Journal of Applied Life Sciences and Environment (ALSE) is a peer-reviewed, open-access journal on Agricultural, Horticultural and Animal Sciences, Food Sciences, Veterinary Medicine and Environmental Management in the field of Applied Life Sciences, published quarterly online and in print by “Ion Ionescu de la Brad” Iasi University of Life Sciences (IULS).
Latest Articles
The Influence of Tillage Systems on Soil Compaction in the Corn Crop
Gabriel-Dumitru Mihu, Denis Țopa, Anca Elena Calistru, Gerard Jităreanu
ABSTRACT. During the last decades, no-tillage has started to be used on more and more areas, being a conservative tillage system practiced in many farms in the country. The aim of this study was to quantify the effects of the no-tillage system on the physical properties of the soil compared to the conventional system, in a plateau area with cambic chernozem soil under the current climatic conditions in the north-east of Romania, in order to implement it in agricultural practice of the studied area. The soil samples were taken in natural and undisturbed conditions for bulk density and moisture content, soil penetration resistance was determined using the Eijkelkamp penetrologger. The status of soil compaction, the various porosity categories, and the soil moisture content were all determined based on field and laboratory analysis. Measurements performed at a depth of 0-40 cm showed a lower bulk density in the conventional system, and in terms of variation in values from sowing to harvesting, there was a maximum increase of 18% in the 10-20 cm soil layer, an intermediate of 10% in the topsoil and 20-30 cm layers, and a minimum of 1% in the 30-40 cm layer. Total porosity, which reflects soil pore volume, is inversely correlated with bulk density, which means that under conventional tillage practices, soil macropore volume (>0.05 cm) was higher (47.79-60.82% v/v) than under no-tillage practices (45.90-50.79% v/v) for 0-40 cm depth at the sowing time. The results confirm that the no-tillage system conserves more water in the soil under current climatic conditions.
Keywords: no-tillage; conventional tillage; soil physical properties.
* Abstract published in Conference Programme dedicated to LIFE SCIENCES TODAY FOR TOMORROW
Comparative Analysis of The Influence of Different Biostimulators on the Germination and Sprouting Behaviour of Four Wheat Varieties
Alina Elena Marta, Cristina Slabu, Mihaela Covașă, Iuliana Motrescu, Carmenica Doina Jităreanu
ABSTRACT. Wheat is an important cereal around the world and is a nutrient source in people’s diets. In this work, we focused on the potential of some biostimulators on four wheat varieties – Dropia, Glosa, Gruia, and Pegasus, with a focus on the effects during the first developing stages from germination to the appearance of the second leaf. Our results indicated that germination and some biochemical traits can be strongly influenced by biostimulants, with the effects also depending on the genetic background of the variety. Some treatments proved beneficial for germination, and also growth as found by the biometric measurements, while others inhibited both traits. Some of the biostimulants increased the concentration of the photosynthetic compounds, thus being recommended for use during all stages of wheat development. Dropia, Glosa, and Gruia reacted positively in most tests, their germination and plant and root development were stimulated by Super fifty, Atonik, Asfac, and Cropmax. Thus, we recommend the use of these biostimulants in the first development stages. The concentrations of photosynthetic pigments increased after treatment with Asfac, Atonik, and Cropmax. The treatment showing the most inhibitory effects was Lebosol.
Keywords: wheat; biostimulator; wheat sprouts.
Cover story
Agriculture, especially livestock farming, is a major driver of climate change through its contribution to the total emissions of greenhouse gases (GHGs).
The dairy sector has been identified as an important source of GHG emissions, mainly via carbon dioxide, methane and nitrous oxide. In a dairy farm located in Romania, total carbon dioxide equivalent (CO2e) emissions were assessed using the Cool Farm Tool calculator (CFT). Results showed annual GHG emissions of 553,170 kg CO2e, almost half of which were released through enteric fermentation. Lactating cows were the major contributor to total GHG emissions, while heifers released the lowest emissions.
The two scenarios simulated in this study showed that both the changes made in dairy diet composition and livestock manure management could result in lower GHG emissions. These results confirm the importance and utility of the CFT for the quantification of GHG emissions in dairy farms and its important role as a decision support tool to guide the adoption of good agricultural practices (see page 323).
Spatial and Diametric Evolution of a Rare Species, Prunus Avium, in Different Biotopes in Northwest Tunisia
Jdaidi Nouri, Selmi Houcine, Aloui Foued, Chaabane Abbes
ABSTRACT. This paper aimed to investigate and analyse the diametric and spatial distribution of Prunus avium populations in Tunisia. This study may help us document better information about the ecological processes and its functioning. Dendrometric and ecological data were collected on four square plots of an area of 1 ha each within two forests, Tabarka and Ain Draham, in northwest Tunisia. The results presented in this work show that P. avium individuals present a diametrical structure in the form of an “inverted J” translated by the dominance of the seedlings compared to the other classes. The analysis of the spatial distribution shows that wild cherry is identified by its aggregates and variable size (approximately 5 m and 20 m). It is coherent with the mode of vegetative propagation by suckering and the dispersal of fruits by birds.
This investigation opens insight into other species to ensure good sustainable management of natural resources.
Keywords: Tunisia; Prunus avium; spatial structure; diametric structure.
Agricultural Trends in Romania in the Context of the Current Trends of the World Economy
Nicoleta Mateoc-Sîrb, Cristina-Viorica Bacău, Anișoara Duma Copcea, Teodor Mateoc-Sîrb, Camelia Mănescu, Simona Niță, Oana Sicoe-Murg, Gabriel Suster
ABSTRACT. The role of agriculture is an extremely important one because it provides the necessary production of foods for the population and, at the same time, represents a source of raw materials for different processing industries. For a growing population, agriculture has been the main source of agri-food products that must ensure the food security of the population. Compared to other states of Europe, Romania is one of the European countries with the most favourable soil and climate conditions for agriculture. The last world crises, from the crisis in 2008 to the pandemic crisis in 2020-2021, and especially to the current conflict between Russia and the Ukraine, have brought up the issue of food self-sufficiency. During the current period, it is important to know what production can be obtained in Romanian agriculture and if it can provide the food necessary for the population. An analysis regarding the dynamics of the cultivated areas and production of the main crops in Romania has been carried out, for each of its 8 development regions. The data, collected from different sources, were analysed using different methods. The research results highlight, for example, that Romania can easily achieve the self-sufficiency stage for most agricultural products of plant origin. In conclusion, natural resources, as well as the existence of a certain material base in Romanian agriculture, can ensure the increase of agricultural production, the satisfaction of the food needs of the population, as well as a certain availability for export.
Keywords: agricultural holdings; cultivated areas; realized production; food self -sufficiency.
* Abstract published in Conference Programme dedicated to LIFE SCIENCES TODAY FOR TOMORROW
The Influence of Genotype, Soil Tillage and Fertilisation on Carbon Sequestration in Maize
Elena Petcu, Cătălin Lazăr, Elena Partal, Laura Conţescu, Daniela Horhocea
ABSTRACT. The increase in the concentration of greenhouse gases in the Earth’s atmosphere, especially that of CO2, is a major concern because it is the main source leading to global warming, and its impact on climate change is still widely studied. The intensity and frequency of drought and flooding increase due to the change in climate, which has a negative impact on crop productivity and food security. The aim of this paper was to demonstrate the role of corn in carbon sequestration based on plant biomass and soil organic carbon accumulation. We presented the main factors that contribute to carbon sequestration and concrete examples regarding the capacity of corn hybrids created at National Agricultural Research and Development Institute (NARDI) Fundulea, as well as aspects regarding the importance of soil tillage and fertilisation. In contrast to genotypes in which this ratio was lower, maize genotypes that demonstrated a rise in the root:stem ratio under drought stress conditions produced more biomass, suggesting that the roots of these genotypes can grow at water potentials where stem growth is inhibited, which are attributes that also prove their good potential for carbon sequestration under climate change conditions. The organic carbon content in the superficial soil layer decreased with the intensification of the degree of soil mobilisation (9.95% when working the soil with the chisel, 17.91% for ploughing), but fertilisation had a beneficial effect. The biomass was higher than that of the unfertilised soil. This means that a higher carbon input has a positive influence on the carbon stock in the soil.
Keywords: maize; carbon sequestration; hybrids; soil tillage; fertilisation.
* Abstract published in Conference Programme dedicated to LIFE SCIENCES TODAY FOR TOMORROW
Assessment of Greenhouse Gas Emissions From Dairy Farming Using the Cool Farm Tool
Roxana Vidican, Anamaria Mălinaș, Cristina Moldovan, Anca Pleșa, Mirela Ranta
ABSTRACT. Climate change is one of the greatest challenges mankind has ever faced and could lead to potentially devastating global problems, with a need for urgent mitigation and adaptation. Agriculture, especially livestock farming, is a major driver of climate change through its contribution to the total emissions of greenhouse gases (GHGs). The dairy sector has been identified as an important source of GHG emissions, mainly via carbon dioxide (CO2), methane (CH4) and nitrous oxide (N2O). In this study, total CO2 equivalent (CO2e) emissions were assessed from a dairy farm (65 dairy cows) located in Romania using the Cool Farm Tool calculator (CFT). We specifically aimed to calculate: (1) the total CO2 equivalent (CO2e) and CO2e per kg FPCM (fat- and protein-corrected milk); (2) methane emissions from enteric fermentation; (3) GHGs resulting from feeding practices; (4) GHGs from manure management; and (5) a simulation of two different scenarios and their impact on GHG emissions. Our results showed annual GHG emissions of 553,170 kg CO2e, almost half of which were released through enteric fermentation. Lactating cows were the major contributor to total GHG emissions, while heifers released the lowest emissions. The two scenarios simulated in this study showed that both the changes made in dairy diet composition and livestock manure management could result in lower GHG emissions. These results confirm the importance and utility of the CFT for the quantification of GHG emissions in dairy farms and its important role as a decision support tool to guide the adoption of good agricultural practices.
Keywords: dairy; greenhouse gases; emissions; climate change; enteric emissions; Cool Farm Tool.
* Abstract published in Conference Programme dedicated to LIFE SCIENCES TODAY FOR TOMORROW
Observations of Sexual Behaviors in Goats (Capra Hircus) Raised on Non-Professional Farms
Corneliu Gașpar, Luminița-Iuliana Ailincăi, Adina-Ximena Dodan
ABSTRACT. This study focuses on monitoring the sexual behaviours of male and female goats (Capra hircus) at each stage of mounting and observing sexual reflexes and related peculiarities. The ethological behaviours of females and males were observed twice per day, between 6:00 and 8:00 a.m. and between 19:00 and 21:00 p.m, and the anatomical parts of females in estrus were inspected and scanned. Each mount was recorded using a video camera. A digital timer was also used to record the stages of sexual act (prelude and copulation). The sexual behaviours of a common breed of goats reared in non-professional holdings was studied in August, September and October 2020 and 2021. Sexual behaviour was observed in a total of 24 goats, 5 males, aged 3–8 years, and 19 females, aged 1–10 years, raised in a rural area (Priponesti) in Galati County. The data gathered provide details of the sexual behavior of this species, supplementing the information currently available. The most numerous mounts were carried out by the 4-year-old buck (M1 male) with 7 out of 20, representing 35% of the total mounts observed. The mount was characterized by very high duration of courtship (average 98%) compared to the true mounting (average 2%) (p < 0.05). The postlude behavioural manifestations observed were bucks continuing to inspect the anogenital area of the female, wagging their tongues while the goats expressed a characteristic bleat. Keywords: sexual behavior; goats; true mounting; courtship; non-professional farms.
Increased Tolerance to Chlorhexidine Following Prolonged Exposure in Staphylococcus Species Isolated from the Skin and Mucosae of Dogs
Ozana-Maria Hrițcu, Gheorghe Solcan, Iuliana E. Măciucă, Dorina Timofte, Vanessa Schmidt
ABSTRACT. This study aimed to investigate if canine staphylococci isolates could develop tolerance to chlorhexidine digluconate after long-term exposure. Staphylococci (Staphylococcus pseudintermedius and coagulase-negative staphylococci, methicillin-susceptible and methicillin-resistant), with and without genotypic chlorhexidine resistance, were investigated for phenotypic chlorhexidine tolerance by determining the MBC (minimal bactericidal concentration) at various time points. The testing was performed as follows: determination of MBC for 30 minutes and 24 hours (MBC 24h-1); exposure of isolates for seven days to concentrations of chlorhexidine equal to 1/2 MBC 24h-1; determination of MBC for 24 h after the first week (MBC 24h-2); exposure of isolates for seven days to concentrations of chlorhexidine equal to 1/2 MBC 24h-2 and rest in Mueller–Hinton broth for seven days; determination of MBC for 24 h after the second week (MBC 24h-3). The MBC for 30 minutes ranged between 16–32 µg/ml compared to the MBC 24h-1 which was between 1–8 µg/ml. The MBCs for 24 h dropped from 8 µg/ml to 0.5 µg/ml for isolate 1, from 2 µg/ml to1 µg/ml for isolate 6 and from 2 µg/ml to 0.5 µg/ml for isolate 8 after being exposed for seven days to concentrations of chlorhexidine equal to 1/2 MBC 24h-1. For one CoNS (coagulase-negative staphylococci), the MBC 24h-2 increased four times from 1 µg/ml (MBC 24h-1) to 4 µg/ml and dropped again to 1 µg/ml after the second week. These results suggest that continuous exposure to chlorhexidine could lead to the selection of chlorhexidine-tolerant staphylococci that could withstand concentrations used during routine decolonisation procedures.
Keywords: Staphylococcus; chlorhexidine; tolerance; MBC.
Impact of Seasonal Changes in Freshwater Phytoplankton and Zooplankton Biodiversity at Valankulam Lake, Coimbatore District, Tamil Nadu, India
Bala Mohan, Sheela Priyadarshinee, Ramaswamy Kalpana, Periyakali Saravana Bhavan, Narasimman Manickam, Perumal Santhanam, Duraiswamy Prabha
ABSTRACT. The plankton communities are important source of food for the aquatic organisms, and if any undesirable changes in aquatic environment may affect plankton diversity and density. Therefore, assessment of planktonic communities in the freshwater ecosystems is essential because they serve as bio-indicators of water quality parameters. Hence, the present research was focused to evaluate the freshwater phytoplankton and zooplankton diversity and their abundance in Valankulam Lake (Lat. 10.59° N and Long. 76.57° E), at Coimbatore city, Tamil Nadu, India. Results from the study revealed that a total of 77 species of phytoplankton and zooplankton were recorded, under 37 families and 46 genera. In addition to that, a total of 43 phytoplankton species were recorded under 25 families and 30 genera, (which includes; 15 species of Cyanophyceae, 17 species of Chlorophyceae, 08 species of Bacillariophyceae, 03 species of Euglenophyceae). and a total of 34 species of zooplankton were recorded under 12 families and 17 genera, (which includes 13 species of Rotifera, 09 species of Cladocera, 08 species of Copepoda and 04 species of Ostracoda). The maximum plankton diversity was observed during the monsoon season and the minimum in the summer season. Results from study revealed the ecological status of the lake is categorized as moderately polluted due to the presence of municipal waste and industrial discharges into the lake water. Therefore, the assessment of planktonic communities in water bodies will be useful to monitor and maintain the water quality parameters and wealth of aquatic biota in the aquatic ecosystem.
Keywords: plankton; species composition; community structure; water quality.
The Influence Of Differentiated Fertilisation On The Sugar Level In The Must, For The Aligote and Feteasca Alba Varieties, Under the Conditions of the Iasi Vineyard
Nicoleta Luminita Paraschiv, Mariana Volf, Elena Liliana Chelariu
ABSTRACT. Wine soils from the country’s main vineyards contain 0.05-0.25 g total N per 100 g soil, 0.9-20 mg P_2 O_5/100 g soil and 6.5-36 mg K_2 O/100 g soil. The amount of fertiliser that the plant will use – the degree of use – depends on the age of the stumps, the type of rootstock and the planned production. Acting as a factor for the intensification of production, mineral fertilisers, used as a complement to organic fertilisation, contribute not only to maintaining and increasing soil fertility but also to the quantitative and qualitative growth of production. Since the natural reserves of nutrients are limited, the application of natural and mineral fertilisers, scientifically based and differentiated according to the concrete pedoclimatic conditions, is of particular importance from an ecological and economic point of view. The research undertaken highlighted that the use of chemical fertilisers, in different dosages and ratios, favourably influenced the accumulation of sugar in the must for both varieties, with values that were between 178 g/L sugars for the Aligote variety and 170.7 g/L for Feteasca alba. The P-K relationship positively influenced the accumulation of sugars for both varieties, 177.4 g/L sugars for the Aligote variety and 171.3 g/L for Feteasca alba.
Keywords: chemical fertilisers; must; vines.
Effect of Moringa (Moringa Oleifera) Leaf Powder, Neem (Azadirachta Indica) Leaf Powder and Camphor on Weevil (Callosobruchus Maculatus F.) in Stored Cowpea (Vigna Unguiculata (L.) Walp) Seeds
Adams Latif Mohammed, Mariam Iddriss
ABSTRACT. Cowpea (Vigna unguiculata (L.) Walp.), one of the most important leguminous crops, is widely cultivated throughout the tropics, especially in the savanna regions of the world. However, its seed is attacked by several insect pests both in the field and in storage, especially the cowpea weevil. To control weevils, most farmers have adopted the use of chemical insecticides, but these insecticides come with health and environmental problems, and as a result, there is advocacy for the use of bio-pesticides in the form of tree botanicals. This study was conducted to assess the effects of neem leaf powder (NLP), moringa leaf powder (MLP), and camphor against the cowpea weevils (Callosobruchus maculatus) in a completely randomized design. Six treatments were used and allocated as T1 (control), T2 (4g of camphor), T3 (25g of NLP only), T4 (25g of MLP only) T5 (50g of NLP only) and T6 (50g of MLP). The treatments were replicated three times. The parameters studied were the numbers of damaged and undamaged seeds, the numbers of dead and live weevils, and the taste of cowpea seeds. The treatments effectively protected the cowpea seeds during the storage period of eight weeks. The preservation of cowpea seeds given by camphor was significantly different from the other treatments. However, there was no significant difference (p >0.05) between the neem and moringa leaf powders treatments. The use of moringa and neem leaf powders might be adopted by cowpea farmers in sub-Saharan Africa as alternative, cheap, and available sources of biopesticides to use as chemical insecticides. If cowpea seeds are to be stored for consumption purposes, moringa leaf powder should be used since most respondents preferred the taste of cowpea seeds treated with moringa. Additionally, the storage duration of eight weeks was too short for the experiment, so further studies can be carried out for an extended period of more than eight weeks.
Keywords: neem; moringa; cowpea seeds; biopesticide; storage.
Bioaccumulation of Heavy Metals in Garlic Bulbs (Allium Sativum L.) in Correlation with Soil from Private Gardens in the Copșa Mică Area, Romania
Vera Carabulea, Dumitru-Marian Motelică, Nicoleta Olimpia Vrînceanu, Georgiana Plopeanu, Mihaela Costea, Bogdan Ștefan Oprea, Veronica Tănase
ABSTRACT. Heavy metal contamination of soil and plants is a worldwide concern. Copșa Mică in Romania is one of the areas in the country known to have a high level of pollution. Even if metallurgical activities have been reduced or stopped the soil is still polluted. This study aimed to estimate the bioaccumulation of heavy metals (Cd, Pb, Zn and Cu) in soil from garlic bulbs (Allium sativum L.) from individual gardens in the Copșa Mică polluted area, Romania. The bioaccumulation of heavy metals in garlic bulbs was estimated based on a data set collected from 44 individual gardens. The value of the linear correlation coefficient between the total cadmium content in the soil and that in the plant was significantly different from zero, indicating a close correlation between the two variables (r = 0.775***). In addition, for zinc (r = 0.649***) and lead (r = 0.423**), simple power-type regressions were found to be best for estimating the bioaccumulation of these elements in garlic bulbs. Only for copper, the value of the linear correlation coefficient was not significantly different from zero (r = 0.274ns), indicating that the estimation of copper accumulation in garlic cannot be described by simple power-type regressions. The results of this study are important for estimating the accumulation of heavy metals in garlic bulbs (head), which are often consumed by the population.
Keywords: heavy metals; soil; garlic; pollution; bioaccumulation.
* Abstract published in Conference Programme dedicated to LIFE SCIENCES TODAY FOR TOMORROW
Cover story
Sideritis hyssopifolia L., a perennial plant, is also known as hyssop-leaved mountain ironwort. In its area of origin in north-western Europe, it is valued as an aromatic and medicinal plant and is used in the prevention and treatment of digestive ailments. It has been studied at Plant Genetic Resources Bank Buzau – Romania since 2019, being the subject of intensive acclimatisation and improvement works with the purpose of obtaining new creations with distinct genotypic and biochemical characteristics. The genetic material used was from the centres of origin (Spain, Portugal, Madeira and Canary Islands), and the breeding methods were repeatedly selected individually, followed by negative mass selection. Cultivar G5, which is superior in terms of acclimation and genetic stability, also exhibited distinct phenotypic expressivity. At the same time, specific cultural technology was developed with the aim of promoting it among farmers (see page 181).
Pumping Pressure and Flow Rate Relationship to Reduce Energy Consumption in Irrigation Systems
Esmeralda Chiorescu
ABSTRACT. In the context of the current energy crisis, electricity consumption, especially by large consumers, must be reduced, rationally, without affecting the quality of services provided. Pressure pumping stations (PPS) in irrigation systems are usually equipped with 4 to 8 electric pumping sets with an installed power that can even exceed 1 MW. Since the PPS serving the irrigation plots must work mainly on demand, the required flow rate in the network can vary widely even during each day of the irrigation period. Also, due to the dependence of the pressure loss on the flow carried in the pipe network, this dependence is usually represented by an increasing quadratic function, and the variation of the required flow also leads to a variation, generally significant, of the pressure required from the PPS. To ensure the necessary flow, the PPS are automated with Supervisory control and data acquisition (SCADA) systems, which optimally control the configuration of the electric pumps in operation and their speed. This article presents a mathematical model and algorithm that facilitate the determination of the correlation between the pressure and flow required from the PPS ((p-Q)C), rendered by an increasing function. The implementation of (p-Q)C in the SCADA system software at PPS 2 in the Trifești-Sculeni irrigation system, in the eastern part of Romania, determined a reduction of energy consumption by up to 16%.
Keywords: Irrigation systems; pressure pumping stations; pressure and flow in pipeline; energy savings.
Effective Diagnostic Techniques in Borrelia Burgdorferi Infestation in Dogs
Maria Larisa Ivănescu, Gabriela Martinescu, Liviu Dan Miron
ABSTRACT. Borreliosis or Lyme disease is a disease transmitted by ixodidae ticks during feeding on blood (Ixodes pacificus and Ixodes scapularis in the USA, Ixodes persulcatus in Asia, Ixodes ricinus in Europe) and is widespread in the entire northern hemisphere. In Romania, the geographic distribution and prevalence of Borrelia burgdorferi sensu lato was 1.4% in 41 counties, with a prevalence between 0.75–18.8%. B. burgdorferi sensu lato. had a prevalence of 3.8%, being found inside ticks in 55 of 183 localities. Successful treatment and full recovery can only be achieved through early diagnosis. The clinical and serologic diagnosis of Lyme disease is particularly difficult because of the phenotypic heterogeneity within and among spirochete species. A case study is presented in this paper: an eight-year-old male Yorkshire terrier dog, which was diagnosed positive for Lyme disease, based on a test which uses a peptide called C6 and which comes from the VlsE protein of B. burgdorferi, used to detect antibodies in dogs. The results demonstrate the reliability of the commercial SNAP 4Dx Plus Test for B. burgdorferi, which uses C6 to differentiate antibodies produced by natural infection from antibodies formed after vaccination. In addition, using real-time PCR, the diagnosis was negative, confirming the results from the literature, according to which the PCR technique is only recommended for research, the positivity percentage being low, especially when the sample is blood (0.1%). We conclude that the tests for the detection of antibodies specific to Lyme disease are recommended and useful.
Keywords: Lyme disease; antibodies; real-time PCR.
Prevalence, Economic Impact and Therapeutic Efficacy in Acute Infectious Pododermatitis in Sheep
Mariana Grecu, Oana Tănase, Mădălina Elena Henea, Valentin Nastasă, Cristina Mihaela Rîmbu
ABSTRACT. This study assessed seasonal incidence, economic losses, the efficacy of therapeutic protocols, the recovery time of affected animals and specific prophylactic measures applied to sheep with acute infectious pododermatitis. The studies were conducted over a period of 12 months in 3 different sheep farms from private units in the same area. The results of the study showed an increased incidence of the disease in all 3 farms, with an average of 26.94% of the sheep flock. The incidence of the disease was increased in the months of April-May-June-July and September-October (30%), when there were heavy rains. The high morbidity led to economic losses through the decrease in milk production by approximately 30% and the decrease in the weight of the sheep by 10.58% (4.2 kg) of their normal weight. The therapeutic protocol applied locally as well as parenterally, combined with a foot bath with 10% zinc sulphate solution, were effective in treating acute infectious pododermatitis of sheep. The average recovery time (days) was approximately the same in the three groups of sheep (5.25 ± 0.68 days for cases with moderate diseases and 10.2 ± 0.22 for cases with severe diseases).
Keywords: acute infectious pododermatitis; sheep; Fusobacterium necrophorum; Dichelobacter nodosus.
Effect of Moisture Contents and Compression Axes on Some Physical and Mechanical Properties of Dioclea Reflexa Seed
Olakunle Olukayode, Eyitope Israel Alade, Seun Oyelami
ABSTRACT. Interest in unconventional seeds such as Dioclea reflexa is growing in the tropical regions, with the potential for utilisation as food or industrial materials. Researchers confirmed that Dioclea reflexa seed has the potential for clinical use, use as a food source, and as industrial raw material. This research studies the effect of moisture content on the physical properties of Dioclea reflexa seed and the effect of moisture content and compression axes its mechanical properties. Standards methods were used to determine the physical properties, while the mechanical properties were derived from force-deformation curves for the moisture content range 4.8 to 12.1% (wet basis). The mean values of the seed’s length increased by 3.55% (from 31.01 mm), the width increased by 4.13% (from 26.64 mm), and the thickness decreased by 2.48% (from 21.75 mm). The geometric mean diameter increased by 1.68%, surface area increased by 3.68%, sphericity decreased by 1.54% and individual seed mass increased by 10.46%. The physical properties exhibit linear relationships with moisture content. Rupture force increased by 75% (from 0.80 kN) for loading along the major axis; by 84% (from 0.72 kN) for the intermediate axis; and by 41% (from 0.78 kN) for the minor axis. Rupture energy increased from 0.18 J to 1.25 J for compression along the major axis, from 0.087 J to 0.43 J for the intermediate axis, and from 0.080 J to 0.18 J for the minor axis. The mechanical properties were found to be moisture content and loading orientation-dependent. Reducing moisture content reduced both the force and the energy required to rupture the seeds. The data generated will be useful in the design of processing machinery and storage facilities for the seeds.
Keywords: Moisture content; linear dimension; loading orientation; rupture force; rupture energy.
The Aromatic Profile of White Wines Obtained from Biodynamic and Conventional Grown Grapes in Romania
Ana Maria Toader, Cintia Lucia Colibaba, Camelia Elena Luchian, Andreea Popîrdă, Bogdan Nechita, Valeriu V. Cotea
ABSTRACT. This study analyses the differences between wines obtained from grapes cultivated conventionally and those cultivated biodynamically. The wine samples studied were obtained from Rhein Riesling, Italian Riesling, Muscat Ottonel and Chardonnay grape varieties. Among these, four variants (one from each grape variety) were obtained from grapes following conventional cultural technologies, while the rest were from the same grape varieties cultivated biodynamically. All grapes and wines were produced in the Murfatlar vineyard, in south-east Romania. Basic chemical and sensorial analyses were applied to evaluate the differences appearing between the conventional and organic wine samples. All sets of data, PCA analysed, underlined that there are no systematic differences between the two grape cultivation methods and the obtained products.
Keywords: biodynamic grapes; organic vs. conventional wine; chemical composition; sensory profile.
Research on the Acclimatization and Breeding of Sideritis Hyssopifolia L. in Romania
Geanina Negoșanu, Adrian Asănică, Costel Vînătoru, Adrian Peticilă, Bianca Mușat, Camelia Bratu
ABSTRACT. Sideritis hyssopifolia L., perennial plant of the genus Sideritis, is also known as hyssop-leaved mountain ironwort. In its area of origin in northwestern Europe, it is valued as an aromatic and medicinal plant and used in the prevention and treatment of digestive ailments. It has been studied at Plant Genetic Resources Bank Buzău since 2019, being the subject of intensive acclimatization and improvement works with the purpose of obtaining new creations with distinct genotypic and biochemical characteristics. The genetic material used was from the centers of origin: Spain, Portugal, Madeira and Canary Islands, and the breeding methods were repeated individual selection followed by negative mass selection. In order to prevent the biological contamination of genotypes with foreign pollen, insulators with textile material were used. Cultivar G5, superior in terms of acclimation and genetic stability, also exhibited distinct phenotypic expressivity. At the same time, specific culture technology was developed with the aim of promoting it among farmers.
Keywords: genotype; phenotype; culture technology.
Supplements to the Problem Of Energy Consumption in Reducing Lignocelluloses Biomass Size to Produce Energy
Raluca Sfîru, Petru Cardei, Cornelia Muraru-Ionel, Vergil Muraru
ABSTRACT. This article presents complementary results on experimental data on the process of reducing the size of plant biomass by mechanical cutting. According to the source of the experimental data, the problem of statistical modelling of the main parameters describing the process of biomass reduction was approached. A more comprehensive formulation of the list of main system parameters was also attempted, which should be considered in a minimal mathematical model. The results of this article are starting points for a systemic approach to this biomass processing process. A first systematization is fixing 13 parameters that are included in the model of the biomass size reduction phenomenon. The 13 model parameters are divided into three categories: input parameters (5), adjustment parameters (4) and output parameters (4).
The performances of the interpolation formulas are evaluated using the global error and the maximum error, varying between 1% and 0.1% for the prior and 3.8% and 0.34% for the latter. Some mathematical models suggest the existence of optimal operating points. Their exploitation can only come as a result of new high-resolution experimental research, at least in terms of rotation speed.
Keywords: qualitative; characteristics; biomass; size; reduction.
* Abstract published in Conference Programme dedicated to LIFE SCIENCES TODAY FOR TOMORROW
Main Active Components of Goji Berry and Their Nutritional Importance – A Review
Andrei Daniel Tudor, Ciprian Bolohan, Valerica Tudor, Răzvan Ionuț Teodorescu
ABSTRACT. The consumption of fruits, leaves, and roots of Lycium barbarum L. and Lycium chinense (Mill.) species has a long tradition, especially on the Asian continent, due to their health benefits. In recent decades, social and economic factors, along with scientific progress, have stimulated the expansion of the consumption and cultivation of goji plants on a global scale, but mostly in Western countries. The traditional therapeutic properties attributed to goji plants, scientifically demonstrated through clinical and pharmacological studies in vitro and in vivo, are due to a diversified content in antioxidants (polysaccharides, flavonoids, carotenoids, and antioxidant capacity). With the development of technological capabilities for the detection and extraction of biocompounds from plant resources (including from secondary metabolisms), the completeness of research on the beneficial and secondary effects of the use of these species in human nutrition has increased. In most of the published studies, the chemical profile of L. barbarum or L. chinense species was analysed in terms of the therapeutic benefits of the variety, the different plant components subjected to extraction, the prior processing of these components, the method of extraction of active biocompounds, and to some extent, the correlation of this profile with geographical origin. The objective of this study is to provide a comprehensive and updated summary on some chemical compounds with therapeutic effects from Lycium spp. plants, addressing the correlation of the phytochemical composition in relation to their cultivation area, in the perspective of identifying and creating new goji varieties with high adaptability to local pedoclimatic conditions.
Keywords: L. barbarum; L. chinense; chemical profile; cultivation areas.
Latest Articles
The Influence of Tillage Systems on Soil Compaction in the Corn Crop
Gabriel-Dumitru Mihu, Denis Țopa, Anca Elena Calistru, Gerard Jităreanu
ABSTRACT. During the last decades, no-tillage has started to be used on more and more areas, being a conservative tillage system practiced in many farms in the country. The aim of this study was to quantify the effects of the no-tillage system on the physical properties of the soil compared to the conventional system, in a plateau area with cambic chernozem soil under the current climatic conditions in the north-east of Romania, in order to implement it in agricultural practice of the studied area. The soil samples were taken in natural and undisturbed conditions for bulk density and moisture content, soil penetration resistance was determined using the Eijkelkamp penetrologger. The status of soil compaction, the various porosity categories, and the soil moisture content were all determined based on field and laboratory analysis. Measurements performed at a depth of 0-40 cm showed a lower bulk density in the conventional system, and in terms of variation in values from sowing to harvesting, there was a maximum increase of 18% in the 10-20 cm soil layer, an intermediate of 10% in the topsoil and 20-30 cm layers, and a minimum of 1% in the 30-40 cm layer. Total porosity, which reflects soil pore volume, is inversely correlated with bulk density, which means that under conventional tillage practices, soil macropore volume (>0.05 cm) was higher (47.79-60.82% v/v) than under no-tillage practices (45.90-50.79% v/v) for 0-40 cm depth at the sowing time. The results confirm that the no-tillage system conserves more water in the soil under current climatic conditions.
Keywords: no-tillage; conventional tillage; soil physical properties.
* Abstract published in Conference Programme dedicated to LIFE SCIENCES TODAY FOR TOMORROW
Comparative Analysis of The Influence of Different Biostimulators on the Germination and Sprouting Behaviour of Four Wheat Varieties
Alina Elena Marta, Cristina Slabu, Mihaela Covașă, Iuliana Motrescu, Carmenica Doina Jităreanu
ABSTRACT. Wheat is an important cereal around the world and is a nutrient source in people’s diets. In this work, we focused on the potential of some biostimulators on four wheat varieties – Dropia, Glosa, Gruia, and Pegasus, with a focus on the effects during the first developing stages from germination to the appearance of the second leaf. Our results indicated that germination and some biochemical traits can be strongly influenced by biostimulants, with the effects also depending on the genetic background of the variety. Some treatments proved beneficial for germination, and also growth as found by the biometric measurements, while others inhibited both traits. Some of the biostimulants increased the concentration of the photosynthetic compounds, thus being recommended for use during all stages of wheat development. Dropia, Glosa, and Gruia reacted positively in most tests, their germination and plant and root development were stimulated by Super fifty, Atonik, Asfac, and Cropmax. Thus, we recommend the use of these biostimulants in the first development stages. The concentrations of photosynthetic pigments increased after treatment with Asfac, Atonik, and Cropmax. The treatment showing the most inhibitory effects was Lebosol.
Keywords: wheat; biostimulator; wheat sprouts.
Cover story
Agriculture, especially livestock farming, is a major driver of climate change through its contribution to the total emissions of greenhouse gases (GHGs).
The dairy sector has been identified as an important source of GHG emissions, mainly via carbon dioxide, methane and nitrous oxide. In a dairy farm located in Romania, total carbon dioxide equivalent (CO2e) emissions were assessed using the Cool Farm Tool calculator (CFT). Results showed annual GHG emissions of 553,170 kg CO2e, almost half of which were released through enteric fermentation. Lactating cows were the major contributor to total GHG emissions, while heifers released the lowest emissions.
The two scenarios simulated in this study showed that both the changes made in dairy diet composition and livestock manure management could result in lower GHG emissions. These results confirm the importance and utility of the CFT for the quantification of GHG emissions in dairy farms and its important role as a decision support tool to guide the adoption of good agricultural practices (see page 323).
Spatial and Diametric Evolution of a Rare Species, Prunus Avium, in Different Biotopes in Northwest Tunisia
Jdaidi Nouri, Selmi Houcine, Aloui Foued, Chaabane Abbes
ABSTRACT. This paper aimed to investigate and analyse the diametric and spatial distribution of Prunus avium populations in Tunisia. This study may help us document better information about the ecological processes and its functioning. Dendrometric and ecological data were collected on four square plots of an area of 1 ha each within two forests, Tabarka and Ain Draham, in northwest Tunisia. The results presented in this work show that P. avium individuals present a diametrical structure in the form of an “inverted J” translated by the dominance of the seedlings compared to the other classes. The analysis of the spatial distribution shows that wild cherry is identified by its aggregates and variable size (approximately 5 m and 20 m). It is coherent with the mode of vegetative propagation by suckering and the dispersal of fruits by birds.
This investigation opens insight into other species to ensure good sustainable management of natural resources.
Keywords: Tunisia; Prunus avium; spatial structure; diametric structure.
Agricultural Trends in Romania in the Context of the Current Trends of the World Economy
Nicoleta Mateoc-Sîrb, Cristina-Viorica Bacău, Anișoara Duma Copcea, Teodor Mateoc-Sîrb, Camelia Mănescu, Simona Niță, Oana Sicoe-Murg, Gabriel Suster
ABSTRACT. The role of agriculture is an extremely important one because it provides the necessary production of foods for the population and, at the same time, represents a source of raw materials for different processing industries. For a growing population, agriculture has been the main source of agri-food products that must ensure the food security of the population. Compared to other states of Europe, Romania is one of the European countries with the most favourable soil and climate conditions for agriculture. The last world crises, from the crisis in 2008 to the pandemic crisis in 2020-2021, and especially to the current conflict between Russia and the Ukraine, have brought up the issue of food self-sufficiency. During the current period, it is important to know what production can be obtained in Romanian agriculture and if it can provide the food necessary for the population. An analysis regarding the dynamics of the cultivated areas and production of the main crops in Romania has been carried out, for each of its 8 development regions. The data, collected from different sources, were analysed using different methods. The research results highlight, for example, that Romania can easily achieve the self-sufficiency stage for most agricultural products of plant origin. In conclusion, natural resources, as well as the existence of a certain material base in Romanian agriculture, can ensure the increase of agricultural production, the satisfaction of the food needs of the population, as well as a certain availability for export.
Keywords: agricultural holdings; cultivated areas; realized production; food self -sufficiency.
* Abstract published in Conference Programme dedicated to LIFE SCIENCES TODAY FOR TOMORROW
The Influence of Genotype, Soil Tillage and Fertilisation on Carbon Sequestration in Maize
Elena Petcu, Cătălin Lazăr, Elena Partal, Laura Conţescu, Daniela Horhocea
ABSTRACT. The increase in the concentration of greenhouse gases in the Earth’s atmosphere, especially that of CO2, is a major concern because it is the main source leading to global warming, and its impact on climate change is still widely studied. The intensity and frequency of drought and flooding increase due to the change in climate, which has a negative impact on crop productivity and food security. The aim of this paper was to demonstrate the role of corn in carbon sequestration based on plant biomass and soil organic carbon accumulation. We presented the main factors that contribute to carbon sequestration and concrete examples regarding the capacity of corn hybrids created at National Agricultural Research and Development Institute (NARDI) Fundulea, as well as aspects regarding the importance of soil tillage and fertilisation. In contrast to genotypes in which this ratio was lower, maize genotypes that demonstrated a rise in the root:stem ratio under drought stress conditions produced more biomass, suggesting that the roots of these genotypes can grow at water potentials where stem growth is inhibited, which are attributes that also prove their good potential for carbon sequestration under climate change conditions. The organic carbon content in the superficial soil layer decreased with the intensification of the degree of soil mobilisation (9.95% when working the soil with the chisel, 17.91% for ploughing), but fertilisation had a beneficial effect. The biomass was higher than that of the unfertilised soil. This means that a higher carbon input has a positive influence on the carbon stock in the soil.
Keywords: maize; carbon sequestration; hybrids; soil tillage; fertilisation.
* Abstract published in Conference Programme dedicated to LIFE SCIENCES TODAY FOR TOMORROW
Assessment of Greenhouse Gas Emissions From Dairy Farming Using the Cool Farm Tool
Roxana Vidican, Anamaria Mălinaș, Cristina Moldovan, Anca Pleșa, Mirela Ranta
ABSTRACT. Climate change is one of the greatest challenges mankind has ever faced and could lead to potentially devastating global problems, with a need for urgent mitigation and adaptation. Agriculture, especially livestock farming, is a major driver of climate change through its contribution to the total emissions of greenhouse gases (GHGs). The dairy sector has been identified as an important source of GHG emissions, mainly via carbon dioxide (CO2), methane (CH4) and nitrous oxide (N2O). In this study, total CO2 equivalent (CO2e) emissions were assessed from a dairy farm (65 dairy cows) located in Romania using the Cool Farm Tool calculator (CFT). We specifically aimed to calculate: (1) the total CO2 equivalent (CO2e) and CO2e per kg FPCM (fat- and protein-corrected milk); (2) methane emissions from enteric fermentation; (3) GHGs resulting from feeding practices; (4) GHGs from manure management; and (5) a simulation of two different scenarios and their impact on GHG emissions. Our results showed annual GHG emissions of 553,170 kg CO2e, almost half of which were released through enteric fermentation. Lactating cows were the major contributor to total GHG emissions, while heifers released the lowest emissions. The two scenarios simulated in this study showed that both the changes made in dairy diet composition and livestock manure management could result in lower GHG emissions. These results confirm the importance and utility of the CFT for the quantification of GHG emissions in dairy farms and its important role as a decision support tool to guide the adoption of good agricultural practices.
Keywords: dairy; greenhouse gases; emissions; climate change; enteric emissions; Cool Farm Tool.
* Abstract published in Conference Programme dedicated to LIFE SCIENCES TODAY FOR TOMORROW
Observations of Sexual Behaviors in Goats (Capra Hircus) Raised on Non-Professional Farms
Corneliu Gașpar, Luminița-Iuliana Ailincăi, Adina-Ximena Dodan
ABSTRACT. This study focuses on monitoring the sexual behaviours of male and female goats (Capra hircus) at each stage of mounting and observing sexual reflexes and related peculiarities. The ethological behaviours of females and males were observed twice per day, between 6:00 and 8:00 a.m. and between 19:00 and 21:00 p.m, and the anatomical parts of females in estrus were inspected and scanned. Each mount was recorded using a video camera. A digital timer was also used to record the stages of sexual act (prelude and copulation). The sexual behaviours of a common breed of goats reared in non-professional holdings was studied in August, September and October 2020 and 2021. Sexual behaviour was observed in a total of 24 goats, 5 males, aged 3–8 years, and 19 females, aged 1–10 years, raised in a rural area (Priponesti) in Galati County. The data gathered provide details of the sexual behavior of this species, supplementing the information currently available. The most numerous mounts were carried out by the 4-year-old buck (M1 male) with 7 out of 20, representing 35% of the total mounts observed. The mount was characterized by very high duration of courtship (average 98%) compared to the true mounting (average 2%) (p < 0.05). The postlude behavioural manifestations observed were bucks continuing to inspect the anogenital area of the female, wagging their tongues while the goats expressed a characteristic bleat. Keywords: sexual behavior; goats; true mounting; courtship; non-professional farms.
Increased Tolerance to Chlorhexidine Following Prolonged Exposure in Staphylococcus Species Isolated from the Skin and Mucosae of Dogs
Ozana-Maria Hrițcu, Gheorghe Solcan, Iuliana E. Măciucă, Dorina Timofte, Vanessa Schmidt
ABSTRACT. This study aimed to investigate if canine staphylococci isolates could develop tolerance to chlorhexidine digluconate after long-term exposure. Staphylococci (Staphylococcus pseudintermedius and coagulase-negative staphylococci, methicillin-susceptible and methicillin-resistant), with and without genotypic chlorhexidine resistance, were investigated for phenotypic chlorhexidine tolerance by determining the MBC (minimal bactericidal concentration) at various time points. The testing was performed as follows: determination of MBC for 30 minutes and 24 hours (MBC 24h-1); exposure of isolates for seven days to concentrations of chlorhexidine equal to 1/2 MBC 24h-1; determination of MBC for 24 h after the first week (MBC 24h-2); exposure of isolates for seven days to concentrations of chlorhexidine equal to 1/2 MBC 24h-2 and rest in Mueller–Hinton broth for seven days; determination of MBC for 24 h after the second week (MBC 24h-3). The MBC for 30 minutes ranged between 16–32 µg/ml compared to the MBC 24h-1 which was between 1–8 µg/ml. The MBCs for 24 h dropped from 8 µg/ml to 0.5 µg/ml for isolate 1, from 2 µg/ml to1 µg/ml for isolate 6 and from 2 µg/ml to 0.5 µg/ml for isolate 8 after being exposed for seven days to concentrations of chlorhexidine equal to 1/2 MBC 24h-1. For one CoNS (coagulase-negative staphylococci), the MBC 24h-2 increased four times from 1 µg/ml (MBC 24h-1) to 4 µg/ml and dropped again to 1 µg/ml after the second week. These results suggest that continuous exposure to chlorhexidine could lead to the selection of chlorhexidine-tolerant staphylococci that could withstand concentrations used during routine decolonisation procedures.
Keywords: Staphylococcus; chlorhexidine; tolerance; MBC.
Impact of Seasonal Changes in Freshwater Phytoplankton and Zooplankton Biodiversity at Valankulam Lake, Coimbatore District, Tamil Nadu, India
Bala Mohan, Sheela Priyadarshinee, Ramaswamy Kalpana, Periyakali Saravana Bhavan, Narasimman Manickam, Perumal Santhanam, Duraiswamy Prabha
ABSTRACT. The plankton communities are important source of food for the aquatic organisms, and if any undesirable changes in aquatic environment may affect plankton diversity and density. Therefore, assessment of planktonic communities in the freshwater ecosystems is essential because they serve as bio-indicators of water quality parameters. Hence, the present research was focused to evaluate the freshwater phytoplankton and zooplankton diversity and their abundance in Valankulam Lake (Lat. 10.59° N and Long. 76.57° E), at Coimbatore city, Tamil Nadu, India. Results from the study revealed that a total of 77 species of phytoplankton and zooplankton were recorded, under 37 families and 46 genera. In addition to that, a total of 43 phytoplankton species were recorded under 25 families and 30 genera, (which includes; 15 species of Cyanophyceae, 17 species of Chlorophyceae, 08 species of Bacillariophyceae, 03 species of Euglenophyceae). and a total of 34 species of zooplankton were recorded under 12 families and 17 genera, (which includes 13 species of Rotifera, 09 species of Cladocera, 08 species of Copepoda and 04 species of Ostracoda). The maximum plankton diversity was observed during the monsoon season and the minimum in the summer season. Results from study revealed the ecological status of the lake is categorized as moderately polluted due to the presence of municipal waste and industrial discharges into the lake water. Therefore, the assessment of planktonic communities in water bodies will be useful to monitor and maintain the water quality parameters and wealth of aquatic biota in the aquatic ecosystem.
Keywords: plankton; species composition; community structure; water quality.
The Influence Of Differentiated Fertilisation On The Sugar Level In The Must, For The Aligote and Feteasca Alba Varieties, Under the Conditions of the Iasi Vineyard
Nicoleta Luminita Paraschiv, Mariana Volf, Elena Liliana Chelariu
ABSTRACT. Wine soils from the country’s main vineyards contain 0.05-0.25 g total N per 100 g soil, 0.9-20 mg P_2 O_5/100 g soil and 6.5-36 mg K_2 O/100 g soil. The amount of fertiliser that the plant will use – the degree of use – depends on the age of the stumps, the type of rootstock and the planned production. Acting as a factor for the intensification of production, mineral fertilisers, used as a complement to organic fertilisation, contribute not only to maintaining and increasing soil fertility but also to the quantitative and qualitative growth of production. Since the natural reserves of nutrients are limited, the application of natural and mineral fertilisers, scientifically based and differentiated according to the concrete pedoclimatic conditions, is of particular importance from an ecological and economic point of view. The research undertaken highlighted that the use of chemical fertilisers, in different dosages and ratios, favourably influenced the accumulation of sugar in the must for both varieties, with values that were between 178 g/L sugars for the Aligote variety and 170.7 g/L for Feteasca alba. The P-K relationship positively influenced the accumulation of sugars for both varieties, 177.4 g/L sugars for the Aligote variety and 171.3 g/L for Feteasca alba.
Keywords: chemical fertilisers; must; vines.
Effect of Moringa (Moringa Oleifera) Leaf Powder, Neem (Azadirachta Indica) Leaf Powder and Camphor on Weevil (Callosobruchus Maculatus F.) in Stored Cowpea (Vigna Unguiculata (L.) Walp) Seeds
Adams Latif Mohammed, Mariam Iddriss
ABSTRACT. Cowpea (Vigna unguiculata (L.) Walp.), one of the most important leguminous crops, is widely cultivated throughout the tropics, especially in the savanna regions of the world. However, its seed is attacked by several insect pests both in the field and in storage, especially the cowpea weevil. To control weevils, most farmers have adopted the use of chemical insecticides, but these insecticides come with health and environmental problems, and as a result, there is advocacy for the use of bio-pesticides in the form of tree botanicals. This study was conducted to assess the effects of neem leaf powder (NLP), moringa leaf powder (MLP), and camphor against the cowpea weevils (Callosobruchus maculatus) in a completely randomized design. Six treatments were used and allocated as T1 (control), T2 (4g of camphor), T3 (25g of NLP only), T4 (25g of MLP only) T5 (50g of NLP only) and T6 (50g of MLP). The treatments were replicated three times. The parameters studied were the numbers of damaged and undamaged seeds, the numbers of dead and live weevils, and the taste of cowpea seeds. The treatments effectively protected the cowpea seeds during the storage period of eight weeks. The preservation of cowpea seeds given by camphor was significantly different from the other treatments. However, there was no significant difference (p >0.05) between the neem and moringa leaf powders treatments. The use of moringa and neem leaf powders might be adopted by cowpea farmers in sub-Saharan Africa as alternative, cheap, and available sources of biopesticides to use as chemical insecticides. If cowpea seeds are to be stored for consumption purposes, moringa leaf powder should be used since most respondents preferred the taste of cowpea seeds treated with moringa. Additionally, the storage duration of eight weeks was too short for the experiment, so further studies can be carried out for an extended period of more than eight weeks.
Keywords: neem; moringa; cowpea seeds; biopesticide; storage.
Bioaccumulation of Heavy Metals in Garlic Bulbs (Allium Sativum L.) in Correlation with Soil from Private Gardens in the Copșa Mică Area, Romania
Vera Carabulea, Dumitru-Marian Motelică, Nicoleta Olimpia Vrînceanu, Georgiana Plopeanu, Mihaela Costea, Bogdan Ștefan Oprea, Veronica Tănase
ABSTRACT. Heavy metal contamination of soil and plants is a worldwide concern. Copșa Mică in Romania is one of the areas in the country known to have a high level of pollution. Even if metallurgical activities have been reduced or stopped the soil is still polluted. This study aimed to estimate the bioaccumulation of heavy metals (Cd, Pb, Zn and Cu) in soil from garlic bulbs (Allium sativum L.) from individual gardens in the Copșa Mică polluted area, Romania. The bioaccumulation of heavy metals in garlic bulbs was estimated based on a data set collected from 44 individual gardens. The value of the linear correlation coefficient between the total cadmium content in the soil and that in the plant was significantly different from zero, indicating a close correlation between the two variables (r = 0.775***). In addition, for zinc (r = 0.649***) and lead (r = 0.423**), simple power-type regressions were found to be best for estimating the bioaccumulation of these elements in garlic bulbs. Only for copper, the value of the linear correlation coefficient was not significantly different from zero (r = 0.274ns), indicating that the estimation of copper accumulation in garlic cannot be described by simple power-type regressions. The results of this study are important for estimating the accumulation of heavy metals in garlic bulbs (head), which are often consumed by the population.
Keywords: heavy metals; soil; garlic; pollution; bioaccumulation.
* Abstract published in Conference Programme dedicated to LIFE SCIENCES TODAY FOR TOMORROW
Cover story
Sideritis hyssopifolia L., a perennial plant, is also known as hyssop-leaved mountain ironwort. In its area of origin in north-western Europe, it is valued as an aromatic and medicinal plant and is used in the prevention and treatment of digestive ailments. It has been studied at Plant Genetic Resources Bank Buzau – Romania since 2019, being the subject of intensive acclimatisation and improvement works with the purpose of obtaining new creations with distinct genotypic and biochemical characteristics. The genetic material used was from the centres of origin (Spain, Portugal, Madeira and Canary Islands), and the breeding methods were repeatedly selected individually, followed by negative mass selection. Cultivar G5, which is superior in terms of acclimation and genetic stability, also exhibited distinct phenotypic expressivity. At the same time, specific cultural technology was developed with the aim of promoting it among farmers (see page 181).
Pumping Pressure and Flow Rate Relationship to Reduce Energy Consumption in Irrigation Systems
Esmeralda Chiorescu
ABSTRACT. In the context of the current energy crisis, electricity consumption, especially by large consumers, must be reduced, rationally, without affecting the quality of services provided. Pressure pumping stations (PPS) in irrigation systems are usually equipped with 4 to 8 electric pumping sets with an installed power that can even exceed 1 MW. Since the PPS serving the irrigation plots must work mainly on demand, the required flow rate in the network can vary widely even during each day of the irrigation period. Also, due to the dependence of the pressure loss on the flow carried in the pipe network, this dependence is usually represented by an increasing quadratic function, and the variation of the required flow also leads to a variation, generally significant, of the pressure required from the PPS. To ensure the necessary flow, the PPS are automated with Supervisory control and data acquisition (SCADA) systems, which optimally control the configuration of the electric pumps in operation and their speed. This article presents a mathematical model and algorithm that facilitate the determination of the correlation between the pressure and flow required from the PPS ((p-Q)C), rendered by an increasing function. The implementation of (p-Q)C in the SCADA system software at PPS 2 in the Trifești-Sculeni irrigation system, in the eastern part of Romania, determined a reduction of energy consumption by up to 16%.
Keywords: Irrigation systems; pressure pumping stations; pressure and flow in pipeline; energy savings.
Effective Diagnostic Techniques in Borrelia Burgdorferi Infestation in Dogs
Maria Larisa Ivănescu, Gabriela Martinescu, Liviu Dan Miron
ABSTRACT. Borreliosis or Lyme disease is a disease transmitted by ixodidae ticks during feeding on blood (Ixodes pacificus and Ixodes scapularis in the USA, Ixodes persulcatus in Asia, Ixodes ricinus in Europe) and is widespread in the entire northern hemisphere. In Romania, the geographic distribution and prevalence of Borrelia burgdorferi sensu lato was 1.4% in 41 counties, with a prevalence between 0.75–18.8%. B. burgdorferi sensu lato. had a prevalence of 3.8%, being found inside ticks in 55 of 183 localities. Successful treatment and full recovery can only be achieved through early diagnosis. The clinical and serologic diagnosis of Lyme disease is particularly difficult because of the phenotypic heterogeneity within and among spirochete species. A case study is presented in this paper: an eight-year-old male Yorkshire terrier dog, which was diagnosed positive for Lyme disease, based on a test which uses a peptide called C6 and which comes from the VlsE protein of B. burgdorferi, used to detect antibodies in dogs. The results demonstrate the reliability of the commercial SNAP 4Dx Plus Test for B. burgdorferi, which uses C6 to differentiate antibodies produced by natural infection from antibodies formed after vaccination. In addition, using real-time PCR, the diagnosis was negative, confirming the results from the literature, according to which the PCR technique is only recommended for research, the positivity percentage being low, especially when the sample is blood (0.1%). We conclude that the tests for the detection of antibodies specific to Lyme disease are recommended and useful.
Keywords: Lyme disease; antibodies; real-time PCR.
Prevalence, Economic Impact and Therapeutic Efficacy in Acute Infectious Pododermatitis in Sheep
Mariana Grecu, Oana Tănase, Mădălina Elena Henea, Valentin Nastasă, Cristina Mihaela Rîmbu
ABSTRACT. This study assessed seasonal incidence, economic losses, the efficacy of therapeutic protocols, the recovery time of affected animals and specific prophylactic measures applied to sheep with acute infectious pododermatitis. The studies were conducted over a period of 12 months in 3 different sheep farms from private units in the same area. The results of the study showed an increased incidence of the disease in all 3 farms, with an average of 26.94% of the sheep flock. The incidence of the disease was increased in the months of April-May-June-July and September-October (30%), when there were heavy rains. The high morbidity led to economic losses through the decrease in milk production by approximately 30% and the decrease in the weight of the sheep by 10.58% (4.2 kg) of their normal weight. The therapeutic protocol applied locally as well as parenterally, combined with a foot bath with 10% zinc sulphate solution, were effective in treating acute infectious pododermatitis of sheep. The average recovery time (days) was approximately the same in the three groups of sheep (5.25 ± 0.68 days for cases with moderate diseases and 10.2 ± 0.22 for cases with severe diseases).
Keywords: acute infectious pododermatitis; sheep; Fusobacterium necrophorum; Dichelobacter nodosus.
Effect of Moisture Contents and Compression Axes on Some Physical and Mechanical Properties of Dioclea Reflexa Seed
Olakunle Olukayode, Eyitope Israel Alade, Seun Oyelami
ABSTRACT. Interest in unconventional seeds such as Dioclea reflexa is growing in the tropical regions, with the potential for utilisation as food or industrial materials. Researchers confirmed that Dioclea reflexa seed has the potential for clinical use, use as a food source, and as industrial raw material. This research studies the effect of moisture content on the physical properties of Dioclea reflexa seed and the effect of moisture content and compression axes its mechanical properties. Standards methods were used to determine the physical properties, while the mechanical properties were derived from force-deformation curves for the moisture content range 4.8 to 12.1% (wet basis). The mean values of the seed’s length increased by 3.55% (from 31.01 mm), the width increased by 4.13% (from 26.64 mm), and the thickness decreased by 2.48% (from 21.75 mm). The geometric mean diameter increased by 1.68%, surface area increased by 3.68%, sphericity decreased by 1.54% and individual seed mass increased by 10.46%. The physical properties exhibit linear relationships with moisture content. Rupture force increased by 75% (from 0.80 kN) for loading along the major axis; by 84% (from 0.72 kN) for the intermediate axis; and by 41% (from 0.78 kN) for the minor axis. Rupture energy increased from 0.18 J to 1.25 J for compression along the major axis, from 0.087 J to 0.43 J for the intermediate axis, and from 0.080 J to 0.18 J for the minor axis. The mechanical properties were found to be moisture content and loading orientation-dependent. Reducing moisture content reduced both the force and the energy required to rupture the seeds. The data generated will be useful in the design of processing machinery and storage facilities for the seeds.
Keywords: Moisture content; linear dimension; loading orientation; rupture force; rupture energy.
The Aromatic Profile of White Wines Obtained from Biodynamic and Conventional Grown Grapes in Romania
Ana Maria Toader, Cintia Lucia Colibaba, Camelia Elena Luchian, Andreea Popîrdă, Bogdan Nechita, Valeriu V. Cotea
ABSTRACT. This study analyses the differences between wines obtained from grapes cultivated conventionally and those cultivated biodynamically. The wine samples studied were obtained from Rhein Riesling, Italian Riesling, Muscat Ottonel and Chardonnay grape varieties. Among these, four variants (one from each grape variety) were obtained from grapes following conventional cultural technologies, while the rest were from the same grape varieties cultivated biodynamically. All grapes and wines were produced in the Murfatlar vineyard, in south-east Romania. Basic chemical and sensorial analyses were applied to evaluate the differences appearing between the conventional and organic wine samples. All sets of data, PCA analysed, underlined that there are no systematic differences between the two grape cultivation methods and the obtained products.
Keywords: biodynamic grapes; organic vs. conventional wine; chemical composition; sensory profile.
Research on the Acclimatization and Breeding of Sideritis Hyssopifolia L. in Romania
Geanina Negoșanu, Adrian Asănică, Costel Vînătoru, Adrian Peticilă, Bianca Mușat, Camelia Bratu
ABSTRACT. Sideritis hyssopifolia L., perennial plant of the genus Sideritis, is also known as hyssop-leaved mountain ironwort. In its area of origin in northwestern Europe, it is valued as an aromatic and medicinal plant and used in the prevention and treatment of digestive ailments. It has been studied at Plant Genetic Resources Bank Buzău since 2019, being the subject of intensive acclimatization and improvement works with the purpose of obtaining new creations with distinct genotypic and biochemical characteristics. The genetic material used was from the centers of origin: Spain, Portugal, Madeira and Canary Islands, and the breeding methods were repeated individual selection followed by negative mass selection. In order to prevent the biological contamination of genotypes with foreign pollen, insulators with textile material were used. Cultivar G5, superior in terms of acclimation and genetic stability, also exhibited distinct phenotypic expressivity. At the same time, specific culture technology was developed with the aim of promoting it among farmers.
Keywords: genotype; phenotype; culture technology.
Supplements to the Problem Of Energy Consumption in Reducing Lignocelluloses Biomass Size to Produce Energy
Raluca Sfîru, Petru Cardei, Cornelia Muraru-Ionel, Vergil Muraru
ABSTRACT. This article presents complementary results on experimental data on the process of reducing the size of plant biomass by mechanical cutting. According to the source of the experimental data, the problem of statistical modelling of the main parameters describing the process of biomass reduction was approached. A more comprehensive formulation of the list of main system parameters was also attempted, which should be considered in a minimal mathematical model. The results of this article are starting points for a systemic approach to this biomass processing process. A first systematization is fixing 13 parameters that are included in the model of the biomass size reduction phenomenon. The 13 model parameters are divided into three categories: input parameters (5), adjustment parameters (4) and output parameters (4).
The performances of the interpolation formulas are evaluated using the global error and the maximum error, varying between 1% and 0.1% for the prior and 3.8% and 0.34% for the latter. Some mathematical models suggest the existence of optimal operating points. Their exploitation can only come as a result of new high-resolution experimental research, at least in terms of rotation speed.
Keywords: qualitative; characteristics; biomass; size; reduction.
* Abstract published in Conference Programme dedicated to LIFE SCIENCES TODAY FOR TOMORROW
Main Active Components of Goji Berry and Their Nutritional Importance – A Review
Andrei Daniel Tudor, Ciprian Bolohan, Valerica Tudor, Răzvan Ionuț Teodorescu
ABSTRACT. The consumption of fruits, leaves, and roots of Lycium barbarum L. and Lycium chinense (Mill.) species has a long tradition, especially on the Asian continent, due to their health benefits. In recent decades, social and economic factors, along with scientific progress, have stimulated the expansion of the consumption and cultivation of goji plants on a global scale, but mostly in Western countries. The traditional therapeutic properties attributed to goji plants, scientifically demonstrated through clinical and pharmacological studies in vitro and in vivo, are due to a diversified content in antioxidants (polysaccharides, flavonoids, carotenoids, and antioxidant capacity). With the development of technological capabilities for the detection and extraction of biocompounds from plant resources (including from secondary metabolisms), the completeness of research on the beneficial and secondary effects of the use of these species in human nutrition has increased. In most of the published studies, the chemical profile of L. barbarum or L. chinense species was analysed in terms of the therapeutic benefits of the variety, the different plant components subjected to extraction, the prior processing of these components, the method of extraction of active biocompounds, and to some extent, the correlation of this profile with geographical origin. The objective of this study is to provide a comprehensive and updated summary on some chemical compounds with therapeutic effects from Lycium spp. plants, addressing the correlation of the phytochemical composition in relation to their cultivation area, in the perspective of identifying and creating new goji varieties with high adaptability to local pedoclimatic conditions.
Keywords: L. barbarum; L. chinense; chemical profile; cultivation areas.
