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Gender and intersectional analysis of agricultural value chains for youth engagement in Rwanda
(Estonian University of Life Sciences, 2025) Rutabagaya, E.; Burny, P.; Ya-Bititi, G.M.; Bisetsa, E.; Mumararungu, I.; Rwirahira, J.
Youth engagement in agriculture is recognized as a quick and effective way to address problems of rural unemployment, poverty and food insecurity. This paper explores factors influencing youth engagement in agricultural value chains across nine districts in Rwanda, focusing on five major crops in Rwanda: maize, Irish potatoes, beans, chilies, and avocados. The study employed both quantitative and qualitative methods, including a survey of 635 youth engaged in selected value chains across nine districts in Rwanda, supplemented by key informant interviews and focus group discussions. Results from this study revealed a segmentation of youth engagement in value chains along gender lines, both in the selection of value chains and accross different segments. The study identified differences in the prioritization of needs among different youth social identities in agricultural, along with gender disparities in the ownership and control of productive resources. The study further noted that young women encounter particular barriers limiting their participation in leadership roles in agricultural organizations, including limited skills, restricted mobility, low education, and heavy domestic responsibilities. The study recommends deliberate measures to address these challenges, entailing the introduction of financial solutions to improve youth access to productive resources, affirmative actions to enhance young women’s inclusion in lucrative value chain segments, and awareness interventions to address social norms. Likewise, strengthening governance structures of farmer cooperatives for youth engagement will unlock employment opportunities for young people in agriculture.
Molecular Identification and Characterization of Botrytis spp. from Strawberry in Morocco
(Estonian University of Life Sciences, 2025) Hammoumi, S.; Bentata, F.; Khalifi, H.; Karim, S.; Maafa, I.; Elwahab, F.; Gaboun, F.; Brhadda, N.; Ziri, R.; Labhilili, M.
Botrytis cinerea is a highly destructive infection, responsible for gray mold in small fruit crops such as strawberries, it causes pre and post-harvest losses. Identification of this pathogen is the first step to control it. The purpose of the present study was to identify Botrytis species, characterize and assess genetic diversity of gray mold pathogen populations from strawberry in Morocco using molecular markers. Sixty-eight isolates were obtained from infected fruits of 14 different geographic origins in Morocco, DNA was extracted and the isolates were identified using Bc108+/Bc563− and NEP2 sequences variability. To differentiate between groups N and S genotypes of Botrytis spp., two primer pairs were used (BcinN-in-F/R and Mrr1_spez_F/R). Presence of transposable elements (TE) boty, flipper and 9 microsatellites (SSR) were used to examine genetic diversity of the isolates. In our population, forty-seven isolates were identified as B. cinerea. Data indicated that 26% of isolates were attributed to groups S and 31% to N. It also showed that 32% of the isolates possessed flipper genotype, followed by transposa (28%), boty (21%) and vacuma (19%). Analysis of 68 Botrytis spp. isolates by SSR showed a high level of genetic diversity indices among populations of which the isolates clustered into seven genetic groups. Data showed genetic diversity in Botrytis spp. populations from Morocco. Identification of the pathogen and knowledge of its genetic diversity enable optimal and effective disease management.
An overview of the technical and economic opportunities for biogas-based hydrogen production in Latin America
(Estonian University of Life Sciences, 2025) Luna-del Risco, M.; Rocha-Meneses, Lisandra; Vanegas-Trujillo, E.; Arrieta-González, C.; Villegas Moncada, S.; Gonzalez-Palacio, M.; Patiño-Agudelo, A.; Sierra-del Rio, J.; Castillo-Meza, L.; Estonian University of Life Sciences. Institute of Forestry and Engineering. Chair of Biosystems Engineering
The growing need for sustainable energy solutions has intensified interest in alternative sources to reduce reliance on fossil fuels. Latin America, with its abundant biomass resources from agricultural and industrial activities, offers significant potential for renewable energy generation. Biogas, derived from the anaerobic digestion of organic waste, presents a viable energy carrier and a promising feedstock for hydrogen production, a key component in global decarbonization efforts. Despite these opportunities, the adoption of biogas-based hydrogen production in Latin America remains limited due to high capital costs, technological challenges, inadequate infrastructure, and weak policy frameworks. This study provides a comprehensive analysis of the region’s potential by assessing biomass availability, technological pathways, and economic feasibility through data from research institutions and scientific literature. Technologies such as steam methane reforming and emerging biological processes are evaluated, alongside country-specific regulatory frameworks. Findings highlight those countries with strong agricultural sectors, such as Brazil, Argentina, and Colombia, hold high potential. However, economic challenges endure, with substantial investment required for technology deployment. Policy analysis reveals that progressive frameworks and financial incentives in select countries, like Chile and Uruguay, are fostering early adoption. Unlocking the potential of biogas-based hydrogen production in Latin America requires strategic investments, supportive policies, and enhanced regional collaboration. Strengthening these efforts can drive energy security, lower greenhouse gas emissions, and promote economic growth. Supporting regional initiatives with global sustainability objectives will position Latin America as a key player in the transition to renewable energy.
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.
Temporal analysis of pasture vegetation cover in central-western Brazil using remote sensing
(Estonian University of Life Sciences, 2025) Moreira, A.N.H.; Ciappina, A.H.; Andrade, R.R.; Casaroli, D.; Rossi, G.; Conti, L.; Bambi, G.
Brazil is the world's leading exporter of beef, consolidating beef cattle farming as an important branch of national livestock farming. The expansion of livestock farming and agriculture in recent decades has resulted in a notable increase in pasture areas in Brazil. However, the country faces the growing challenge of pasture degradation, a problem that threatens sustainability and food production. On the other hand, livestock farming in Brazil's Central-West region, the country's largest cattle-producing area, particularly in the state of Goiás, can cause environmental damage when sustainable practices are disregarded. Thus, the objective of this article was to evaluate pasture degradation, at different levels, in the Ribeirão Serra Negra Watershed, in the municipality of Piracanjuba, Goiás, Brazil. Using images from the Sentinel-2A orbital sensor, the NDVI (Normalized Difference Vegetation Index) vegetation index and the vegetation cover classes of pastures were obtained between 2017 and 2021. During this period, the results showed that more than 98% of the areas had some level of degradation, with an average coverage of 6,586.1 ha. There was an upward evolution in the levels of vegetation cover between 2017 and 2019, with the best pasture conditions predominating in 2019. These assessments help identify areas that require greater attention and often necessitate conservation practices and management plans. In this context, monitoring degraded areas is a practice that facilitates the improvement of existing pastures, promotes the rational management of inputs, conserves natural resources, and aligns with development programs focused on sustainability.
Effect of zeolite, clay and peat on salt stress tolerance of lettuce (Lactuca sativa L.)
(Estonian University of Life Sciences, 2025) Karlsons, A.; Osvalde, A.
The present study aimed to investigate the effects of natural zeolite, clay and peat amendments on the growth and NaCl absorptions of lettuce (Lactuca sativa L.) under gradually increasing salinity. Four different growing media based on quartz sands with 10% additions of zeolite, clay and peat were tested. The worst effect of NaCl on plant biomass was evident at the highest salinity levels for zeolite applications. While adverse salinity impact on leaf and root biomass was least pronounced in treatments with peat additives. As expected, the lowest Na concentrations in plant tissues were found in the growing media supplemented with zeolite. In the case of Cl, however, it was the opposite - lettuce leaves accumulated significantly higher chloride concentrations in the zeolite variants in salinity treatments above 20 mM NaCl. In the control, clay and peat treatments, as the substrate salinity increased, the Cl level in the plant increased similarly. Adverse changes in leaf chlorophyll concentration (SPAD) and photosynthetic rate (µmol m-2 s-1) parameter appeared under salinity concentrations above 20 mM and were more pronounced in zeolite and sand substrate. According to the obtained results, peat additives can effectively mitigate the harmful effects of excessive salts by binding and immobilizing them as well as improving the water-holding capacity and nutrient availability. The study also concluded that natural zeolite successfully immobilizes cationic sodium, but the harmful effect of chlorine significantly reduced plant growth and photosynthetic performance. Clay additives to the growth medium showed the potential to reduce the adverse effects of salinity on lettuce, however, under the experimental conditions implemented, the effect was small.
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.
Enabling semantic interoperability for smart farming
(Estonian University of Life Sciences, 2025) Smaili, N.; Kabbaj, A.
The strain on food security, environmental health, ecosystems, and fertile land, driven by a growing global population, can be alleviated through sustainable agriculture. To navigate this critical situation, it is essential to leverage existing technologies. The advent of the Fourth Industrial Revolution and the evolution of the internet have opened up new possibilities such as precision agriculture, IoT-based farming, and data-driven analytics for the agriculture sector. One promising approach is the utilization of semantic web technologies in smart farming. This article presents an ontology-based method designed to enable semantic interoperability across various smart farming systems. By merging and integrating existing domain ontologies, a unified framework is proposed, that facilitates seamless data exchange, enhances decision-making, and addresses key challenges in sustainable agriculture.
Process of heat treatment and changes in garlic properties
(Estonian University of Life Sciences, 2025) Kic, P.
This paper aims to present the results of research focused on the heat treatment of garlic (Allium sativum) into black garlic. The research compared three varieties of classic kitchen garlic (Dukat, Topaz and Sabagold), grown in the Czech Republic. The course of heat treatment in a hot air dryer was investigated at 60 °C. Changes in the weight and moisture of the samples were monitored gravimetrically for 78 days. The dry matter content was measured gravimetrically after drying at 105 °C. There were certain differences between the varieties studied. The intensive decrease in water content, dry basis u (g g-1) during the first 20 days was the fastest in the Topaz variety, when it dropped below 0.4 (g g-1) after only 9 days. In the Dukat and Sabagold variety water content, wet basis w (%), from the original values w = 62 to 66% dropped below 30% within 20 days, and in the Topaz variety below 20%. Changes in the colour of garlic cloves were measured by A CM-600d spectrophotometer. During the black garlic processing, its gradual darkening occurred. Lightness L* decreased in the Dukat variety from 80.39 to 27.47, Topaz from 78.29 to 29.09 and Sabagold from 83.64 to 28.72. In all varieties, colour changes occurred. Greenness (-a*) changed from the 9th day to a redness (a*) whose saturation gradually decreased. The yellowness (b*) of all varieties also decreased significantly.
Diminished work ability as a contributing factor for farmer’s interest in switching to organic production
(Estonian University of Life Sciences, 2025) Mattila, T.E.A.; Liski, E.; Väre, M.; Rautiainen, R.H.
Previous studies suggest organic producers have diminished work ability, but it is unclear if this is due to pre-existing conditions or work exposures in organic production itself. The current study explored whether diminished work ability is a contributing factor to the interest in switching from conventional to organic production. The study used data from 2018, Finnish farmer questionnaire, analysed by machine learning - based approach and logistic regression modelling. Nearly half (46%) of the survey respondents (n = 2,948) had a diminished work ability score. Seventeen percent (n = 501) of the respondents reported being interested in switching to organic production. Farmers with diminished work ability had greater odds (OR 1.56, 95% CI: 1.26–1.92) for showing interest in switching. Those growing horticulture and special crops (vs. cereals) (OR 0.55) and those age 55+ years (vs. less than 35) (OR 0.51) showed less interest in switching. The interest in starting or expanding organic production was higher among those who already had an organic agreement on part of their farm (OR 5.7) and those who had other business activities on the farm (OR 1.36). In summary, this study suggests that diminished work ability predicts farmer’s interest for switching to organic production. Measures to protect the health and well-being of farmers and workers during and after switching to organic production is critically important in achieving not only policy goals to increase organic production, but also good quality of life of farmers.
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.
Sensory assessment and consumer acceptability of confectionery products made with pine cones
(Estonian University of Life Sciences, 2025) Karklina, K.; Ozola, L.
The non-timber part of the forest includes mushrooms, berries, cones, shoots etc. The aim of this study was to evaluate consumer acceptability of confectionery products made with pine cones. For the study two pine cone syrups using osmosis were prepared: pine cone syrup with white sugar (PSW) and pine cone syrup with brown sugar (PSB). Four jams were prepared: apple - pine cone jam without added sugar (AC), pine cone jam with white sugar (CW), pine cone jam with brown sugar (CB), and pine cone jam with stevia (CS). Also, four gummy candies were prepared using different thickeners - gelatine (CG), pectin HM (CpHM), pectin LM (CpLM), and agar - agar (CA). To all products sensory evaluation was performed. In total 23 participants participated in this study. The results showed that the PSW had the most intense colour, aroma, taste, and aftertaste, the sweetness in both syrups was the same. The obtained data for jams showed that the CB and AC was the most pleasant in terms of colour, while the CB and CS was the most pleasant in terms of consistency. For the gummy candies’ colour and texture, the highest rated were CpHM. However, for the aroma, taste and aftertaste, the highest acceptance was found in CG. In conclusion, healthier confectionery products with reduced sugar content can be effectively developed by using a non-timber forest resource such as pine cones. This approach allows manufacturers to create confectionary products that satisfy consumer demand for enjoyable sweetness while addressing health concerns.
Organizational identification, workaholism, and burnout: a cross-sectional study of age, gender, tenure, and work arrangements
(Estonian University of Life Sciences, 2025) Geidelina-Lugovska, M.; Cekuls, A.
This study investigates the relationships between organizational identification (OI), workaholism, and burnout among employed individuals in Latvia, with a focus on how gender, age, and tenure moderate these relationships. Data were collected from May 29 to October 27, 2024, using the QuestionPro platform, resulting in 954 total responses, of which 879 were completed (completion rate: 92.14%). The results demonstrate that high OI significantly predicts burnout (β = 1.167, p = 0.002), particularly when combined with workaholism (β = 2.045, p = 0.001). Employees exhibiting both high OI and workaholism reported the highest levels of burnout. A negative association between tenure and burnout (β = -1.3419, p = 0.020) suggests that experienced employees develop better coping strategies. Gender differences were also observed: women in the high OI group reported significantly higher burnout levels (β = 2.2538, p = 0.045), whereas women in the low OI group experienced lower burnout levels (β = -3.2624, p = 0.020). These findings highlight the complex interplay between organizational identification, workaholism, and burnout, emphasizing the need for organizational interventions targeting workaholism and gender-specific challenges. Future research should further explore the impact of cultural and organizational factors in shaping these dynamics.
Peculiarities of soybean growth and development on gray forest soils
(Estonian University of Life Sciences, 2025) Didur, I.; Pantsyreva, H.
The scientific and experimental five-year study highlighted the detailed development of technological techniques for growing soybeans under different hydrothermal growing conditions on gray forest soils. The conducted experimental studies established that under the influence of climatic factors, the duration of the growing season of soybean plants changes, and these factors, as a result, affect the field germination, the conservation factor and, as a result, the yield of plants. It has also been proven that during the ontogenesis of the plant, there are natural changes in linear dimensions depending on varietal characteristics, weather conditions and factors that were investigated. On average, over the years of research, the length of the soybean vegetation period ranged from 110 to 118 days, while the longest vegetation period was recorded on the experimental variants, where seeds were inoculated with the BTU Bioinoculant preparation and two foliar feedings were carried out in phase 3 – the third leaf and budding Helprost soybean. Starting from the flowering phase, soybean plants reacted more intensively to the studied factors. On the options where foliar fertilizing was carried out with Helprost soy mineral fertilizer (2.5 L ha-1) against the background of inoculation with BTU Bioinoculant (2 L t-1), the flowering period lasted 28 ± 3.6 days, which is 3 days more compared to with areas where foliar fertilization was not carried out and for 6 days – compared to the control. This is explained by the influence of a number of factors, in particular, hydrothermal, biotic, soil and anthropogenic. During the period of full ripeness, in connection with the action caused by pests and diseases, certain technological techniques and factors that were put to study, the density of plants according to the experimental options was from 488 ± 28.3 to 552 ± 34.5 thousand ha-1.
Efficiency of seed priming and co-treatment strategies in salt effect mitigation using Nicotiana glauca leaf extract on tomato seedlings (Solanum lycopersicum L.)
(Estonian University of Life Sciences, 2025) Maaroufi-Dguimi, H.; Gamal Mohammed, S.; Nasraoui Hajaji, A.; Abdalgadir, H.
The Al-Baha region suffers from soil salinity, negatively impacting agriculture. Current study examined aqueous extracts from Nicotiana glauca as plant-based biostimulants to alleviate salinity's effects and reduce chemical fertilizer use. An aqueous extract of N. glauca, applied in ascending doses of 20%, 50%, and 100%, was being used. This biostimulant was applied using two methods: seed priming and co-treatment on the seeds of Solanum lycopersicum L. Results indicated that all tested doses, whether applied through seed priming or co-treatment, enhanced the final germination percentage (FGP) and reduced the mean germination time (MGT) under saline conditions. With priming, the 20% dose was most effective in reducing salt treatment effects on FGP, improving it by 5% compared to untreated salt-stressed seeds. In co-treatment, the 100% dose showed a 4.5% reduction in FGP decline referring to untreated and stressed seeds. For priming treatments, the 20% dose reduced MGT by 22%, while the 50% dose in co-treatment reduced it by 28% compared to untreated and stressed seeds. The priming strategy used in this study did not result in significant enhancements in growth parameters, particularly in the fresh weight (FW) and dry weight (DW) of the epicotyls. As priming, the 20% dose had the most significant mitigation effect on epicotyl FW, DW and chlorophyll (Chl) content by 15%, 10% and 30% referring to untreated and stressed seedlings, respectively. However, all tested biostimulant doses used as co-treatment proved effective in mitigating the negative effects of salt on epicotyl and root FW, DW, and Chl content. Seedlings treated with various strategies and doses showed a smaller increase in malondialdehyde (MDA) and proline (Pro) levels under salinity stress. As stress indicators, both Pro and MDA levels were significantly reduced when a co-treatment strategy was applied. Furthermore, the results indicated that the effectiveness of the N. glauca aqueous extract in alleviating salt stress could be attributed to its content of several phenolics, flavonoids, and tannins, which possess antioxidant properties that enhance the plant's tolerance against salt-induced oxidative stress.
The effect of growth stimulants based on humic acids from Ukrainian lignite and biochar from agricultural residues on the growth and development of lettuce (Lactuca sativa)
(Estonian University of Life Sciences, 2025) Zhylina, M.; Karnozhytskyi, P.P.; Miroshnichenko, D.; Konohrai, V.; Sterna, V.; Ozolins, J.
Significant amounts of plant-based waste are generated annually in the agricultural and food industries, including straw, corn residues, nutshells, and fruit pits. Disposing of this waste often relies on basic methods that avoid further processing, presenting an urgent environmental challenge. One efficient solution is converting biomass into biochar, which serves as a soil amendment. Developing cost-effective recycling methods has become critical with the increasing scarcity and rising cost of raw materials. The Dnipro Lignite Coal Basin in Ukraine offers extensive lignite reserves, enabling the production of affordable, high-quality humates for soil enhancement. In this study, wheat and barley straw were pelletized with barley bran at a 90:10 ratio. Pyrolysis was conducted at 500 °C with a heating rate of 5 °C·min⁻¹ and a one-hour holding time. The resulting biochar was added to a lettuce cultivation substrate at a 1:10 biochar-to-peat ratio. Humic substances derived from lignite were applied in 3% and 9% aqueous solutions, and environmental conditions, such as humidity and temperature, were monitored throughout the 35-day trial. Results showed that granulated biochar increased lettuce rosette diameter by 7.5% compared to perlite substrates and by 11.6% compared to peat. Additionally, 3% humate solutions enhanced rosette diameter by 11.6% and biomass weight by 25.77%. These findings confirm that biochar from agricultural residues and lignite-derived humates effectively boost lettuce yield and quality.
Effect of using Pseudomonas fluorescens bacteria, Glomus mosseae fungus and liquid organic fertilizer on soil available nitrogen and phosphorus and some characteristics of fenugreek (Trigonella foenum graecum L.) and choline seed content
(Estonian University of Life Sciences, 2025) Al-Silmawy, N.A.; Abd, E.H.; Shahad, R.F.; Mohammed, R.J.
A factorial pot experiment was conducted during the fall season of 2023–2024 in the fields of the College of Agriculture/University of Wasit, according to a randomized complete block design (RCBD) with three factors and three replicates. The first factor is the bacterial inoculum Pseudomonas fluorescens at two levels (addition B1 and without addition B0), the second factor is the fungal fertilizer Glomus mosseae at two levels (addition M1 and without addition M0), and the third factor is the liquid organic fertilizer at two levels as well (addition O1 and without addition O0) added in two batches, thus we have eight treatments with three replicates so that the number of experimental units is 24 experimental units (pots). Available nitrogen and phosphorus in the soil, plant height, number of branches, number of pods, number of seeds per pod, seed content of active substance choline, and biological yield were measured. The triple interaction treatment of the three factors (B1M1O1) gave the best results for the mentioned traits, followed by the dual interaction treatment between bacteria and fungi (B1M1), then the dual interaction treatments between bacteria and liquid organic fertilizer B1O1 and between fungi and liquid organic fertilizer M1O1, then the single treatments B1, M1, and O1, and finally the control treatment without additives (B0M0O0), which gave the lowest results. The mycorrhizal reliability was calculated for each of the plant heights, number of pods, and biological yield and was 22.2, 68.25, and 33.00%, respectively.
Optimisation of dairy farming in Ukraine: Integrating modern information technologies for genetic improvement and sustainable herd management
(Estonian University of Life Sciences, 2025) Matvieiev, M.; Getya, A.; Nehrey, M.; Yakubets, T.; Ruban, S.; Nazarko, O.; Borshch, O.O.; Lastovska, I.; Baban, V.; Mashkin, Yu.
The dynamic nature of the Ukrainian dairy sector requires the integration of modern information technology solutions for the judicious selection of economically viable animals, with a focus on genetic improvement through a comprehensive breeding index. However, the absence of a centralized data repository makes it impossible to calculate the breeding value of animals, does not contribute to making appropriate management decisions and thus does not help to improve the economic well-being of the farm. Farm software plays a key role in filling such a database. In Ukraine, there is a large number of software programs of various producers, including Ukrainian ones, which allow farms to organize correct recording and ensure the filling of the database. However, this diversity is often accompanied by the incompatibility of programs and the inability to combine the data registered by different programs. The study underlines the need for comprehensive improvements in the system of cow breeding using data from dairy farm software, especially in response to the growing trend towards automation.
Effect of the incorporation of ‘Marrubium Vulgare L.’ in Yogurt: Physicochemical, nutritional and sensory properties
(Estonian University of Life Sciences, 2025) Terki, L.; Aissaoui, O.; Khelouia, L.; Hadjout, L.; Boukhari, N.; Madani, K.
The research work on the incorporation of Marrubium vulgare extract in the yogurt formulations and its effects on physicochemical and sensory properties were conducted. The obtained results revealed that the incorporation of Marrubium vulgare extract did not negatively influenced physicochemical parameters, with pH values varied from 4.37 ± 0.01 in natural Yogurt to 4.31 ± 0.01 in the 4% Marrubium yogurt, and titratable acidity varied significantly from 99.3 ± 0.5°D to 105.3 ± 1.2°D (p < 0.05). The water holding capacity (WHC) improved slightly, but significantly from 20.40 ± 0.03% to 20.67 ± 0.07% (p < 0.05). The results suggest a slight increase in titratable acidity, WHC, and viscosity (especially, at higher extract concentrations); however, further research is needed to refine this trend. Nutritionally, total solids, protein and fat content remained largely unchanged (p > 0.05), but led to a significant increase in ash content, from 0.63 ± 0.03% to 0.93 ± 0.03% (p < 0.05). Additionally, the total phenolic content was significantly increased from 5.25 ± 0.31 mg per 100 g to 7.30 ± 0.27 mg per 100 g (p < 0.05) and the antioxidant activity from 2.71 ± 0.19 mg per 100 g to 4.42 ± 0.24 mg per 100g (p < 0.05). The sensory evaluation revealed that Marrubium-enriched Yogurt received significantly higher ratings in flavor and overall acceptability (p < 0.05) compared to plain Yogurt. Texture ratings remained similar (p > 0.05). This study highlights the potential of Marrubium vulgare as a functional ingredient for Yogurt fortification, enhancing antioxidant properties, mineral content, and consumer acceptability.
Constructive solution of battery swapping unit in service station for unmanned agricultural robot
(Estonian University of Life Sciences, 2025) Jevtuševski, Andrei; Ihnatiev, Yevhen; Lillerand, Tormi; Virro, Indrek; Olt, Jüri; Estonian University of Life Sciences. Institute of Technology. Chair of Biosystems Engineering
The fully automated battery swapping unit is an essential part of unmanned agricultural robot service, ensuring the continuous operation of the robot by allowing the agricultural vehicle to replace its depleted battery with a fully charged one without human intervention, enabling it to continue its work cycle in the field. Thus, the battery swapping unit is part of service station systems, along with fertilizer filling, water supply, energy generation, and storage systems. This article describes a unique prototype of a battery swapping unit that safely replaces a depleted battery with a fully charged one in 223.5 seconds. The main role is played by the moving battery cart, which transports the battery between the charging and robot positions using a gripper equipped with an electric lock, attached to the actuator, and a V-belt transmission driven by an electric motor. The selection of the optimal rotation frequency of the motor is also discussed in this article.

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