International Journal of Agriculture and Biosciences

A comprehensive investigation assessed microplastic contamination in Thailand’s lower Mun River system, a critical freshwater resource in Southeast Asia. Sampling was conducted during the dry season using the Albatross Mark 6 (AM-6) device across four distinct land-use zones: pristine natural areas, agricultural landscapes, urban developments, and the Mun-Chi River confluence. Mean microplastic concentration was quantified at 168.41±66.64particles/m³, with urban zones exhibiting significantly elevated concentrations compared to natural areas (mean difference: 168.33particles/m³; 95% CI: 151.11-185.55, P<0.001). Morphological and spectroscopic analyses revealed a predominance of blue-pigmented fibrous particles, with polypropylene (PP) constituting 40.57% of identified polymers. Ecological risk assessment using Plastic Hazard Index (PHI), Pollution Load Index (PLI), and Potential Ecological Risk Index (PERI) demonstrated substantial environmental and human health implications across all sampling sites, with urban zones manifesting the highest risk profiles. These findings provide crucial evidence for the spatial heterogeneity of microplastic pollution in this riverine ecosystem, emphasizing the necessity for targeted mitigation strategies, particularly in urban corridors, to preserve the Mun River's ecological integrity and safeguard public health in this developing region.

Keywords: Microplastic contamination, Microplastics pollution, Polymer hazard index (PHI), Pollution load index (PLI), Potential ecological risk index (PERI).

The study investigated four commonly consumed rice varieties in the Eastern region of Saudi Arabia known as: Hasawi rice (Oryza Sativa L.), Basmati rice, Egyptian (Calrose) rice, and American (Parboiled) rice. The results showed that most respondents consume Hasawi rice because it has been a well -known food item since ancient times, while the main reason causing consumers to refrain from consuming Hasawi rice was a lack of awareness of its preparation. The results of the own-price elasticities of demand for rice showed that the demand for rice is price inelastic. Income elasticities identified Hasawi rice and Basmati rice as luxury rice items, while Egyptian and American rice were identified as necessities. Also, cross-price elasticities indicate that the only rice variety that can substitute Basmati rice is American rice. The other socio-economic factors influencing rice demand in Saudi Arabia are gender, place of residence, and education level.

Keywords: Rice, Two-step demand, Price elasticity, Income Elasticity.

This study evaluated the effectiveness of a plant-based nanoemulsion in influencing the cellular immune response and morphology of Spodoptera frugiperda as an environmentally friendly pest control approach. Two formulations of Mirabilis jalapa leaf nanoemulsion were tested: oil-in-water (F1: 0.1 and 0.8%) and water-in-oil (F2: 0.1, 0.2, 0.4, and 0.8%). Treatments were applied using the leaf-dipping method on larval diets. All nanoemulsion treatments (T1–T6) differed significantly from the control (P<0.0001, ANOVA and Tukey’s test). Exposure to nanoemulsion caused changes in the insect immune system, indicated by altered hemocyte counts, coagulation, and the presence of five hemocyte types in S. frugiperda larvae. Morphological abnormalities were also observed in larval, pupal, and adult stages. The oil-in-water formulation generally stimulated stronger immune responses than the water-in-oil formulation, while high F2 concentrations suppressed immunity due to stress effects. These findings suggest that M. jalapa nanoemulsion can serve as an eco-friendly biopesticide by modulating immune activity and disrupting the normal development of S. frugiperda.

Keywords: Biopesticide; Immune response; Morphology plant-based nanoemulsion; Spodoptera frugiperda.

This systematic review aims to assess the potential alternative feed ingredients promoting sustainable rabbit production by minimizing feed costs. These unconventional feedstuffs offer essential nutrients while reducing dependence on traditional feed sources, thereby enhancing cost efficiency. A structured literature search was conducted using major academic databases, including Scopus, Web of Science, ScienceDirect and Google Scholar. Studies were included based on the following criteria: focus on rabbits, evaluation of at least one alternative feed ingredient, and reporting of performance or health-related outcomes. Only articles published in English between 2010 and 2025 were considered. The final analysis comprised seven studies, all of which were conducted in sub-Saharan Africa and exclusively focused on the application of alternative feed ingredients in rabbit nutrition. This review demonstrates that ingredients such as false yam tuber, sweet potato peel meal, and rumen-filtrate fermented rice offal have shown promising results as maize substitutes, enhancing growth performance, improving nutrient digestibility, and reducing production costs. Similarly, mulberry leaf meal, maggot meal, and MOLM demonstrated potential as adequate replacements for SBM. It can be concluded through this systematic review that various alternative feed ingredients can successfully replace maize or soybean meal in rabbit diets without compromising the growth, health, or economic viability of rabbit production in sub-Saharan Africa.

Keywords: Alternative feed, Sustainable, Rabbit, Sub-Saharan Africa.

The article presents the results of research on the clonal micropropagation of the arctic bramble (Rubus arcticus L.) at the stages of microshoot rooting in vitro and of regenerating plants’ adaptation to non-sterile conditions (ex vitro). Regenerating plants of R. arcticus had the largest total root length in in vitro culture (on average 9.8 cm) when grown on Murashige & Skoog nutrient medium with the addition of 1.0mg L⁻¹ indole‑3‑butyric acid. The highest survival rate of regenerating plants of R. arcticus (90%) when adapting to non-sterile ex vitro conditions was noted when using a substrate from a mixture of peat with zeolite 3:1. An analysis of the anatomical structure of R. arcticus plants obtained by clonal micropropagation is presented for the first time. Significant anatomical and diagnostic traits of plants have been established, allowing for their species identification. The stem of R. arcticus is characterized by a fascicular type of structure in the upper part, while in the middle and basal part of the stem it is characterized by a transitional type of structure (from fascicular to non-fascicular). The leaves of R. arcticus are dorsoventral, hypostomatic, the stomatal apparatus is anomocytic. The petiole of the leaf of R. arcticus has a main parenchyma with 5 collateral bundles located there. The number of drupes in the fruit varied from 9 to 12; they are covered externally by a single-layer epidermis (exocarp), followed by a multi-layer storage tissue of the mesocarp. The inner part of the fruit consists of a woody endocarp (stone), inside of which is located one seed.

Keywords: Arctic bramble, Rubus arcticus, Clonal micropropagation, In vitro, Ex vitro, Morphological structure, Plant anatomy, Root system, Stem, Leaf, Fruit.

This study aims to evaluate the effect of protein and energy ratios in feed on growth performance, nutrient digestibility, and blood metabolite profiles in Pesisir cattle calves. Four calves were used in a Latin square design (4×4) with four treatment combinations: A (CP 12%: TDN 60%), B (CP 14%: TDN 60%), C (CP 12%: TDN 65%), and D (CP 14%: TDN 65%). The parameters observed included feed intake, feed conversion ratio (FCR), daily weight gain (DWG), dry matter digestibility, crude protein digestibility, organic matter digestibility, and blood glucose, urea, and cholesterol levels. The results showed that increasing protein and energy levels improved digestibility and growth performance in calves. Treatment D exhibited the most significant levels of DWG (588g/day), dry matter digestibility (64.61%), organic matter digestibility (67.57%), and crude protein digestibility (79.83%). Treatment D further minimized blood cholesterol and urea levels and boosted plasma glucose. It was concluded that combining the ration with 14% crude protein (CP) and 65% total digestible nutrients (TDN) gave the best performance and metabolic efficiency for Pesisir calves.

Keywords: Pesisir cattle, Protein, TDN, Digestibility, Blood metabolite.

The current study investigated the impact of fossil shell flour diets supplemented with varying inclusion levels of baobab oilseed cake on the growth performance and water intake of Angora goats. Twenty-four castrated Angora goats aged 5-6 months, weighing an average of 12.75±1.5kg, were kept in individual pens for 105 days of successive feeding, which included a 14-day adaptation period. Goats were randomly allocated to four dietary treatments: 0, 5, 10, and 15% baobab oilseed cake (n = 6) in a Completely Randomized Design. Fossil shell flour was fed at 4% across all four treatments. Each goat was offered an experimental diet of about 4% of its body weight at 08h00 daily. Goats were then released to graze on natural pasture at 10h00 and returned to their respective pens at 16h00 for 105 days of successive feeding. Average daily feed intake, average daily water intake, average daily weight gain, and feed conversion ratio were determined. Average feed intake increased linearly (P<0.05) across BOSC inclusion levels. Average daily weight gain increased linearly at 10% BOSC (P<0.05), with sharp quadratic increases at 0% (weeks 5–6), and at 5 and 15% BOSC (weeks 4-5) (P<0.05). Feed conversion ratio decreased linearly (P<0.05) in goats fed 5% BOSC throughout the trial, while goats fed 0% and 15% BOSC showed sharp quadratic declines (P<0.05) between weeks 4–5, and those fed 10% BOSC exhibited a quadratic decrease (P<0.05) between weeks 5–6. The average daily water intake was the same across all diets (P>0.05). Therefore, a fossil shell flour diet supplemented with 15% baobab oilseed cake significantly improved the ADFI and ADG of Angora goats without negatively affecting water intake. Thus, farmers could incorporate FSF diets with baobab oilseed cake to achieve maximal productivity in Angora goats.

Keywords: Angora goats, Average daily feed intake, Average daily weight gain, Feed conversion ratio, Water intake.

The global rise of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) poses a significant challenge for both human and veterinary health, particularly in low and middle-income countries where surveillance and stewardship remain limited. This study assessed the prevalence and resistance profiles of bacterial pathogens in clinical cases, with an emphasis on Salmonella enterica serovar Typhimurium. Out of 102 clinical samples, 54 (52.9%) were confirmed positive for S. Typhimurium. Phenotypic susceptibility testing revealed a high frequency of multidrug resistance, with marked resistance to fluoroquinolones, third-generation cephalosporins, and aminoglycosides. Molecular screening further detected resistance determinants, including qnrS (72%) and CTX-M (60%), with 40% of isolates harboring both genes, suggesting horizontal transfer and dissemination of extended-spectrum β-lactamases (ESBLs). These findings indicate the emergence of highly resistant Salmonella strains that may compromise therapeutic efficacy, increase the risk of treatment failure, and enhance zoonotic transmission. The results underscore the urgent need for integrated surveillance programs, prudent antibiotic use in clinical and veterinary practice, and alternative therapeutic approaches to mitigate the growing AMR threat at the human–animal interface.

Keywords: Antimicrobial resistance, Salmonella Typhimurium, Multidrug resistance, qnrS, CTX-M, Zoonosis, Clinical isolates.

The study evaluated gas exchange and early growth parameters of Theobroma cacao under different shading levels and substrate compositions in tropical conditions. The experiment followed a completely randomized design in a 3 × 5 factorial arrangement (three shading levels × five substrate compositions). The shading treatments consisted of two shade houses covered with black shade nets providing 30% and 50% shading, and an additional treatment under full sun (0% shading). Within each environment, the following substrates were assessed: 100% Carolina® peat substrate (Sub1), 80% Carolina + 20% vermiculite (Sub2), 60% Carolina + 40% vermiculite (Sub3), 40% Carolina + 60% vermiculite (Sub4), and 20% Carolina + 80% vermiculite (Sub5). In tropical environments, growing Theobroma cacao seedlings in full sun is not recommended. Changes in light availability and substrate composition affected seedling growth, quality, and gas exchange. Seedling production under 50% shading resulted in taller plants with greater shoot, root, and total dry matter accumulation, as well as improved overall seedling quality. In this environment, seedlings grown in an organic–mineral substrate containing 80% peat exhibited greater stem diameter, while those grown in 100% organomineral substrate showed higher CO₂ assimilation rates and higher instantaneous carboxylation efficiency (A/Ci). In tropical regions, the combination of moderate shading and peat-based substrates promotes better early development of Theobroma cacao seedlings.

Keywords: Shading levels; Shade nets; Organomineral substrate; Photosynthetic efficiency.

Cassava (Manihot esculenta Crantz) is a major food and industrial crop in Indonesia, yet its productivity is threatened by insect pests. The cassava lace bug, Vatiga illudens (Hemiptera: Tingidae), was recently detected in the country. This study assessed its population density, damage intensity, and potential impact on yield across sixteen cassava clones. A randomized block design with three replications was implemented under screenhouse conditions in Malang and field conditions in Lumajang, East Java. In the screenhouse, adult densities ranged from 4.9 to 20.4 individuals per plant (mean 10.6), with damage intensities from 2.4% to 45.5%. Clone OMM 12-6-112 showed the lowest damage (2.4%), whereas UJ5 and OMM 1207-22 suffered the highest (45.5%). A significant positive correlation was found between adult density and damage intensity (R² = 0.727). No lace bug infestation was recorded in the field trial. Tuber yield varied significantly among clones, from 18.41 to 62.27t/ha. Clone OMM 1204-09 combined high yield (62.27t/ha) with relatively low damage (7.6%). These findings provide quantitative evidence of V. illudens impact under screenhouse conditions and highlight tolerant clones as promising genetic resources for cassava breeding and sustainable cultivation in infested regions.

Keywords: Clone evaluation, Host plant resistance, Manihot esculenta, Pest crop interaction, Screening trial.

This study focused on the mobilization and enrichment of Kazakhstan’s forage genetic resources through dedicated collection missions conducted in 2024 across the Almaty, Jambyl, and Turkestan regions, which represent ecologically diverse zones of the southeastern republic. A total of 52 accessions of wild forage species were collected, including 30 belonging to the genus Medicago, along with several other valuable forage taxa. Detailed accession-level morphological and phenological traits were recorded during collection. Greenhouse evaluations of the Medicago subset revealed considerable variation in emergence and early development. Germination rates ranged from 50 to 100%, with a median of approximately 90%. Key developmental stages were chronologically documented: cotyledon emergence occurred between 29 December and 29 February, simple leaf development between 5 January and 11 March, and the appearance of the third true leaf between 1 February and 27 March. The duration of early development differed markedly among accessions, with a maximum inter-accession gap of 55 days and intra-accession variation of 23–38 days, indicating substantial phenological diversity that may contribute to stress avoidance and ecological adaptability. Field revisits to original collection sites revealed very low natural emergence rates (approximately 2–3%) in wild Medicago populations, likely attributable to hard-seededness and innate dormancy mechanisms. This emphasizes the importance of integrating seed-technology interventions with genetic improvement to enhance establishment rates under field conditions. Across surveyed habitats, wild Medicago species were most prevalent in mesic microhabitats and exhibited several adaptive traits; such as pronounced epicuticular wax, vigorous branching, and compact racemes—that are of considerable value for breeding under increasing heat, drought, and salinity stress. All collected accessions have been deposited in medium-term seed storage for preservation, and they will support ongoing greenhouse and field evaluations. Collectively, these genetic resources represent a strategically important donor pool for climate-resilient pre-breeding, germplasm enhancement, and the development of improved alfalfa and related forage crops in Kazakhstan.

Keywords: Forage crops, Wild relatives, Adaptivity, Expeditionary collection, Collections.

Acrylamide (ACR), being one of the major public health concerns, is produced during frying and baking of different foods and is widely used in various sectors such as research laboratories and cosmetics. This study aimed to induce testicular toxicity of acrylamide and to investigate a possible protective effect of natural antioxidant naringin in male albino rats. A total of twenty-five adult albino rats, aged 12-14 weeks, were used. Acrylamide was injected intraperitoneally at a dose of 30mg/kg daily for 20 days to induce testicular toxicity. Naringin was administered at doses of 75 and 100mg/kg by oral gavage daily for 20 days. Light microscopy examination showed necrotic spermatids, oedema, severe thinning and degeneration of wall of seminiferous tubules and necrotic spermatids in the lumen of seminiferous tubules. Comet assay undertaken on testicular cells showed genotoxicity in the form of comet cells in acrylamide treated group. Likely, acrylamide-treated rats gavaged with naringin showed a reduction in DNA damage. Antioxidative and oxidative stress profile in testicular tissues of rats showed a significant increase in (ROS and TBARS) in acrylamide-treated rats with lower values of antioxidant enzymes (SOD, POD, GSH, and CAT) compared to normal rats. The supplementation with naringin partially mitigates the induction of inflammation and oxidative stress. Together, Naringin, particularly at higher doses, could potentially offer a protective mechanism against ACR-mediated testicular toxicity. In conclusion, at the used dose, ACR caused toxic effects in male rats that can be reduced by concomitant treatment with a higher dose of naringin.

Keywords: Acrylamide, Albino rats, Naringin, Testes, Oxidative stress, Histopathology.

Coffee is a globally traded commodity produced mainly by smallholder farmers, whose production fluctuates due to the cultivation systems implemented. Adopting Good Agricultural Practices (GAPs) is crucial for supporting the sustainability of coffee farming and contributing to the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals. However, GAP adoption at the farmer level remains low, necessitating a more in-depth analysis of the psychological and structural factors that influence it. This study aims to analyze the factors affecting coffee farmers’ intentions and behavior in adopting GAP by integrating Behavioral Reasoning Theory (BRT) and the Theory of Planned Behavior (TPB) frameworks. Using a quantitative survey of 380 smallholder coffee farmers in Central Java, analyzed with structural equation modeling, the findings reveal that farmers’ beliefs both for and against sustainable farming strongly influence their attitudes, subjective norms, and perceived behavioral control. These constructs significantly drive intentions to adopt GAP, but intention alone is insufficient to ensure adoption due to both internal and external barriers. Enhanced GAP adoption requires addressing these barriers, particularly by strengthening farmers’ reasoning and intentions, and supporting them through capacity building, institutional reinforcement, expanded agricultural extension, and enabling government policies. This study advances theoretical understanding of agricultural innovation adoption by integrating the BRT–TPB framework and offers actionable insights for designing interventions to foster sustainable smallholder coffee farming systems.

Keywords: Coffee smallholders; Farmer attitudes; Good agricultural practices; Sustainability.

Ginger (Zingiber officinale Roscoe) is a spice of significant global importance, with a wide range of medicinal properties. Despite its socio-economic importance, the production of ginger in Côte d’Ivoire is limited by a number of constraints, including the reduction in the area under cultivation and the failure to adhere to technical itineraries. The objective of this study is to evaluate the impact of organic and mineral fertilization on the yield components of ginger cultivated in Côte d’Ivoire. To this end, the rhizomes of two varieties of ginger, one with white flesh and the other with yellow flesh, were cultivated and amended with organic fertilizer (poultry manure), mineral fertilizer (NPK 12-22-22) and a combination of the two types of fertilizer. The resulting data on emergence, growth and yield parameters were subjected to a two-factor analysis of variance (ANOVA 2). The analysis revealed that the interaction between variety and type of fertilizer showed no significant effect (p ˃0.05) on rhizome emergence parameters after sowing (delay, percentage and average emergence time), irrespective of the ginger variety. The results also demonstrated that the growth parameters of ginger plants, namely plant height, number of leaves, diameter at stem base and number of tillers per plant, were significantly improved with the combined application of organic and mineral fertilizers, irrespective of the ginger variety. This study demonstrates that the integration of organic and mineral fertilizers enhances ginger yields. The combination of these two fertilizers resulted in 12.79t/ha for the white-fleshed variety and 11.07t/ha for the yellow-fleshed variety.

Keywords: Ginger, Poultry droppings, Agromorphology, Tropical zone.

The escalating global antimicrobial resistance (AMR) crisis drives the search for novel antibacterial compounds from underexplored sources. This study aimed to evaluate the broad-spectrum and anti-multi-drug resistant (MDR) activity of a Lysinibacillus isolate from Indonesian peat soil, identify its bioactive compound, and perform an in silico pharmacological profiling. Methods included antibacterial activity testing using the Kirby-Bauer disc diffusion assay against MDR and non-MDR pathogens, compound identification via Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS), and prediction of ADMET properties, drug-likeness, and molecular docking simulations against DNA gyrase subunit B using various in silico platforms. Results demonstrated that the Lysinibacillus sp. supernatant exhibited broad inhibitory activity, including against MRSA (inhibition zone of 16.16mm) and ESBL-producing E. coli (11.76mm). GC-MS analysis identified 2,4-Di-tert-butylphenol (2,4-DTBP) as the primary compound. In silico profiling revealed that 2,4-DTBP complied with all Lipinski’s rules, possessed low toxicity (LD₅₀ 700mg/kg), a favourable pharmacokinetic profile (92% intestinal absorption, no inhibition of CYP450 enzymes), and strong binding affinity to DNA gyrase (-5.9kcal/mol). In conclusion, 2,4-DTBP from Lysinibacillus sp. is a promising antibacterial candidate, with a predicted mechanism of action via DNA gyrase inhibition, supported by an excellent in silico pharmacological profile for further development.

Keywords: Lysinibacillus, Antimicrobial resistance, 2,4-Di-tert-butylphenol, ADMET, GC-MS, DNA gyrase.

This study presents the development of functional dairy desserts with enhanced nutritional and technological properties, using the qualitative forecasting method. A two-stage consumer survey was conducted to identify key quality indicators valued by consumers, such as low-fat content, absence of added sugar, and high protein levels. These insights were integrated into the formulation of yogurt-based desserts enriched with a collagen-containing structurizer, designed to improve product plasticity and health benefits. The formulations were optimized using a complete factorial experimental design to assess the influence of key variables, including skimmed yogurt content, pasteurization temperature, and collagen additive concentration. A regression model describing their effect on product plasticity was developed. The final product met the target specifications of 0.5% fat, a plasticity of around 21cm²/g, and no added sugar. The integration of consumer expectations with statistical modeling and sensory analysis demonstrates a novel, systematic approach to developing clean-label, functional dairy products with potential nutraceutical value. The study successfully demonstrates a novel, systematic approach to developing clean-label, functional dairy products with potential nutraceutical value by integrating consumer expectations with statistical modeling and sensory analysis. The proposed qualimetric forecasting approach, which includes a two-stage sociological survey, effectively implements the “customer orientation” principle of quality management, providing a competitive advantage in product design.

Keywords: Quality management; Product design; Qualimetric forecasting; Consumer requirements; Dairy dessert.

The objective of this study is to develop a biodegradable film composed of whey and pectin that encapsulates lemon essential oil, serving as an environmentally friendly food packaging alternative with antibacterial properties. The incorporation of lemon essential oil, characterised by its bioactive compound limonene, is intended to enhance the film’s efficacy against microbial organisms. The film was fabricated using the solvent-casting method, incorporating lemon essential oil and employing encapsulation techniques to protect volatile compounds from degradation. The experimental study employed a randomised design, encompassing the following treatments: the three solutions are labelled P1, P2, and P3 and consist of whey-pectin, whey-pectin with lemon essential oil, and whey-pectin with encapsulated lemon essential oil, respectively. The findings of the Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) and EDS (Energy Dispersive X-ray Spectroscopy) analyses demonstrated significant chemical interactions between whey, pectin, and lemon essential oil. In addition, morphology observations indicated enhanced film stability and homogeneity. The antimicrobial activity of the essential oil was evaluated through in vitro experimentation against Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus. The findings demonstrated that encapsulating lemon essential oil led to a substantial increase in the inhibition zone against both gram-negative and gram-positive bacteria. The findings of this study suggest that this combination of natural materials has the potential to be utilised as effective, biodegradable food packaging that extends the shelf life and maintains food product safety, while supporting the sustainability of the food industry.

Keywords: Biodegradable, Encapsulation, Packaging, Pectin, Whey.

This study investigates the effectiveness of electric current and magnetic field treatments for eliminating major viral pathogens in potato plant tissues. The experiments were conducted on cuttings and apical parts of potato plants infected with potato virus X (PVX), potato virus S (PVS), potato virus M (PVM), potato leafroll virus (PLRV), and potato virus A (PVA). Each treatment mode included four biological replicates (n=4). For PVX, PVS, PLRV and PVA, six modes were tested (24 samples per virus), while for PVM twelve modes were applied (48 samples). Samples were considered ELISA-negative when A405 (sample) < 3 x A405 (negative control). The plant material was exposed to electric currents ranging from 10 to 50mA for durations between 10 and 30min. Virus infection was diagnosed by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) and reverse transcription PCR (RT-PCR); samples were considered virus-free when ELISA optical density values were lower than twice the mean absorbance of the negative control. The results demonstrated that the most effective electrotherapy parameters for PVM elimination were a current strength of 15–20mA and an exposure time of 20min. A comparable effect was observed for PVA using a current of 20mA for 30min. The antiviral effect of electrotherapy against PLRV persisted for one month in in vitro potato plants regenerated from cuttings treated with 20mA for 30min. The tested electrotherapy modes were ineffective in eliminating PVX and PVS. It was determined that prolonged exposure to electric current (>10min) can negatively affect the ability of plants to morphogenesis. Magnetic pulse treatment in the modes of 8, 16 and 32Hz did not ensure the elimination of PVX, PVY, PLRV and PVM. Magnetic treatment at a frequency of 8Hz of the Cerata and Colomba varieties led to a reduction in PVX and PVM content in potato tissues according to ELISA data.

Keywords: Potato viruses, Electrotherapy, Magnetic pulse treatment, In vitro culture, Virus elimination.

Rice production in Indonesia has declined due to shifting farmer preferences and increasingly adverse agricultural conditions, prompting many to pursue non-agricultural livelihoods. In this context, North Aceh Regency introduced advanced rice cultivation technologies. Despite these efforts, not all systems guarantee incomes above the Regional Minimum Wage (RMW). This study, therefore, estimates the likelihood that North Aceh rice farmers, represented by those from five sub-districts—Baktiya, Baktiya Barat, Muara Batu, Nisam, and Syamtalira Bayu—can achieve or exceed the RMW. Using quota sampling, farmers were selected from each cultivation system in the sub-districts until quotas were met, resulting in 180 respondents (45 per system). Data on yield, production cost, and grain prices were collected from these farmers between 2019 and 2022, yielding 540 data points. The stochastic variables analyzed included yield, price, and production cost. To model income variability and account for uncertainty, Monte Carlo simulations with 5,000 iterations were conducted in Microsoft Excel 2019, applying a 95% confidence interval. The results indicate that systems employing certified seeds, optimized plant spacing (2:1 and 3:1), three-stage fertilization, and systematic weeding provide a very high probability (around 99–100% probability of meeting or exceeding the RMW both seasonally and annually. Conversely, systems using only local or certified seeds show a 0–1% probability, while certified seeds combined with fertilizer yield approximately 40%. These findings underscore the need for targeted interventions—such as certified seed programs, optimized spacing, balanced fertilization, and farmer training—to improve income security and enhance rural economic resilience in North Aceh.

Keywords: Rice production, Cultivation systems, Farmers’ income, Regional Minimum Wage, Monte Carlo simulation.

The study assessed the capability of Regulated Deficit Irrigation (RDI) to improve water productivity, yield, and oil quality of olive trees (Olea europaea L. cv. ‘Nabali Mohassan’) under semi-arid climates of Hebron and Bethlehem in Palestine. Five irrigation treatments were evaluated over three growing seasons (2021–2024): a rainfed control, two different deficit irrigation (DI) levels (2.5% and 5% of crop evapotranspiration (ETc)), and two RDI levels (15% and 35% ETc). Each treatment included three replicates with ten trees per replicate (n = 150 trees in total). Regardless of irrigation treatment, RDI applied at 35% ETc (RDI2) was the most effective, increasing mean yield by approximately 20% compared with the rainfed control (ANOVA, F(4,10)=12.36, P<0.01; Tukey HSD). Additionally, RDI applied at 35% ETc (RDI2) markedly improved olive oil quality, yielding the highest phenolic content (32 mg/kg), the lowest free acidity (0.40%), and the lowest peroxide value (12 meq O₂/kg). Compared with the estimated full irrigation reference (100% ETc ≈ 43,500L•tree⁻¹ in Hebron and 38,500L•tree⁻¹ in Bethlehem), RDI2 saved approximately 65–70% of seasonal irrigation water while maintaining or enhancing productivity. Overall, this study concluded that RDI at 35% ETc (RDI2) is a highly effective, climate-resilient irrigation strategy that increases water-use efficiency and improves oil quality, thereby enabling sustainable olive production in water-scarce environments without yield penalties.

Keywords: Regulated Deficit Irrigation (RDI), Olive Productivity, Olive Oil Quality, Water Efficiency, Semi-Arid Agriculture.

Advanced sensing technologies, particularly hyperspectral sensing, provide a powerful, non-destructive approach for monitoring plant physiological responses to nutrient status and environmental conditions. This study aimed to compare the effects of two fertilization application methods (foliar spraying and soil drenching) on leaf nutrient uptake (N, P, K, Ca, Mg, and Fe) in Gardenia jasminoides cv. ‘Fortuniana’, assess their impact on canopy spectral reflectance, and explore correlations between leaf nutrient concentrations and hyperspectral reflectance to identify potential remote sensing indicators of nutritional status. The experiment was conducted in the greenhouse using a randomized complete block design (RCBD) with four replications, with five pots per block over one year. Gardenia plants were fertilized using either foliar spraying or soil drenching, followed by leaf nutrient analysis and canopy-level reflectance measurements in the visible (400-700nm) and near-infrared (700-950nm) ranges. Soil drenching significantly increased leaf N, P, and Ca concentrations, while foliar spraying enhanced Mg and Fe under foliar treatment. Nutrient ratios also differed between treatments, reflecting distinct internal nutrient balances. Spectrally, foliar-sprayed plants exhibited higher reflectance in the visible region, while soil-drenched plants showed stronger reflectance in the near infrared reflectance (NIR) range. Key wavelength regions with strong normalized difference indices (NDI) correlation were identified for nutrient monitoring: 400-430, 580-640, and 700-720nm for foliar spray, and 700-950nm for soil drenching. These findings underscore the potential of hyperspectral sensing for non-invasive, multi-nutrient diagnostics and optimized fertilizer management in precision agriculture.

Keywords: Hyperspectral, Remote sensing, Reflectance, Mineral ratio, Vegetation index.

This study aimed to analyze the effect of incorporating cow’s milk and goat’s milk on the physicochemical characteristics, texture, amino acid and fatty acid profiles, and functional activity of Cheddar cheese. Cheeses were produced using four treatments, namely 100% cow’s milk, 100% goat’s milk, 70% cow’s milk:30% goat’s milk, and 30% cow’s milk:70% goat’s milk. Analyses were conducted for pH, moisture, protein, fat, ash, texture profile, color, antioxidant activity (DPPH), microbiological quality, as well as amino acid and fatty acid profiles using FTIR, HPLC, and GC-FID methods. Sensory evaluation involved 25 semi-trained panelists using a 5-point hedonic scale, and data were analyzed by one-way ANOVA followed by Duncan’s test (P<0.05). The results showed that the 30% cow’s milk:70% goat’s milk treatment produced cheese with lower pH, higher protein content, and dominant amino acids (glutamate, proline, leucine). The highest antioxidant activity was observed in cheeses with higher proportions of cow’s milk, while goat’s milk contributed to higher levels of medium-chain fatty acids. Sensory evaluation revealed that all treatments were accepted by panelists within the “like” to “strongly like” category. This study provides practical implications for the development of functional Cheddar cheese based on cow–goat milk blends and represents an original contribution to the scientific basis of goat milk utilization in the dairy industry under tropical conditions.

Keywords: Cheddar cheese, Cow milk, Goat milk, Antioxidant activity, Texture profile.

Cotton is one of the major crops, and is crucial for the textile industry. Cotton is susceptible to various abiotic stresses, including heat stress. The Filamentous Thermosensitive (FTSH) gene family in plants encompasses a group of genes that are integral to the cellular response to heat stress. A total of 110 FTSH genes were identified across three cotton species: Gossypium hirsutum, Gossypium arboreum, and Gossypium raimondii. The genomic structure, evolutionary relationships, and functional implications of these genes were analyzed using advanced bioinformatics tools. Agarose gel electrophoresis confirmed the integrity of the extracted DNA, ensuring the reliability of the analysis. The key genes with differential expression were identified using quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR). To validate the identified candidate genes (GH_A01G0236.1, GH_A01G1045.1, GH_DO1G0225.1, and GH_DO1G1085.1), a qRT-PCR analysis was performed. The results showed that all of the genes were upregulated, but the GH_DO1G0225.1 gene exhibited higher differential expression. The fold expression of the GH_DO1G0225.1 gene was found to be 8-fold higher than the control. This research represents a significant step in characterizing FTSH gene function in cotton and demonstrates its potential in conferring heat resistance. The findings contribute to the development of heat-resilient cotton cultivars, offering promising applications for sustainable agriculture.

Keywords: Cotton, FTSH, Heat stress, Abiotic stress, Sustainable agriculture.

A female Cuvier’s beaked whale (Ziphius cavirostris), approximately 6.4 meters long, was found stranded and subsequently deceased on Tanakeke Island, South Sulawesi, Indonesia. Necropsy was performed, and tissue samples from the muscle, liver, spleen, and intestine were collected for histopathological analysis. Microscopic evaluation revealed peripheral hemorrhages in muscle tissue, extensive hepatic autolysis with vacuolation, bacterial presence, and sinusoidal disruption in the liver. The spleen exhibited total red and white pulp loss, accompanied by heavy macrophage infiltration and bacterial colonization. Intestinal samples showed villi degradation and the presence of rod-shaped bacteria, which are likely to reflect systemic stress and microbial imbalance. These findings suggest that a combination of trauma, infection, and possible environmental or decompression-related stressors contributed to the whale’s deterioration and stranding. This case highlights the value of histopathology in diagnosing health conditions in deep-diving cetaceans and underscores the importance of rapid response to marine mammal strandings for pathological evaluation.

Keywords: Ziphius cavirostris, Histopathology, Stranded whale, Organ lesions, Cuvier’s beaked whale, Marine mammal pathology.

Postharvest losses in paddies frequently occur during harvesting, threshing, drying, storage, and milling. This review aimed to synthesise the available evidence on technologies that address such losses across different postharvest stages. Using the PRISMA framework, we conducted a Scopus search on 18 August 2025 (“postharvest losses” AND paddy). Of the records retrieved, 23 met the inclusion criteria. For each study, we extracted the stage, technology, comparator, study design, and reported outcomes. These outcomes included mass loss, head rice yield (HRY), proportion of broken grains, moisture content (MC), time to reach the target MC, energy or cost per kilogram, insect and rodent damage or mortality, and seed germination. Units were standardized (dry-basis of MC). A random-effects meta-analysis was planned where at least three comparable contrasts were available; otherwise, a structured synthesis was applied. The evidence was strongest for drying and storage innovations. Small-scale recirculating dryers lowered the MC from approximately 20–25% to 11–13% within 4.0–4.7 hours at 39–40°C, whereas bag–bin systems reduced the MC from 35.4% to 8.7–13.4% over 11.7 hours at 39–55.6°C. Engineered drying was cost-competitive in wet seasons (Tk 0.74–0.87kg⁻¹ versus Tk 1.00kg⁻¹ for sun-drying), yielding a benefit–cost ratio of 1.9–2.4 with a payback period of under one year. Hermetic storage minimized moisture drift, insect damage, and breakage while increasing seed germination by 11.2 percentage points. RF heating was highly effective against insects, and attractant- or air-assisted traps enhanced capture. Rodent damage at community stores remained significant, although interventions reduced losses (e.g., from 14 to 4% and from 8.2 to 1.2%). At the milling stage, a 12-ton recirculating dryer improved mill capacity utilization from 33.3 to 60%. In summary, a tailored package of stage-specific measures—mechanical threshing, recirculating or fixed-bed drying calibrated by bed thickness, hermetic storage combined with RF or IPM approaches, and coordinated community rodent control—can reduce losses from the usual double-digit levels to low single digits at treated points while improving HRY. Successful scaling will require extension systems that emphasize evidence-based measurement and the mobilization of performance-linked financing (PLF).

Keywords: Head rice yield, Hermetic storage, Mechanical drying, Paddy, Postharvest losses.

Black soldier fly larvae (Hermetia illucens) represent a viable, sustainable protein source for aquaculture. However, its application in ornamental species, such as koi carp, which are economically vital, requires species-specific responses to maintain market value. This study aimed to investigate the growth performance, digestive enzyme activity, and color intensity of koi carp (Cyprinus carpio) fed black soldier fly larvae at 0, 25, 50, and 75% of the diet instead of fish meal. The carp were conducted with a treatment diet in glass tanks for 60 days. The research concluded that black soldier fly larvae can substitute fishmeal in carp diets. However, koi carp fed a meal supplemented with over 50% black soldier fly larvae had significantly lower final body weight, average weight increase, and average daily growth rate (P<0.05) compared to the control group and those fed a diet with a 25% replacement diet. The fish that consumed a diet with black soldier fly larvae instead of 75% had lower protease enzyme activity than the control group (P<0.05). In comparison, fish groups fed diets with black soldier fly larvae as a replacement for 50 and 75% showed considerably higher amylase and lipase activity than the control group (P<0.05). The L*, a*, and b* values for skin color intensity above the lateral line were not significantly different across groups (P>0.05). Therefore, black soldier fly larvae can replace fishmeal in carp diets not exceeding 25% without affecting growth, variations in digestive enzymes, and skin color. This information could improve koi carp culture and promote aquaculture to satisfy future sustainable demand.

Keywords: Alternative protein, Aquatic animal feed, Growth, Digestive enzyme, Skin color.

Scarus psittacus, or the common parrotfish, has an ecological role in coral reef ecosystems. However, this species is also a target of artisanal fisheries, including in the Karimunjawa Islands, where expanding tourism has intensified demand for reef fish and heightened pressure on coastal resources. This research aims to assess the stock status of S. psittacus resources in the waters of the Karimunjawa Islands, including analyzing growth and mortality parameters. Data collection was carried out from July 2024 to May 2025 from 259 fish samples. The growth rates, recruitment peak, mortality, and exploitation level were measured using FiSAT II. The results showed that the length-weight relationship of S. psittacus fish in the Karimunjawa Islands was rather negative isometric (b=2.43). The first size caught (Lc50%) was 22.94cm TL, with a total infinite length (L∞) of 29.9cm TL. The peak recruitment period is estimated to occur in June-July. The exploitation rate of 0.18 indicates that the utilization of S. psittacus in Karimunjawa waters remains underexploited. Therefore, fish production can be increased by carefully applying environmentally friendly and sustainable management principles.

Keywords: Exploitation rate, Growth, Karimunjawa islands, Recruitment, Scarus psittacus.

This article examines the potential of biotechnological purification of polluted water using higher aquatic plants such as Azolla (Azolla caroliniana Willd.) and duckweed (Lemna minor L.). During the study, the main physicochemical parameters, including pH, dissolved oxygen (DO), total nitrogen, ammonium ions (NH4+), nitrates (NH3+), phosphates (PO4+) and heavy metal ions (e.g., Pb2+, Cd2+), were determined in water samples polluted by industrial waste, agricultural wastewater, and other anthropogenic sources. The dynamics of their changes under the influence of A. caroliniana Willd., and L. minor L. were analyzed. Due to their rapid growth rate, biosorption capacity, and environmental adaptability, plants significantly reduce water pollutants within a short period. The results indicate that these higher aquatic plants can serve as effective agents in biological remediation processes. Specifically, when A. caroliniana Willd. When L. minor L. and Limnaea stagnalis were combined, their purification efficiency increased further. This study proposes relevant solutions using biotechnological approaches to ensure environmental safety, restore the natural state of water bodies, and achieve sustainable development. The results of the article provide a scientific and practical basis for the rehabilitation of natural water bodies, the preparation of water resources for secondary use, and the improvement of environmental monitoring systems.

Keywords: Azolla, Duckweed, Biotechnological remediation, Phytoremediation.