2026, Vol. 24, No. 1

Selle kollektsiooni püsiv URIhttp://hdl.handle.net/10492/10454

Sirvi

Nüüd näidatakse 1 - 20 24

Estimation of enteric methane emissions from crossbred beef cattle in Vietnam: a case study in quang Ngai province
(Estonian University of Life Sciences, 2026) Thao, L.D.; Dung, D.V.; Phung, L.D.; Loi, B.V.
The objective of this study was to estimate methane (CH₄) emissions from four crossbred cattle groups commonly raised in Vietnam: ½ Belgian Blue cattle (BBB × Lai Brahman), ½ Charolais cattle (Charolais × Lai Brahman), ½ Droughtmaster cattle (Droughtmaster × Lai Brahman), and ½ Red Angus cattle (Red Angus × Lai Brahman), from 6 to 18 months of age (n = 4 per group). All animals were fed the same diet and monitored for feed intake and weight gain. Gross energy intake was calculated, and enteric CH₄ emissions were estimated using the Tier 2 methodology of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change. Dry matter intake, live weight, and enteric CH₄ emissions (kg month⁻¹) increased with age in all groups. The highest values were observed in ½ Charolais, followed by ½ BBB, ½ Red Angus, and ½ Droughtmaster. However, emission intensity (kg CH₄ kg⁻¹ carcass weight or kg CH₄ kg⁻¹ edible protein) was significantly lower in ½ BBB and ½ Charolais compared to ½ Red Angus and ½ Droughtmaster (P < 0.001). Total enteric CH₄ emissions over the 13-month period averaged 67, 69, 61, and 64 kg for ½ BBB, ½ Charolais, ½ Droughtmaster, and ½ Red Angus, respectively. It is concluded that crossbreeding strategies that improve animal productivity can reduce enteric CH₄ emission intensity per unit of product.
A conceptual framework for adoption of conservation agriculture in South Pacific Island countries
(Estonian University of Life Sciences, 2026) Juttner-Melland, O.E.; Antille, D.L.; Monjardino, M.; Fulton, S.A.T.; Palmer, J.; Tacconi, F.; Misiewicz, P.A.; Barboza da Silva, R.
There is an opportunity, and an urgent need, for transformational change of the current farming systems in South Pacific Island countries (SPIC) to improve soil security, and therefore food, nutrition and income security, and to better adapt to climate change. Tillage-based systems are dominant across some SPIC and reliance on tillage may increase if the use of broad-spectrum herbicides is banned. Increased reliance on tillage, or its inappropriate use in fragile soils, may exacerbate soil degradation processes and lead to increased food insecurity in the region. A potential solution to addressing these problems is conservation agriculture (CA), a regenerative and sustainable farming system that promotes minimum soil disturbance, the maintenance of permanent soil cover and diversification of crop species, and soil conservation. The drivers for and barriers against uptake of CA in SPIC are not fully understood nor are they well documented, which makes it difficult for policymakers to devise effective measures and implement strategies for increased adoption. A conceptual framework to represent CA adoption in the SPIC context is proposed. The framework combined the ADOPT modelling tool (which predicted the time taken to adopt CA and the peak adoption level) with a Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, and Threats (SWOT) analysis (which synthetised present state and future potential based on expert knowledge and a literature review of CA). ADOPT modelling predicted that 45% peak adoption of CA would be reached after 23 years; however, removing key barriers to adoption could increase uptake to 62% and accelerate it by 13.2 years, reducing the timeframe to fewer than 10 years. Hence, the importance of developing policymakers and leaders’ awareness and understanding of the benefits of CA to facilitate capacity building and drive CA adoption. The developed framework can be tailored for specific target audiences, including policymakers, and research and extension officers, to inform a pathway for long-term CA adoption.
Predicting Work-Rest schedule for Firefighting activities based on core temperatures using of PHS Model
(Estonian University of Life Sciences, 2026) Ambo, Egle; Kuldmäe, Getter; Kuklane, Kalev; Estonian University of Life Sciences. Institute of Forestry and Engineering. Chair of Biosystems Engineering
The Predicted Heat Strain (PHS) model (ISO 7933) is used to estimate physiological strain and acceptable exposure times under heat stress, yet its accuracy in extreme occupational conditions remains uncertain. This study aimed to compare PHS model predictions of work–rest cycles with actual physiological responses measured during a simulated structural firefighting scenario. Eight (n = 8) volunteer firefighters participated in two experimental sessions in spring 2024 using two different dressing strategies: departing from the fire station already in full turnout gear or donning turnout gear only at the incident site when the need for smoke diving is obvious. Test persons completed a standardized protocol consisting of pre-work, heat exposure during treadmill exercise in a hot environment, and post-exposure recovery under neutral conditions. Core and skin temperatures were continuously monitored, and safety thresholds were applied. All test persons completed the full exposure without exceeding termination criteria. PHS model predictions showed discrepancies with measured responses: the PHSLU version overestimated, while the PHSFL version underestimated actual physiological strain and recovery times. These differences indicate potential risks, as underestimation may increase health hazards, whereas overestimation may unnecessarily limit task performance, and highlight the need for model refinement based on experimental data from human subjects to improve occupational heat stress assessment.
Impact of the CEMOS AUTOMATIC intelligent system on the field performance and energy efficiency of a CLAAS LEXION 770 combine harvester
(Estonian University of Life Sciences, 2026) Hristova, G.; Veleva, P.; Patev, T.
Efficient management of combine harvesters is a key factor in modern precision agriculture, where automation and intelligent control systems play an essential role in optimizing operational performance and energy efficiency. This study presents a comparative analysis of the CLAAS LEXION 770 combine harvester operating with and without the CEMOS AUTOMATIC intelligent optimization system during wheat harvesting (Avenue variety). Field experiments were conducted to evaluate key performance indicators, including grain losses, fuel consumption, engine load, and throughput capacity under real harvesting conditions. The results show that the use of the CEMOS AUTOMATIC system improved fuel efficiency by 7–10%, reduced grain losses by 15–20%, and provided more stable machine operation compared with manual control. Furthermore, the intelligent control algorithm optimized the settings of threshing and cleaning systems in real time, resulting in improved productivity and reduced operator workload. The findings confirm that the integration of automated optimization systems such as CEMOS AUTOMATIC significantly enhances the energy efficiency and sustainability of modern harvesting operations.
Potentially fatal incidents: identification, classification and human factor analysis
(Estonian University of Life Sciences, 2026) Lezdkalne, J.
Potentially fatal incidents (PFIs) are increasingly used as leading indicators in high-risk industries, yet their definitions, classification criteria, and investigative depth vary widely across organisations, limiting. their preventive value and comparability. Human factors (HF) play a critical role in determining whether incidents escalate into PFIs and must be considered together with technical and organisational barrier performance. This research aims to examine the role of human and organisational factors in PFI identification, analyse misclassification patterns, and propose a human-factors-based model to improve PFI classification consistency and learning value. A retrospective document analysis was conducted using incident reports from a heavy-industry organisation covering the period from 2020 to 2024. The dataset was systematically reviewed and PFI classifications were re-evaluated using a structured framework integrating hazardous energy and exposure assessment, barrier performance evaluation based on Bow-Tie logic, and human and organisational factor coding using an HFACS-based structure. Analysis revealed inconsistency in PFI classification, including overclassification and under-classification linked to limited recognition of human and organisational factors. Number of incidents were labelled as PFIs despite lacking credible fatal energy exposure, while other events with systemic and human-factor contributors associated with fatal risk were not recognised as PFIs. The HF-PFI Model demonstrated improved classification reliability by integrating energy exposure, barrier status, human factor categories, and systemic indicators. Integrating human-factors analysis into PFI identification can strengthen serious injury and fatality prevention in high-risk industrial environments.
Influence of anthropogenic factors on humus in Phaeozems of Ashotsk land cadastral district
(Estonian University of Life Sciences, 2026) Kroyan, S.Z.; Baghdasaryan, S.K.; Markosyan, S.A.; Kroyan, N.S.; Zadayan, M.H.; Markosyan, A.O.
The study was conducted on Phaeozems of the Ashotsk land cadastral region (ALCR), Republic of Armenia. Field investigations compared virgin and long-term cultivated soil variants. Total humus content was determined using the Tyurin method, and the qualitative composition of humus was analyzed according to the Kononova and Belchikova procedure. The results demonstrated that in the plough horizon of cultivated soils, the content and total stock of humic acids, fulvic acids, and non-hydrolyzable residue decreased by 18%, 15.6%, and 17%, respectively. Under prolonged agricultural use, both quantitative and qualitative humus characteristics changed considerably. Compared with virgin soils, total humus content declined by approximately 32%, while humic and fulvic acid fractions decreased by 16–18%. These findings confirm progressive deterioration of humus in cultivated Phaeozems and highlight the necessity of fertility restoration measures. Management practices that may be considered include the application of organic fertilizers (55–65 t ha-1) combined with mineral fertilizers in prescribed doses (N90, P100, K60) and the implementation of minimum or zero tillage within adaptive landscape farming systems.
Influence of different classes of agrochemicals on the growth and viability of microorganisms in biofertilizers
(Estonian University of Life Sciences, 2026) Tsaturyan, A.H.; Khachatryan, G.M.; Goginyan, A.V.; Zakharyan, Y.H.; Chesnokov, Y.V.; Goginyan, V.B.
The compatibility of biofertilizers with conventional agrochemicals is a critical but underexplored factor influencing integrated crop management. While biofertilizers offer sustainable alternatives to chemical inputs, their simultaneous application with pesticides and micronutrient formulations may compromise microbial viability and functionality. This study systematically evaluated the in vitro compatibility of commonly used agrochemicals with microbial strains constituting the biofertilizers N-Fixera (Azotobacter chroococcum MDC 6111) and PhosRhiza (Paenibacillus polymyxa MDC 280 and Priestia megaterium MDC 2124). Microbial responses were assessed using a disc diffusion assay on Petri dishes, with growth stimulation or inhibition scored on a five-point scale. Agrochemicals were classified as insecticides, herbicides, fungicides, or micronutrient formulations. Data were integrated via heatmaps and class-level averaging to reveal general compatibility patterns. Results demonstrated pronounced strain-specific and chemical class–dependent effects. Insecticides and fungicides exerted the strongest selective pressure, markedly inhibiting spore-forming Gram-positive bacteria, whereas A. chroococcum exhibited higher tolerance and occasional stimulation. Herbicides were largely neutral or weakly stimulatory across all strains, indicating minimal direct microbial toxicity. Micronutrient formulations showed a narrow safety margin, with complex mixtures strongly inhibiting nitrogen-fixing bacteria. These findings indicate that compatibility cannot be generalized at the product level and must be evaluated at the strain level. The proposed visualization-based framework offers a practical tool for optimizing the combined use of biological fertilizers and agrochemicals, enhancing the reliability, sustainability, and efficiency of integrated crop management strategies.
Optimization of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium fertilization for maximizing root yield and inulin yield in chicory (Cichorium intybus L.)
(Estonian University of Life Sciences, 2026) Mazurenko, B.; Honchar, L.; Yunyk, A.; Kovalenko, R.; Shutyi, O.; Kalenska, S.
Root chicory (Cichorium intybus L.) is an important industrial crop for inulin production, but the optimization of mineral fertilization under fertile chernozem soils remains insufficiently defined. Under such conditions, additional fertilizer inputs may not proportionally increase root and inulin yield and may lead to higher residual nutrient levels after harvest. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of nitrogen and phosphorus-potassium fertilization on root biomass traits, crude inulin content, inulin yield, and post-harvest soil nutrient status of root chicory grown in the Right-Bank Forest-Steppe of Ukraine. A three-year field experiment (2021–2023) was conducted using a two-factor design with incremental PK and N rates. Cluster analysis and pairwise correlation coefficients were calculated between these parameters. The proposed approach to determining the optimal fertilizer rates for maximizing yield in individual years indicated values of N130P66K110, N150P60K100, and N120P72K120, with an average of N130P66K110. The highest inulin yield reached 5.80 t ha-1, compared with 2.88 t ha-1 in the unfertilized control. Crude inulin concentration varied less than biomass-related traits, indicating that industrial raw material output depended primarily on root productivity rather than on large changes in inulin concentration alone. Post-harvest soil analysis showed that nitrogen fertilization increased residual hydrolysable nitrogen, whereas PK fertilization mainly increased mobile phosphorus at higher application rates. Thus, optimization of chicory fertilization under fertile chernozem conditions should be considered not only as a strategy for maximizing root and inulin yield, but a way to improve nutrient-use efficiency and avoid unnecessary nutrient surpluses.
Soil chemical and biological properties after long-term of spring barley monoculture under different agricultural practices
(Estonian University of Life Sciences, 2026) Talve, Tiina; Edesi, Liina; Võsa, Taavi; Saue, Triin; Viil, Peeter; Karron, Elina
Sustainable agriculture supports soil health and the growth of microorganisms through various agricultural management practices. This multidisciplinary study connected agrotechnology, agrochemistry, and soil microbiology. A 29-year barley monoculture field trial was conducted, focusing on soil pH, soil organic carbon (Corg), dehydrogenase activity (DHA), and the abundance of bacteria, including Gram-positive (Gram+) and Gram-negative (Gram-) bacteria, Actinobacteria, and saprotrophic fungi. Three agrotechnological factors were considered: chemical plant protection (no protection (PP0), herbicides (H), herbicides, and fungicides (HF)); fertilization (only mineral fertilizer (NPK) and mineral fertilizer with cattle slurry addition (NPKS)); and tillage (autumn shallow mixing (AM), autumn ploughless tillage (APT), autumn plowing (AP), and spring plowing (SP)). All agrotechnological factors were found to have a significant effect on the measured variables, with fertilization having the strongest effect, followed by chemical plant protection and tillage practices. The application of cattle slurry six years ago with annual mineral fertilizer had a significant positive effect on all measured properties, except for saprotrophic fungi. The absence of chemical plant protection significantly increased Corg and DHA, Gram-positive bacteria, and Actinobacteria, whereas the lowest amounts of Gram-positive bacteria, Gram-negative bacteria, and Actinobacteria were found in treatments with only herbicide application, followed by herbicide and fungicide combined. Tillage is an important factor for Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria and fungal biomass. Tillage had the most significant effect on fungal biomass compared to plant protection and fertilization. Intensive tillage (deep plowing) in autumn had the strongest negative effect on soil microbiota.
Bee colony weight dynamics during passive wintering period
(Estonian University of Life Sciences, 2026) Zacepins, A.; Komasilova, O.; Kotovs, D.; Komasilovs, V.; Gailis, J.; Tikuma, B.
Honeybees (Apis mellifera) are essential for maintaining ecological balance and enhancing agricultural productivity through their pollination services. Gaining insight into the internal conditions of a honeybee colony is crucial for evaluating its health, productivity, and seasonal dynamics. In the northern countries bee colony activity is divided into two periods: active summer and winter passive periods. Monitoring the weight of honey bee colonies provides valuable insight into their physiological status, food consumption, and survival potential during wintering. This study investigates the weight dynamics of bee colonies throughout the passive wintering period, aiming to better understand colony metabolism and resource utilization under low-activity conditions. Continuous weight measurements were recorded using electronic hive scales. The data were analysed to assess temporal trends in colony mass loss and to identify environmental or management factors influencing these changes. Results showed a gradual decrease in hive weight corresponding to the consumption of stored honey, with the rate of loss varying in response to external temperature fluctuations and colony strength. These findings contribute to improving winter management practices by providing quantitative parameters of weight consumption for assessing colony health and predicting overwintering success.
Manifestation of elements of seed productivity of plants of the national collection of edible buckwheat (Fagopyrum Esculentum Moench.)
(Estonian University of Life Sciences, 2026) Tryhub, O.V.; Liashenko, V.V.; Bahan, A.V.; Shakalii, S.M.; Yurchenko, S.O.; Rybalchenko, A.M.; Kryvoruchko, L.M.; Shevchuk, V.M.
Today, a significant part of the zoned varieties of buckwheat (Fagopyrum esculentum Moench.) are included in the national collection and are constantly monitored for a complex of economically and breeding-important traits. The purpose of the study is to investigate the variability and interrelationships of seed productivity indicators in samples of the national collection of buckwheat in terms of productivity and precocity. The research material was 232 samples of the national collection of buckwheat in Ukraine. The research was conducted during 2007–2024 in the conditions of the Forest-Steppe of Ukraine (Ustymivsk Plant Research Station of the V.Ya. Yuryev Institute of Plant Production). According to the results of the research, the selected samples of buckwheat showed a yield level of more than 380 g m-2, plant and inflorescence productivity - more than 2.0 g and 0.05 g, respectively, and a weight of 1,000 grains of more than 22 g. Valuable sources of early maturity with a vegetation period of up to 72 days inclusive were identified. A high level of variation of the studied traits was established, in particular: yield, plant productivity, inflorescence productivity, lower branch attachment height, lower inflorescence attachment height (V = 23.4–50.0%). The weight of 1,000 grains, plant height, and the duration of the vegetation period had a low coefficient of variation (V = 23.4%), which indicated a stable manifestation of these traits. A strong relationship was noted between the height of the lower branch attachment and the height of the lower inflorescence attachment (r = 0.75), yield and plant productivity (r = 0.85). Correlations of medium strength were established between plant height and the duration of the growing season (r = 0.41), yield and inflorescence productivity (r = 0.64). Valuable sources of productivity and precocity were identified among the samples of the national collection of edible buckwheat. Highly productive samples of edible buckwheat were noted - P-470 and KDS-20-23 (in terms of yield, plant and inflorescence productivity); Yuvileyna 100, Yaroslavna and SYN 3/02 (in terms of yield, plant productivity and 1,000-grain weight). Samples of edible buckwheat P-370, P-396 and Sumchanka were identified for precocity.
Productivity and quality indicators of soybean varieties in the conditions of the western forest-steppe of Ukraine
(Estonian University of Life Sciences, 2026) Konyk, H.; Stasiv, O.; Tymchyshyn, O.; Tkachenko, L.; Rudavska, N.
The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of seed inoculation with the nitrogen-fixing preparation HiStick® Soy, the mycorrhiza-forming preparation Mycofriend®, and foliar application of the multicomponent fertilizer StimOrganic on the yield and quality parameters of the soybean varieties Tytan and Mozart under the agroclimatic conditions of the Western Forest-Steppe. Field, laboratory (for determining seed quality indicators), and statistical methods (for evaluating data reliability) were applied. Field experiments were conducted on grey forest surface-gleyed soils. Inoculation of soybean seeds with HiStick® Soy increased individual plant productivity: the average number of pods per plant increased by 2.1% in Tytan and 0.8% in Mozart; the number of seeds per plant increased by 2.2% and 0.58%, respectively; and the grain weight per plant increased by 3.4% and 3.1%. The highest yields were achieved when soybean seeds were treated with Mycofriend® and received foliar fertilization with StimOrganic in combination with HiStick® Soy inoculation - 3.29 t ha-1 for Tytan and 3.52 t ha-1 for Mozart. In these treatments, crude protein content in soybean seeds increased compared to the control by 1.1% in Tytan (up to 39.1%) and 1.8% in Mozart (up to 37.4%). These results can be applied in agricultural practice to enhance soybean productivity and produce high-quality grain.
Agronomic performance of 105 varieties of barley for malting purposes under field conditions using a sustainable approach
(Estonian University of Life Sciences, 2026) Román-Gutiérrez, A.D.; Rojas-Zamora, U.; Vázquez-Cuevas, G.M.
Barley is widely recognized as one of the four major crops, along with wheat, maize, and rice. Nowadays, these characteristics are as desirable as ever under the sustainable crop production wing. As such, research regarding alternatives for increasing yield and quality production has led to different trends where Genetically Modified Organisms (GMO), variety breeding, and the mapping of desirable genetic trends are probably among the main goals within cereal research. Considering the aforementioned, this research aimed to study the main agricultural characteristics of 105 different varieties of barley growing under field conditions following a sustainable agricultural practice protocol, including their resistance against some of the most common threats to this crop (yellow rust, leaf rust, and barley yellow dwarf virus). This included varieties from different regions, and the most commonly used ones by local producers. Results from this study showed that 10.9% of the tested varieties were able to fully grow. More importantly, these included 2 out of 4 locally grown varieties. Regarding plants’ resistance to diseases, all germinated varieties showed similar traits. However, when looking at the seed proximate analysis, five of these varieties were shown to be unsuitable for malting purposes. Overall results showed that a small percentage of varieties (7.61%) meet both disease resistance and malting standards under a sustainable agricultural practice. These results allow for the identification of the strengths of locally produced crops under commonly used agricultural practices as a viable alternative to the use of agrochemicals.
Productivity of modern Bulgarian and Polish winter triticale varieties in three locations in Bulgaria
(Estonian University of Life Sciences, 2026) Muhova, A.; Stefanova-Dobreva, S.; Stoyanov, H.; Ur, Z.; Bonchev, B.
A comparative four-year field trial of triticale productivity was conducted in two climatic regions of Bulgaria. The work was carried out on the experimental fields of the scientific institutes in Sadovo, Chirpan and General Toshevo at the Agricultural Academy (Bulgaria). Ten triticale varieties - Bulgarian and Polish selections, were studied. Sowing for each variety was carried out on an area of 10 m² in 3 repetitions, after a predecessor of sunflower without applying fertilizers. Environmental conditions were assessed using the De Marton Index. Grain yield, the influence of the variety, the conditions of the year and the location were analysed, and the highestyielding varieties for each agrometeorological region were identified. The significant differences in the mean values were calculated using the least significant difference (LSD) procedure and the significant F-test. The results showed that the effects of the variety, location and the total effect of the variety and location are similar and medium in size. The Avocado (5,357.0 kg ha-1), Doni-52 (5,357.0 kg ha-1) and Casino (9,231.0 kg ha-1) varieties are underlined in terms of grain yield in the three regions, Chirpan, Sadovo and General Toshevo, respectively. The highest average yield was achieved in General Toshevo (7,452.0 kg ha-1), followed by Sadovo (5,494.0 kg ha-1) and Chirpan (4,918.0 kg ha-1). 2021 was the most successful in terms of production, which is associated with semi-humid conditions in General Toshevo, Chirpan and Sadovo, according to the De Marton Index.
A cost-effective and simplified protocol for fungal DNA extraction using silica-based grinding, without liquid nitrogen or lyophilization
(Estonian University of Life Sciences, 2026) Benzahra, H.; Mrabti, I.; Grijja, H.; Samdi, A.; Selmaoui, K.; Afechtal, M.
Efficient DNA extraction from filamentous fungi is often hindered in developing countries because of the limited availability of liquid nitrogen and lyophilization, which are widely used for breaking down the fungal cell walls. While the production and storage of liquid nitrogen pose significant environmental concerns owing to their high carbon footprint and associated costs, the adoption of lyophilization is restricted by its substantial operational expenses. To address these challenges, a cost-effective and accessible CTAB-based DNA extraction protocol was developed, utilizing silicon dioxide as an abrasive, along with mortar and pestle grinding. This approach eliminates the dependency on liquid nitrogen and lyophilization. DNA was successfully extracted from the mycelia of Colletotrichum sp.1, Colletotrichum sp. 2, and Penicillium sp. using the developed protocol. Spectrophotometric quantification revealed high average DNA concentrations. Purity was assessed using A260/280 and A260/230 absorbance ratios, which fell within the recommended range, indicating minimal contamination and high-quality DNA. DNA integrity was further confirmed by PCR amplification using ITS1 and ITS4 primers, producing expected amplicons of 594 bp for both Colletotrichum species and 585 bp for Penicillium. This protocol provides a reliable and affordable alternative for DNA extraction from fungal mycelia, enabling broader accessibility to laboratories with limited resources.
Optimization of ultrasonic-assisted extraction conditions for polyphenols from Algerian Phlomis Crinita (Cav.) by response surface methodology
(Estonian University of Life Sciences, 2026) Ait Chaouche, F.S.; Boukhari, N.
The aim of this study is to determine the optimal conditions for ultrasonic-assisted extraction (UAE) to maximize the yield, total polyphenols content and antioxidant activity of Algerian Phlomis crinita (Cav.) extracts. The effect of extraction parameters is evaluated by response surface methodology (RSM). The antioxidant activity of the extracts is determined by the 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) radical assay. The maximum yield obtained from ultrasound-assisted extraction is 18.54% (g per 100 g) with a total polyphenols content of 175.75 mg of Gallic acid equivalent (GAE) per gram of extract and an antioxidant activity expressed by the value of the half-maximal inhibitory concentration (IC₅₀) of 7.51 mg L-1 of Phlomis crinita extracts. The optimum conditions for this result are 60 min for extraction time, ultrasonic power of 40 W, a ratio of 1:20 g mL-1 for vegetable matter/solvent and a methanol concentration of 70% (v v-1). The results confirmed the efficiency of ultrasonic extraction and response surface methodology in optimizing the extraction of bioactive compounds from Phlomis crinita.
Species composition and population structure of phytopathogenic fungi in sugar beet agrocenoses of shortrotation crop rotations in the western forest-steppe of Ukraine
(Estonian University of Life Sciences, 2026) Kyselov, D.; Kalenska, S.
This study analyzed the species composition and population structure of phytopathogenic fungi in short-rotation sugar beet agrocenoses of the Western Forest-Steppe of Ukraine. Based on 150 samples (90 roots and 60 rhizosphere soil samples) collected from fields of PE “Zakhidnyi Buh”, a total of 240 fungal isolates were identified. The dominant taxa included Fusarium oxysporum, F. solani, Phoma betae, Rhizoctonia solani, and Botrytis cinerea, accounting for more than 90% of the rhizosphere mycobiota. The genus Fusarium was the most abundant (48 ± 3.5%), forming a stable infectious core of the agroecosystem. Short-rotation crop sequences (wheat-soybean-beet and maize-soybean-beet) were found to increase the isolation frequency of F. oxysporum by 25–30% and Phoma betae by 18–22% compared with other systems, while the share of Rhizoctonia solani in rotations with maize reached 16%. Soil type significantly influenced the species profile: F. oxysporum predominated in calcareous sandy soils (≈35%), whereas F. solani and P. betae were dominant in chernozems. Morphological variability of Fusarium isolates (pigmentation and sporulation level of 2.5×10⁵–1.8×10⁶ spores mL⁻¹) indicated high adaptability and potential for the formation of virulent races. Ecological analysis revealed a low alpha-diversity level (H′ = 1.13–1.32) and a high dominance index (D = 0.42–0.51), indicating structural simplification and increased pathogen specialization. Three functional fungal groups were distinguished – primary pathogens (Fusarium spp.), opportunists (Phoma betae), and necrotrophs (Rhizoctonia, Botrytis) – which form a hierarchical model of the parasitic complex. The results confirm the cumulative effect of short crop rotations and demonstrate the necessity of integrating biocontrol agents (Trichoderma, Gliocladium) and ecological soil sanitation measures to restore microbial balance and reduce infection pressure in short-rotation systems of the Western Forest-Steppe.
Economic analysis of intensive sheep fattening models: application of SWOT and Porter's five forces methods to fatteners in the steppe areas of Algeria
(Estonian University of Life Sciences, 2026) Benabderrahmane, A.; Souiher, N.; Souiher, K.; Chinoune, S.
The present study provides a comprehensive economic assessment of intensive sheep-fattening systems in the steppe region of Djelfa, Algeria. SWOT analysis and Porter's Five Forces are used in conjunction with advanced multivariate methodologies to create an integrated framework that incorporates economic, strategic, and quantitative viewpoints. Based on a 2024 field survey of 371 farms, three economic models are developed, distinguished by flock size and fattening phase. The results reveal a consistent improvement in profitability with larger flocks: net profit margins vary from 23.81 to 41.88 USD per head, with economic return rates of 64% to 80%. Feed expenses are the largest cost component (43–52%), emphasising producers' reliance on external inputs and vulnerability to feed price volatility. A positive and significant effect of flock size and fattening duration on profitability is confirmed by multiple regression, MANOVA, path analysis, and logistic regression, while price volatility exerts a negative impact. Large-scale enterprises benefit from economies of scale and stronger bargaining positions, whereas smaller farms remain vulnerable. The study calls for: (i) targeted support for small-scale fatteners, (ii) the promotion of sustainable management practices, and (iii) the organization of cooperative value chains to enhance regional competitiveness. By combining economic, strategic, and quantitative perspectives, this investigation offers novel insights into the determinants of profitability and sustainability in sheep-fattening systems across steppe environments.
Changes related to storage conditions in the quality of quail eggs of different sizes
(Estonian University of Life Sciences, 2026) Kryeziu, A.J.; Ramadani, X.; Kamberi, M.A.
This study assesses the impact of storage temperature – ST (4–6 °C and 20–22 °C), storage duration – SD (7, 14, 21, and 28 days), and egg weight group – EWG (A ≤ 10, B = 10.01–11.00, C = 11.01–12.00, D = 12.01–13.00 gram) on the EWL as well as quality attributes of 400 quail eggs. Various parameters were assessed, including egg weight loss (EWL), external quality attributes: egg weight (EW), egg shape index (ESI), eggshell weight (ESW) and eggshell thickness (EST), and internal characteristics: albumen weight (AW), albumen index AI, albumen pH (ApH), Haugh unit (HU), yolk weight (YW), yolk index (YI), yolk pH (YpH), yolk color (YC) and yolk/albumen ratio (Y/A). This comprehensive analysis aimed to provide a thorough understanding of the eggs' physical and internal qualities. The data obtained was analyzed using JMP IN 7, revealing impacts of ST, SD, and EWG on quail eggs quality (P <0.05). The storage temperature parameters not only demonstrated statistically significant differences in AW (P < 0.05) but also in YI, and YpH (P <0.05). Parameters such as AI, YW, ESW, EST, ESI, Y/A, YC, HU, and YpH did not reflect statistically significant differences by ST (P > 0.05). SD had significant impact on AW, AI, ApH, HU, YW, YR, YI, Y/W, YC and YpH (P <0.05). Changes in AW, AI, YW and HU were observed based on EWG (P < 0.05). Furthermore, significant effects (P < 0.05) were found for interactions between ST×SD×EWG on EWL, AW, YW, and Y/A. This research is focused on providing a comprehensive overview of storage conditions, necessary to maintain quality eggs.
Stagnation and opportunities in seed pathology and thermotherapy research
(Estonian University of Life Sciences, 2026) Manguana, G.D.; Cardoso, M.H.; Martínez, M.H.P.; Manhique, L.L.; Oliveira, M.R.; Nhantumbo Júnior, M.A.; De Carvalho Neto, S.; Da Silva, H.F.; Nobre, G.S.; De Souza, M.C.; Pimentel, A.A.B.; Da Silva, E.C.; Do Nascimento, L.C.
Ensuring the supply of high-quality, pathogen-free seeds is crucial for global food security. Despite its importance, research integrating seed pathology and thermotherapy lacks a comprehensive analysis. This study employs a bibliometric approach to map the research landscape of these fields by analysing 2,562 documents from 462 sources retrieved from the Web of Science and Scopus databases (2005–2023). The results reveal a scientific output characterd by sustained growth and high productivity, with a strong annual growth rate of +11.1%, indicating a dynamic and expanding field with continued research interest. The research is characterd by an overwhelming predominance of national studies, while international collaboration remains exceptionally low (only 1.037%). The thematic focus is primarily on fundamental physiological topics such as Germination and Vigor, although the relevance of Seed Treatment and pathogen control is increasing. Innovative approaches such as thermotherapy thus represent a strategic opportunity. To transform this scenario, we propose a new paradigm that combines interdisciplinary approaches, digital technologies, and global cooperation to develop sustainable solutions for emerging seed health challenges. This study provides the first comprehensive assessment of gaps and trends in this integrated field, offering practical tools to prioritise future research in thermotherapy and international collaboration, with significant implications for developing climate-smart agriculture.

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