2025, Vol. 23, No. 3

Selle kollektsiooni püsiv URIhttp://hdl.handle.net/10492/10187

Sirvi

Nüüd näidatakse 1 - 19 19

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.
Liming alone is not enough: The role of phosphorus and boron in supporting legume pasture growth
(Estonian University of Life Sciences, 2025) Aguiar, P.; Arrobas, M.; Aguiar, C.; Rodrigues, N.; Jongen, M.; Teixeira, R.F.M.; Domingos, T.; Rodrigues, M.Â.
Soil fertility management is a critical factor for ensuring the persistence of the legume component in improved pastures in Mediterranean regions. To promote legume growth, the most common practices include the application of lime to correct Soil acidity and phosphate fertilizers to address phosphorus (P) deficiencies. This study examined two acidic soils and evaluated the need for P and boron (B) supplementation following liming. A factorial pot experiment (Soil type × vegetation type × fertilizer treatment) was conducted using subterranean clover (Trifolium subterraneum L.), annual ryegrass (Lolium multiflorum Lam.), and their mixture. Results revealed significantly higher dry matter yield (DMY) for the legume (18.1 g pot⁻¹) compared to the grass (5.9 g pot⁻¹), due to the legume's ability to access atmospheric nitrogen (N). Soil 2, which had higher initial P availability than Soil 1, and P fertilization both enhanced N accumulation in legume tissues, the percentage of N derived from the atmosphere (%Ndfa), and DMY. These outcomes indicate that liming alone was insufficient to increase P availability and eliminate the need for P fertilization. For instance, DMY increased from 15.0 g pot⁻¹ with liming alone to 19.4 g pot⁻¹ when P was supplemented. Additionally, B application increased N uptake and %Ndfa in the legume, with the latter rising from 48.9% in the liming-only control to 77.5% with B supplementation. These results suggest that liming, by increasing Soil pH, may reduce B bioavailability, highlighting the need for B supplementation following lime application.
The effects of microalgae (Tetradesmus obliquus, Spirulina platensis and Chlorella vulgaris) on the nutritional profile of broiler meat
(Estonian University of Life Sciences, 2025) Freiberga, A.; Ilgaza, A.; Jonova, S.; Eglite, S.; Gorbacevska, D.; Plivca, A.; Neiberts, K.; Zolovs, M.; Semjonovs, P.
This study investigated the effect of dietary supplementation with three edible microalgae species (Tetradesmus obliquus, Spirulina platensis, and Chlorella vulgaris) on the nutritional profile of broiler chicken meat. Ross 308 broilers were fed a standard diet enriched with 0.5% of one of the microalgae species over a 43-day fattening period. Meat samples from the breast and thigh muscles were collected on days 35 and 43 to analyse its nutritional profile. Although no statistically significant differences were observed in growth performance, several biologically differences became apparent. C. vulgaris administration was associated with an initial increase in thigh meat fat content on day 35, followed by a notable reduction by day 43, and led to higher protein and polyunsaturated fatty acid levels. However, it resulted in the highest omega-6/omega-3 ratio among the groups. S. platensis contributed to a more favorable fatty acid profile, with the lowest omega-6/omega-3 ratio and increased protein levels, particularly in breast meat. T. obliquus supplementation produced leaner meat, improved vitamin B12 content, and maintained a more balanced omega-6 to omega-3 ratio by day 43, suggesting a cumulative benefit with prolonged feeding. These findings indicate that each microalga has species-specific effects on broiler meat quality, supporting their potential use as sustainable functional feed ingredients tailored to specific nutritional goals in poultry production.
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.
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.
Influence of fertilization on yield, nutritional and qualitative characteristics of potato tubers under different agro-climatic conditions in Armenia
(Estonian University of Life Sciences, 2025) Markosyan, A.O.; Zadayan, M.H.; Baghdasaryan, S.K.; Kroyan, S.Z.; Markosyan, S.A.; Gasparyan, G.H.
This study investigates the effects of mineral (N150P120K120, ‘Control-Treatment 1’) and organo-mineral fertilization (with 20 t ha⁻¹ of farmyard manure (FYM), ‘Treatment 2’, and 40 t ha⁻¹ of FYM, ‘Treatment 3’) on the yield, nutritional value, and quality of potato (Solanum tuberosum L.) tubers under different agro-climatic conditions in Armenia. Field trials were conducted in two contrasting regions: Dasht village (Ararat Plain, 850 m a.s.l.) with cultivated irrigated meadow-fulvous soils, and Vahan village (Gegharkunik Highlands, 2000 m a.s.l.) with mountain black soils (chernozems). The research measured tuber yield, dry matter, starch, vitamin C, and protein content over three years (2019–2021). Application of T3 (NPK + 40 t ha⁻¹ FYM) significantly improved all measured indicators. Yield increased by up to 28%, dry matter by 10.8%, starch by 12.0%, vitamin C by 13.4%, and protein content by 14.4%. Climate conditions also had a significant impact on tuber productivity and composition. In chernozems, compared to irrigated meadow-fulvous soils, yield increased by 15.1–21.6%, and the content of dry matter, starch, and vitamin C increased by 3.1–8.7%. However, protein content was higher in the irrigated meadow-fulvous soils by 3.4–5.2%. These results demonstrate the importance of fertilization strategies tailored to specific agroecological zones and climatic trends, particularly in the context of climate change adaptation.
The starting material is the basis of heterotic wheat breeding
(Estonian University of Life Sciences, 2025) Rakov, A.; Dmytrenko, Y.; Spriazhka, R.; Zaika, Y.
This study addresses key aspects of developing initial breeding material for heterosis breeding in bread winter wheat (Triticum aestivum L.). In the context of climate change and threats to food security, particularly in Ukraine, the creation of new high-yielding hybrids resistant to biotic and abiotic stresses is of paramount importance. The research involved a comprehensive assessment of 78 winter wheat varieties from the Ukrainian National Gene Bank. Field trials were conducted during 2022–2024 at the Agronomic Research Station (Forest-Steppe zone of Ukraine) using a randomized complete block design with three replications. The study focused on morphological and physiological traits influencing cross-pollination efficiency, including anther extrusion (VAEX-method scored on a 1–9 scale), plant height (cm), flowering synchrony (days from January 1 to heading), spike characteristics, grain yield (t ha⁻¹), and resistance to pathogens (septoria, powdery mildew; % leaf area affected) and winter hardiness (1–9 score). Cluster analysis revealed three distinct groups with specific breeding potential. Group 1 (Achim, Mescal, Yuvileyna Patona) demonstrated the highest spike productivity (61.2–63.6 grains/spike; grain mass 2.8–3.4 g) and yield (6.1–6.2 t ha-1). Female components (Group 2: Altigo, Soborna, Taira) exhibited short plant height (71.4–78.2 cm) and early heading time (140.3–144.0 days). Male components (Group 3: Zoreslava, Metelytsya Kharkivska, Urbanus, Liryka Bilotserkivska, and Kyivska 17, etc.) were characterized by tall plant height (80.3–89.8 cm) and high anther extrusion (6.3–7.5 score). A topcross mating design is proposed for further evaluation of combining ability and heterosis effects. The results provide a foundation for the development of hybrid wheat breeding programs under Ukrainian conditions, with an emphasis on parental lines with complementary flowering biology and agronomic performance.
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.
Modeling the process of management of water-salt and food regime of salt soils of marginal land using waste water
(Estonian University of Life Sciences, 2025) Mustafayev, Zh.; Umirzakov, S.; Baimanov, Zh.; Akylbayev, K.; Budikova, K.
Following the development and further improvement of the ecosystem approach to the development of saline marginal lands, a theoretical justification has been prepared for the conceptual model of the technology for the management of the salinity and nutritional regime of marginal lands, where the development of such land takes place in three symmetrical and parallelsequential actions in time at annual intervals on the basis of using biologinization of agriculture, programming productivity of agricultural crops with desalinization of the saline soil to a certain acceptable level subject to leaching limit and chemical reclamation, taking into account the environmental management requirements and classification of the saline soil and salt tolerance of agricultural crops. In addition, the distinctive peculiarities of the proposed technology are the possibility to implement the entire complex of environment-forming functions of the natural system, including the assessment of energy resources of the soil and vegetation cover (various agro-ecological categories), productivity of agricultural land using the reference yield methods, water consumption deficit of agricultural land and leaching limits, ensuring the gradual achievement of the safe level of salinity, using the biological characteristics of salt-tolerant crops (halophytes) and chemical reclamation, based on application of gypsum to the topsoil, owing to a balanced supply of mineral fertilizers, and based on their rationing, taking into account planning the yield of cultivated crops. To illustrate the capability of the presented models, a two-year field experiment was conducted on saline lands using wastewater in the Kyzylorda region of the Republic of Kazakhstan and the results showed that supplementing the information with data from actual measurement results will provide even greater adaptability of the model. Based on the experimental research conducted to explore the possibility of managing the water-salt and nutrient regimes of soils in marginal lands using wastewater and salt-tolerant crops, and developed through mathematical models of soil water, salt, and nutrient dynamics along with a control technology algorithm for these natural-technogenic processes, it was demonstrated that the theoretical justification and the proposed conceptual model of the software and hardware system for managing the soil water-salt regime under wastewater irrigation comply with environmental protection requirements and align with the ecological, economic, and social aspects of the sustainability triad. The materials and methods of this manuscript, except for the experimental part of the study were presented as a preprint in Research Square (Mustafayev et al., 2024).
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.
Review of farm safety and health risk management tools
(Estonian University of Life Sciences, 2025) Leppälä, J.; Rautiainen, R.
Risk management aims to prevent intolerable risks that could jeopardize a farm’s goals and strategies. Many studies indicate that safety and health risks pose the greatest threats to farm continuity and business sustainability. Even a single injury to a key farmworker could have severe consequences for the whole farm. The review employs content and thematic analysis to identify and classify safety and health risk management tools to assist farmers in their important risk management efforts. There is also an increasing need in EU to provide information about social conditionality requirements on farms, which include also terms in farm safety and health management. A total of 62 risk management tools were analysed. The main typical risk factors in agriculture include machinery safety, livestock safety, chemical handling, and health hazards such as animal dust, gases, noise, biological hazards causing skin and respiratory diseases and ergonomic issues. This study is part of the Strengthening Farm Safety and Health Knowledge and Innovation Systems (SafeHabitus) project. The findings will contribute to the development of a farm safety and health risk management tool database in the SafeHabitus project.
Milk productivity, reproductive performance, hematological and clinical indicators of holstein, brown swiss, simmental, and jersey breeds of cows under Armenian agro-climatic conditions
(Estonian University of Life Sciences, 2025) Minasyan, L.M.; Vardanyan, H.R.; Chitchyan, Zh.T.; Zadayan, M.H.; Simonyan, J.T.; Shahazizyan, N.A.; Mirzoyan, M.S.; Simonyan, L.L.
The research was conducted on the farms of ‘Himnatavush’ Foundation and ‘Agroholding Armenia’ LLC in the Tavush and Lori regions of the Republic of Armenia. This study aims to fill a research gap regarding the adaptability of elite dairy breeds in the South Caucasus under variable agro-climatic conditions. The scientific and practical goal of the work is to conduct, for the first time, a comparative study of the milk productivity, reproductive capacity, and hematological and clinical indicators of Holstein, Brown Swiss (Schwyz), Simmental, and Jersey cattle breeds imported into the Republic of Armenia from various European countries in recent years, as well as cows born and raised locally (local reproduction). The study is being carried out in two farms located in different agro-climatic zones of the Republic. At the farms of ‘Agroholding Armenia’ LLC and the ‘Himnatavush’ Foundation, the age at first calving of both imported full-grown cows of Holstein, Brown Swiss, Simmental, and Jersey breeds and their locally born and raised first-calf heifers corresponded to breed-specific norms. The service period for cows of all breeds exceeded the desirable range (80–90 days), ranging from 93.8 to 115.6 days. However, the reproductive capacity coefficient ranged between 92.9–97.3, which is considered a good indicator. Hematological and clinical parameters of all cows remained within physiological norms. Jersey cows exhibited slightly better adaptation markers. The study confirms the successful acclimatization of these breeds to Armenia’s diverse agro-climatic zones and supports the continued use of these high-yielding breeds for sustainable dairy development.
Susceptibility of Japanese plum and pluot cultivars to Pseudomonas syringae
(Estonian University of Life Sciences, 2025) Pánková, I.; Krejzar, V.; Krejzarová, R.
The susceptibility of seven cultivars of Japanese plum (Black Star, Gauota, Golden Japan, Crimson Glo, Ozark Premier, Santa Rosa, Vanier) and three cultivars of pluot (Black Gigant®, Dapple Supreme pluot®, Flavorich pluot®) to Pseudomonas syringae pathovars syringae and morsprunorum was evaluated under temperate European climate conditions over a three-year period. The evaluation was carried out in a netted house. The susceptibility of the plants to the causal agents of blossom and terminal shoot infection was calculated on five occasions during the year using a formula summarising all the symptoms that appeared on the plants after artificial inoculation. Most cultivars were classified in BS class 2 as low susceptible to both pathovars of Pseudomonas syringae. The Japanese cultivar Santa Rosa was the only cultivar classified in class 4, as highly susceptible to morsprunorum pathovar. After terminal shoot inoculation, 60% of the Japanese plum and pluot cultivars were classified as very low susceptible in class 1 and 40% as low susceptible in class 2 to both pathogens tested. Apart from Santa Rosa, the remaining Japanese plums and all plum cultivars showed remarkable vigour and recovery after repeated artificial infection with economically important Prunus plant pathogens.
Effect of zeolite-amended sandy soils on growth & yield of Copenhagen cabbage
(Estonian University of Life Sciences, 2025) Sindesi, O.A.; Lewu, M.N.; Ncube, B.; Mulidzi, A.R.; Lewu, F.B.
A greenhouse pot experiment was conducted at the Agricultural Research Council, Infruitec-Nietvoorbij, Stellenbosch, South Africa, to assess the effect of zeolite on the fresh head yield & growth characteristics of cabbage cv. Copenhagen. Zeolite was applied at 0:10, 1:9, 2:8, & 3:7 zeolite to sandy soil (w/w). Cabbage growth parameters, plant height, & number of loose leaves showed significant improvements (p < 0.05) under zeolite-amended treatments in the second growing season. Maximum chlorophyll content index (CCI) values ranged from 70.03 to 78.04 in the first season & 52.37 to 61.59 in the second growing season. While leaf area showed no significant differences (p > 0.05) in the first growing season. Additionally, marketable cabbage head traits (head diameter, head circumference, & fresh weight) exhibited no significant differences (p > 0.05) among treatments in the first season. Still, significant improvements were observed in the second season. Zeolite applications at 30% reduced cabbage yields by 15.12% (without loose outer leaves) & by 11.64% (with outer leaves) compared to a 20% zeolite application. Furthermore, the findings highlight a practical implication: a 20% zeolite amendment appears to be the optimal level for improving cabbage yield without the negative effects observed at higher application rates. Overall, this study revealed that zeolite could enhance certain cabbage growth parameters & yield, particularly in the second season. This indicates that zeolite might require a fallowing period within the soil to fully benefit plant growth. Additionally, the results also indicate that zeolite soil amendment may have a limit to its beneficial effects. To support broader adoption, the study recommends applying zeolite at 20% prior to planting, integrated with conventional fertilisers, and guided by soil testing in follow-up seasons.
Integrating AI and sustainable materials: machine learning approaches to wood structural behavior
(Estonian University of Life Sciences, 2025) González-Palacio, M.; García-Giraldo, JM.; González-Palacio, L.
Wood is a potential construction material that provides a renewable source for this crucial task compared to other classical materials, such as steel or concrete, with high carbon fingerprinting levels. This suitable material minimizes energy use and adds more sustainability to ecological consciousness. Tree planting promotes the balance of the carbon dioxide ecosystem and captures and stores greenhouse gas emissions. Wood also has peculiar characteristics in terms of its structural strength and thermal insulation, optimizing energy consumption by reducing the need for cooling or heating needs. To use this material in construction, it is mandatory to study the resistance parameters like compressive, tensile, and shear strengths, enabling it for great-span structural projects. The traditional modeling strategies used for characterizing stress-strain performances usually simplify the assumptions, overpassing the complex mechanical behavior of the wood under different physical conditions. Nonetheless, previous analyses have shown that the traditional models may exhibit significant deviations from the actual resistance parameters since they can be limited in predicting non-linear and anisotropic properties inherent in wood. To address these limitations, this study proposes using machine-learning-based regressors to predict the mechanical properties of wood. Notably, we propose Multiple Linear Regression models to preserve the model's interpretability while preserving the ability to model the linear properties in the studied scenarios. Furthermore, we use metaheuristic models based on deep learning and ensemble methods to increase the goodness of fit of the predictions. We used an experimental campaign with a widespread type of wood characterization of different parameters under tension parallel to the grain, compression parallel and perpendicular to the grain, and shear conditions. The results showed a lower root mean square error (RMSE) and a higher determination index (R2). Preliminary results demonstrated the ability of machine-learning-based modeling to obtain more accurate and reliable mechanical behavior of renewable construction materials like wood.
Development and analysis of initial material of winter spelt wheat (Triticum aestivum L. ssp. spelta) for productivity breeding
(Estonian University of Life Sciences, 2025) Diordiieva, І.; Riabovol, L.; Riabovol, Ya.; Serzhyk, O.; Maslovata, S.; Musienko, L.; Karychkovska, S.; Fesko, M.
In the studies of 2019–2024, the productivity indicators of the starting material of winter spelt wheat, created by hybridization with soft winter wheat at Uman National University (Right-Bank Forest-Steppe of Ukraine), were analyzed. In the process of research, spelt wheat samples were identified that can be used in practical selection as donors of genes for certain traits, in particular, high yield (5.25–5.82 t ha-1); semi-dwarfism and low-stemming in breeding for plant height reduction (samples 1786, 1817, 1559, 1674 and 1755; improved grain threshing (91%) and optimal spike structure (samples 95, 155, 1725); high grain protein content (23.8–28.7%), gluten (49.1–57.2%), alveograph indicator (340–425 alveograph units), grain hardness (60.8–68.2 instrument units) in breeding for grain quality (samples 13, 40 and 128). The correlation between productivity indicators was analyzed and it was found that the greatest influence on spelt yield is the quality of grain threshing (r = 0.89 ± 0.00).
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.
Detection of changes in the defence factors of Nicotiana Tabacum plant under the influence of insertion and expression of heterologous transgenes (desA, desC, HuINFα-2b)
(Estonian University of Life Sciences, 2025) Kyrpa, T.; Potrokhov, A.; Kharkhota, M.; Kuchuk, M.
Genetically modified plants may have some changes in physiological and biochemical reactions depending on the type of transgene. In this study, we present the results of the analysis of tobacco plants with the insertion and expression of the genes for human interferon alpha (HuINFα-2b), Δ12-acyl-lipid desaturase (desA of the cyanobacterium Synechocystis sp. PCC 6803) and Δ9-acyl-lipid desaturase (desC of the cyanobacterium Synechococcus vulcanus). Wild-type tobacco plants were used as a control. The level of accumulation of polyfructans and changes in the fatty acid spectrum in the leaves of plants under normal physiological conditions and after exposure to low temperatures were tested. It was found that all transgenic plants had some changes in the composition of fatty acids, however, only plants with the HuINFα-2b gene insertion had an increased content of polyfructans. These data may indirectly indicate a difference in the two defense strategies of the plant organism depending on the insertion and expression of the transferred gene.
Variable responses of Ficus carica genotypes to water deficit: antioxidant and membrane stability insights
(Estonian University of Life Sciences, 2025) Del Rosario Jacobo-Salcedo, M.; González-Espíndola, L.Á.; Sánchez Cohen, I.; Valdez-Cepeda, R.; Trejo-Calzada, R.; Nava-Reyna, E.; Arreola-Ávila, J.G.
Drought stress is a significant challenge to agricultural productivity, particularly for fig plants, which require robust adaptive mechanisms against water-limited environments. This study aims to assess the biochemical responses of six different fig genotypes to varying soil moisture conditions. The measures of electric conductivity (EC), antioxidant activity (AA), total flavonoid (TFC), total phenolic (TPC), tannins (TT), and total protein (TP) were used as markers of stress tolerance in water deficit (WD) and rehydration conditions. Results showed genotypespecific differences in AA and secondary metabolite production. TFC was associated with enhanced oxidative stress tolerance, particularly under WD conditions, as the Arista genotype showed a 40% increase at 7 days after irrigation suspension. TPC levels indicated a general increase in response to WD, with the Arista genotype exhibiting the most pronounced rise. Conversely, TT decreased by nearly 50% in the Ceballos genotype under field capacity (FC) conditions, likely due to dilution effects from increased growth rates. In addition, TP varied significantly among genotypes, with the San Antonio genotype showing a 25% increase under WD. These findings provide insights into physiological mechanisms underpinning fig plant adaptation to water stress, highlighting the potential of specific genotypes for cultivation in arid and semi-arid regions, offering a framework for selecting young drought-resistant fig varieties.

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