Search Results (261)

Conventional alligator farming, characterized by reliance on chilled fish meat, faces significant challenges, including risks of bacterial contamination and nutritional imbalances. These issues heighten increasing disease susceptibility and threaten industry sustainability, underscoring the critical need for developing nutrient-dense, low-pathogenicity compound feeds. This study conducted a comparative analysis of newborn Siamese crocodiles fed either chilled fish meat or compound feed formulation. Intestinal microbial samples from both cohorts underwent 16S rRNA gene high-throughput sequencing to evaluate differences in microbial composition, diversity, and predicted functionality. The compound feed, specifically formulated for this investigation, possessed the following nutritional composition: crude protein 52.42%; digestible crude protein/digestible energy 16 mg/kcal; crude fat 12.31%; ash 17.42%; crude fiber 0.45%; starch 7.69%; digestible energy 3450 kcal/kg; lysine 3.66%; threonine 1.92%; methionine 1.27%; arginine 3.07%; total essential amino acids 22.97%; calcium 2.51%; total phosphorus 1.8%; available phosphorus 0.98%. Bioinformatics analysis revealed that the compound feed group exhibited numerically higher richness and alpha diversity indices within the intestinal microbiota compared to the chilled fish group. The microbial communities in both groups were dominated by the phyla Proteobacteria, Bacteroidetes, Fusobacteriota, and Firmicutes, collectively representing over 50% of the relative abundance. Functional prediction indicated that the compound feed group possessed the highest relative abundance in metabolic pathways associated with cofactor and vitamin metabolism, carbohydrate metabolism, amino acid metabolism, terpenoid and polyketide metabolism, lipid metabolism, and replication and repair. In contrast, the chilled fish group exhibited significant functional alterations in glycan biosynthesis and metabolism, translation, nucleotide metabolism, transcription, and biosynthesis of other secondary metabolites. Histomorphological analysis demonstrated greater villus height and crypt depth in the compound diet group compared to chilled fish group, although no significant differences were observed in crypt depth or the villus-to-crypt depth ratio. Collectively, these findings indicate that the compound feed enhances intestinal microbial diversity and optimizes its functional structure. Furthermore, while no statistically significant difference in small intestinal villus height was detected, the results suggest a potential positive influence on intestinal development. This investigation provides a scientific foundation for compound feed development, supporting sustainable breeding practices for Siamese crocodiles. Full article

Deep planting of young trees—defined as the burial of the root collar below soil grade—is widely recognized by practitioners as an improper technique that can impair tree development and establishment. Despite this knowledge, research has shown that urban trees are frequently planted too deeply. To better understand the impacts of planting depth on the urban forest, we conducted a literature review of peer-reviewed and professional studies relevant to the effects of planting depth in urban trees. Most studies reported effects on tree establishment (34%), growth (23%), and root development (22%). A general conclusion across reviewed articles was evident: trees planted too deep exhibited higher mortality, slower establishment, and reduced growth, primarily due to poor root development. Effects of planting depth were also species-specific—Norway Maple (Acer platanoides L.), Turkish Hazel (Corylus colurna L.), White Ash (Fraxinus americana L.), and Green Ash (Fraxinus pennsylvanica Marshall) showed minimal differences in performance when deeply planted, while Baldcypress (Taxodium distichum L. Rich), which tolerates anoxic conditions, performed better at or below grade than when planted above grade, although the findings in these studies only measured the effects of planting depth relative to limited measured parameters. We also compiled a reference table that links tree species to their performance based on planting depth. These findings highlight the critical role of planting depth in shaping root architecture and long-term success, emphasizing the need for adherence to best practices concerning proper planting, tree maintenance (e.g., mulching), and production in the nursery. Full article

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of foliar application of selected micro-nutrients on the chemical composition and malting quality of spring barley (Hordeum vulgare L.). The scientific literature lacks in-depth studies that assess the effect of foliar application of micronutrients on barley malting quality. Most studies (especially under field conditions) focus on nitrogen fertilization rather than individual micronutrients. Three brewing-type barley cultivars (Baryłka, KWS Irina, and RGT Planet) were evaluated under foliar micronutrient fertilization (Cu, Mn, Mo, Zn). Fertilizers were applied at doses of 2 L ha⁻¹ for Cu, Mn, and Zn and 1 L ha⁻¹ for Mo. The experiment examined the hectoliter mass, theoretical extractability, contents of selected micro- and macronutrients, and the protein, fat, fiber, and ash contents of the grain. Furthermore, the following characteristics of barley malt were determined, i.e., moisture, protein, extractivity, Kolbach index, and diastatic power. The results showed significant variability in grain and malt quality depending on the cultivar and year. The Baryłka cultivar was characterized by the highest grain density (66.3 kg hL⁻¹) and protein content (10.9% d.m.), while RGT Planet had the highest extractivity and the most favorable malting profile. Foliar supplementation had a slightly positive effect on the average content of trace elements in barley. Mn application increased grain Ca content by 5.6% compared with the control, while foliar Zn fertilization resulted in the highest zinc concentration (a 24.7% increase). No significant effect of fertilization on malt quality was observed, but a significant interaction of experimental factors in extractivity, Kolbach index, and diastatic power was noted. The obtained results indicate that a single foliar application of microelements affects the contents of minerals and protein in the grain, but it does not lead to a significant improvement in malting parameters. This suggests the need for further research on dosage, application date, and interactions between the cultivar and environmental conditions. Full article

In this work, the synergistic effects of mineral admixtures and advanced mixing processes are systematically accounted for steel fibre-reinforced recycled aggregate concrete (SFR-RAC). It studies the improvement of performance optimization in SFR-RAC, inherently weak ITZ by adding 0.5% hooked steel fibres and replacing cement with ground granulated blast furnace slag (25–50%), fly ash (20–40%) and silica fume (7–14%). The efficiency of double-mixing (DM) and triple-mixing (TM) procedures were comprehensively evaluated. Results showed that mineral admixtures could improve mortar-aggregate interface bond, and the triple-mix technique contributed to such improvement. The maximum performance was observed for the combination of 7%SF with triple mixing (7%SF-TM), which presented increased compressive, tensile and flexural strengths by 7–18%, 12–29%, and 16–31% respectively. The durability was significantly improved, and the water resistance could increase by 53% with addition of 7%SF-TM, chloride penetration depth reduced by 86% when incorporated with 25%GGBS-TM, acid attack decreased by 84% with addition of 14%SF-TM. Microstructural analysis (SEM, XRD) confirmed that these enhancements stem from a denser matrix and refined ITZ due to increased C–S–H formation. This study confirms that the strategic integration of fibre reinforcement, pozzolanic admixtures and optimized mixing protocols presents a viable pathway for producing sustainable concrete from construction waste. Full article

Climate change and livestock expansion have affected forage supply in the dry tropics. Therefore, optimizing planting methods adapted to adverse tropical environments is essential for establishment and yield. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of different planting methods on the establishment rate, morphology, yield, and nutritional composition of Cuba OM-22 under the soil and climate conditions of the dry tropics of Peru, using a block design with four replicates and five methods for propagation by cuttings. The S4 (two-node cuttings, 25 cm in length; horizontal position 180°, parallel to the soil surface; fully buried at 8 cm depth; no spacing between cuttings along the furrow) method offered the best balance between yield and quality, with higher establishment rate (55.93%), height (182.15 cm; higher than S1 and S5), and more tillers (surpassing S1 and S2 by 16.97% and 18.86%). In addition, it obtained good green forage yields (137.43 t ha⁻¹) and was better than all planting methods in dry matter yield (37.45 t ha⁻¹). In nutritional composition, S4 ranked among the highest averages for nitrogen-free extract (NFE) (43.22%) and ash (11.06%). However, protein, crude fiber, and fat content did not differ between methods. On the other hand, planting methods showed negative correlations between the number of tillers and ash content (p = 0.006; r = −0.79), ash and NFE (p = 0.000; r = −0.92), and protein with crude fiber (p = 0.029; r = −0.68). These findings highlight S4 as a key strategy for optimizing establishment, yield, and quality in Cuba OM-22 in the dry tropics. Full article

This study aims to understand the effects of wildfires in sagebrush ecosystem on soil properties by examining connections between Soil Water Repellency (SWR), reflectance, and chemistry. Ash and burned soil samples were collected after performing laboratory burns of three common sagebrush plants: sagebrush, rabbitbrush, and bitterbrush. The collected samples were analyzed for their physical properties, including SWR measured by Water Drop Penetration Time (WDPT) and Apparent Contact Angle (ACA), and solar spectral reflectance in the wavelength range of 350 to 2500 nm. Chemical functional groups of the samples were analyzed using Fourier-Transform Infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy. WDPT and ACA values were in the range of 1 to 600 s and ~10° to 88°, respectively, for all three tested fuels. The FTIR analysis showed a decrease (~2 to 4 times) in the ratio of COO⁻/C=C signals for the burned soil samples compared to the unburned soil samples. Overall, increase in temperature and ACA levels for the samples of burned and burned soil from a 2 cm depth led to increased formation of non-polar compounds with C=C functional groups, and decarboxylation. Full article

Geopolymers, as a novel class of low-carbon and eco-friendly cementitious material, exhibit outstanding durability and promote the resource utilization of industrial solid wastes. However, as a promising alternative to ordinary Portland cement, its susceptibility to carbonation-induced degradation may limit its widespread application. To address this challenge, this study systematically examined the effects of magnesium oxide (MgO) content and the metakaolin-to-fly ash ratio on the carbonation performance, mechanical properties, pH value, and microstructures of metakaolin–fly ash-based (MF-based) geopolymer pastes. The findings revealed that an increase in the fly ash ratio correlated with a decline in the compressive strength of MF-based geopolymer pastes. Conversely, the incorporation of MgO significantly enhanced the compressive strength, with higher fly ash ratios leading to more substantial improvements in strength. Furthermore, the addition of MgO and fly ash effectively mitigated the penetration of carbonation and the associated decrease in the pH value of the MF-based geopolymer pastes. Specifically, compared to the control group without MgO (M8F2-0%), MF-based geopolymer pastes with 4% and 8% MgO additions exhibited reductions in carbonation depth of 69.4% and 80.4%, respectively, after 28 days of carbonation, while pH values were observed to be 1.22 and 1.15 units higher, respectively. Additionally, microscopic structural analysis revealed that the inclusion of MgO resulted in a reduction in pore size, porosity, and mean pore diameter within the geopolymer pastes. This improvement was mainly attributed to the promotion of hydration processes by MgO, leading to the formation of fine Mg(OH)₂ crystals within the high-alkalinity pore solution, which enhances microstructural densification. In conclusion, the incorporation of MgO significantly improves the carbonation resistance and mechanical performance of MF-based geopolymers. It is recommended that future studies explore the long-term performance under combined environmental actions and evaluate the economic and environmental benefits of MgO-modified geopolymers for large-scale applications. Full article

The Bilbao parish, located on the slopes of the Tungurahua volcano (Ecuador), was heavily impacted by ashfall during eruptions between 1999 and 2016. Volcanic ash may contain toxic metals such as Pb, Cd, Hg, As, and Se, which are linked to neurological, renal, skeletal, pulmonary, and dermatological disorders. This study evaluated metal concentrations in soil (40–50 cm depth, corresponding to the rooting zone of forage grasses), forage (English ryegrass and Kikuyu grass), and raw milk to assess potential risks to livestock and human health. Sixteen georeferenced sites were selected using a simple random probabilistic sampling method considering geological variability, vegetation cover, accessibility, and cattle presence. Samples were digested and analyzed with a SpectrAA 220 atomic absorption spectrophotometer (Varian Inc., Victoria, Australia). Soils (Andisols) contained Hg (1.82 mg/kg), Cd (0.36 mg/kg), As (1.36 mg/kg), Pb (1.62 mg/kg), and Se (1.39 mg/kg); all were below the Ecuadorian limits, except for Hg and Se. Forage exceeded FAO thresholds for Pb, Cd, As, Hg, and Se. Milk contained Pb, Cd, and Hg below detection limits, while Se averaged 0.047 mg/kg, exceeding water safety guidelines. Findings suggest soils act as sources with significant bioaccumulation in forage but limited transfer to milk. Although immediate consumer risk is low, forage contamination highlights long-term hazards, emphasizing the need for monitoring, soil management, and farmer guidance. Full article

The Chengyang City (城阳城) site in Xinyang, Henan Province, China, was a significant northern military stronghold of the Chu state during the Warring States period (475/403–221 BCE). The lacquered armor unearthed from Tomb M18 provides critical material evidence for studying ancient military technology and lacquer craftsmanship. In this study, a comprehensive analytical approach combining ultra-depth optical microscopy, Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), confocal micro-Raman spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy coupled with energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (SEM-EDS) and pyrolysis–gas chromatography/mass spectrometry (Py-GC/MS) were employed to systematically characterize the structural and compositional features of the armor samples. The results indicate that the armor was constructed with a leather substrate and lacked any lacquer ash layer, while the surface exhibited multiple layers of mixed laccol and urushiol-based lacquer coatings. Cinnabar (HgS) was identified as the primary red pigment, and no carbon black or iron-based blackening agents were detected in the dark lacquer layers. Notably, the presence of laccol suggests that such lacquer resources may have also been produced in mainland China, offering new perspectives on the prevailing view that associates laccol exclusively with “Vietnamese lacquer.” This study elucidates the technological characteristics of mid-Warring States period lacquered armor, provides scientific insights into ancient lacquering techniques, and contributes valuable data for the conservation and restoration of similar cultural heritage artifacts. Full article

Supplementary cementitious materials (SCMs) provide a practical solution for reducing greenhouse gas emissions associated with Portland cement production while enhancing the economy, performance, and service life of concrete and mortar. Currently, there is a significant disparity in the availability, supply, and utilisation levels of SCMs worldwide, particularly in South Africa. This paper presents an in-depth analysis of the characteristics and performance of various SCMs, including local availability, factors driving demand, production, and utilisation. The findings indicate that fly ash and limestone calcined clay are the most widely available SCM resources in South Africa, with deposits exceeding 1 billion tonnes each. Fly ash stockpiles continuously increase due to the reliance on coal-fired power plants for 85% of generated electricity and a low fly ash utilisation rate of 7%, significantly below international utilisation levels of 10–98%. Conversely, slag resources are depleting due to the steady decline of local steel production caused by energy and input costs, alongside the growing importation of steel products. Combined, the estimated production of slag and silica fume is about 1.4 million tonnes per annum, leading to their limited availability and utilisation in niche applications such as high-performance concrete and marine environments. Furthermore, 216,450 tonnes of SCM could potentially be processed annually from agricultural waste. In addition to quality, logistics, costs, and other challenges, this quantity can only replace 1.5% of clinker in South Africa, raising concerns about the viability of SCMs from agricultural waste. Based on its findings, this study recommends future research areas to enhance the performance, future availability, and sustainability of SCMs. Full article

Winter road safety is threatened by black ice, while traditional de-icing methods, such as chemical spreading and electrically heated pavement systems, raise concerns about environmental impact and economic costs. This study proposed a hydronic heated pavement system utilizing geothermal energy (HHPS-G)-integrated concrete pavement that ensures environmental sustainability and structural stability. The design utilizes hollow steel pipes as both reinforcement and heat exchange conduits, thereby eliminating the need for separate high-density polyethylene (HDPE) pipes. To enhance upward heat transfer, bottom-ash concrete was introduced as an alternative to conventional insulation, providing thermal insulation and structural strength. A validated numerical model was developed to compare the de-icing and snow-melting performance of different pipe types. The results show that hollow steel pipes reduced the time to reach 0 °C on the concrete pavement surface by 30.86% and improved heat flux by 10.19% compared to HDPE. The depth of pipe installation significantly influenced performance: positioning the pipes near the surface achieved the fastest heating (up to 70.11% faster), while mid-depth placement, recommended for structural integrity, still provided substantial thermal benefits. Variations in insulation thermal conductivity below 1 W/m·K had little effect, whereas replacing the base layer with bottom-ash concrete provided both insulation and strength without the need for separate insulation layers. Full article

The mitochondrial genome and 5S rDNA are powerful tools for exploring and confirming species identity and understanding evolutionary trajectories. In addition, evaluating the nutritional value of Cambaroides dauricus by determining and analyzing the nutritional components of its muscles could provide essential data for relevant artificial breeding and food processing. In this study, for the first time, we characterized the mitochondrial genome of Cambaroides dauricus using Illumina sequencing technology. The results showed that the mitochondrial genome was a circular genome of 16,215 bp in length. The average sequencing depth of the mitochondrial genome was 100X. The nucleotide composition of the mitochondrial genome was 33.4% A, 39.1% T, 11.0% C and 16.5% G. Phylogenetic analyses showed that Cambaroides dauricus has a very close relationship with Cambaroides wladiwostokiensis. The results of 5S rDNA showed that the genetic relationship between Procambarus clarkii and Cambaroides dauricus is quite close. After determining the nutritional components of Cambaroides dauricus’ muscles with normal analysis methods, the results revealed that it has a crude protein content of 18.47 ± 0.87 per 100 milligrams, a crude fat content of 0.83 ± 0.12 per 100 milligrams, a crude ash content of 0.63 ± 0.06 per 100 milligrams and a moisture content of 79.8 ± 0.72 per 100 milligrams. There are eight essential amino acids in its protein, accounting for 41.59% of the total amino acids, and the proportion of umami amino acids is 36.27%. This study will provide a valuable basis for further studies of taxonomy, phylogenetic analyses and artificial breeding in Cambaroides dauricus. Full article

Natural radionuclides (⁴⁰K, ²¹⁰Pb, ²²⁶Ra, ²³²Th, and ²³⁸U) were evaluated for the first time on volcanic ash soils of the Argentine Patagonian Andes. The study was carried out along a topoedaphoclimatic gradient, encompassing soils from Xeric Mollisols to Udic Andisols, and different land uses. Median mass-specific activities of the lithogenic radionuclides ⁴⁰K, ²¹⁰Pb, ²²⁶Ra, ²³²Th, and ²³⁸U were 375, 8, 17, 19, and 29 (Bq kg⁻¹), respectively, all falling within global natural background levels, yet distinct spatial and vertical patterns emerged. Radionuclide activities increased with sand content and decreased with organic matter, highlighting the role of the parent material and texture. In dry-site Mollisols, ⁴⁰K and ²¹⁰Pb increased with depth, while in humid-site Udands, activities declined with depth, suggesting leaching and surface accumulation by allophane–organic matter complexes. The 238U/226Ra activity ratio showed disequilibrium, indicating young, developing soil profiles. In Xerolls, where native forest was replaced by afforestation and rangeland use, erosion-driven degradation was evident. The distribution of radionuclides along the slopes was closely linked to the topographic position and slope gradient. These results underscore the sensitivity of radionuclide patterns to parent material, soil-forming processes and land use and provide a valuable reference for environmental monitoring in volcanic landscapes. Full article

The effects of wildfires and prescribed burnings on soil are highly variable. In order to evaluate the effects of different burning intensities on soil properties, a surface-controlled burn of undisturbed soil monoliths was carried out by combining temperatures (50 and 80 °C) and residence times (12 and 24 min). The effects of this burning gradient are evaluated at two soil depths (0–1 and 1–3 cm), with time (just after burning or immediate effects, T0, and five months later, T5), as well as the influence of ash (presence or absence). The results indicate that most soil properties were affected by the burning gradient applied only in the most superficial cm (0–1 cm), with few effects at greater depths. The most intense burn had the strongest immediate impact, reducing soil organic carbon, recalcitrant organic carbon, and microbial biomass carbon, as well as increasing the labile organic carbon and the microbial activity. On the other hand, this burning caused a strong decrease in soil water repellency at a 0–1 cm depth and increased it at 1–3 cm. In contrast, medium-intensity burning caused the opposite effect, increasing water repellency at the soil surface and reducing it at 1–3 cm. As a result of the mineralization of organic matter, the EC and pH increased significantly in all burning combinations and both soil depths studied. After five months (T5), several of these parameters tended to approach the values of unburned soil. Full article

Direct seeding is considered a versatile and cost-effective approach to forest regeneration; however, its broader application is limited by low seedling survival rates and species-specific regeneration requirements, which often necessitate site preparation. We investigated the emergence, survival, and growth of Korean ash (Fraxinus chinensis subsp. rhynchophylla (Hance) A.E.Murray) seedlings regenerated by direct seeding over six years following two site preparation treatments—scarification and mixing—to determine appropriate site preparation methods for direct seeding and to assess the effects of site preparation treatments on soil, understory vegetation, and seedling growth. Additionally, the seed germination, shoot and root lengths, and biomass of the seedlings were investigated over 50 days in a growth chamber using soils from each site preparation treatment to examine early-stage growth responses. Both scarification and mixing treatments enhanced seed germination and seedling establishment. Seedling emergence rates were similar between the treatments; however, the seedling mortality and the height and coverage of competing understory vegetation were significantly greater at the scarification treatment than at the mixing treatment during the first year (p < 0.05). Both treatments reduced minimum winter soil temperatures during the first two years, with frost heaving identified as a primary cause of early seedling mortality. From the second year onward, seedling growth was significantly greater in the mixing treatment (p < 0.05), which also more effectively suppressed competing vegetation. A shallow depth mixing treatment (<5 cm) is recommended for direct seeding of Korean ash, as it reduces frost heaving damage and facilitates seedling survival and growth by minimizing understory competition. Full article