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Search Results (3,463)

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Keywords = health and productivity management

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27 pages, 6327 KiB  
Article
Impact of Organic and Conventional Agricultural Management on Subsurface Soil Microbiota in Mediterranean Vineyards
by Marc Viñas, Joan Marull, Miriam Guivernau, Enric Tello, Yolanda Lucas, Mar Carreras-Sempere, Xavier Giol-Casanova, Immaculada Funes, Elisenda Sánchez-Costa, Robert Savé and Felicidad de Herralde
Agronomy 2025, 15(8), 2001; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy15082001 - 20 Aug 2025
Abstract
The impact of long-term organic (ECO) versus conventional (CON) agricultural management on subsurface soil microbiota diversity and soil physicochemical properties remains unclear in Mediterranean vineyards. This study evaluated long-term ECO and CON effects in the Alt Penedès terroir (Spain), focusing on subsurface soil [...] Read more.
The impact of long-term organic (ECO) versus conventional (CON) agricultural management on subsurface soil microbiota diversity and soil physicochemical properties remains unclear in Mediterranean vineyards. This study evaluated long-term ECO and CON effects in the Alt Penedès terroir (Spain), focusing on subsurface soil microbial diversity and soil characteristics. ECO increased the fungal-to-bacterial ratio and ammonium-oxidizing bacteria but reduced total subsurface soil bacterial populations and soil organic carbon. While ECO did not enhance annual yield production in the vineyard, fungal abundance, and ammonium-oxidizing archaea, it slightly increased the overall alpha diversity (Shannon and Inverse Simpson indexes) and significantly altered taxa composition in subsurface soil with a more robust and modular community. Crop management, soil texture, training system, and rootstock, but not vine variety, significantly influenced beta diversity in subsurface soil. The Mantel test revealed subsurface soil texture, Ca2+/Mg2+ ratio, and salinity as the main key soil drivers shifting the microbial community (beta diversity), while C/N and topsoil organic matter significantly correlated with bacterial abundance; NH4+ correlated with fungal abundance; and N-Kjeldahl, pH, and Mg2+/K+ correlated with alpha diversity. Integrating soil microbiota and physicochemical monitoring allowed us to confirm the positive effect of long-term agroecological practices on subsurface soil health and to identify the critical factors shaping their microbial communities in Mediterranean vineyards. Full article
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31 pages, 617 KiB  
Review
A Comprehensive Review: Bovine Respiratory Disease, Current Insights into Epidemiology, Diagnostic Challenges, and Vaccination
by Stephanie O’Donoghue, Sinéad M. Waters, Derek W. Morris and Bernadette Earley
Vet. Sci. 2025, 12(8), 778; https://doi.org/10.3390/vetsci12080778 (registering DOI) - 20 Aug 2025
Abstract
The aim of this comprehensive review is to synthesize current knowledge on bovine respiratory disease (BRD), enhance diagnostic strategies, and support effective prevention and management practises. BRD remains a leading cause of morbidity and mortality in cattle, driven by a complex interplay of [...] Read more.
The aim of this comprehensive review is to synthesize current knowledge on bovine respiratory disease (BRD), enhance diagnostic strategies, and support effective prevention and management practises. BRD remains a leading cause of morbidity and mortality in cattle, driven by a complex interplay of viral and bacterial pathogens, host factors, environmental stressors, and management conditions. Its prevalence (2.1% to 20.2%) varies across geographical regions, age groups, and diagnostic methods. BRD leads to significant economic losses through direct impacts such as mortality, reduced growth rates, and lighter carcass weights, as well as indirect costs like market restrictions and long-term productivity declines. Diagnosing BRD is challenging due to its non-specific clinical signs and frequent subclinical presentations. Traditional diagnostic tools like clinical respiratory scoring (CRS) systems provide structure but suffer from low sensitivity and subjectivity. Behavioural monitoring shows promise by detecting early changes in feeding, movement, and social behaviours. Thoracic auscultation is widely used but limited in accuracy. Thoracic ultrasonography (TUS) stands out as a more sensitive method for detecting subclinical disease and correlating with growth outcomes. Combining CRS with TUS enhances early and accurate detection. Advancing diagnostic approaches is critical for improving animal health and minimizing economic losses in cattle production systems. Full article
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18 pages, 3970 KiB  
Article
Cassava–Maize Rotation Improves Soil Quality and Microbial Gene Profiles Compared to Continuous Cassava Cropping
by Yanmei Zhu, Yundong Wei and Xingming Qin
Agronomy 2025, 15(8), 1999; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy15081999 - 20 Aug 2025
Abstract
Due to limited land resources and traditional farming practices, continuous cassava cropping is common in China. This practice leads to soil degradation, including reduced fertility, imbalanced microbial communities, and lower crop yields. In this study, we investigated the impacts of continuous cassava cropping [...] Read more.
Due to limited land resources and traditional farming practices, continuous cassava cropping is common in China. This practice leads to soil degradation, including reduced fertility, imbalanced microbial communities, and lower crop yields. In this study, we investigated the impacts of continuous cassava cropping (CC) and cassava–maize rotation (RC) systems on soil physicochemical properties, microbial community composition, and functional gene abundance related to carbon and nitrogen cycling. The RC system consists of a five-year rotation cycle: cassava is planted in the first year, followed by two consecutive years of maize, and then, cassava is planted again in the last two years. The soil type is classified as Haplic Acrisols with a clay loam texture in this research. Soil samples from both cropping systems were analyzed for physicochemical properties and enzyme activities, and the results showed significant decreases in soil pH, available nitrogen, available phosphorus, and available potassium in CC. Using metagenomic sequencing, 1,280,928 and 1,224,958 unigenes were identified under RC and CC, respectively, with differences in microbial taxonomic and functional profiles. Bacteria accounted for 89.257% of the soil community in RC, whereas the proportion was 88.72% in CC. The proportions of eukaryota and viruses in RC were 0.031% and 0.006%, respectively; in contrast, their proportions were 0.04% and 0.02% in CC, respectively. Cassava–maize rotation promoted the metabolic activities of soil microbes, leading to a significant enhancement in functional genes related to nitrogen and carbon cycling, such as nasA, nasD, nrtC, coxA, porA, and frdA. This shows that microbial activity and nutrient cycling improved in the crop rotation system. Thus, these findings highlight the importance of crop rotation for maintaining soil health, enhancing microbial functions, and improving sustainable cassava production. This study provides valuable insights into the management of cassava agroecosystems and the mitigation of the adverse effects of continuous cropping. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Innovative Cropping Systems)
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31 pages, 2422 KiB  
Review
Chemical Hazards in Products of Animal Origin in Cambodia from 2000 to 2023: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
by Shwe Phue San, Linda Nicolaides, Delia Grace, Tumnoon Charaslertrangsi, Chhoun Chamnan, Shetty Seetharama Thombathu, Ra Thorng, Leab Kong, Sreymom Noeurn, Kuok Fidero, Che Ratana, Nazanin Zand and Rortana Chea
Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2025, 22(8), 1299; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph22081299 - 19 Aug 2025
Abstract
Chemical hazards in food present a significant health risk. The objective of our review is to understand health risks associated with chemical contaminants in products of animal origin (POAO) in Cambodia, where there is no known published study. We followed the “Preferred Reporting [...] Read more.
Chemical hazards in food present a significant health risk. The objective of our review is to understand health risks associated with chemical contaminants in products of animal origin (POAO) in Cambodia, where there is no known published study. We followed the “Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses” (PRISMA) guidelines. A total of 23 reports were included for review. The findings are presented according to the PRISMA guidelines. The studies mostly focused on fishery products, with arsenic and mercury being the most frequently studied hazards. The evidence of banned substances such as chloramphenicol and certain organochlorine pesticides (OCPs), including chlordane and Mirex, was reported in fish and meat. Additionally, mercury levels were measured in beef, pork, viscera, and eggs, but the average concentration remained significantly below the hazard index. The average concentration of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAH) in smoked fish exceeded the EU limits, ranging from 0.034 to 17.2 mg/kg, with an average mean concentration of 1.92 mg/kg. The pooled geometric means of arsenic and mercury in fish were 0.40 mg/kg (95% CI: 0.25–0.66) and ~0.14 mg/kg (95% CI: 0.087 to 0.223), respectively. The health risk of mercury contamination in fishery products needs the attention of the risk managers. However, industrial contaminants such as polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) and butyl tin in marine fishes were lower than those reported elsewhere, such as Japan. We discuss the implications of the findings for human health and national food control systems (NFCS), the capacity of different agencies to undertake chemical risk assessment, the utility of systematic literature reviews (SLRs) for risk assessment and communication in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs), and the need for further research. Full article
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42 pages, 1850 KiB  
Review
Date Palm (Phoenix dactylifera L.) Fruit: Strategic Crop for Food Security, Nutritional Benefits, Postharvest Quality, and Valorization into Emerging Functional Products
by Nasser Al-Habsi
Sustainability 2025, 17(16), 7491; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17167491 - 19 Aug 2025
Abstract
Date palm (Phoenix dactylifera L.) is a vital crop cultivated primarily in developing regions, playing a strategic role in global food security through its significant contribution to nutrition, economy, and livelihoods. Global and regional production trends revealed increasing demand and expanded cultivation [...] Read more.
Date palm (Phoenix dactylifera L.) is a vital crop cultivated primarily in developing regions, playing a strategic role in global food security through its significant contribution to nutrition, economy, and livelihoods. Global and regional production trends revealed increasing demand and expanded cultivation areas, underpinning the fruit’s importance in national food security policies and economic frameworks. The date fruit’s rich nutritional profile, encompassing carbohydrates, dietary fiber, minerals, and bioactive compounds, supports its status as a functional food with health benefits. Postharvest technologies and quality preservation strategies, including temperature-controlled storage, advanced drying, edible coatings, and emerging AI-driven monitoring systems, are critical to reducing losses and maintaining quality across diverse cultivars and maturity stages. Processing techniques such as drying, irradiation, and cold plasma distinctly influence sugar composition, texture, polyphenol retention, and sensory acceptance, with cultivar- and stage-specific responses guiding optimization efforts. The cold chain and innovative packaging solutions, including vacuum and modified atmosphere packaging, along with biopolymer-based edible coatings, enhance storage efficiency and microbial safety, though economic and practical constraints remain, especially for smallholders. Microbial contamination, a major challenge in date fruit storage and export, is addressed through integrated preservation approaches combining thermal, non-thermal, and biopreservative treatment. However, gaps in microbial safety data, mycotoxin evaluation, and regulatory harmonization hinder broader application. Date fruit derivatives such as flesh, syrup, seeds, press cake, pomace, and vinegar offer versatile functional roles across food systems. They improve nutritional value, sensory qualities, and shelf life in bakery, dairy, meat, and beverage products while supporting sustainable waste valorization. Emerging secondary derivatives like powders and extracts further expand the potential for clean-label, health-promoting applications. This comprehensive review underscores the need for multidisciplinary research and development to advance sustainable production, postharvest management, and value-added utilization of date palm fruits, fostering enhanced food security, economic benefits, and consumer health worldwide. Full article
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5 pages, 475 KiB  
Proceeding Paper
Pharmaceutical Profiling of Fentanyl Use in Portugal: Consumption Patterns and Abuse Deterrence Gaps
by Ana Isabel Fernandes
Med. Sci. Forum 2025, 37(1), 3; https://doi.org/10.3390/msf2025037003 - 19 Aug 2025
Abstract
Fentanyl, a potent synthetic opioid used in pain management, has seen a marked rise in outpatient use in Portugal between 2015 and 2022. During this period, consumption nearly doubled, with transdermal patches and sublingual tablets dominating the market. Rapid-onset formulations lacking abuse-deterrent features [...] Read more.
Fentanyl, a potent synthetic opioid used in pain management, has seen a marked rise in outpatient use in Portugal between 2015 and 2022. During this period, consumption nearly doubled, with transdermal patches and sublingual tablets dominating the market. Rapid-onset formulations lacking abuse-deterrent features pose have heightened the risks of misuse and diversion. Despite these concerns, no abuse-deterrent fentanyl products are currently available in Portugal. These findings expose critical regulatory and pharmaceutical gaps. To mitigate public health and environmental risks, a coordinated strategy—encompassing prescription monitoring, education, safer formulations, and a One Health approach—is urgently needed to ensure responsible opioid use and stewardship. Full article
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25 pages, 3969 KiB  
Article
Geographical Variation in Cover Crop Management and Outcomes in Continuous Corn Farming System in Nebraska
by Andualem Shiferaw, Girma Birru, Tsegaye Tadesse, Brian Wardlow, Tala Awada, Virginia Jin, Marty Schmer, Ariel Freidenreich and Javed Iqbal
Agriculture 2025, 15(16), 1776; https://doi.org/10.3390/agriculture15161776 - 19 Aug 2025
Abstract
Cover crops (CCs) are widely recognized for their numerous benefits, including enhancing soil health, mitigating erosion, and promoting nutrient cycling, among many others. However, their outcomes vary significantly depending on site-specific biophysical conditions and agronomic management practices. This study investigates the geographic variations [...] Read more.
Cover crops (CCs) are widely recognized for their numerous benefits, including enhancing soil health, mitigating erosion, and promoting nutrient cycling, among many others. However, their outcomes vary significantly depending on site-specific biophysical conditions and agronomic management practices. This study investigates the geographic variations in cover crop outcomes across Nebraska, focusing on three critical management factors: seeding rate, termination timing, and termination-to-corn planting intervals. Using Decision Support System for Agrotechnology Transfer (DSSAT) simulations, we evaluated the effects of these practices on cover crop biomass, growth stages, and subsequent corn yield across seven sites. The results revealed that corn yield remained resilient across all sites, with no statistically significant differences (p > 0.05) across termination timings, seeding rates, or termination-to-planting intervals. A CC seeding rate analysis showed that biomass tended to increase with higher seeding densities, particularly from 200 to 250 plants m−2, but the gains diminished beyond that, and few pairwise comparisons reached statistical significance. Termination timing had a significant effect on biomass and growth stages, with delayed termination resulting in greater biomass accumulation and advanced phenological development (e.g., Zadoks > 45), which may complicate termination efficacy. Increasing termination-to-planting intervals led to reduced biomass due to shorter growing periods, though these reductions were not associated with significant corn yield penalties. This study highlights the importance of tailoring CC management strategies to local environmental conditions and agronomic objectives. By addressing these site-specific factors, the findings offer actionable insights for farmers and land managers to optimize both ecological benefits and productivity in Nebraska’s no-till systems. Full article
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18 pages, 2226 KiB  
Article
The Clonal Spread and Persistence of Campylobacter in Danish Broiler Farms and Its Association with Human Infections
by Katrine Grimstrup Joensen, Gitte Sørensen, Pernille Gymoese, Louise Gade Dahl and Eva Møller Nielsen
Pathogens 2025, 14(8), 821; https://doi.org/10.3390/pathogens14080821 - 19 Aug 2025
Abstract
Campylobacter is the most common cause of bacterial foodborne illness in the EU, primarily linked to poultry. To better understand its transmission dynamics, we applied whole-genome sequencing (WGS) to Campylobacter isolates collected at slaughterhouses over a two-year period from broilers originating from 26 [...] Read more.
Campylobacter is the most common cause of bacterial foodborne illness in the EU, primarily linked to poultry. To better understand its transmission dynamics, we applied whole-genome sequencing (WGS) to Campylobacter isolates collected at slaughterhouses over a two-year period from broilers originating from 26 Danish farms. The samples included cloacal swabs and boot sock samples from broiler houses and surrounding farm environments. We identified 150 distinct cgMLST types among 883 isolates. While most cgMLST types were flock-specific, some persisted across production cycles or appeared at different farms, indicating entrenched contamination or potential common-source introductions. Notably, 39% of broiler-associated cgMLST types overlapped with human clinical isolates from the same period, with the strongest overlap among persistent and cross-farm types, particularly in conventional production systems. Our findings underscore the need for strengthened biosecurity, targeted surveillance of high-risk genotypes, and real-time WGS integration to mitigate the burden of human Campylobacteriosis. This study supports a One Health approach to managing zoonotic risk in poultry production. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feature Papers on the Epidemiology of Infectious Diseases)
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30 pages, 2190 KiB  
Review
The Sublethal Effects of Neonicotinoids on Honeybees
by Zunair Ahsan, Zhijia Wu, Zheguang Lin, Ting Ji and Kang Wang
Biology 2025, 14(8), 1076; https://doi.org/10.3390/biology14081076 - 18 Aug 2025
Abstract
Honeybees (Apis mellifera) are indispensable pollinators vital to global biodiversity, ecosystem stability, and agricultural productivity, and they promote over 35% of food crops and 75% of flowering plants. Yet, they are in unprecedented decline, partly as a result of neonicotinoid pesticide [...] Read more.
Honeybees (Apis mellifera) are indispensable pollinators vital to global biodiversity, ecosystem stability, and agricultural productivity, and they promote over 35% of food crops and 75% of flowering plants. Yet, they are in unprecedented decline, partly as a result of neonicotinoid pesticide use elsewhere. These effects on honey bee health are synthesized in this paper through molecular, physiological, and behavioral data showing that sublethal effects of neonicotinoids impair honey bee health. As neurotoxic insecticides that target nicotinic acetylcholine receptors (nAChRs), these insecticides interfere with neurotransmission and underlie cognitive impairment, immune suppression, and oxidative stress. Developmental toxicity is manifested in larvae as retarded growth, reduced feeding, and increased death; queen and drone reproduction are impaired, lowering colony viability. As a result, adult bees have shortened lives and erratic foraging, are further disoriented, and experience impaired navigation, communication, and resource collection. Together, these effects cascade to reduced brood care, thermoregulatory failure, and heretofore unrecognized increased susceptibility to pathogens, increasing the probability of colony collapse at the colony level. Contaminants such as pesticides may cause pollinator exposure and, in turn, may cause their population to be undermined if they are not mitigated; therefore, urgent mitigation strategies, including integrated pest management (IPM), regulatory reforms, and adoption of biopesticides, are needed to mitigate pollinator exposure. The focus of this review lies in the ecological necessity of restructuring how agriculture is managed to simultaneously meet food security and the conservation of honeybee health, the linchpin of global ecosystems. Full article
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18 pages, 1196 KiB  
Review
Ecological, Apicultural, and Therapeutic Value of Vachellia tortilis and Ziziphus spina-christi Honeys in the United Arab Emirates: A Model for Sustainable Use in Arid Ecosystems
by Fatma Alzahraa Mokhtar, Seham S. Elhawary, Amal M. Fakhry, Aseela Abdulla Almoalla, Khawla Mohammed Alyammahi, Youssouf Belaid, Karim Abdelazim, Ahmed Hamdy Zabady, Heba A. Yassin, Hanan M. Elnahas and Ali El-Keblawy
Foods 2025, 14(16), 2859; https://doi.org/10.3390/foods14162859 - 18 Aug 2025
Viewed by 16
Abstract
Honey production has been an integral part of the UAE’s heritage. Vachellia tortilis and Ziziphus spina-christi pollen and nectar are essential components of high-quality UAE honey. These plants are integral to Emirati culture, showcasing a legacy of ecological balance and medicinal uses. In [...] Read more.
Honey production has been an integral part of the UAE’s heritage. Vachellia tortilis and Ziziphus spina-christi pollen and nectar are essential components of high-quality UAE honey. These plants are integral to Emirati culture, showcasing a legacy of ecological balance and medicinal uses. In addition to their cultural significance, V. tortilis and Z. spina-christi offer substantial pharmacological and ecological value. This review explores the role of V. tortilis and Z. spina-christi in producing honey rich in bioactive compounds with antimicrobial, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory properties, highlighting their therapeutic potential in addressing infectious and chronic diseases. Furthermore, the diversity of phytochemicals in the honey from these plants supports their use in pharmaceutical advancements, including cancer and antibacterial treatments. Their apicultural importance is also emphasized, particularly in supporting sustainable honey production systems adapted to arid environments. The eco-friendly production of silver nanoparticles from Z. spina-christi demonstrates their versatility for health and agriculture. By exploring views on honey authenticity, advanced extraction methods, and the medicinal benefits of honeybee products, this study promotes these species’ conservation and sustainable use. The study emphasizes the contributions of V. tortilis and Z. spina-christi to ecological stability, public health, and economic growth. It presents a compelling case for leveraging their potential to advance sustainable apiculture and ecosystem management in arid regions. Full article
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27 pages, 1818 KiB  
Article
Facilitation or Inhibition? Aging Rural Labor Force and Forestry Economic Resilience: Based on the Perspective of Production Factors
by Yuping Huang, Weiming Lin, Tian Xiao, Jingying Ren and Shuhan Lin
Forests 2025, 16(8), 1341; https://doi.org/10.3390/f16081341 - 18 Aug 2025
Viewed by 48
Abstract
Globally, the accelerating aging of the rural labor force is profoundly impacting the economic resilience of the labor-intensive forestry sector. However, the intrinsic connection between the two has not been fully understood and requires further exploration. As the most populous nation globally and [...] Read more.
Globally, the accelerating aging of the rural labor force is profoundly impacting the economic resilience of the labor-intensive forestry sector. However, the intrinsic connection between the two has not been fully understood and requires further exploration. As the most populous nation globally and a top producer, trader, and consumer of forest products, China stands out as a perfect case study for this issue. Based on this, this study utilizes panel data from 30 provinces in China from 2012 to 2022 and employs a dual machine learning model to empirically examine the impact and mechanisms of rural labor force aging on forestry economic resilience from the perspective of production factors. The findings indicate: (1) overall, the increase in rural labor force aging significantly inhibits forestry economic resilience; (2) rural labor force aging enhances forestry economic resilience by promoting large-scale forest land management, driving forestry technological innovation, and increasing government capital investment; it also inhibits forestry economic resilience by reducing educational human capital and health human capital; (3) the rural force aging exerts a marked adverse effect on the resilience of the forestry economy in the eastern and central regions, major grain-producing areas, and major grain-consuming areas. Based on this, this study proposes policy recommendations in three areas: building a flexible and diversified labor supply and replacement system, exploring a “scale and technology” integration path suited to national conditions, and implementing differentiated regional strategies. The aim is to provide a reference for government departments in formulating strategies to enhance the resilience of the forestry economy in the era of aging. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Forest Economics, Policy, and Social Science)
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22 pages, 2612 KiB  
Article
Systemic Delivery of Oxytetracycline by Drill-Based and Drill-Free Trunk Injection for Treatment of Huanglongbing in Young Sweet Orange Trees
by Ute Albrecht, Caroline Tardivo, Gerardo Moreno and Jasmine de Freitas
Horticulturae 2025, 11(8), 976; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae11080976 - 18 Aug 2025
Viewed by 75
Abstract
The systemic delivery of oxytetracycline (OTC) by trunk injection has emerged as a viable strategy to manage huanglongbing (HLB, also known as citrus greening), a bacterial disease devastating citrus production around the world. This study examines the efficacy of delivering OTC systemically into [...] Read more.
The systemic delivery of oxytetracycline (OTC) by trunk injection has emerged as a viable strategy to manage huanglongbing (HLB, also known as citrus greening), a bacterial disease devastating citrus production around the world. This study examines the efficacy of delivering OTC systemically into the trunk of young, HLB-affected citrus trees using a drill-based or a drill-free system to improve tree health and productivity. Two field trials were conducted in two commercial production sites in Florida. Trees were four years old at the start of the study and composed of ‘Valencia’ or ‘OLL-8’ sweet orange (Citrus sinensis) scion grafted on X-639 (C. reticulata × Poncirus trifoliata) rootstock. Injections were performed in spring or late summer/early fall in 2022 and 2023. Using the drill-based system, 0.79 g of OTC was administered into each tree, whereas 0.15 g or 0.3 g was administered using the drill-free system. Delivering a higher dose of OTC by drill-based injection increased fruit yield and improved juice quality more than delivering lower doses by drill-free injection, though responses varied between cultivars. Injections in late summer/early fall increased the juice total soluble solids content considerably more than injections in spring. However, fall injections resulted in OTC fruit residues exceeding the maximum allowed level. Trunk injury was more extensive when OTC was applied with the drill-free system than when it was applied with the drill-based system. Full article
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28 pages, 861 KiB  
Review
Role of Plant-Derived Smoke Solution on Plants Under Stress
by Amana Khatoon, Muhammad Mudasar Aslam and Setsuko Komatsu
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2025, 26(16), 7911; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms26167911 - 16 Aug 2025
Viewed by 216
Abstract
Plants are constantly exposed to various environmental challenges, such as drought, flooding, heavy metal toxicity, and pathogen attacks. To cope with these stresses, they employ several adaptive strategies. This review highlights the potential of plant-derived smoke (PDS) solution as a natural biostimulant for [...] Read more.
Plants are constantly exposed to various environmental challenges, such as drought, flooding, heavy metal toxicity, and pathogen attacks. To cope with these stresses, they employ several adaptive strategies. This review highlights the potential of plant-derived smoke (PDS) solution as a natural biostimulant for improving plant health and resilience, contributing to both crop productivity and ecological restoration under abiotic and biotic stress conditions. Mitigating effects of PDS solution against various stresses were observed at morphological, physiological, and molecular levels in plants. PDS solution application involves strengthening the cell membrane by minimizing electrolyte leakage, which enhances cell membrane stability and stomatal conductance. The increased reactive-oxygen species were managed by the activation of the antioxidant system including ascorbate peroxidase, superoxide dismutase, and catalase to meet oxidative damage caused by challenging conditions imposed by flooding, drought, and heavy metal stress. PDS solution along with other by-products of fire, such as charred organic matter and ash, can enrich the soil by slightly increasing its pH and improving nutrient availability. Additionally, some studies indicated that PDS solution may influence phytohormonal pathways, particularly auxins and gibberellic acids, which can contribute to root development and enhance symbiotic interactions with soil microbes, including mycorrhizal fungi. These combined effects may support overall plant growth, though the extent of PDS contribution may vary depending on species and environmental conditions. This boost in plant growth contributes to protecting the plants against pathogens, which shows the role of PDS in enduring biotic stress. Collectively, PDS solution mitigates stress tolerance in plants via multifaceted changes, including the regulation of physico-chemical responses, enhancement of the antioxidant system, modulation of heavy metal speciation, and key adjustments of photosynthesis, respiration, cell membrane transport, and the antioxidant system at genomic/proteomic levels. This review focuses on the role of PDS solution in fortifying plants against environmental stresses. It is suggested that PDS solution, which already has been determined to be a biostimulant, has potential for the revival of plant growth and soil ecosystem under abiotic and biotic stresses. Full article
(This article belongs to the Collection Feature Papers in Molecular Plant Sciences)
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21 pages, 4164 KiB  
Article
Geostatistical Analysis and Delineation of Groundwater Potential Zones for Their Implications in Irrigated Agriculture of Punjab Pakistan
by Aamir Shakoor, Imran Rasheed, Muhammad Nouman Sattar, Akinwale T. Ogunrinde, Sabab Ali Shah, Hafiz Umar Farid, Hareef Ahmed Keerio, Asim Qayyum Butt, Amjad Ali Khan and Malik Sarmad Riaz
World 2025, 6(3), 115; https://doi.org/10.3390/world6030115 - 15 Aug 2025
Viewed by 248
Abstract
Groundwater is essential for irrigated agriculture, yet its use remains unsustainable in many regions worldwide. In countries like Pakistan, the situation is particularly pressing. The irrigated agriculture of Pakistan heavily relies on groundwater resources owing to limited canal-water availability. The groundwater quality in [...] Read more.
Groundwater is essential for irrigated agriculture, yet its use remains unsustainable in many regions worldwide. In countries like Pakistan, the situation is particularly pressing. The irrigated agriculture of Pakistan heavily relies on groundwater resources owing to limited canal-water availability. The groundwater quality in the region ranges from good to poor, with the lower-quality water adversely affecting soil structure and plant health, leading to reduced agricultural productivity. The delineation of quality zones with respect to irrigation parameters is thus crucial for optimizing its sustainable use and management. Therefore, this research study was carried out in the Lower Chenab Canal (LCC) irrigation system to assess the spatial distribution of groundwater quality. The geostatistical analysis was conducted using Gamma Design Software (GS+) and the Kriging interpolation method was applied within a Geographic Information System (GIS) framework to generate groundwater-quality maps. Semivariogram models were evaluated for major irrigation parameters such as electrical conductivity (EC), residual sodium carbonate (RSC), and sodium adsorption ratio (SAR) to identify the best fit for various Ordinary Kriging models. The spherical semivariogram model was the best fit for EC, while the exponential model best suited SAR and RSC. Overlay analysis was performed to produce combined water-quality maps. During the pre-monsoon season, 17.83% of the LCC area demonstrated good irrigation quality, while 42.84% showed marginal quality, and 39.33% was deemed unsuitable for irrigation. In the post-monsoon season, 17.30% of the area had good irrigation quality, 44.53% exhibited marginal quality, and 38.17% was unsuitable for irrigation. The study revealed that Electrical Conductivity (EC) was the primary factor affecting water quality, contributing to 71% of marginal and unsuitable conditions. In comparison, the Sodium Adsorption Ratio (SAR) accounted for 38% and Residual Sodium Carbonate (RSC) contributed 45%. Therefore, it is recommended that groundwater in unsuitable zones be subjected to artificial recharge methods and salt-tolerated crops to enhance its suitability for agricultural applications. Full article
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20 pages, 275 KiB  
Article
Global Clinical Practice in Transitioning Protein Substitutes for Children with Phenylketonuria
by Ozlem Yilmaz Nas, Catherine Ashmore, Sharon Evans, Alex Pinto, Anne Daly, Nurcan Yabancı Ayhan and Anita MacDonald
Nutrients 2025, 17(16), 2650; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu17162650 - 15 Aug 2025
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Abstract
Background: Protein substitutes are essential in the dietary management of phenylketonuria (PKU). Transition from first-stage phenylalanine (Phe)-free infant formula to second- and third-stage protein substitutes is carefully managed to meet a child’s evolving nutritional needs, feeding abilities, and developmental progression. However, clinical protocols, [...] Read more.
Background: Protein substitutes are essential in the dietary management of phenylketonuria (PKU). Transition from first-stage phenylalanine (Phe)-free infant formula to second- and third-stage protein substitutes is carefully managed to meet a child’s evolving nutritional needs, feeding abilities, and developmental progression. However, clinical protocols, product access, and reimbursement vary globally. This study assessed international transition practices. Methods: A cross-sectional online survey explored health professionals’ practices on transition timing, influencing factors, product forms, casein-glycomacropeptide (cGMP) use, and perceived barriers and facilitators. Results: A total of 106 professionals from 32 countries participated: Europe (67%), Asia (12%), North America (10%), South America (8%), and Oceania (3%). Dietitians led transitions in 83% of centers. First-stage Phe-free infant formula was typically discontinued at 1–2 years (66%). Second-stage substitutes were introduced at 6–12 months in Europe (61%) and Oceania (100%), but after age one in Asia (69%), North America (72%), and South America (100%). Influencing factors included weaning alignment (46%) and nutritional needs (42%). Semi-solids were preferred in Europe (56%) and Oceania (67%), while powdered drinks dominated in Asia (62%), North America (82%), and South America (100%). Third-stage protein substitutes were introduced at 3–5 years (45%), with later transitions more common in South America (88%) and North America (63%). Ready-to-drink forms were frequent in Oceania (100%), Asia (92%), and Europe (85%). cGMP was prescribed by 61%, mainly guided by preference, Phe tolerance, and adherence; 26% reported no access. Key facilitators for transition included motivation (79%) and sensory properties (69%); barriers included aversion (70%) and poor taste/texture (69%). School involvement was reported by 32%. Conclusions: Protein substitute transition practices in PKU vary globally. International guidance and equitable product access are needed. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Dietary Practices and Dietary Treatment in Phenylketonuria)
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