2025

Selle valdkonna püsiv URIhttp://hdl.handle.net/10492/10054

Sirvi

Nüüd näidatakse 1 - 20 104

Acid composition of wines depending on grapevine (Vitis spp.) cultivars grown in Estonia
(Estonian University of Life Sciences, 2025) Rätsep, Reelika; Maante-Kuljus, Mariana; Karp, Kadri; Seeme, Kersti; Moor, Ulvi; Estonian University of Life Sciences. Institute of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences. Chair of Horticulture; Estonian University of Life Sciences. Institute of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences. Chair of Food Science and Technology
In Estonia’s very cool climate, excessive acid content in grapes can be a challenge due to delayed ripening. This study aimed to compare the acid profiles of commercial single-cultivar wines produced by Estonian winemakers, and assess the influence of grapevine cultivar. The wines were made from grapes of five different cultivars: ‘Solaris’, ‘Regent’, ‘Leon Millot’, ‘Cabernet Cortis’, and ‘Marquette’. The results revealed significant variation in malic, tartaric, citric, and lactic acid concentrations among the wines. Marquette exhibited the lowest malic acid content (0.3 g L⁻¹), while Leon Millot had the highest (4.4 g L⁻¹). Tartaric acid levels in wines ranged from 2.2 g L⁻¹ in Leon Millot to 4.1 g L⁻¹ in Regent. Citric acid levels varied considerably, with Solaris containing the highest concentration (1.44 g L⁻¹). Marquette had the highest lactic acid content (2.27 g L⁻¹), contributing to its smooth character. Total acid content in wines ranged from 6.9 g L⁻¹ in Marquette to 9.4 g L⁻¹ in Leon Millot, while pH values varied between 2.9 and 3.3. These findings indicate that grape cultivar significantly influences wine acid composition. Contrary to the hypothesis, excessive acid content was not a major issue in commercial wines; however, grape-growing conditions, such as high plastic tunnels, could alter this outcome. This study provides valuable insights for winemakers seeking to optimize acid balance and enhance wine quality in cool-climate viticulture.
Advancing precision agriculture: a case study of open source autosteering with AgOpenGPS and RTKbase
(Estonian University of Life Sciences, 2025) Linna, P.; Haapala, H.
Precision agriculture increasingly relies on Real-Time Kinematic (RTK) services to perform highly accurate tasks in the field. Robotics are gradually entering farming, demanding precise and reliable correction signals. However, before widespread adoption of autonomous field robots becomes a reality, automated tractors will remain in use for a significant period, becoming progressively more advanced. The market is currently filled with various manufacturers offering aftermarket autosteering systems, which incrementally bring farmers closer to the functionality of fully autonomous field robots. This study explores open-source solutions for cost-effective autosteering systems and RTK base stations. The project involved retrofitting a single farmer’s tractor with an autosteering system and establishing an RTK base station. As the pilot progressed, word of the implementation spread, leading to the creation of a dedicated communication channel for interested farmers. This platform has facilitated knowledge sharing and further adoption. Information about the project also reached other regions, inspiring similar initiatives that have significantly increased the number of RTK base stations in just two years. The results of this project demonstrate a strong demand for alternative solutions. Many farmers lack the financial resources to invest in expensive, proprietary systems or are unwilling to commit to recurring subscription fees. The goal remains the same, regardless of the implementation method, agriculture is moving steadily toward smarter, more precise practices and the eventual adoption of field robotics.
Agrivoltaics: a paradigm for sustainable dual land use - an overview
(Estonian University of Life Sciences, 2025) Arredondo, C.A.; Arredondo, A.G.; Arrieta Gonzalez, C.E.; Rajamani, V.; Sarkar, S.
Agrivoltaic systems is an emerging solution that combines agricultural production with photovoltaic energy generation on the same area. This paper synthesizes findings from approximately 251 peer-reviewed studies, technical reports, and real-world applications to explore the classification, benefits, and implementation of agrivoltaics systems globally. Case studies from Japan, France, Africa, and Latin America reveal yield increases above 10% for certain crops under partial shading and energy production outputs of up to 1.5 MW ha-1, depending on the panel type and configuration. The overview also examines key technological developments, such as bifacial modules and smart irrigation, which improve efficiency and resource management. Additionally, it discusses the economic, environmental, and social benefits and identifies the main barriers to widespread adoption. By evaluating current challenges and future perspectives, this overview provides a comprehensive synthesis of how agrivoltaic systems contribute to sustainable energy and food production, highlighting their global relevance, integrating emerging technologies, and emphasizing the policy frameworks that support successful deployment.
Agroindustrial wastewater: recent advances and perspectives on the use of constructed wetlands
(Estonian University of Life Sciences, 2025) Castelo, L.L.; Cecchin, D.; do Carmo, D.F.; Hüther, C.M.; Rodrigues, C.P.; Machado, T.B.; da Silva, L.D.B.; da Silva, F.C.; da Silva, J.P.; Hamacher, L.S.
The treatment of wastewater generated by agro-industrial activities, such as dairy production and animal slaughter, represents a significant environmental challenge due to the complexity of pollutants. This study aimed to conduct a systematic literature review on recent advances in the application of constructed wetlands for the treatment of wastewater from agro-industrial activities. The bibliographic survey was carried out using the Scopus database, where the following keywords were used: ‘Cattle wastewater’, ‘Fertigation’, and ‘Constructed Wetlands’, covering the period from 2014 to 2024. After applying filters and inclusion/exclusion criteria, the search resulted in 82 articles. The distribution of publications over the analyzed period was examined, and a keyword co-occurrence map was created using the VOSviewer software. The results indicate that the use of constructed wetlands combined with techniques such as photobioreactors and anaerobic digestion demonstrates high efficiency in pollutant removal while enabling resource recovery, such as biogas and nutrients. The analysis of the co-occurrence map revealed interconnected themes, suggesting a convergence of studies around hybrid solutions for wastewater treatment in dairy production, livestock farming, and slaughterhouses. Finally, the study highlights the main challenges related to the removal of emerging contaminants and the spread of antimicrobial resistance, emphasizing the need for rigorous monitoring and the implementation of effective public policies to ensure environmental safety and the sustainable use of water resources.
Agronomic and bromatological characteristics of Cassava cultivars
(Estonian University of Life Sciences, 2025) Silveira, R.B.; Pires, A.J.V.; Dutra, I.C.; Nogueira, M.S.; Andrade, W.R.; Jesus, M.R.; Oliveira, G.R.S.; Oliveira, E.J.; Silva, N.V.; Santos, B.E.F.; Sousa, M.P.; Públio, P.P.P.
The aim of this study was to evaluate the potential of the aerial part of cassava, analyzing its development and nutritional value, in addition to the production of biomass at different times and with different management. A randomized complete block design was used, with six cassava varieties (BRS Formosa, BRS Mulatinha, Eucalyptus, BRS White Pot, BRS Kiriris and BRS New Horizon) and five replicates, harvested six and twelve months after planting, with and without pruning. To evaluate the amount of biomass produced by the aerial part of cassava and the production of roots, a 6×2 factorial scheme in randomized complete blocks design was conducted. Six cassava varieties were tested, each with five replicates. The plants were harvested at two different times: with pruning (harvesting at six and twelve months after planting) and without pruning (single harvest at twelve months). There was an effect for the characteristics plant height, stem diameter, number of stems, number of leaves, lobe length, lobe width and petiole length, however when they were evaluated at twelve months, there was no effect, only for the characteristics lobe length and petiole length. It was found that there was an effect for dry matter, ether extract, hemicellulose and ADF. The BRS White Pot variety presented a higher concentration of non-fibrous carbohydrates. Differences were observed for neutral detergent fiber corrected for ash and protein and lignin. For the values of total digestible nutrients, the cultivars BRS White Pot, BRS New Horizon and BRS Formosa stood out in relation to the others. There was a difference in the protein fractionation of the different cassava cultivars for total nitrogen fraction, fraction A and fraction C when they were harvested six months after planting. However, when they were evaluated at twelve months, there was only an effect for fraction C. There was an effect for CT, fraction A+B1, fraction B2 and fraction C when they were evaluated six months after planting. However, when they were evaluated twelve months after planting there was no difference for total carbohydrates and fraction B2. The interaction was not significant between the different cultivars and pruning management for the production of green matter, dry matter, crude protein, total digestible nutrients of the aerial part and green matter and dry matter of the roots. In management without pruning, there was an increase in the variables PGMPA, PDMPA, PCPPA and PTDNPA. The cultivars BRS Mulatinha and BRS New Horizon are recommended as they present greater leaf retention and number of stems, providing greater biomass production when managed without pruning.
Agrophysical condition of chernozem as a criterion for its readiness for soil tillage minimization
(Estonian University of Life Sciences, 2025) Ihnatiev, Yevhen; Bulgakov, V.; Demydenko, O.; Holovach, I.; Trokhaniak, O.; Rucins, A.; Olt, Jüri; Estonian University of Life Sciences. Institute of Forestry and Engineering
The objective of this study was to develop an agrophysical criterion for assessing the condition of leached chernozem under systematic shallow tillage for six years, using differential porosity, crop productivity, and energy efficiency as indicators. The results were compared to those obtained under conventional ploughing, with the goal of evaluating the feasibility of further tillage minimization in a short-rotation grain crop rotation system. The study employed standard research methods, including field observations, laboratory analysis, mathematical statistics, and comparative-calculative approaches. Under shallow tillage, the median bulk density in the 0–30 cm soil layer was higher by 0.03 g cm–3 compared to ploughing, while the standardized density range remained similar across tillage systems. However, both the upper and lower typical values increased by 0.02 g cm–3 under shallow tillage. The coefficient of variation for bulk density was 1.85 times higher under ploughing than under shallow tillage. Differential porosity measurements across five crops in the sixth year of the trial revealed that in spring, shallow tillage resulted in higher bulk density (by 0.06 g cm–3), lower total porosity (by 3%), and a 6.0% reduction in air-filled pore volume compared to ploughing. At the same time, the ratio of waterfilled to air-filled pores approached an optimal 1:1 balance under shallow tillage, whereas ploughed soils showed a dominance of air-filled pores. Systematic use of both ploughing and conservation-oriented shallow tillage over five years in a five-field grain-row crop rotation produced similar levels of productivity in terms of yield, energy efficiency, and output of grain and feed units. While productivity indicators under ploughing remained stable relative to the mean, shallow tillage demonstrated a positive trend. This trend is associated with the completion 1513 of the transition period following the cessation of deep ploughing and the shift toward preliminary deep chisel tillage, followed by systematic shallow tillage at a depth of 10–12 cm.
Ammoniated sugarcane bagasse associated with cottonseed in sheep diets
(Estonian University of Life Sciences, 2025) Publio, P.P.P.; Pires, A.J.V.; Dutra, I.C.; Sousa, M.P.; Figueiredo, G.C.; Santos, H.O.; Oliveira, G.R.S.; Ferreira, E.P.L.; Santos, A.F.; Cardoso, P.H.S.; Teixeira, F.A; Albuquerque, M.L.P.
The experiment was carried out in the goat farming sector and forage laboratory at UESB, with the objective of evaluating the association of ammoniated sugarcane bagasse with cottonseed in sheep diets. The experimental period was 21 days, with 17 days for animal adaptation and 4 days for data collection. The test was conducted in a double 4×4 Latin square, in a 2×2 factorial scheme, with the factors being ammoniated sugarcane bagasse at 30 or 50% and cottonseed at 0 or 20% inclusion, in the dry matter of the total diet. The digestibility test took place between the 18th and 21st days of each period. For this purpose, leftovers and feces from each animal were quantified and collected during this period. The interaction was not significant in any of the variables studied for sugarcane bagasse and cottonseed, nor was there any effect for the addition of cottonseed to the diets, for dry matter intake kg day-1, %PC and g per kg0.75. The nitrogen balance was positive, as the nitrogen ingested was greater than the nitrogen excreted in urine and feces, indicating that the animal retained protein, meeting its protein requirements. The inclusion of cottonseed resulted in lower digestibility averages. This reduction can be attributed to the lignin content present in the diets studied, since cottonseed has a higher lignin concentration than the other foods analyzed. The use of cottonseed and the increase in the inclusion level of sugarcane bagasse by 50% resulted in an increase in the time spent by animals in feeding, ruminating and chewing activities. Furthermore, a reduction in consumption and rumination efficiency was observed, which correlated with a decrease in dry matter intake. The level of 30% sugar cane bagasse associated with 20% cotton seed promoted greater consumption of dry matter.
Analysis of charging capacity for electric vehicles in soviet-era apartment districts from the perspective of substation power availability
(Estonian University of Life Sciences, 2025) Lumi, Janek; Tooming, Allan; Estonian University of Life Sciences. Institute on Forestry and Engineering. Chair of Energy Application Engineering
This article analyses the potential for electric vehicle (EV) home charging in a Sovietera apartment district powered by the Lammi substation in Tartu, Estonia. Using one year of hourly electricity consumption data from 360 apartments, the study evaluates three load management scenarios to determine how many EVs can be supported without overloading the existing transformer infrastructure. The analysis is based on a worst-case winter week, reflecting realistic household consumption patterns and typical EV charging behaviour, which does not require daily charging. Three load control strategies are compared: (1) dynamic load management limited by weekly peak load; (2) fixed nighttime charging within a capped substation load; and (3) full dynamic charging for all apartments. The results show that up to 96, 218, and 360 EVs could be supported under these respective scenarios. The findings highlight how the choice of charging strategy significantly affects infrastructure demands and demonstrate that coordinated load management can enable broader EV integration without immediate large-scale investment. The study contributes practical insight for energy planners and housing associations seeking to align smart charging systems with the technical limits of existing substations.
Analysis of the potential of livestock excreta for urea production through anaerobic digestion: challenges and opportunities in Latin America
(Estonian University of Life Sciences, 2025) Villegas, S.; Rocha-Meneses, Lisandra; Luna-del Risco, M.; Arrieta-González, C.; González-Palacio, M.; Estonian University of Life Sciences. Institute of Forestry and Engineering
Urea is one of the most demanded fertilizers worldwide and in Latin America. The high dependence on international markets to meet the region’s urea demand, the high consumption of fossil energy for its production, and greenhouse gas emissions increase agricultural production costs and create the need to seek alternative processes for urea production to reduce these adverse effects. In this sense, this work explores the possibility of producing urea in Latin America from the ammonia and CO₂ generated in the anaerobic digestion process of livestock excreta under conditions that favor the production of both gases. The results indicate that it is possible to meet the demand for urea for agricultural use by utilizing 15% of its theoretical potential obtained from livestock excreta. This new alternative for obtaining urea brings economic benefits, reduces greenhouse gas emissions, and fosters social development. However, it faces legal, infrastructure, and technological barriers that may hinder the adoption of this technology in rural areas of Latin America.
Application of microwave and infrared treatment to reduce antinutrients in lupine seeds
(Estonian University of Life Sciences, 2025) Sterna, V.; Jansons, I.; Jansone, Z.; Zhylina, M.
Lupins are group of legumes that produce seeds containing up to 40% protein, making them an excellent source of food or feed. However, the nutritional value of legumes can be adversely affected by the presence of various anti-nutrients, including phytic acid, alkaloids etc. The aim of this study was to evaluate the potential of microwave and infrared radiation to reduce the levels of anti-nutrients - alkaloids and urease activity - in lupine seeds. The seed treatment was carried out using two different applications - microwave with time regimes 2 minutes or 6 minutes and infrared toplight with time regimes: 10 minutes at 25 °C and 30 minutes at 35 °C. Content of protein, fat, amino acids, alkaloids and urease activity were determined. The results show that in the samples of lupins the alkaloid content decreased from 0.07% to 0.05% after 6 min of microwave treatment and from 0.07% to 0.03% after 10 min of infrared treatment. Concluded that both treatments reduced the content of alkaloids and urease activity in lupine seeds, without significantly changing either the protein content or the amino acid composition and can be used for antinutrient reduction without loss of nutrients.
Assessing criteria for adopting sustainable subsoil management practices: an application of multinomial logit model
(Estonian University of Life Sciences, 2025) Aghabeygi, M.; Kiresiewa, Z.; Gerdes, H.; Schneider, C.
Subsoil management practices are crucial for improving agricultural sustainability by enhancing resource use efficiency and soil health. This study focuses on two key methods: (a) the cultivation of deep-rooted crops like alfalfa, which enhances the accessibility of subsoil resources for subsequent crops, and (b) strip-wise loosening of the subsoil combined with compost addition (UEK)1, which is being developed and tested within the framework of the Soil³ project. A comprehensive model is developed to assess factors influencing the adoption of these practices using a Multinomial Logit model and survey data from stakeholders in Anhalt-Bitterfeld, Rhein-Sieg-Kreis, and Teltow-Fläming in Germany. Stakeholder responses are categorized into four groups: stakeholder characteristics, adoption factors, alfalfa cultivation and UEK method features. Statistical and econometric analyses reveal three critical factors: insufficient soil water storage capacity, business orientation, and ownership relationships. Through the identification of marginal effects, it appears that ‘business orientation’ is more influential in the adoption of the alfalfa cultivation method compared to the UEK method, whereas ‘ownership relationships’ have a greater marginal effect in the UEK method compared to alfalfa cultivation. Findings suggest that policy interventions should address method-specific barriers, promoting business incentives for alfalfa cultivation and resolving land ownership issues for the UEK method. Tailored, regionspecific approaches are essential for promoting subsoil management practices, contributing to resilient and resource-efficient farming systems.
Assessing the yield potential of soybean maturity groups in different Ukrainian climatic zones
(Estonian University of Life Sciences, 2025) Yatsenko, V.; Yatsenko, N.; Komisarenko, N.; Kravchenko, V.; Vyshnevska, L.; Kovtunyuk, Z.; Lozinska, A.; Usyk, S.
In the context of global climate change, increasing demands for food security, and the need to expand sources of plant-based protein, soybean is gaining particular importance as a highly productive and valuable agricultural crop. Purpose. The study aimed to evaluate the yield potential of soybean cultivars from different maturity groups under various agro-climatic conditions of Ukraine by analysing their adaptability, productivity, and stability. The objective was to justify the selection of maturity groups best suited for specific regions to ensure sustainable soybean production. Methods. Field experiments were conducted in 2023–2024 across three agro-climatic zones: Odesa (Steppe), Cherkasy (Forest-Steppe), and Zhytomyr (Polissia). A total of 26 early- and mid-maturing soybean cultivars of Ukrainian and foreign origin were evaluated. Adaptive variability was assessed using standard statistical methods. Results. Among early-maturing cultivars, Taverna, Eri, and Calgary showed superior individual productivity, surpassing the standard by 9–13% in seed weight per plant and reaching yields up to 3.15 t ha⁻¹ in Polissia. These cultivars demonstrated high plasticity and stability across environments. Among mid-maturing cultivars, ES Visitor and ES Collector delivered consistently high yields across all zones, exceeding the standard by 0.09–0.26 t ha⁻¹. Alicia also showed high productivity in the Forest-Steppe and Polissia, making it suitable for regions with moderate moisture. The highest average yield for early-maturing cultivars was recorded in Polissia (2.50 t ha⁻¹), and for mid-maturing ones - in the Forest-Steppe (2.68 t ha⁻¹). Regardless of the zone, Taverna, Eri, Calgary, ES Visitor, and ES Collector demonstrated stable and high productivity. Conclusions. The findings provide a basis for optimising cultivar selection and soybean production technologies, tailored to regional climatic conditions and challenges posed by climate change.
Assessment of CO2 emission rate from extended area sources with WindTrax model in a dairy cattle farm
(Estonian University of Life Sciences, 2025) Mattia, A.; Merlini, M.; Squillace, F.; Rossi, G.; Conti, L.; Becciolini, V.
This paper aimed to evaluate the WindTrax model to quantify CO2 (carbon dioxide) emissions in a commercial dairy cattle farm in Central Italy with a low-cost measurement system. A field trial of 20 minutes was conducted in February 2023, using two G-eko 2.0 MSPs (multi-sensor platforms), an anemometer, and a GNSS receiver, in unstable atmospheric conditions. Then, 5-minute averaged data were used as input in the WindTrax software for applying the backward Lagrangian Stochastic model. The model was used for calculating four mean CO2 emission rates (0.20212 ± 0.04994 g m-2 s-1) with 50,000 particles and the horizontal dispersion of CO2 concentrations around the sources using different numbers of particles (5,000, 10,000, 30,0000, and 50,000). Atmospheric dispersion maps, confidence interval concentration maps, and vertical profile plots were obtained by increasing the number of particles. The model shows better performances, in terms of confidence intervals, with a high number of particles with a stabilization of modeled median values between 30,000 and 50,000 particles. Horizontally, the lowest confidence intervals (near to zero) were obtained at 100–150 m from the sources along the wind direction, suggesting that the downwind sensor could be placed at a greater distance. Similarly, a better-defined vertical trend in modeled concentrations is observed as the number of particles increases. Wind gusts could have a great effect on emission rate calculation with limited sampling periods, as in this case, but simultaneously unstable atmospheric conditions affect the increased dispersion and dilution of CO2.
Assessment of consumer awareness regarding the implementation of innovative food packaging
(Estonian University of Life Sciences, 2025) Gaworski, M.; Sołtys, P.
Food packaging fulfills many practical functions. They protect against harmful external factors and facilitate transport, distribution on the market, and storage of products in households. They also provide information on food products' type and composition, preparation method, and shelf life. The important role played by packaging contributes to their continuous improvement. An example of this improvement is the implementation of innovative solutions, including active and intelligent packaging. The question remains whether consumers know about these innovative facilities and whether they use them. In search of an answer to this question, a survey was conducted on 210 respondents in the Mazovian region (Poland). The survey aimed to assess consumer knowledge and awareness of active and intelligent food packaging. The study was conducted using the CAWI (Computer-Assisted Web Interview) method. As many as 79% of respondents did not know the term active packaging. It was similar in the case of intelligent packaging - 79% of respondents did not know this type of packaging. Respondents also showed a low level of knowledge regarding the different types of inserts in active packaging and examples of benefits offered by intelligent packaging. The survey results suggest the need to disseminate knowledge and benefits related to active and intelligent packaging.
Assessment of cultivation efficiency of several cultivars of blue lucerne (Medicago sativa L.) in the conditions of Shirak region of Armenia
(Estonian University of Life Sciences, 2025) Sadoyan, R.; Mkrtchyan, N.; Suvaryan, L.; Matevosyan, L.; Avetisyan, A.; Nersisyan, H.; Bayramyan, N.; Zadayan, M.; Shirvanyan, A.; Martirosyan, H.
Background: Lucerne (Medicago sativa L.) is a highly productive forage legume valued for its exceptional protein concentration, vitamin richness, digestible fiber, and bioactive compounds. One kilogram of lucerne green mass contains approximately 50 g of carotene, alongside calcium, phosphorus, and other essential nutrients, making it a cornerstone of sustainable livestock farming and a potential functional food source. Objective: The study aimed to assess agro-biological traits, green mass and hay yield, seed productivity, and protein concentration of 29 introduced lucerne cultivars from the All-Russian Institute of Crop Production (VIR) compared with the traditional local cultivar ‘Aparani’ under the agro-climatic conditions of the Shirak region in Armenia. Methods: Field experiments were conducted from 2019 to 2022 using a randomized design with four replications (plot size: 25 m²). Standard agronomic practices were applied. Protein concentration in seeds was determined by the Kjeldahl method, while dry matter and nitrogen values were analyzed at the Organic Agriculture Laboratory of ANAU. Statistical analysis was performed using ANOVA, LSD, and relative error (Ex, %). Results: Considerable variation was observed among cultivars in yield and adaptability. The Canadian cultivars ‘Admiral’ and ‘Adge’, the French cultivar ‘Derby’, and the American cultivar ‘Schild’ demonstrated the highest productivity. ‘Admiral’ showed superior early regrowth, growth vigor, leafiness, and seed productivity (8.8 c ha-1). Green mass yield reached 325.5 c ha-1 for ‘Admiral’ and 308.4 c ha-1 for ‘Adge’, while their seed protein concentrations were 16.3% and 15.6%, respectively, exceeding the local ‘Aparani’. Conclusion: The results indicate that ‘Admiral’ and ‘Adge’ are highly suitable for the Shirak region due to their high yields, adaptability, and nutritional value. Their adoption could enhance fodder self-sufficiency, improve livestock productivity, and expand the role of lucerne as a functional food crop rich in protein and bioactive compounds.
Assessment of new citrus hybrid rootstocks to salinity at the early seedling stage under greenhouse conditions
(Estonian University of Life Sciences, 2025) Majji, M.; Chetto, O.; Talha, A.; Bouaaza, G.; Beniken, L.; Benkirane, R.; Benyahia, H.
The citrus industry in arid areas is largely constrained by the salinity of irrigation water and soil. This study was conducted to determine how six novel citrus hybrid rootstocks will respond to salinity at the seedling stage. Three different NaCl concentrations, 0, 2, and 5 g L-1, were added to the half-concentrated Hoagland solution (corresponding to 1.3 (control), 4 and 9 dS m-1, respectively). Three-month-old seedlings grown in greenhouse conditions and transplanted in plastic pots were used. After two months of stress, different responses from the rootstocks and salt levels were observed. The addition of NaCl to the irrigation solution considerably decreased the fresh and dry weight and leaf chlorophyll content. Additionally, the proline content, soluble sugar, and the leaf chloride content increase with the increase in salinity. Our findings demonstrated that the hybrid Poncirus Trifoliata× Citrus reshni Hort. ex Tan. (V5) H6 is salt-sensitive, accumulating a high leaf chloride level of 46.92 mg g-1 of dry matter and a low chlorophyll content of 1.12 mg g-1 of fresh matter associated with signs of leaf toxicity, leading to poor fresh and dry weight. Although hybrid Poncirus Trifoliata× Citrus reshni Hort. ex Tan. (V1) H2 is thought to be salt-tolerant, it accumulates 38.88 mg g-1 of dry-matter leaf chloride and 1.72 mg g-1 of fresh-matter chlorophyll content.
Assessment of the spatiotemporal changes of saline-alkaline soils using GIS and, geospatial technologies methods: a community case study
(Estonian University of Life Sciences, 2025) Markosyan, A.O.; Zadayan, M.H.; Azgaldyan, G.; Baghdasaryan, S.K.; Kroyan, S.Z.; Markosyan, S.A.
Currently, in many countries, soil salinization is recognized as one of the primary land degradation processes, particularly in arid regions, where it significantly limits soil fertility and worsens ecological conditions. The widespread occurrence of solonetzic soils, including soda-type saline-alkaline soils, along with the intensification of salinization under changing climatic conditions and anthropogenic pressure, highlights the urgent need to update data on their distribution and expansion trends. This study, conducted between 2020 and 2022, presents the results of a survey of 600 hectares of saline soils in the Mrgashat settlement, Armavir Region, Republic of Armenia (center coordinates: 44° 5′ 14.36″ E, 40° 7′ 14.57″ N). A quantitative and qualitative assessment of the current state was carried out using GIS and remote sensing data, alongside soil sampling from six designated points. Newly salinized areas over the past 10 years were mapped, and the dynamics and direction of salinization were analyzed. The validity of the findings was corroborated by field survey data and relevant statistical indicators. The results indicate a clear trend of spatial and temporal expansion of salinized soils. Over the last two decades, the total salinized area has increased by 54 hectares, representing a 10.1% growth.
Biodiversity of phytoplankton (non-diatoms) as bio- indicators in assessing the water quality and trophic status of the Euphrates river between Al- Baghdadi and Al-Ramadi Cities, Western Iraq
(Estonian University of Life Sciences, 2025) Al-Tamimi, Abdul-Nasir A.M.; Al-Obeidi, Nawras A.S.
Given the global climate changes, especially the drought conditions that Iraq's climate has been suffering from in recent years, along with the stifling water scarcity, the current study aimed to focus on developing quantitative and qualitative tools and strategies for phytoplankton (non-diatoms) as vital indicators in order to protect ecosystems, enhance their resilience, and promote sustainability. Four sites were chosen for the most prominent cities. The main site within the river basin for the period from July 2022 to April 2023 to collect water samples and phytoplankton cells (non-diatoms). The current study showed that the water of the Euphrates River at the current study sites is warm, pH neutral, with high basicity and medium hardness, with EC, TDS and turbidity, and the BOD is high, exceeding permissible limits, with good ventilation. Cl and Na salts, nutrients as NO3, were available in normal proportions, with PO4 concentrations exceeding the permissible limits due to the river water’s impact on agricultural lands around the river basin. During the study, 137 species belonging to five main classes were identified. Chlorophyceae were dominant at a rate of 55%, followed by Cyanophyceae at a rate of 34%, then Euglenophyceae at a rate of 4%, then Pyrrophyceae at a rate of 4%, and Chrysophyceae at a rate of 1%, where the highest density was recorded. For phytoplankton cells (non-diatoms) in site 1 (Al-Baghdadi) 2,438.8 cells L-1, while the lowest density was recorded in site 4 (Al-Ramadi Dam) 1,761.2 cells L-1. The results of biodiversity indices showed that the waters of the Euphrates River have low to moderate biological diversity, little to moderate pollution, and moderate species richness, with high homogeneity in their distribution between sites. The predominant groups of species during the study period were Oscillatoria formosa, Pediastrum simplex, p. duplex, Scenedesmus alternate, S. dimorphus, S. quadricauda, S. artcuatus var. platydiscus, microporium crassior, Pediastrium boryanum, Coeloastrum microporium, Chrococcus limeticus, C. minor.
Bolstering household resilience to food insecurity in protracted crisis: the Case of Upper-Nile State, South Sudan
(Estonian University of Life Sciences, 2025) Bisetsa, E.; Burny, P.; Bititi, G.; Mumararungu, I.; Rwirahira, J.; Rutabagaya, E.
This study assessed food insecurity in four counties of Upper Nile State using the Food Consumption Score (FCS) and Household Hunger Scale (HHS). It also ascertained the coping mechanisms adopted by households in response to food insecurity using the Reduced Coping Strategy Index (rCSI), it also formulated recommendations to bolster the ability of households to withstand food insecurity. Quantitative data were collected through a structured household survey of 440 randomly selected respondents from 21 payams using two-stage cluster sampling with probability proportionate to size. Qualitative data were gathered via focus group discussions and interviews with community leaders. The findings reveal alarming food insecurity levels. Over half (55%) of households fall into the poor FCS category, characterized by minimal dietary diversity and insufficient protein, fruits, and vegetables, while 34.3% are borderline, and only 10.7% achieve acceptable dietary standards. The HHS shows 76.1% of households experience moderate hunger, reflecting significant health and well-being challenges. Coping mechanisms reveal further distress, with Baliet County reporting the highest mean rCSI (21.5), followed by Ulang (20.7), Melut (19.3), and Nasir (18.9). These findings underscore the urgent need for targeted interventions. Recommendations include promoting resilience through diversified livelihood activities such as small-scale agriculture, poultry, and goat-rearing, coupled with training and resource provision. Investments in drought-resistant seeds, improved farming techniques, and market access initiatives are essential. Additionally, community-based projects to rehabilitate irrigation systems and provide agricultural extension services could help sustain food security. The FCS, HHS, and rCSI metrics offer crucial insights into the extent and nature of food insecurity, guiding efforts to support the most vulnerable populations in Upper Nile State.
Carbon and nitrogen accumulation by agricultural crop residue under three cropping systems
(Estonian University of Life Sciences, 2025) Rancāne, S.; Lazdiņš, A.; Petaja, G.; Purviņa, D.; Zute, S.; Jansone, I.; Damškalne, M.; Putniece, G.
Agricultural crops produce different biomass during their growth, including varying amounts of residue which accumulate a significant amount of carbon (C) and nitrogen (N). Assimilation capacity depends largely on species, variety and growing condition. Carbon accumulation in soil contributes to both - the agricultural production and maintenance of environmental quality reducing atmospheric C and greenhouse gas emissions. In this study, the amount of plant residue left on the field by above-ground and below-ground residue and the amount of C and N accumulated in them in three different cropping systems: organic (Bio); integrated with a low input of N fertiliser (Int-low-N) and; integrated with a high input of N fertiliser (Int-high-N) were evaluated. The most commonly grown cereal crops in Latvia were tested: winter wheat (WW); summer wheat (SW); winter rye (WR); winter triticale (WT); summer barley (SB); summer oat (SO); and buckwheat (BW) as pseudo-cereal crop. The highest biomass of dry matter of total harvest residue in all cropping systems was recorded in WR: 853.3 ± 40.76 g m-2; 1,482.0 ± 105.06 g m-2; 1,628.3 ± 115.49 g m-2 - in Bio; Int-low-N; Int-high-N cropping systems, respectively. The highest amount of carbon (g C m-2) using organic cropping system was accumulated by residue of: WR (268.6 ± 28.68), BW (239.4 ± 10.50) and WW (234.5 ± 27.41). The highest amount of carbon (g C m-2) using integrated cropping system was accumulated by residue of: WR - 473.8 ± 64.9; 496.6 ± 62.54 and WT - 458.2 ± 32.57; 521.1 ± 46.26 in Int-low-N and Int-high-N, respectively. Higher proportion of root biomass cereals formed using organic cropping system.

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