Volume 6, Issue 1

Nutmeg is important for national and community revenue mainly in Maluku Province where nutmeg seedlings are grown in low-fertility soil without fertilizer. A greenhouse experiment was performed to evaluate the response of nutmeg seedlings following the application of two different biofertilizer concortia. The experimental design was completely randomized block design, which tested the combination treatments of two rates and the application methods of biofertilizer concortium. The rates of “bacillus biofertilizer” was 0.15 and 0.3%, while the rates of “mixed biofertilizer” was 0.5 and 1.0%. Both biofertilizer were inoculated by foliar spray and soil application. The results verified that at 24 weeks after inoculation, biofertilizers increased the seedling growth traits which included plant height, shoot dry weight, leaf surface area, root number, and root dry weight over the control. Soil application by 1% of “mixed biofertilizer” consists of nitrogen-fixing bacteria and phosphate-solubilizing microbes resulted in better seedlings performance. However, the highest plant height was demonstrated by seedlings treated with 0.3% “bacillus biofertilizer” composed of phosphate solubilizing Bacillus . Biofertilizer inoculation also enhanced soil microbes and leaf surface area but did not change the root-to-shoot ratio of the seedlings. The results showed that biofertilizer inoculation improves the growth of nutmeg seedlings.

Heather is a slow-growing evergreen shrub, commonly found in moorlands and heaths of high nature conservation value. Heather-dominated areas are used as livestock pasture, and the flowers of heather are harvested also for the natural product industry. Classical studies have focused on the recovery of shoot biomass of heather, while the recovery of flowering after grazing or harvesting has received less attention. In this study, we examined the recovery of heather flowering in one harvesting experiment and two observational areas in northern Finland. The flowers of heather were collected manually by clipping the flowering shoots or stripping the flowers from the shoots or by machine harvesting. We counted the number of short shoots (SS), nonflowering long shoots (NFLS), and flowering long shoots (FLS) after harvesting. We also measured the length of FLS and counted the flowers they produced. Heathers started to recover by producing new short shoots, while the recovery of flowering was slow, and only in one out of the three areas, flowering recovered totally during our study. Our results suggest that the recovery was dependent on the age of heather or individual site characteristics rather than on the harvesting method. Because flowering is one of the most important stages of successful reproduction, which affects the long-term existence of heather-dominated ecosystems, the results of our study can contribute to new guidelines for management practices in heathlands. However, longer-term experiments on the rate of flowering recovery are needed especially if rotational cutting is favored as a management practice in heathlands in the future.

Soil microbiome plays an important role in soil forming process as well as soil functioning. This is especially relevant for initial stages of soil regeneration after strong anthropogenic impact (i.e., in quarrying complexes). The study of soil microbiome in such areas is crucial for both understanding the forces driving soil formation and optimization of the reclamation techniques. This study is aimed to investigate the soil microbiome of different ages of soil formation on the heaps of limestone mines in conditions of boreal climate of North-West of Russia. Soil microbiome analysis was performed using high-throughput sequencing. Soils of the investigated sites were predominantly Rhendzic Leptosols. The initial set (2 years) of OTUs in the entire period of soil formation remains unchanged, accumulating more than 98% of the total microbiome in each time point. Analysis of beta-diversity (weighted and unweighted) demonstrated a clear differentiation of microbiomes of all time points, which suggests that underlying taxonomic structure variations can be attributed to variation of the minor taxa set composition. The most significant differences occur in Proteobacteria , Chloroflexi, Acidobacteria, and Actinobacteria , but majority of these phyla have different sets of OTUs demonstrating opposite trends. Generally time positively correlate with microbiome of carbonate soils in all cases of benchmark and newly formed soils is familiar because of the uniform zonal environmental conditions in geochemically specific landscape of Izhora upland.

This article describes the relationship between the land use purpose conversion and households’ livelihoods in suburban Vinh City, Nghe An province. In the survey with 170 households losing their land to build the VSIP Nghe An industrial park project, this article shows the double impact of this issue. (1) On the positive side, households’ quality of life in the current period shows a significant improvement. They are living in better conditions with more spacious houses and modern facilities than before. The average income of households increased by 900 USD than before. (2) On the negative side, the unemployment rate increases with women older than 35 years and men older than 40 years. Along with the improper use of compensation received, income sustainability is a doubt for these households’ future.

Drought is the main constraint for crop growth worldwide. Selenium reportedly plays an important role in improving plant tolerance to drought stress. In this study, two experiments were conducted to investigate the effects of foliar selenium application on the drought tolerance of sesame. Five selenium concentrations (0, 5, 10, 20, and 40 mg/L) were used in the first experiment. Water deficit was triggered 25 days after sowing. The application of 5 or 10 mg/L of selenium maintained the number of leaves and increased the number of capsules. However, higher concentrations induced necrosis. The second experiment aimed to study the effect of selenium concentrations (5 and 10 mg/L) and the number of applications (one to three times). Drought stress was triggered 50 days after sowing, and selenium was sprayed 50, 55, and 60 days after sowing. The results indicated that a one-time foliar selenium application of 5 mg/L was able to maintain the number of leaves and to increase proline accumulation, plant biomass, and grain weight per plant. This finding confirms that selenium can be applied to enhance sesame’s tolerance to drought stress.

Future projection shows that the availability of freshwater per capita will decrease to 560 m 3 /year by 2030 in Morocco. In this realm of adopting efficient irrigation, alternatives become a priority to overcome water shortage. The presented study aims to investigate theoretically the likelihood of improving irrigation efficiency at the plot level of the Middle Sebou and Innaouene downstream perimeter using 75% of the total irrigation water requirement (IWR), based on the successful results obtained by the Moroccan National Institute for Agronomic Research. The methodology consists of the extraction of monthly evaporation data from MODIS16A2 and process it under Google Earth Engine (GEE); data that are used in the second part of the study, which aims to assess the efficiency of deficit irrigation on a plot of 2,500 olive tree, using three main indexes; olive three height (cm), Stomatal conductance (mmol H 2 O m −2  s −1 ), and olive tree growth (cm). The results show that 0.75 of full irrigation could save 17% of the total water used, reducing the water irrigation supply by an average of 5 Mm 3 , with a slight decreasing of the olive production, estimated as 0.5 t/ha. Furthermore, water use efficiency and water productivity have been enhanced under deficit irrigation by respectively 0.25 kg/m 3 and 0.54 Dh/m 3 . In economic terms, the result shows that with deficit irrigation, the decision-maker, or the farmer, could save about 5 million m 3 per year, which is a boost to the global economy if the method is transposed and applied to other Moroccan regions and also a support for the new agricultural strategy called Generation Green.

A survey was conducted in the Kwara State of Nigeria to study the integrated weed management (IWM) practices by farmers. This was in view of the poor weed management practices adopted by farmers, which is a major factor responsible for low yields of many arable crops in Kwara State. A multi-stage sampling technique was used to select a sample size of 480 respondents, and a structured interview schedule was used to elicit information from them. Data obtained were analyzed using descriptive statistics. Factor analysis was also carried out to examine the perception of farmers’ benefits of IWM. Results showed that the majority of farmers (29.4%) were youths, married (89.1%), and involved in medium-scale farming (47.2%). Furthermore, 50.8% of the farmers had primary or secondary education. Although farmers use different weed control methods, more than half of them (54.7%) use herbicides. Most farmers (92.6%) are engaged in the use of IWM, However, 73.5% of them use a combination of herbicides and hoe weeding. Although not properly practiced, farmers perceived IWM as having socio-environmental (29.229%) and techno-efficacious (23.495%) benefits over either hoe weeding or herbicides used alone. The findings suggest a need to train farmers on all aspects of IWM to achieve self-sufficiency in food production in Kwara State.

The recent increase in the demand of hot and chili pepper at local, national, and international market has drawn the interest of breeders’ crop improvement researchers globally. Thus, there is a need to enhance its breeding and development to improve the production of hot and chilies pepper in the quest for food quality and security. This study focused on the germination ability and evaluation of chlorophyll mutations in M 2 generation of gamma irradiates on pepper cultivars. The materials used in this experiment were obtained from the M 1 generation of gamma-irradiated seeds of pepper cultivars ( Capsicum frutescens , Capsicum chinense , and Capsicum annuum (hot pepper, bonnet pepper, and bell pepper, respectively)). Seeds of the pepper varieties were subjected to doses of gamma ray (i.e., 0, 100, 150, 200, 250, 300, 350, and 400 Gy) after which they were planted, raised, and harvested in the M 2 generation. The parameters evaluated were germination percentage, survival percentage, epicotyl height, and chlorophyll mutations. However, the highest chlorophyll mutation frequency was observed in C. frutescens . This showed that it was more sensitive to gamma irradiation relative to C. chinense and C. annuum. virescenes were the highest chlorophyll mutant observed in all the three cultivars, while the least was Xanthan. The effective dose ranges between 50 and 250 Gy for germination and survival rate for the three cultivars of pepper give higher desirable mutations in the pepper cultivars. While 400 Gy recorded most efficient for chlorophyll mutation.

Banana is a climacteric fruit and perishable in nature having relatively high postharvest losses. Harvesting banana at a perfect maturity stage can reduce the quantity of losses during post-harvest handling. There is no identified optimal harvestable maturity time line available for local banana cultivars in Sri Lanka. Therefore, this study focused on use of maturity traits to identify optimal harvestable maturity for harvesting banana in the dry zone of Sri Lanka. Changes of fruit weight, length of banana fruits, fruit pulp weight, luminosity ( L *), red-green ( a *), yellow ( b *), hue angle and chroma for skin of banana, total soluble solid (TSS) content, pH value and starch content of banana fruit pulp, respiration rate, and ethylene production of banana fruits during the developmental continuum were measured from seven days after flowering (DAF) to senescence. Data were statistically analyzed using one way-ANOVA at 95% confidence level. Results revealed that physical parameters such as length and weight of banana fruits were steadily increased in time. Chemical parameters such as TSS, pH and starch content of banana fruit pulp were significantly differed with the maturation. Fruit physiological parameters including ethylene production and respiration rate were significantly different with DAF. In conclusions, optimum maturity for the distant markets was observed in range of 77–84 DAF. Maturity stage from 84 to 104 DAF is better for the local/immediate consumption, and afterwards it can be recommended for the fruit processing firms.

During the past decades, agricultural trade is enormously expanded. One of its driving factors is the World Trade Organization. However, regional agreements can give further trade opportunities for the participating countries. Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) is one of them. This article aims to give a detailed overview of ASEAN members’ agri-food trade by using the world and regional level data. The country level competitiveness is calculated by four different Balassa-type indices and highlights whether the agri-food trade (practice) of these countries is in line with the revealed comparative advantages/competitiveness of the different product groups (theory). According to the results, commodities with the highest comparative advantages overlap with the most important export products. This confirms a tight connection between theory and practice. It should also be noted that world level values are generally higher than that of the regional levels. Moreover, countries with significant agri-food production (Thailand, Indonesia, Vietnam, and Malaysia) can be characterized by higher comparative advantages compared to the other ASEAN member states. These results can help to better understand these countries’ trade specialization and international trade performance.

The study objective was to evaluate the effect of single and/or extra doses of vitamin C (VC) on water-restricted (WR) Xhosa goats, by evaluating their intake, digestibility, nitrogen, and mineral balance during summer. Goats (42) were randomly divided into seven groups: GI (control, received ad libitum water daily), GII (WR-70% of ad lib. ), GIII (WR-50% of ad lib. ), GIV (WR-70% of ad lib. + VC [3 g/day orally]), GV (WR-50% of ad lib. + VC [3 g/day orally]), GVI (WR-70% of ad lib. + VC [3 g/day orally + 5 g extras every eighth day]), and GVII (WR-50% of ad lib. + VC [3 g/day orally + 5 g extras on every eighth day]). The experiment was a complete randomized design. Data obtained were analysed using the general linear model (PROC GLM) of SAS procedure. The depression in nutrients intake was lessened with VC supplementation. Water-restriction effect was not significant on nutrient intake/metabolic weight. Retained nitrogen increased with water-restriction levels but not influenced by VC. NH 3 –N significantly decreased as the level of water restriction increases, while the pH was similar across the WR groups. Supplementation of VC failed to significantly influence the depression in apparent digestibility and digestible nutrients induced by water restriction levels. The retained Ca, K, and Mg increased with levels of water restriction.

The aim of this study was to determine the physicochemical properties, extract and characterise pectin from green ( Morado ), purple ( Algerian), and orange ( Gymno carpo ) varieties of South African prickly pear (PP) ( Opuntia ficus-indica ) fruit peel. Pectin was extracted using sulphuric acid at four different pH levels (1, 2, 3, and 4) and three different microwave power levels (low 300 W, medium 400 W, and high 500 W) at a fixed time of 10 min. Yield of pectin for purple ranged from 2.9 to 13.8%, orange from 1.4 to 9.8%, and from 2.3 to 10.0% for green prickly pear peel (PPP). Maximum yield of 13.8% on purple, 10.0% on green, and 9.8% on orange was obtained at pH 1.0 and medium power level. Ash content of the extracted pectin was significantly high at 25.16, 34.26, and 36.30% for green, orange and purple PPP, respectively. However, pectin showed lower moisture content and equivalent weight. The methoxyl contents were 2.28, 2.38, and 3.86%, for anhydrouronic acid contents were 25.58, 25.93, and 38.84%, and degree of esterification was 49.87, 50.63, and 56.39% across the orange, purple, and green varieties. The PPP pectin spectra exhibited similarities in their absorption pattern to that of commercial citrus pectin.

Promoting investments in permanent crops is often considered by the government as a powerful measure to support long-term growth in agriculture. The same attitude is prevalent among agricultural policy makers in Georgia and hence, country’s government and the Ministry of Environmental Protection and Agriculture of Georgia initiate and coordinate projects facilitating new investments in permanent crops. The article deals with an evaluation of an impact of “Plant the Future” project in Georgia that provides funds for the potential beneficiaries for planting permanent crops. The structure and scope of the project are discussed in the article, and the relevant data regarding the area planted, financial impact, and beneficiaries for the period from 2015 to 2019 are analysed and the impact projection is made for the period of 2020–2043. Research showed that the target indicators of the project were fully achieved. In addition, there were a high demand from farmers to participate in this project and as a result, the budget spent in 2017–2019 exceeded the planned budget. The project appears to be beneficial in terms of net present values that are positive for all discussed discount rates, meaning that the benefits of the project are greater than costs. The return on investment of the project is around 10%, which is greater than the basic discount rate (8%). Social impact also seems to be high with 1,350 beneficiaries. According to the projection, from 2015 to 2024, around 3,000 beneficiaries will benefit from this project. In the methodology, five evaluation criteria are used, namely, relevance, effectiveness, efficiency, impact, and sustainability. Based on the evaluation, specific recommendations are given.

Ten maize varieties of tropical origin were tested at two different agro-ecological zones during the cropping season of 2007 and 2008 to investigate the genetic components of seedling emergence characteristic and correlate with grain yield and related traits in Nigeria. Heritability values were high for all traits study, indicating reliability and stability of most of the traits across different environments. Variety DMRLSR-Y had highest 300 kernel weight (105.2   g), but least grain yield and second to the least emergence percentage, indicating bigger kernel and highest kernel weight/cob but low plant stands resulted in low grain yield. Genotypic and agronomic correlation analysis revealed positive associations ( p < 0.01) between grain yield and emergence percentage ( E %), and 300 kernel weight; however, interval between pollen shed and silking was negatively correlated with physiological maturity period and 300 kernel weight. Improvement of this variety for higher emergence percentage is therefore predicted for higher grain yield. High values of genotypic and phenotypic coefficient of variation recorded by emergence percentage (41 and 45%) and grain yield (25 and 32%), respectively, revealed the less effects of environmental factors on the aforementioned characters, and it showed the stability and reliability of the two traits. High values of both broad sense heritability and genetic advance recorded by emergence percentage ( E %) and 300 kernel weight confirmed that standard selection procedure could be used to identify superior genotypes for the two traits.

Nowadays there is an increasing demand for healthy biscuits. The reduction in sugar and fat level, as well as the addition of bioactive compounds, is positively associated with a healthy diet. In the present work, low-fat and low-sugar biscuits were prepared with infusions (mate, coffee, and tea) or with Prosopis chilensis pod flour (PPF). Biscuits were made with maize starch and wheat flour (gluten formulations) or with gluten-free ingredients (gluten-free). The colour, texture, and the antioxidant capacity were evaluated in dough and biscuits. Among the formulations prepared with infusions, the mate dough showed the lowest firmness (1.1 N (gluten)-24.3 N (gluten-free)). However, no significant differences were found in the fracture stress of the final products ( P > 0.05). Mate gluten biscuits and PPF gluten-free biscuits showed the highest fracture strain (16.2 and 9.4%, respectively) and the lowest Young’s modulus (7.3 and 13.3 MPa, respectively) in their groups. The highest antioxidant activity was found in biscuits with mate (8.7 µmol FeSO 4 /g (gluten)-4.3 µmol FeSO 4 /g (gluten-free)). These values were three times higher than the ones found in the control biscuits (2.9 µmol FeSO 4 /g (gluten)-3.9 µmol FeSO 4 /g (gluten-free)). The present results showed that the antioxidant content in biscuits could be successfully increased with infusion addition.

The productivity of Arabica coffee in the Gayo Highlands, Aceh, Indonesia is far below its potential because of climate change and inadequate agricultural practices. To develop a strategy on sustainable coffee yield and improvements of smallholder farming systems, we investigated coffee productivity in three classes of shade densities and three classes of total management intensities index (TMI) along six altitude gradients (1,000–1,600 m above sea level) over 234 farmers’ plots. Coffee productivity was significantly affected by altitude, shade density, and TMI. Our results showed a stronger positive altitudinal effect with coffee productivity in middle and higher altitudes than in lower altitudes and were related to shade density and TMI. Increasing elevation of coffee plantation from lower to middle altitudes and shade from low to medium density increased in coffee productivity but further increase to higher altitude seemed to depress coffee productivity. Increasing TMI positively increased coffee productivity across altitudes. Shade density and TMI played significant roles in coffee productivity in lower altitudes; therefore, coffee farmers have to increase the shade to medium or higher density and at the same time improve plantation management to medium or high TMI.

Sustainable cocoa production is the hub of economic development and growth in Ghana. Climate change has been implicated in the dwindling productivity of the Ghanaian cocoa sub-sector, although deforestation for cocoa farmland expansion poses significant long-term risks to ecosystem stability and environmental conservation. This study assessed farmers’ perception of climate change, their adaptation methods and the factors explaining involvement in the renovation/rehabilitation of old cocoa farms. The data were collected from 378 cocoa farmers in Ahafo Ano North District in the Ashanti region. The data were analysed with Principal Component Analysis (PCA), Ordinary Least Square regression, Negative Binomial regression and Two-stage Probit regression. The results showed that the majority of the farmers were older than 50 years and attained primary education. High temperature (64.29%), too stormy rainfall (64.29%) and too much rainfall (61.90%) were largely perceived by cocoa farmers in 2015. The farmers were adapting to climate change through diversification into other crops (70.63%), planting of hybrid varieties (71.69%), commitment to spray cocoa pods regularly (74.87%) and initiation of some changes in the planting and harvesting times (71.96%). The adaptation was significantly influenced ( p < 0.05) by cocoa farming experience, number of children under the age of 5 years, perception of extremely high temperature, perception too low rainfall, perception of delay in commencement of rainfall, cultivation of cocoa as the primary crop, perception of delay in rainfall stop and delay in regular farm clearing and rented farm. Cocoa rehabilitation decision was influenced by climate change adaptation indicator, monthly income, perception of extreme temperature and sharecropping. The implications of the results were that promotion of climate change perception would facilitate adaptation, and the form of cocoa farmland ownership as well as climate change adaptation indicator influenced farmers’ involvement in cocoa farm rehabilitation.

Influence of the light spectrum on growth, development, and nutrients contents of okra was studied by growing okra ( Abelmoschus esculentus L.) under three different LED-based irradiations defined by their peak wavelength at 455.45 ± 1.80 nm (B 455 ), 522.27 ± 1.46 nm (G 522 ), and 635.03 ± 1.33 nm (R 635 ), respectively in the blue, green, and red regions of the visible spectrum. The photosynthetic photon flux density (PPFD) of 200 μmol m −2  s −1 was provided by the LEDs for 18 h daily. Leaves macronutrients and micronutrients concentration and plant biometric parameters were measured 60 days after sowing; the evolution of biometric parameters was also monitored during the growing period. Results related to biometric parameters have shown that highest leaf area, plant height, and fresh and dry weight were achieved under B 455 light; both R 635 and G 522 lights produce the highest quantity of leaves; and largest stem diameters were observed under B 455 and G 522 lights. Regarding mineral contents, highest calcium, phosphorus, and manganese concentrations were obtained under R 635 light; highest sodium content was observed under G 522 light; and the highest nitrogen content was obtained under both B 455 and G 522 lights. However, there were no significant differences observed for potassium, magnesium, and zinc concentrations among the three light treatments. These results revealed that selective spectrum in artificial lighting design can be strategically used to optimize the plant growth, development, and mineral contents uptake under controlled environments.

Livestock sub-sector of agriculture plays a vital role in the development of emerging economies in terms of provision of high quality protein and employment generation through its value chain activities. Yet, little is known about value chain development in this important sub-sector of the Nigeria economy. Hence, this study assessed Broiler Value Chain (BVC) in Nigeria. Primary data were collected from various actors along the value chain between November 2017 and March, 2018. Nigeria BVC is relatively simple with only five main actors. Grandparent Stock (GPS) farmers supply breeder Day Old Chicks (DOCs) to Parent Stock (PS) farmers. PS farmers supply commercial DOCs to commercial broiler farmers. Commercial farmers sell mature broilers to mature live broiler marketers (63%) and processors (37%). Processors sell processed meat to household consumers (12%) and 88% to fast food outlets, hotels, restaurants, and supermarkets with no export who in turn sell to individual and household consumers. High cost of feed, lack of credit facilities, and weak infrastructure were the major constraints facing production, marketing, and processing of broilers, respectively. Policies aiming at the development of BVC should focus on low/no export of broiler meat and high import of materials as well as other constraints.

Multilocation experiments are the steps to determine the genotype stability being tested. Honey sweet potato is a superior agricultural product from West Java, Indonesia. High yield and sweetness are the important traits of the new honey sweet potato breeding lines. In this study, the sweetness level used was the soluble solid level (°brix). The goals of this study were to determine the effects of genotype by environment interactions (GEIs) and to select for storage root yield stability and sweetness among the new promising honey sweet potato lines. Field trials have been carried out using randomized completed block design, which was repeated thrice for the 16 genotypes, across six locations in West Java, Indonesia. To estimate GEIs, data were analyzed using combined analysis of variance. Storage root yield stability (t/ha) and sweetness (°brix) were estimated using parametric measurements, nonparametric measurements, and GGE biplot. The results showed that the genotype (G), environment (E), and GEIs have significant influences on storage root yield and sweetness. Two genotypes, SP3 and SP16, have been identified as the most stable ones with high yield and sweetness across several locations. These two superior genotypes are recommended as potential new honey sweet potato varieties for West Java, Indonesia.

A survey was conducted to provide information on weed types, control strategies, and their estimated costs to smallholder rubber outgrowers in Western Ghana. A total of 80 farmers with rubber trees aged 1–4 years were randomly selected for the study. This represents 10.2% of the total number of farmers (783) who fall within this target group in the districts. The results show that smallholder rubber plantation farmers are dealing with diverse weed species, most of which are reported as global weeds. Chromolaena odorata , Scleria boivinii , and Mimosa pudica were the most reported species. Manual weeding and application of herbicides are the major control methods adopted by the farmers in the study area with a small percentage (16%) also using cover cropping. The two major control methods cost farmers an estimated average amount of Ghc 618.24 ± 26.25 (US $140.51 ± 5.91) for one-time weed control per hectare. The average estimated cost of one-time manual weeding per hectare was higher than that of herbicide application per hectare. This estimated amount is only a fraction of the total economic cost of weeds to the farmers. The farmers are likely to spend more if, for example, the costs of yield loss due to weeds are captured. The study thus indicates that the cost of weed management is high for rubber outgrowers and essentially farmers are investing heavily in weed management to keep weed competition on-plantation relatively low. Given that the core objective of rubber growing is to maximize profits, this study recommends the application of herbicides to control weeds in rubber plantations since average estimated cost of herbicide application per hectare was lower than one-time manual weeding per hectare. This recommendation should, however, be weighed against the possible environmental impact of herbicides, which was not assessed in this study.

Low soil fertility is a major problem limiting peri-urban vegetable production in the Kumasi metropolis. This study was conducted to assess the effects of poultry litter biochar (PLB) and NPK fertilizer application on soil chemical properties and the yield of cabbage. Twelve treatments (control, 100% NPK, 50% NPK, 2.5 t ha −1 PLB, 2.5 t ha −1 PLB + 50% NPK, 2.5 t ha −1 PLB + 100% NPK, 5 t ha −1 PLB, 5 t ha −1 PLB + 50% NPK, 5 t ha −1 PLB + 100% NPK, 7.5 t ha −1 PLB, 7.5 t ha −1 PLB + 50% NPK, and 7.5 t ha −1 PLB + 100% NPK) were evaluated under field conditions in a randomized block design with three replications. Combined application of PLB and NPK fertilizer improved the soil chemical properties, growth, and yield of cabbage relative to the control and sole PLB treatments. Application of 5 t ha −1 PLB + 50% NPK increased the soil pH, soil organic carbon, available phosphorus, and cation exchange capacity by 26.6, 41.4, 296, and 78.7%, respectively, relative to the control. Moreover, 5 t ha −1 PLB + 50% NPK increased the cabbage yield by 73% compared with the control. This study concludes that PLB and NPK fertilizers can be applied to improve the soil chemical properties and yield of cabbage.

A sample survey of palm oil smallholders was used to examine the amount of Willingness and Ability to Pay (WATP) and the factors that determine WATP as well as the impact of WATP on the willingness to participate of smallholders in Indonesian Sustainable Palm Oil (ISPO) certification scheme. Results reveal that the average amount of WATP accounted only half of the certification cost, implying that partial assistance is needed to support the smallholders through government subsidy. The study shows that WATP significantly affects the willingness to participate, and smallholders with higher WATP are more likely willing to participate in ISPO. Both WATP and willingness to participate are significantly determined by social norms (farmers collective impression) and awareness of the consequences of unsustainable farming practices. This result indicates the necessity to improve a positive impression on ISPO and increase awareness of the importance of following the sustainability principles of palm oil farming to increase the smallholders’ WATP, and at the same time their willingness to participate in ISPO program. It is suggested for the government to intensify the campaign of the program to a wider range of smallholders to increase their knowledge and awareness of the certification program.

The objective of this study was to investigate the adhesion performance of eight fast-growing wood species, namely, Enterolobium cyclocarpum , Paraserianthes falcataria , Shorea sp., Toona sinensis , Gmelina arborea , Pinus merkusii , Acacia mangium , and Acacia hybrid obtained from the tropical region. The wettability test was conducted by contact angle measurement, while the adhesion performance was expressed by strength retention (SR) and wood failure (WF) percentages through block shear tested under the Japanese Agricultural Standard (JAS). Results showed that smaller contact angle for P. falcataria followed by E. cyclocarpum , P. merkusii, T. sinensis , and Shorea indicated that the surfaces were easier to be glued than that of G. arborea , A. mangium , and A. hybrid . It is indicated that high wettability of P. falcataria, E. cyclocarpum , P. merkusii, T. sinensis , and Shorea resulted in the better adhesive spread and more intimate contact between the wood surface and the adhesive as shown by their high SR with high WF percentages.

The aims of this research were to calculate marketing efficiency and to identify the information sources of cattle farmers who select direct or indirect channel of cattle selling. This study used a descriptive research design. Respondents in this research were determined by quota and judgmental sampling methods. Data were collected through observation and in-depth interviews. Data collected were analyzed descriptively. The results showed that 66.67% and 33.33% of farmers selected indirect channel and direct channel, respectively. Among the latter, all the farmers sold to butcher, inter-island traders, or end consumers on Muslim religious ceremony. Indirect channel farmers obtained 83.72% of producer’s share, while in the direct selling method farmers obtained the entire share. However, marketing efficiency of indirect marketing channel was better with 20.22 than the direct marketing channel with 29.70. Furthermore, in the direct marketing channel, most farmers received information from buyers (25.86%) and farmers in the indirect marketing channel received from family members (20.29%). All farmers obtained similar impersonal information from televised media. In conclusion, farmers in direct channel received more income but indirect marketing channel gave a better marketing efficiency. Lastly, majority of farmers in both channels received information from personal sources.

Drug resistance is one of the problems affecting the world where drug-resistant Escherichia coli and Klebsiella pneumoniae have been shown to be ubiquitous, frequently isolated from foods and commonly associated with surgical site infection in hospitals worldwide. The aims of this work were to analyze the antibacterial activity of root extracts of the plant obtained by serial extraction (using petroleum ether, chloroform, methanol, and water) and by in vitro techniques and preliminary screen phytochemicals present in the extract by qualitative means. Fresh roots of Plumbago indica were collected, oven-dried, and extracted using Soxhlet apparatus; antibacterial activity, minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs), and minimum bactericidal concentrations (MBCs) of the active extract were evaluated by standard methods against clinically isolated drug-resistant E. coli and K. pneumoniae; preliminary phytochemical screening was taken to detect the presence of alkaloids, saponins, flavonoids, steroids, tannins, reducing sugars, phenolics, protein, and oil and fat; and bioactive compounds were detected by GCMS analysis of the active extracts. Determination of antibacterial activity showed that the test organisms were susceptible to methanol and aqueous extracts only. MIC of methanolic extract was found to be 20 µg/mL on both E. coli and K. pneumoniae, while aqueous extract had MIC of 10 and 20 µg/mL on E. coli and K. pneumoniae, respectively. Preliminary phytochemical screening showed the presence of all the above-mentioned phytochemicals except oil and fat. The significance of this work is to find a lasting solution to the current problem of emerging drug-resistant bacteria ( E. coli and K. pneumoniae ) through the use of extracts obtained from P. indica which have long history of use as traditional medicine. The methanolic and aqueous extract can be recommended as an alternative and candidates for drug development against drug-resistant E. coli and K. pneumoniae .

Poor method of weed control and indiscriminate use of herbicides led to low yields, economic returns, and increasing environmental pollution in the southern Guinea savanna of Nigeria. These prompted the conduct of field trials in the 2018 and 2019 cropping seasons to determine the effects of seed bed configuration and weed control treatments on the agronomic and economic performance of maize. The treatments consisted of flat and ridge seed beds and six weed control treatments. The experimental design was a randomized complete block with split plot arrangement and replicated thrice. Results showed that seed bed configuration had significant ( p ≤ 0.05) effect on weed density, but not on maize grain yield. All the weed control treatments significantly ( p ≤ 0.05) reduced weed infestation and increased maize grain yields compared to the weedy check. Furthermore, Primextra at 1.5 kg active ingredient per hectare (kg a.i. ha −1 ) + One supplementary hoe weeding (SHW) at 6 weeks after sowing (WAS), Primextra + Paraforce at 1.5 + 0.7 kg a.i. ha −1 , and Primextra + Guard force at 1.5 + 0.03 kg a.i. ha −1 applied on flat seed beds and two hoe weeding at 3 and 6 WAS + ridge produced higher yields, profit, and economic returns. Therefore, the above reduced herbicide rates applied on flat seed beds are recommended to farmers as alternatives to two hoe weeding at 3 and 6 WAS for profitable production of maize.

Microorganisms adopt a unique mechanism for sequestration and transport of bound iron by producing iron-chelating molecules called siderophores. Siderophores play an important role in colonization of microbes in iron-deficient sites of the host, hence acting as an important virulence factor and promising carriers of antimicrobials to target sites inside the microbial cells. The research was conducted to identify and characterize the siderophores of pathogenic Escherichia coli isolates obtained from different parts of India. A total of 534 confirmed E. coli isolates were tested for the expression of siderophores using chrome azurol S agar method and its type were determined by Csaky and Arnow assays for hydroxamate and catecholate-type siderophores, respectively. The obtained results revealed a difference in siderophore-type expression by intestinal and extraintestinal pathogenic E. coli. On chrome azurol S agar 45.1% of pathogenic E. coli. were found to produce siderophores, 12.5% isolates were found to produce catechol-type siderophore and 35.4% isolates produced hydroxamate-type siderophore; and isolates could be classified into five sidero-types (1) only hydroxamate producing (2) only catechol producing (3) both catechol and hydroxamate producing (4) producing siderophores other than hydroxamate and catechol types and (5) siderophore non-producers. Siderophore production was detected in isolates from all geographical regions and in all seasons of the year. The findings conclude that siderophore production is one of the important virulence and epidemiological markers of intestinal as well as extraintestinal pathogenic E. coli.

Weed control plays a vital role in achieving higher maize yield. We tested the hypothesis that interseeding cowpea as living mulch with maize will reduce biomass and diversity of weeds, and improve soil physical properties and maize yield. In 2017/2018 cropping seasons, a 2 × 4 factorial experiment was laid in a randomized complete block design with three replications at the Savelugu Municipality of Northern Ghana. The factorial treatment consisted of three cowpea varieties interseeded with two maize genotypes and a control (maize with no living mulch). Our result showed that, in both seasons, weed biomass and diversity, soil temperature, and grain yield were significantly ( p < 0.05) higher in control plots than in cowpea living mulch plots at all growth stages of both maize varieties. However, maize growth was not affected by weeds at tasseling. We established that cowpea varieties as living mulch in maize cropping have similar effect on soil moisture and temperature but have varying degrees of suppressing weeds and improving maize yield. The cowpea living mulch had weed biomass of 0.5 t ha −1 compared to 2.6 t ha −1 in the control. In addition, living mulch plots had maize grain of 2 t ha −1 and stover yield of 3 t ha −1 compared to 0.98 and 2 t ha −1 respectively in the control. In conclusion, choosing the appropriate time for intercropping living mulches and selection of plant species (growth and canopy cover) for living mulch are essential in suppressing growth of weeds.

Coragen is an insecticide that stimulates calcium release from intracellular stores of muscle cells causing death to sensitive species. The present study aimed to evaluate the bone toxic effect of Coragen and the potential therapeutic effect of cow milk, yogurt, and soft cheese in rats. Toxicity was induced by Coragen administration with different doses of 1/20 or 1/40 LD 50 in rats. Groups of rats ( n = 6) were treated with either 5 g milk, 5 g yogurt, or 1.5 g cheese. Coragen administration elevated alkaline and acid phosphatases activity and reduced the calcium and phosphorus level in urine and serum of rats administered with Coragen. Femur and tibia length, thickness, weight, and breaking force were decreased by Coragen administration and femur Ca and P contents as well. Bone mineral area (BMA), bone mineral content (BMC), bone mineral density (BMD), protein profile (total, albumin, and globulin), and antioxidant system (TAC, GSH, GP X , GST, and SOD) were decreased by Coragen. All these parameters were improved on the treatment with milk and milk products. The results showed that yogurt treatment was significantly superior to the other treatments in increasing BMD (27%), breaking force (9%), femur Ca (41%), serum Ca (14%), and serum P (16%) and in reducing acid phosphatases (14%) and urine Ca and P by 8 and 10%, respectively. It can be concluded that the treatment with milk and milk products may provide treatment against osteoporosis and toxicity caused by Coragen.

Agri-tourism, which involves tourists visiting working farms for entertainment and learning, has become more popular over the years. This paper focuses on the supply side of agri-tourism and investigates the motives that South African farmers have for offering agri-tourism activities and attractions on their farm. Based on a study with 557 respondents from all nine provinces of South Africa, 148 respondents indicated that they were currently offering some form of agri-tourism. The results identified the most popular agri-tourism activities and attractions as farm stay/accommodation, hunting, hiking/nature trails, and wildlife viewing and photography. An exploratory factor analysis was conducted, which identified two factors, namely, preservation of culture and heritage and economic advantages. Based on the mean values, economic advantages were the main reason why farmers decided to offer agri-tourism activities and attractions.

Abiotic stress has become an alarming issue for plant survival due to the constant changes in the environment. Abiotic stresses such as drought, salt, waterlogging, and heavy metals largely influence plant growth and development that finally reduce crop productivity. The present study was carried out to investigate the responses of jute ( Corchorus olitorius cv. O-9897) plant under different abiotic stresses. At 15th days after sowing plants were exposed to different abiotic stresses for various duration. Two doses of NaCl (200 and 400 mM) were applied to impose salt stress, while two doses of CdCl 2 (2 and 4 mM) were applied for cadmium (Cd) stress. Waterlogging stress was applied for 5 and 15 days. Whereas drought stress was imposed on plants for 10 and 15 days. Leaf relative water content, SPAD value, plant height, above ground fresh and dry weight, leaf area, and stem diameter decreased upon exposure to salt, water deficit, Cd, and waterlogging stresses. These abiotic stresses resulted in oxidative damage which was evident by the increased levels of lipid peroxidation, H 2 O 2 , and electrolyte leakage (EL) together with altered antioxidant enzymes activities and glyoxalase system which are crucial for plants to fight against oxidative damage. Both duration of waterlogging and drought stress drastically affected plant morphophysiology, whereas C. olitorius could tolerate moderate level of salt (200 mM NaCl) and Cd (2 mM CdCl 2 ). So the present study reveals that abiotic stresses cause substantial damages to the morphophysiology and oxidative stress tolerance of C. olitorius where the higher doses of NaCl and CdCl 2 as well as the increased duration of waterlogging and drought resulted in more deleterious effect.

Theoretical and applied aspects of the concept of using biomimetic protective coatings GREEN ARTICLE (ARTIficial cutiCLE) in the poultry industry, namely in the production of table and hatching eggs, are developed. The basic matrix component of the protective coatings GREEN ARTICLE is chitosan, an environmentally friendly, inexpensive, and harmless material. It is experimentally proved that electrochemical and ultrasonic technologies for modifying a solution of chitosan in peroxide compounds (peracetic acid and hydrogen peroxide) with nanoparticles of oxides like titanium, iron, zinc, and metals, such as titanium, copper, and calcite, allow to create protective coatings of double action in accordance with the technologies: (a) extending the shelf life of table eggs, food green article (FGA) and (b) preventing contamination of hatching eggs with pathogenic microflora, increasing the hatchability of eggs, and the quality of chicken, hatching green article (HGA). In the technology of storing table eggs, artificial cuticles based on chitosan FGA are characterized by the following characteristics: increased thickness of 6–10 µm, low gas and moisture permeability, and high biocidal activity against pathogenic bacteria and viruses. It is shown that the use of FGA technology in the production of table eggs can extend the period of transportation and storage of products by 33–35 days at a temperature of 24°C and maintained a grade A (Haugh unit = 71–60) through the entire 35 days period. The technology HGA reduces the rate of contamination of hatching eggs with pathogenic microflora by 99.29–99.7%, while increasing the egg hatching rate by 2.3–11.6% compared to the control, depending on the cross of the poultry and the storage conditions of the hatching eggs. It is important that these technologies have a great prospect for application in countries that develop green technologies for the production of poultry products.

Climate change hazards including droughts and floods are adversely affecting crop productivity and food security among Kenyan smallholder farmers. This article analyzes rainfall and temperature change effects on household food security in Kimandi-Wanyaga, in Murang’a County, Kenya. Both the meteorological and the community perceptions were analyzed. Monthly rainfall and temperature data for Thika Meteorological Station were analyzed for trends using MAKESENS procedure. The community perceptions data obtained through household survey, key informant interviews, and focus group discussions were analyzed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) and content analysis. The study hypotheses were tested using chi-square tests. The community perceived inadequate rainfall during crop growth (79%), reduced rainfall intensity (77%) and erratic onset and cessation of seasonal rainfall (73%) had interrupted their crop productivity. These disagreed with MAKESENS rainfall trends that showed statistically insignificant rainfall variability ( α > 0.1). The community’s warmer temperature perceptions agreed with observed rising maximum temperature trend at 0.001 significance level. This study observed a significant relationship between the community’s perceived local rainfall and temperature changes, and household food security. For robust and strategically designed climate policies and programs for food security, governments need to communicate to policy makers the perceptions of smallholder farmers involved in autonomous climate adaptation.

Oman has enormous diversity in important crops of global significance like wheat and barley considered as strategic crops. The country has an ancient cultivation history of barley because of its location on the eastern edge of the Arabian Peninsula and is known to have several landraces spread across all the agro-ecological regions. The present study was undertaken to comprehend genetic diversity in 16 indigenous Omani USDA accessions repatriated recently to select parents for hybridization in national crop improvement programs. The trial was conducted consecutively for two cropping seasons (2017–2018 and 2018–2019) from November to March on the layouts of loamy soil sites under sprinkler irrigation system in augmented design under spacing and crop husbandry practices as per national recommendations. The data on eight quantitative characters and presence (score 1) or absence (score 0) of anthocyanin pigmentation on two plant parts were subjected to both hierarchical cluster analysis (HCA) and principal component analysis (PCA) to know the contribution of characters toward diversity and form prime diverse clusters. The results indicated not only significant differences between accessions ( p < 0.05) with respect to the most of quantitative characters but also two significant correlations involving four characters associated with maturity and inflorescence ( p < 0.05). The results of two multivariate analyses led to the formation of four diverse clusters with similar constituents of accessions to the most extent, thus supporting each other in discerning diversity. The parents were selected for hybridization for improving characters of growth for higher yield or productivity with anthocyanin-related characters.

Bhutan aspires to be an entirely organic nation. Food self-sufficiency and increasing farm household income are critical priorities in the country. Realising these priorities necessitates assessing the country’s current organic agriculture performance. The objectives of this study were to investigate the productivity and profitability of organic and conventional potato and farmers’ constraints in producing organic potato in West-Central Bhutan. Multistage and purposive sampling techniques were used to select the study sample. A semi-structured questionnaire and face-to-face interviews were employed to gather primary data for the 2019 cropping cycle from 93 potato farmers: 43 organic farmers in the Gasa District and 50 conventional farmers in Wangdue Phodrang District. Descriptive statistics, cost and return analysis, and independent sample t -test were applied for data analysis. The results revealed that the conventional potato’s productivity (tuber yield) and profitability were significantly higher ( p < 0.001) than organic potatoes. The average productivities for organic and conventional potatoes were 7.48 and 19.22 t/ha, respectively. Organic potato farmers incurred a loss of −202,708.47 Ngultrum (Nu)/ha, while conventional potato farmers incurred a profit of 83,832.85 Nu/ha. The benefit-cost ratios of organic and conventional potato stood at 0.40 and 1.27, respectively. Lack of premium price, pest and disease problems, low crop productivity, and climate change were the constraints faced by organic potato farmers. The study found that the productivity and profitability of the conventional potatoes were higher than the organic potatoes in West-Central Bhutan in the current scenario. Further, the critical information will contribute to guiding Bhutan’s vision for its organic agriculture development.

A field experiment was conducted with irrigation in 2018 and 2019 at three locations to identify the optimum plant density and adaptive variety for better watermelon yield and quality. It consisted of five densities (24,690, 13,888, 8,888, 6,172, and 4,535 plant ha −1 ) and two varieties (Crimson Sweet and Sugar Baby) with factorial combination in randomized complete block design with three replications. Plant density and variety were not affected by location and season. The response of watermelon in yield, quality, and growth was influenced by plant density and variety. The highest fruit yield of 32.1 t ha −1 was obtained from the highest plant density, which was statistically similar with the yield of 31.9 t ha −1 obtained with the second highest plant density. However, about 71% of the fruits produced with the highest plant density were mini-sized in the fruit size category, whereas only about 59% were mini-sized with the second highest plant density. Any addition of plant density beyond 13,888 ha −1 did not gain additional yield but reduced in quality attributes. Better fruit physical attributes and total soluble solid were recorded from the lowest plant density. Therefore, Crimson Sweet variety with 120 and 60 cm inter- and intra-row spacing, respectively, which accommodates the plant density of 13,888 ha −1 , is optimum for watermelon production.

Sex ratio is one of the most important biological characteristics of arthropods. In a parasitoid population, sex ratio can influence the suppression of host populations or the stability of host–parasitoid interactions in the field. In this study, a survey was carried out to determine the sex allocation through the sequence of male/female adult emergence and calculate the sex ratio of selected populations of Apanteles taragamae in their natural habitat. Assessment of sex ratio at the population and individual level (brood size per female) was examined. We found no difference in the likelihood that either sex would emerge before the other. Observations of sex ratio at the population and individual level reveal a females biased sex ratio. Analysis of the relationship between brood size and sex ratio of A. taragamae shows that brood size may influence the proportion of male to female offspring yielded. A male-biased sex ratio tends to be found in smaller brood size. However, sex ratio is shifted to female biased in larger brood size.

Introduction More eco-friendly aquaculture technology is required to reduce environmental pollution which has become a major issue in aquaculture industries in the last few decades. Aquaponics system is a culture technology to solve this waste issue. Thus, this study aimed at comparing growth performances, feed utilization efficiency, and nutrient recovery in aquaponics and conventional aquaculture system. Materials and methods Twenty-four juveniles of Nile tilapia ( Oreochromis niloticus ) weighing 1.12 ± 0.1 g were cultured in either aquaponics systems or conventional aquaculture systems for 30 days. Each system had three culture systems as replicates. The fish were fed the same amount with a commercial pellet three times a day. Results The result showed that the Nile tilapia reared in the aquaponics system had a significantly higher specific growth rate than that of fish reared in the conventional system, 7.5 and 6.3% BW/day, respectively. Similarly, the feed utilization efficiency of fish reared in the aquaponics was also significantly better than that of fish in the conventional system. Furthermore, the total biomass harvested from the aquaponics system was nearly eight times higher than the total biomass harvested from the conventional system. Conclusion Growth, feed utilization efficiency, and total nutrient recovery in terms of biomass were higher in the aquaponics system. These results suggest that aquaponics is not only an eco-friendly aquaculture system, but also could produce more biomass than a conventional aquaculture system, and therefore, could be scaled up in a commercial scale.

Soil characteristics often have an impact on a farm’s competitiveness and on the quality of the agricultural goods obtained through farming activities. The quality of these products leads to social consequences, namely because of its impact on human health. Considering these contexts and the pertinence of these issues, in this study the intention is to highlight the several dimensions related to soil salinity and the respective economic dynamics. To achieve these objectives, several documents were considered from the Web of Science Core Collection (WoS) and Scopus for search topics associated with these issues (soil salinity and economic dynamics). The metadata obtained from the two databases for these documents was first benchmarked. After this initial benchmarking to identify the main differences between WoS and Scopus, these documents were analysed through bibliometric approaches and later exploited using a literature review. An alternative approach to carrying out systematic reviews in the presence of a great number of documents (methodology based on benchmarking of metadata, from scientific databases, and bibliometric assessment and analysis) was suggested. The results show that the strategies for dealing with the soil salinity and the concerns for food security, desertification, climate change, nitrogen management, and plant osmoregulation deserved special attention from the researchers. In turn, the direct assessment of the socioeconomic impacts from soil salinity, or the impacts on several dimensions of sustainability motived fewer studies.

The lack of sustainable soil fertility management is a critical challenge for crop production in the world. The problem is more serious in the East Gojjam Zone highlands. Integrated use of lime, manure, and chemical fertilizers is considered as a good approach for sustainable crop production on acidic soils. In 2016 and 2017, a field experiment was conducted to determine the effect of soil amendments on soil fertility and tef productivity in the Gozamin district. Factorial combinations of two rates of lime (0 and 2 t ha −1 ), two rates of NP fertilizers (0/0 and 46/20 kg N/P ha −1 ), and three rates of cattle manure (0, 10, and 15 t ha −1 ) were laid out in randomized complete block design with three replications. The results showed that applying lime in combination with NP fertilizer and manure significantly improved soil chemical properties. Panicle length, effective tillers, and thousand seeds weight of tef increased from 25.1 to 44.4 cm, 2.8 to 11.3, and 0.23 to 0.37 g, respectively, when 10 t ha −1 manure and recommended NP fertilizer were applied together. The highest tef grain yield of 2.31 t ha −1 and net benefit of 2,252.91 USD ha −1 were obtained from the interaction of 10 t ha −1 cattle manure, 46/20 kg ha −1 N/P fertilizer, and 2 t ha −1 lime. This study recommends the combined application of 2 t ha −1 lime, 10 t ha −1 cattle manure, and 46/20 kg ha −1 N/P fertilizer as an effective amendment to improve soil chemical properties and yield of tef in acidic soils of northwest Ethiopian highlands.

Garlic ( Allium sativum L.) is one of the main economical spices produced by poor smallholder farmers in the highlands of Ethiopia for both marketing and consumption. However, its productivity in the area has ever been declining mainly due to soil fertility depletion. Hence, an experiment was conducted under irrigation for two years in 2017 and 2018 in one of northwest Ethiopian highlands known as Lay Gayint to assess the productivity response of garlic to NPS inorganic fertilizers and cattle manure applications. Factorial combinations of four levels of N–P 2 O 5 –S inorganic fertilizers (0–0–0; 70–21–9; 112–37–16; and 159–58–25 kg ha −1 ) and four levels of fresh cattle manure (0, 5, 10, and 15 t ha −1 ) were laid out in randomized complete block design with three replications. Unlike that of NPS inorganic fertilizers application and its interaction with cattle manure, physicochemical properties of the experimental soil were highly significantly improved with cattle manure application. Most growth and bulb yield parameters of garlic were significantly influenced by combined applications of NPS inorganic fertilizers and cattle manure, and their responses were more pronounced with the progress of the cropping seasons. Combined applications of 112–37–16 kg ha −1 N–P 2 O 5 –S inorganic fertilizers with 15 and 10 t ha −1 cattle manure gave the highest bulb yields (18.03–22.05  t ha −1 ), net benefits (Ethiopian Birr 509,456–626,814 per hectare), and marginal rate of returns (1,492.35–2,005.15%) in both study years of 2017 and 2018. Hence, combined applications of 112–37–16 kg ha −1 N–P 2 O 5 –S inorganic fertilizers with 10–15  t ha −1 cattle manure are recommendable for garlic growing farmers in northwest Ethiopian highlands.

Onion is an important crop with significant roles in human diets. The growth, yield, and quality of vegetable crops, including onions, are more vulnerable to water stress than other crops. In this study, different levels of deficit irrigation (DI) as factor A (a1: 80%, a2: 70%, and a3: 60% of soil field capacity [FC]) and humic acid (HA) as factor B (b1: without and b2: with HA application) were evaluated on onion growth characteristics in a factorial design with four replications. The results showed that the interaction of DI and HA was significant on leaf protein, peroxidase (POD), superoxide dismutase (SOD), and on bulb protein and potassium (K) concentrations. The highest record of these traits was observed in a3b2 (highest DI with HA application), and their lowest was in those at first level of DI (a1). Leaf protein and, to a lesser extent, bulb protein were increased by DI and HA applications. DI at 60% but not at 70% FC significantly reduced bulb fresh weight. There was a gradual increase in leaf proline, soluble sugars, protein, catalase (CAT), POD, SOD activity, and bulb K by application of DI; however, most of bulb traits including protein, iron (Fe), zinc (Zn), and CAT and POD activity were increased only under highest DI level (a3: 60% FC). However, application of HA further increased the soluble sugars and protein concentration as well as the POD and SOD activities of leaves, and protein, Fe, K concentrations, and CAT activity of bulbs under DI. The results indicated that HA benefitted onion growth particularly under DI conditions.

Meat is a highly nutritious food rich in protein, fat, vitamins, and minerals. Nevertheless, chemical reactions and microorganisms might affect the quality of nutritional constituent of meat products. This study investigated the influence of adding Moringa oleifera leaves powder (MOLP) on the nutritional, technological properties, and consumer acceptability of mutton patties. Four treatments of mutton patties with 0, 0.3, 0.6, and 0.9% of MOLP were produced. The prepared patties (raw and cooked) were evaluated for quality attributes such as proximate composition, total phenolic content (TPC), cooking properties (cooking yield and cooking loss), physical characteristics (colour and water holding capacity [WHC]), thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS), pH value, and sensory quality. The incorporation of MOLP into the mutton patties significantly increased ( p < 0.05) protein, fat, ash contents, TPC, pH, WHC, and cooking yield. However, moisture content, TBARS, and colour decreased. Most sensory likability scores of patty samples with up to 0.3% of MOLP were comparable to those of the control sample. Evidently, the inclusion of 0.3% of MOLP produces mutton patties with high sensory desirability.

Sorghum ( Sorghum bicolor (L.) Moench) is a potential plant for food, livestock feed, biofuel, sugar, alcohol, and other bioindustry products. Sorghum could be adaptable to grow and expand in marginal areas of the world. Varieties of sorghum have their specific morpho-agronomic characters. It would be significant to compare the performance of multiple sorghum varieties to identify a suitable one for the intended use. The increase in biomass plant production could be caused by cultivation factors, such as an increased planting density. This study aims to determine the response of four different sorghum varieties to the treatment of the plant density on the biomass, grain production, and sugar content of stem juice. This research was conducted using two factors: sorghum variety (“Super 1,” “Keler,” “Lepeng,” and “Rio”) and the plant density (two, four, and six plants per hole or 106,667; 213,333; and 320,000 plants ha −1 , respectively). The results of the study showed that all four sorghum varieties tested could be used as biomass resources. The highest plant dry biomass was gained from six plants per hole with 44.0 t ha –1 , whereas the lowest one was two plants per hole with 30.4 t ha –1 . “Super 1” was a superior variety due to the significant highest sugar content of the stem juice (13.9°Brix) and grain production. “Lepeng” variety was the lowest in both sugar content (8°Brix) and grain production, whereas “Keler” and “Rio” varieties contained sugar in between 8.5 and 10.8°Brix of the stem juice.

This study investigated the effects of mixing Moringa oleifera seed oil with soybean ( Glycine max ) seed oil in enhancing the physical and chemical properties of soybean oil during repetitive frying. Different blends (100:0, 50:50, and 70:30) of soybean and M. oleifera seed oils were formulated, while soybean oil served as control. All these oil samples were used for frying potato ( Ipomoea batatas ) slices. The quality of the fried oil samples was evaluated by determining the smoke point, refractive index (RI), viscosity, colour, peroxide value, iodine value, and free fatty acid (FFA). The range of values obtained were smoke point (158.7–172.3°C), RI (1.46–1.49°C), colour (6.0–9.42), viscosity (0.41–2.13 mm 2 /s), peroxide value (0.93–5.16 meq/kg), iodine value (87.16–64.71 mg/100 g), and FFA (0.3–1.95%), for different blends of soybean and M. oleifera seed oils and control. In terms of changes in the chemical and physical properties, during frying, soybean/ M. oleifera seed oil mix of 70:30 had the lowest reduction in iodine value (87.56–68.73 mg/100 g), lowest increase in peroxide value (0.93–1.86 meq/kg) and FFA value (0.3–0.65%), while no changes in RI (1.47°C) was observed. The study revealed that mixing of soybean seed oil with M. oleifera seed oil at a ratio of 70:30 enhanced the physical and chemical properties of the soybean oil after two repetitive frying.

Although there is adequate information on the influence of plant population on root yield and size of carrot on flat and raised bed for rain fed production system, information on ridge-furrow bed preparation method is limited for irrigation production system. Therefore, in this study, field experiments were conducted for 2 years to determine the appropriate spacing of carrot on ridge-furrow carrot production practice under irrigation. Root yield increased significantly as the population increased. On the contrary, root size significantly decreased as population increased. The result of combined analysis over season and locations indicated that the narrowest spacing of 10 cm × 4 cm rows on the ridge and between plants, respectively, which accommodates 1,250,000 plants ha −1 gave significantly highest marketable carrot root yield of 26 t ha −1 followed by 22.6 t ha −1 with spacing of 20 cm × 4 cm which accommodates 1,000,000 plants ha −1 , but it produced the smallest individual root weight of 83 g which is mostly preferred for household consumption unlike jumbo roots. Therefore, in terms of root sizes and marketable yield, the current study identified that spacing of 10 cm × 4 cm is optimum on ridge-furrow carrot production practices.

Greenhouse farming is considered as one of the most scientific approaches in agriculture, which are suitable for all climatic conditions, especially in Middle East, North America, and Europe. Sustainable greenhouses are innovative farming facilities for healthy vegetables and fruits in a controlled, conditioned indoor space. This article presents a literature review on the upgradation of a conventional to a sustainable greenhouse using modern engineering concept. This includes maintaining fully controlled indoor conditions such as temperature, relative humidity, and air velocity for specific agronomical parameters. The influence and improvements in upgradation of various heating, ventilation, and air-conditioning (HVAC) with the associated control systems and covering materials to reduce the energy consumption have been reviewed. Financial viability of conventional as well as upgraded greenhouses is highlighted. In Middle East climatic conditions, the major challenge is to control the optimal range of temperature (18–21°C), relative humidity (55 to 75%), and air velocity (0–1.3 m/s). It is found that the upgraded HVAC systems with climate control modules can increase the crop yield by 30%. Scientifically selected polycarbonate sheet covering materials are also found to increase the crop yield by up to 15% more than the conventional commercial greenhouses.

This article gives an overview of the widely distributed herb ribwort plantain ( Plantago lanceolata ). Currently, this plant is mostly grown in grasslands, rarely in arable land, and its secondary metabolites are used in medicine. Studies cited in the article indicate its very rapid growth and deep rooting in the soil, which results in high drought tolerance and uptake of valuable nutrients from deep soil layers. An intensive symbiosis with various mycorrhizal fungi is characteristic of plantain for a high capacity for nutrient and water appropriation. It is also characterized by different contents of iridoid glycosides like aucubin and catalpol in shoots and roots of different varieties. The use of P. lanceolata is discussed on permanent and non-permanent grasslands where agriculturally specific varieties have been developed for grazing animals showing positive health effects in them. Information is provided on the cultivation of ribwort plantain, including studies on sowing and fertilization, the yield and infestation of the plant with pathogens, and the occurrence of iridoid glycosides in the plant. In addition, information is included on pests that threaten the plant’s cultivation.

This review is focused on the utilization of insects as a new opportunity in food and feed products, including their commercialization both in traditional and new markets. It has been suggested that insects are considerably more sustainable when compared with other sources of animal protein, thus alleviating the pressure over the environment and the planet facing the necessity to feed the world population, constantly increasing. Many chefs have adhered to the trend of using insects in their culinary preparations, bringing insects to the plan of top gastronomy, highlighting their organoleptic qualities allied to a recognized high nutritional value. However, in some markets, insects or insect-based products are not readily accepted because of neophobia and disgust. Moreover, the insect markets, farming, and commercialization are experiencing a huge growth, in which the domain of animal feed is undoubtedly a very strong component. The future of insects as human food and animal feed seems promising in view of the recent trends and challenges.

Morphology and structure of starch from fruits of two acorns species, Quercus rotundifolia Lam. (QR) and Quercus suber Lam. (QS), isolated by enzymatic (ENZ) and alkaline (A3S) methods were studied. Acorn starches granules presented a round and oval shape, consisting of medium/small granules, with a mean granule size ranging between 9 and 13 µm. Isolated acorn starches appear as light grayish-brown in naked eye, with high values of L * for starches isolated by the ENZ method, and QR starches were duller than QS. No differences were observed for all the samples in FTIR spectra results. Acorn starches showed a C-type pattern, with a relative crystallinity between 43.1 and 46.6%. The 13 C CP/MAS NMR spectra are different for the used isolation methods but are similar for both acorn species. However, acorn-isolated starches presented a predominant A-type allomorph packing type, and the A3S starches showed a higher degree of crystalline material. Those differences in the structure of acorn starches would be helpful to better understand the relationships among structure and functional properties for a possible potential industrial application of chestnut starches.

Monofloral Lavandula spp. honey is very appreciated by consumers due to its characteristic and pleasant aroma and flavor. Given the economic importance of this type of honey, it is important to develop a rapid and nonexpensive methodology that allows certifying its quality. In this context, this study aimed to compare the applicability and accuracy of FTIR-ATR and FT-Raman techniques for the quality evaluation of Lavandula spp. honey. Calibration models, with PLS regression models, were obtained for both methodologies concerning the following parameters: total acidity, reducing sugars, hidroximetilfurfural (HMF), electrical conductivity, ash, proline content, diastase activity, apparent sucrose, total flavonoids, and total phenolic contents. The calibration models had high regression coefficients, r 2 (FTIR-ATR: 0.965–0.996; FT-Raman: 0.983–0.999), high ratios of performance to deviation, RPD (FTIR-ATR: 5.4–15.7; FT-Raman: 7.6–53.7), and low root mean square errors (RMSEs; FTIR-ATR: 0.005–3.0; FT-Raman: 0.004–1.02). These results corroborate the potentiality of FTIR-ATR and FT-Raman for quality evaluation and evaluation of the chemical properties of Lavandula spp. honey even though FT-Raman technique provided more accurate models.

The use of edible flowers (EF) in gastronomy is gaining popularity; however, there is still a lack of information about the factors that most contribute to the acceptance of this product. Therefore, the objective of this study was to investigate the habits associated with the usage of EF in gastronomy in three different countries (Portugal, Slovenia, and Brazil) and also to evaluate the major determinants for those habits. In addition, the level of knowledge was also investigated, particularly with regard to the aspects such as perceived risks of toxicity and pesticides. For that, a questionnaire survey of self-response was carried out on a sample of 559 participants, from the above-mentioned countries. To analyse the data, basic descriptive statistical tools were used combined with crosstabs and chi-square tests. Finally, a tree classification was performed using the classification and regression trees algorithm. The results revealed that, regardless of the country, the participants were familiar with the use of EF in gastronomy. The participants had, in general, already consumed EF, and their use was more popular between the Portuguese participants, being the Brazilian those who used them less. Significant differences were found between the countries in the form of consumption of EF and also in the types of EF consumed. There were also significant differences regarding the reasons for eating EF. The classification analysis showed that the country and the level of education were the major determinants for the consuming habits and knowledge about EF. This study highlighted that eating habits are very dependent on the customs and traditions of each country and helped understanding the factors that most affect the participants’ attitudes towards the consumption and knowledge of EF.

Industrialization increases the number of heavy metals released into the environment. Lead (Pb 2+ ), nickel (Ni 2+ ) and chromium (Cr 6+ ) are among these toxic metals and cause irreversible effects on ecosystems and human health due to their bio-accumulative potential. The decontamination through adsorption processes using lignocellulosic wastes from agricultural and/or forestry processes is a viable solution. Hence, this work aimed at studying the effect of pH on the biosorption of the metal ions using four different by-product materials: walnut shell, chestnut shell, pinewood and burnt pinewood. These experiments were conducted with solutions of the three heavy metals in which the adsorbents were immersed to measure the rate of adsorption. A range of pH values from 3.0 to 7.5 was used in the experiments, and the concentrations were determined by atomic absorption. The results showed different behaviour of the biosorbent materials when applied to the different metals. The lead adsorption had an ideal pH in the range of 5.5–7.5 when the walnut shell was used as an adsorbent, corresponding to values of adsorption greater than 90%, but for the other materials, maximum adsorption occurred for a pH of 7.5. For the adsorption of chromium, the pH was very heterogeneous with all adsorbents, with optimal values of pH varying from 3.0 (for chestnut shell) to 6.5 (for walnut shell and wood). For nickel, the best pH range was around pH 5, with different values according to the lignocellulosic material used. These results indicate that the tested biosorbents have the potential to decontaminate wastewater in variable extensions and that by controlling the pH of the solution; a more efficient removal of the heavy metals can be achieved.

In this study, the drying kinetics, effective moisture diffusivity ( D eff ), specific energy consumption (SEC), colour, and shrinkage ( S b ) of pomegranate arils were compared when dried by convective (CV) drying and microwave (MW) drying. The experiments were performed at air temperature of 50, 60, and 70°C and air velocity of 1 m/s for CV drying and 270, 450, and 630 W for MW drying. The results showed that increasing air temperature and MW power increased the D eff . The calculations demonstrated that the maximum D eff for pomegranate arils was obtained for MW drying (630 W). Maximum SEC for pomegranate arils in the CV dryer was 145.12 kWh/kg, whereas in the MW dryer was 35.42 kWh/kg. In MW dryer, the lowest values of colour change and shrinkage were 6.77 and 50.5%, respectively. Comprehensive comparison of the different drying methods (MW and CV) revealed that MW drying had best drying performance for pomegranate arils, considering the drying time, effective moisture diffusion, SEC, colour, and shrinkage.

Adolescents tend to neglect food and their eating pattern is influenced by several factors. Adolescents’ health literacy substantiates their ability to respond to the growing demands of health, being linked to health promotion in several areas, including food. The goal of this work was to analyze the relationship between sociodemographic and contextual variables with secondary school students’ food literacy. A quantitative, cross-sectional, descriptive and analytical study was carried out with a sample of 181 nonprobabilistic secondary school students, aged between 16 and 21 years (mean = 18.09 years ± 1.45), mostly female (58.0%), from 11th grade (35.4%), who are part of a secondary school in central Portugal. As a tool for data collection, the questionnaire of the project “Your PEL – Promote and Empower for Health Literacy in the young population” was used, aggregating three areas: eating behaviors, harmful consumptions and sexuality. The results showed that 58.6% of young people eat 4–5 meals a day, consume fast food weekly (79%) and eat soup (82.3%). Additionally, they eat fruit and vegetables on a daily basis (94.5 and 83.4%, respectively). The results further showed that 10th grade students have higher levels of health and food literacy. It was observed that both girls and boys are interested in receiving information regarding food, transmitted through social networks and by a communication application (84.5 and 73.5%, respectively), with significant differences ( χ 2 = 4.768; p = 0.028). Adolescents face unique health challenges and a critical level of health literacy compromises their understanding of information about diet and future health. The results indicate that educational plans to empower adolescents in these areas, which integrate gender and age differences and sources of information as important variables to be considered, are pivotal for increasing levels of health and food literacy.

Sheep farming plays a key role in the sustainability of the most depressed rural regions of Portugal, particularly in the Serra da Estrela region, and is recognized as an important source of income for many local farmers. Thus, the management of local sheep breeds in the region has over generations given rise to its most emblematic product: Serra da Estrela cheese, with Protected Designation of Origin (PDO). This study aims to briefly describe the sheep farms producing certified milk in the Serra da Estrela region. To this end, a survey form was drawn up and applied to 75 farms, randomly selected, from the defined geographical area of Serra da Estrela, from June to August 2020. The results show that the producers, mostly male, have an average age close to 51 years. On average, the herd size is equal to or greater than 100 animals and the daily milk production per animal varies between 0.47 and 1.0 L. The price of milk paid to the producer is, on average, at 1.25 Euros/L. Both the average herd size and the lactation length are higher than those described by others. The average daily milk production in most of these farms is in accordance with the standard average value related by other authors.

The reduction of sugar and the addition of healthier ingredients in gummy jellies brings some improved health characteristics to a product that usually is devoid of nutrition. Therefore, the aim of this study is to develop gummy jellies using natural ingredients, without added sugars or additives, in two varieties: one including orange juice and slightly sweetened with honey (ORH) and the other including puree made from a mixture of berries (BEM). These were submitted to physicochemical, microbiological, and sensorial analyses. Results of microbiological analyses showed that both gummies were suitable for consumption accordingly to EU legislation. The physicochemical analyses allowed making a nutritional evaluation, so that ORH and BEM presented 73.8 kcal/100 g and 39.8 kcal/100 g, respectively, five and nine times lower than similar commercial products. The contribution of macronutrients of ORH and BEM was as follows: 78.0 and 67% from carbohydrates, 21.7 and 33% from proteins, respectively. Regarding the potential functional properties, the antioxidant capacity was 50.4  ±  4.5 mg/L TE for ORH and 83.7  ±  7.6 mg/L for BEM. Sensorial evaluation showed that although the developed gummy jellies were slightly less appreciated than a commercial counterpart, still they were appreciated by members of a panel and particularly the ORH, which was rated with scores almost equal to those of the commercial sample. In addition, the developed gummies showed lower caloric values and higher antioxidant capacity than similar commercial candies. Overall, ORH and BEM gummy jellies could represent an opportunity to provide consumers with a healthier alternative to the common jelly candies available in the market.

Grain corn is the main cereal produced in Portugal. It is grown in intensive monoculture cropping systems that may have negative effects on soil quality, affecting long-term fertility and productivity, and, therefore, the sustainability of the production. A promising management practice to mitigate soil degradation is to grow winter cover crops used as green manure. This study examined the effectiveness of six legume cover crops (LCCs) species in providing agro-ecological services for grain corn systems in the Mediterranean region, specifically in terms of nutrient leaching, nutrient recycling, weed control, and soil fertility. The study was performed in Central Portugal during 2 years, and it assessed legumes/weeds dry biomass yield, their nutrients content, and soil organic matter evolution. Results show that, in general, LCC are well adapted to Mediterranean conditions, yielding large amounts of biomass (up to 8 ton/ha for some clover species). In terms of nutrient leaching mitigation, the overall N–P–K nutrient uptake was 176–20–172 kg/ha. Green manure services enabled a reduction of 35% of N, 50% of P, and 100% of mineral fertilizers for a grain corn production of 12 ton/ha. Weed control by LCC was effective only in the second year of the study and for three clover species (crimson, balansa, and arrowleaf) due to their early establishment and/or high biomass production competing with weeds. Soil fertility was not improved in the short term, LCC incorporation into the soil to a slight depletion of the soil organic matter content.

Demonstration plots (demo plots) have been used as participatory research methods to conduct Climate Field Schools (CFS) with farmers from May to October 2018. CFS aimed at improving the adaptive capacities of the farmers and obtaining appropriate technologies to be adopted in the two villages of Ciganjeng and Rawaapu. The demo plots were set up with a different treatment of organic manure (T 1 = 10 ton ha −1 of cattle compost; T 2 = 10 ton ha −1 of cattle compost + 10 ton ha −1 of Azolla pinnata ; and T 3 = 10 ton ha −1 of cattle compost + 2 ton ha −1 of Sesbania rostrata ) and different rice varieties. The farmers were fully responsible for the monitoring of the parameters (e.g., plant height, number of tillers, and grain yield). The demo plots results revealed that the application of organic manure T 2 has increased the soil C and N content by 64.6 and 40.00%, respectively, and rice yield by 27.8% compared to neighboring plots using inorganic fertilizers. The Mendawak variety at both CFS locations showed better performance compared to the other varieties. Moreover, the capacity of the research farmers involved in the CFS has been increased by 52.74% with a gain factor of 0.42 in Ciganjeng and 41.23% with a gain factor of 0.39 in Rawaapu moderately based on pretest and posttest results. It is concluded from the research process that farmers who built up their capacity on on-farm show a high level of confidence and can convey comprehensive information to other farmers.

This study aimed to describe the relationship structure of the red chili supply chain based on actors and their activities and to measure the efficiency of the red chili supply chain using the Performance Measuring System (PMS) framework. The distribution of the red chili supply chain in this study began with farmers in Kulon Progo, Yogyakarta, and extended to consumers in Jakarta, Indonesia. The sampling technique was carried out in several stages for 132 respondents consisting of red chili farmers and consumers. The supply chain relationship structure was analyzed descriptively, while the efficiency of the red chili supply chain was examined using the PMS framework, including indicators of production costs, transaction costs, profits, and return on investment. The results revealed that the relationship structure of the red chili supply chain was formed by three chains consisting of eight actors: farmers, middlemen, wholesalers at the regency level, auction markets, Kramat Jati Central Market or Pasar Induk Kramat Jati (PIKJ) dealers, PIKJ centeng , retailers, and consumers. According to production costs, transaction costs, profits, and the rate of return on investment, chain three was the most efficient with chain actors comprising farmers – auction markets – wholesalers at the regency level – PIKJ dealers – PIKJ centeng  – retailers – consumers.

An analytical and integrated approach to farming needs to be formulated to assist decision-making by policymakers. This is important for the sustainability of agriculture in Indonesia, especially in the Special Region of Yogyakarta, which has experienced a decrease in land area, production, and productivity in the last 5 years. This study aims to analyze the sustainability of rice farming using the sustainable-value approach, which is based on the economically efficient use of agricultural resources. Data were collected from rice farmers in 25 observation areas attached to eight river irrigation sources throughout the province. A criterion for economic efficiency has been used as a guideline for setting benchmarks for optimal input use. The study reveals that, in general, these rice farms had poor economic productivity values. The sustainable value distribution for rice farms exceeded the highest value but there was low sustained quality. This indicates the limited overall longevity but also the potential for sustainability. Therefore, in managing rice farms, economic, social, and environmental resources have to be used more effectively.

The unpredictable weather in Indonesia results in a less effective conventional coffee beans drying process, which usually uses solar energy as a heat source. This experiment aimed to examine the performance of the coffee beans drying using low-temperature geothermal energy (LTGE) with solar energy as the energy source. Heat pipe heat exchanger, which consists of 42 straight heat pipes with staggered configuration, was used to extract the LTGE. The heat pipes have 700 mm length, 10 mm outside diameter with a filling ratio of 50%, and added by 181 pieces of aluminum with a dimension size of 76  mm × 345  mm × 0.105 mm as fins. LTGE was simulated by using water that is heated by three heaters and flowed by a pump. Meanwhile, to simulate the drying process with conventional methods, a system of solar air collectors made of polyurethane sheets with a thickness of 20 mm and dimensions of length × width × height = 160 cm × 76 cm × 10 cm, respectively, was used in this study. Zinc galvalume sheet with 0.3 mm thickness was installed and coated by the black doff color throughout the inner of the container wall. The result showed that the drying process with LTGE and solar energy is faster than with solar energy or geothermal energy only. The drying coffee beans using the hybrid system can speed up the drying coffee beans time by about 23% faster than the solar energy only.

Some previous studies on Spirulina platensis show that this species contains pigments that can be used as natural dyes in textiles. However, research on the usage of spirulina natural pigment in certain types of conventional textile handicraft home industries in Indonesia has not been conducted. The purpose of this study is to utilize the potential of Spirulina platensis as homemade natural dyes for the development of designs in textiles. Through an experimental methodology, various experiments starting from the extraction process and dyeing were conducted to find out the right way to produce home dyes using spirulina and techniques of surface textile design to apply them in textiles. This is useful as one of the solutions today, since an increasing number of consumers are consciously seeking sustainable products, with no exception to the types of textile products. Therefore, this will provide an opportunity for business collaboration ideas in agribusiness and craft textiles. Additionally, it can add to the nature of textile natural dyes derived from various plant species in Indonesia.

Sweetpotato breeding over the years solely depended on sensory evaluation for domestic uses, thereby downplaying the need for adjustment of breeding objectives and selection procedures to cater for industrial potential. This study was conducted to evaluate ten elite genotypes of sweetpotato for diversified utilization and commercialization. These genotypes had been selected over the years for high dry matter and starch content according to the preference of Ghanaian consumers. Analyses were carried out on key nutrient components, pasting properties, and starch granule morphology using near infrared reflectance spectroscopy, rapid viscosity analysis, and light microscopy, respectively. Sensory evaluation was carried out using a focus group approach. Based on functional diversity and unique combinations of quality traits identified, the genotypes were found to have several potential applications in the food industry. These include fufu flour, bread, pastries, French fries, gluten-free noodles, yogurt filler, baby food, juices, and raw material for brewery and other industries. These elite genotypes, when released as new varieties, can immensely contribute to a more diversified use of sweetpotato in Ghana and ultimately contribute to the enhancement of food and job security.

In Zambia, potato ( Solanum tuberosum L.) cultivation is ranked the third most important among root and tuber crops after cassava ( Manihot esculenta Crantz) and sweet potato ( Ipomoea batatas (L.) Lam.). In spite of its importance, the productivity and cultivation of potato remain low. In the light of this, a survey was conducted in Mbala district to obtain and document farmers’ knowledge on potato cultivation and understand the constraints associated with potato cultivation and management. Four agricultural camps in Mbala district were purposefully sampled due to the high potato cultivation activity. Data were collected from 116 potato farmers through structured questionnaires and focus group discussions. Results showed that three major constraints in potato cultivation were white grub ( Phyllophaga spp.), foliar wilts ( Ralstonia spp. and Verticillium spp.) and seed source, with a farmer-ranked mean-derived score of 3.75, 3.5 and 2.75, respectively. Farmers ascribed 70% crop damage to white grub ( Phyllophaga spp.) and 60% crop damage to foliar wilts ( Ralstonia spp. and Verticillium spp.). Other information obtained indicated that the majority of the farmers (>85%) were married, above 35 years and had at least primary education. The majority of the farmers involved in the study had less than 0.25 ha under potato production. To reduce the cultivation constraints for increased potato production in Mbala, direct breeding efforts, potato crop protection and other measures need to be employed.

Against a worsening backdrop of climate stress and population growth, drought-resistant, highly adaptable, nutritious orange-fleshed sweetpotato (OFSP) stands out as a sustainable food crop that supports household resiliency, food security, and health. Recognized as one of the cheapest sources of vitamin A (VA), OFSP holds promise as a food-based approach to combat VA deficiency, a significant public health concern in sub-Saharan Africa. Because the dominant white-fleshed varieties have no beta-carotene, research initiated in the mid-1990s set out to adapt, develop, and promote VA-rich OFSP as a more nutritious alternative to non-OFSP types. Multisectorial strategies that integrate agriculture with health or education sectors hold promise as effective strategies to ensure OFSP reaches and meets the needs of those populations at greatest risk of VA deficiency – pregnant and lactating women, infants, and children. In this article, we share experiences, findings, implementation challenges, and lessons learned from four integrated programs in Kenya, Tanzania, Mozambique, and Ethiopia that aimed to improve the nutrition and health of women and children with production and promotion of OFSP. Across these projects, households significantly increased OFSP production. In all but one, changes in OFSP production were accompanied by improved food security and maternal and child diets.

This study was carried out in two seasons (2010–2011 and 2012–2013) in Jos, Plateau State, Nigeria to investigate the growth and yield of potato ( Solanum tuberosum L.) seed tubers as affected by storage conditions and storage duration. Five potato varieties (“Nicola,” “Bertita,” “Diamant,” “BR63-18,” and “Roslin-Ruaka”) were stored for three durations (12, 24, and 32 weeks) in three kinds of stores (room temperature store [RTS], diffused light store [DLS], and air-conditioned store [ACS]). The experimental design was a split–split plot in a randomized complete block design with the potato varieties, storage conditions, and storage durations as the main, sub, and sub–sub plots, respectively. All the parameters assessed varied with variety except the plant height. Germination and establishment were significantly higher in ACS than in RTS and DLS. RTS and DLS resulted in more aboveground stems than ACS. Storage in ACS resulted in a significantly higher plant height, leaf number, total number and yield of tubers, and yield of saleable tubers in both seasons. Seed tubers stored for 24 weeks resulted in the highest establishment count and the mean number of aboveground stems in both seasons. Aboveground stems increased from 12 to 24 weeks of storage and declined at 32 weeks. Seed storage for 12 weeks resulted in the highest total number of tubers, whereas 32 weeks had the lowest number of tubers in both seasons. Seed storage for 12 and 32 weeks resulted in the highest yield of tubers in seasons 1 and 2, respectively. In conclusion, potato varieties varied greatly in the rate of physiological aging; hence, every variety required specific storage conditions and duration for optimal growth and yield.

Nanoscience and nanotechnology are new frontiers for this century. Nanotechnology translates into the ability to manipulate the material on a nanoscale. As in other sectors, recent developments in the field of nanoscience and nanotechnology offer new opportunities for innovation for food. Nanofoods are considered foods grown, produced, processed or packaged using nanotechnological tools that incorporate nanomaterials to improve nutritional quality, taste or texture, and increase the shelf life of food. Nanotechnology’s applications are diverse, going from nanoencapsulated ingredients, such as bioactive compounds, nutrients and food additives that increase the bioavailability of the compounds, to ingredients that constitute nanostructures and nanotextures that provide barriers for physical-chemical protection, which allow modification of flavour and odour. Also, has the potential to be used as biosensors to monitor food conditions during storage and transport, through packaging that includes indicators. This review covers the development and use of nanotechnology along the food supply chain, focusing the agricultural production, industrial processing and protection through packaging, as well as addressing the advantages and disadvantages of using this technology.

Soil salinity is a major limiting factor for crop productivity, which increases continuously due to climate change. This barrier can possibly be overcome with the occurrence of halotolerant endophytic bacteria which reportedly plays an important role in protecting plants against various environmental stresses. Therefore, plant growth-promoting microbes are used in agriculture as an inexpensive and eco-friendly technology to enhance crop productivity in saline areas. In this study, the three isolates with nitrogen fixation ability were applied for mitigation of salt stress. The isolates were coded as C3A1, C8D2, and K10P4 and applied to rice plants by seed priming method. Furthermore, they were given as single innoculant or combined as a consortium compared to control, which was without the addition of endophytic bacteria, while the inoculated seed was planted on saline semisolid Fahraeus media at 4 dS m −1 . The results showed that the single isolate of K10P4 endophytic bacteria increased the dry weight of rice plants, N uptake, and chlorophyll of plants in saline conditions. The combination of K10P4 isolate with C8D2 was synergistic and increased the population of endophytic bacteria in root tissue and chlorophyll content compared to the combination of C3A1 or three isolates. Meanwhile, the use of the 16S ribosomal RNA method on C3A1, C8D2, and K10P4 indentified the isolates as Ochrobactrum tritici (C3A1), Pseudomonas stutzeri (C8D2), and Pseudomonas stutzeri (K10P4).