertilised with it were characterised by the highest (compared to other fertilisation methods) grain yield (of 12.07 Mg per hectare on average). In addition, they were characterised by adequate plant height (3.15 m on average). The observations also indicate good emergence and satisfactory early vigour. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper presents the results of a two-year trial on the yield, total phenolic and flavonoid contents and total antioxidant capacity of the ‘Willamette’ red raspberry under organic and conventional farming. A trial was conducted in a commercial plantation of ‘Willamette’ raspberries located in the southwestern part of Serbia. The total phenolics and flavonoids in the raspberry fruits were determined by the Folin-Ciocalteu reagent and aluminium chloride assay, respectively. The ferric reducing antioxidant power assay was used to evaluate the total antioxidant capacity of the raspberry fruits. The results of this study showed that the raspberry yields were significantly affected by the different farming systems. The raspberry yield in conventional farming was higher than that of organic farming. Contrastingly, the raspberries from the organic farming contained higher levels of the total phenolics and flavonoids and also had a higher total antioxidant activity compared to those from the conventional farming in both 2021 and 2022. This study also showed that the total phenolic and flavonoid contents of the ‘Willamette’ red raspberry have a significant and positive correlation with their total antioxidant capacity, indicating that the phenolic compounds play an important role in the antioxidant activity of the raspberry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Dynamic changes in the fruit tree and shrub cultivation sector caused, among other things, by a high increase in production costs, the European Green Deal and increasingly high requirements with regard to the quality parameters of the obtained yield and their safety for consumers force producers to continuously introduce new changes in cultivation technology in order to meet all requirements. Choosing the optimum cultivation technology is also crucial to the economic success of farmers, allowing them to continue to operate and grow. One of the fastest growing branches of crop support today is biostimulation. Although biostimulants are not essential for crop production, their use can be fundamental under certain conditions. The aim of this paper was to provide comprehensive information on research in the field of biostimulation of fruit trees and shrubs and to consider the potential use of such preparations in the perspective of maximising the use of fertilisers, plant protection products and improving the quality, structure and microbial life of soils and substrates. At the same time, obtaining the highest possible yield with the highest possible crop quality, fully safe for consumer consumption. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The European Commission has set targets for a reduction in nutrient losses by at least 50% and a reduction in fertiliser use by at least 20% by 2030 while ensuring no deterioration in soil fertility. Within the mandate of the European Joint Programme EJP Soil 'Towards climate‐smart sustainable management of agricultural soils', the objective of this study was to assess current fertilisation practices across Europe and discuss the potential for harmonisation of fertilisation methodologies as a strategy to reduce nutrient loss and overall fertiliser use. A stocktake study of current methods of delivering fertilisation advice took place across 23 European countries. The stocktake was in the form of a questionnaire, comprising 46 questions. Information was gathered on a large range of factors, including soil analysis methods, along with soil, crop and climatic factors taken into consideration within fertilisation calculations. The questionnaire was completed by experts, who are involved in compiling fertilisation recommendations within their country. Substantial differences exist in the content, format and delivery of fertilisation guidelines across Europe. The barriers, constraints and potential benefits of a harmonised approach to fertilisation across Europe are discussed. The general consensus from all participating countries was that harmonisation of fertilisation guidelines should be increased, but it was unclear in what format this could be achieved. Shared learning in the delivery and format of fertilisation guidelines and mechanisms to adhere to environmental legislation were viewed as being beneficial. However, it would be very difficult, if not impossible, to harmonise all soil test data and fertilisation methodologies at EU level due to diverse soil types and agro‐ecosystem influences. Nevertheless, increased future collaboration, especially between neighbouring countries within the same environmental zone, was seen as potentially very beneficial. This study is unique in providing current detail on fertilisation practices across European countries in a side‐by‐side comparison. The gathered data can provide a baseline for the development of scientifically based EU policy targets for nutrient loss and soil fertility evaluation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Potassium (K) is the nutrient required in the largest quantity in potatoes (Solanum tuberosum). Splitting of K fertilisation allows dividing the dose of K according to the rate of absorption of the potato using fertigation techniques. Drip fertigation holds great promise for the more sustainable production of potato tubers. Therefore, the aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of splitting forms of K fertilisation between planting and top-dressing and of fertigation frequencies of top-dressing fertilisation on plant growth, yield and quality of potato tubers. For this, four forms of K splitting and three frequencies of fertigation were studied in potatoes during the years 2019 and 2021. The forms of K splitting were 100% K in fertigation (K0–100), 15% at planting and 85% in fertigation (K15–85), 30% in basal fertilisation and 70% in fertigation (K30–70) and 45% in basal fertilisation and 55% in fertigation (K45–55). The fertigation frequencies were 3 (FF3), 6 (FF6) and 9 (FF9) days. All treatments received the same amount of K (220 kg ha−1). Variables related to plant growth, yield and tuber quality were measured. The interaction between the forms of K splitting and the frequencies of fertigation was not significant for the variables measured. The absence of K fertilisation at planting (K0–100) impaired plant growth and tuber yield in one season. The FF6 fertigation frequency improved the growth and average tuber mass in one season. The treatments did not significantly impact the quality of potato tubers at any time. The treatments led to many similar results under the experimental conditions of this study. A fertilisation programme with some K applied at planting and frequent fertigation, such as the K30–70 treatment and the FF3 frequency, makes logical sense based on this work and previous research. Additional research under a range of experimental conditions may help to further refine the K-fertigation recommendations for potatoes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Good Sexual and Reproductive Health (SRH) encompasses complete physical, mental, and social well-being in all matters related to the reproductive system. Access to accurate information is crucial for maintaining SRH. Adequate knowledge and perception regarding sexual health play a vital role in reducing Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs), teenage or unwanted pregnancies, and empowering individuals against sexual violence. Aim: To evaluate the knowledge and perception of sexual health and associated factors among college students in Perinthalmanna, Malappuram District, Kerala. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 540 students from January to April 2022 among 540 students attending MES Arts and Science College in Perinthalmanna, Malappuram District, Kerala, India. A semi-structured questionnaire was used to assess their demographic details, knowledge, and perception regarding sexual health. The Chi-square test and Independent t-test were employed, and multivariate logistic regression was performed to identify independent predictors, including the students' academic qualification, educational status of their mothers, and prior information on sexual health. Results: The respondents were predominantly male (60.4%), with a mean age of 19.32±1.262 years. The majority (95.4%) were undergraduate students, while 4.6% were postgraduate students. Muslims accounted for the majority of respondents (83%), followed by Hindus (14.6%). More than 90% of the participants were unmarried. Approximately 60% of the respondents' mothers and 51% of the fathers had a high school education. Out of 540 respondents, 487 (90.2%) reported having obtained information on sexual health. Friends (41.7%) were the most preferred sources of information. The mean score for respondents' knowledge was 3.79±1.3, and the mean score for perception was 31.26±4.5. Being a postgraduate student (p=0.035), having a higher educational status of the mother (p=0.034), and prior information on sexual health (p<0.001) were significantly associated with higher knowledge. Being a postgraduate student (p=0.02) and having a higher educational status of the mother (p=0.03) were significantly associated with higher perception. A total of 21% of the respondents stated that sex education should be provided according to age appropriateness. Gender-wise differences were observed in the respondents' opinions regarding the timing of sex education (p=0.024). Conclusion: Good knowledge and positive perception levels were significantly associated with the academic qualification of the study subjects and the educational status of their mothers. However, the respondents' knowledge regarding fertilisation, pregnancy, and contraceptives was deficient. Therefore, implementing a comprehensive sexual and reproductive health education program in schools and colleges, along with behavioural change communication materials, is urgently needed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of the study was to determine the heavy metal content of soils after sewage sludge application and to calculate the costs associated with fertilising the soil with sewage sludge, which have not been analysed in the available literature so far. The soil for the pot experiments came from villages where the soil was contaminated with heavy metals. Sewage sludge was proposed as a material for the reclamation of land degraded by the mining industry in the aforementioned settlements, and its effect on improving the physical and chemical properties of the soil after application was demonstrated. The cost of applying three doses of municipal sludge to restore areas damaged (degraded) by human activity was estimated. The calculation was carried out on the basis of KNR (National Contractors Estimator) No. 2-21 Tereny Zieleni (Green Areas) and the current prices from Sekocendbud Bulletin 5/2023 (2145), 1st quarter 2023. The cost of fertilising with stabilised sewage sludge for category II land is relatively low. The cost difference between the lowest sludge application of 50 Mg·ha-1 and the highest of 200 Mg·ha-1 is 85%. Therefore, it is cost-effective to apply the highest possible sludge dose per unit area. The study used sewage sludge that was suitable for natural purposes, including agricultural use, and that met the requirements [Journal of Laws 2015, item 257]. In Karniowice, no contamination of the soil with copper, cadmium, zinc and lead was found, although the content of these metals clearly increased after sludge application at the aforementioned sludge doses. The application of sludge, even in multiple doses, had no influence on exceeding the permissible concentration for these metals according to the Regulation of the Minister of the Environment of 2015, which allowed the area to be classified as uncontaminated after sludge application. In Lgota, soil contamination standards were exceeded for cadmium, lead and zinc after sludge application. In the case of copper after sludge application, the results were in line with the regulation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The performance of rainfed-based Megathyrsus maximus (syn. Urochloa maxima and Panicum maximum) was investigated in the semi-arid pastures of Sudan. Split-plot complete design experiments with three replications were applied for two consecutive seasons (2020–2021). The treatments were two in situ rainwater harvesting systems [i.e. ridges plus terraces (RD) and terraces (TR)], three seeding rates (i.e. 1.5, 2.5 and 3.5 kg ha−1) and two urea fertilisation rates [0 kg ha−1 (Z) and 95 kg ha−1 (F)]. These treatments were compared to a control (a flat, unfertilised and zero-tillage plot). Hydrological, biological and chemical indicators were used in the assessment. The results showed that the adopted RWH improved semi-arid pastures, with the RD treatment providing the best results for sustaining biomass production, water use efficiency, nutritional quality and soil quality. The highest plant density (112 000 plants ha−1) was associated with the RD3.5 treatment. The FSR1.5-RD treatment resulted in the greatest plant length (63.5 cm) and number of leaves per plant (34.59), whilst the FSR3.5-RD resulted in both the highest fresh biomass (25.9 t ha−1) and dry biomass (6.3 t ha−1). The chemical compositions of M. maximus (i.e. crude protein, organic matter and nitrogen contents) were also substantially improved by fertilisation. The water use efficiency of M. maximus was plant-, management- and climate-dependent. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]