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Research Article
The Effects of Chilling on Antioxidant Enzyme System and Related Gene Expression Levels in Sweet Corn Seeds with Different Germination Characteristics
Tingzhen Wang
,
Zhenxing Wu,
Jianjian Chen,
Fangjian Li,
Guihua Lv*
Issue:
Volume 13, Issue 6, December 2024
Pages:
224-234
Received:
8 October 2024
Accepted:
11 November 2024
Published:
21 November 2024
Abstract: Sweet corn is a vegetable and grain dual-use crop with high economic value and industrial advantages. Low temperature stress significantly reduces the germination rate of sweet corn seeds, which has a negative impact on both quality and yield. This study used the chilling sensitive sweet corn inbred line 20hi111 and the chilling tolerant sweet corn inbred line T135 as experimental materials to measure the MDA (malondialdehyde) and H2O2 content, CAT, POD, and SOD enzyme activities, and enzyme gene expression patterns during seed germination under low temperature (10°C) and normal temperature (25°C) treatments. The research results indicated that during low-temperature germination, the H2O2 content and CAT activity of 20hi111 were generally higher than those of T135, while the POD and SOD activities and MDA content were generally lower than those of T135. There was no strict consistency between gene expression and enzyme activity. At low temperature, the expression of ZmCAT1 and ZmCAT3 in 20hi111 was significantly higher than T135, while there was no significant difference in ZmPOD1. In 20hi111, ZmPOD3 was first lower and then higher than T135, and ZmSOD3 and ZmSOD9 were lower than T135 under low temperature treatment. In this study, the activity of antioxidant enzymes and the expression of antioxidant enzyme-related genes in sweet corn inbred lines with different germination characteristics under low temperature were analyzed, which provided some theoretical basis for cultivating sweet corn varieties with low temperature tolerance.
Abstract: Sweet corn is a vegetable and grain dual-use crop with high economic value and industrial advantages. Low temperature stress significantly reduces the germination rate of sweet corn seeds, which has a negative impact on both quality and yield. This study used the chilling sensitive sweet corn inbred line 20hi111 and the chilling tolerant sweet corn...
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Review Article
Review of the Beekeeping Vigilance Methods and Perspectives
Issue:
Volume 13, Issue 6, December 2024
Pages:
235-239
Received:
27 September 2024
Accepted:
21 October 2024
Published:
26 November 2024
Abstract: A collapse of bee colonies, for the first time in Morocco, of unknown origin, was announced on January 21, 2022 by the National Office for Food Safety (ONSSA). Causes were mentioned such as the unprecedented drought affecting the country and climate change as well as the use of pesticides and the appearance of new hive parasites and viruses. Colony collapse disorder (CCD) has been reported in several parts of the world, including Europe, Canada and Asia. Due to the agro-economic and ecological interest of the bee in the pollination of fruit trees and various seasonal and annual crops, the condition is considered alarming. Hence the need for an integrated control program that uses various monitoring measures and a set of mechanical, physical, biological and chemical control methods against hive pests. A census of the observation and countermeasures of Morocco and at the level of the world in the face of this problem was carried out. Viral diseases (Dicistroviridae in the United States) or parasites (in Spain, the fungus Nosema cerenae, varroa destructor in Canada, Varroa, itself vector of the virus), livestock management problems (transhumance and inbreeding) and the use of pesticides (the Gaucho, banned on sunflower since 1999 in France) remain the most studied causes. Surveillance and vigilance networks for beekeepers whose objective is to continuously inform the beekeeping sector of the general state of health of bees (mortality, theft of hives, invasions by other insects and parasites, etc.) everywhere in the world are essential. The ApiVigi® network is an example.
Abstract: A collapse of bee colonies, for the first time in Morocco, of unknown origin, was announced on January 21, 2022 by the National Office for Food Safety (ONSSA). Causes were mentioned such as the unprecedented drought affecting the country and climate change as well as the use of pesticides and the appearance of new hive parasites and viruses. Colony...
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Research Article
Girawa (Vernonia amygdalina) as Supplemental Feed and Its Effects on Weight Gain and Carcass Parameter of Somali Goats Fed Khat (Catha edulis) Leftover
Kedir Adem*
Issue:
Volume 13, Issue 6, December 2024
Pages:
240-248
Received:
19 October 2024
Accepted:
7 November 2024
Published:
28 November 2024
Abstract: The experiment was conducted to determine body weight change, Average daily gain, carcass parameter and Analysis of Partial Budget of Somali goat fed khat leftover, supplemented with graded levels of dried vernonia amygdalina leaf. For this experiment, 24 yearling male goats with a mean initial body weight of 12.57± 0.59 kg (means ± SD) were used. The experimental goats were blocked into six blocks of four animals in randomized complete block design depending on initial body weight. The four treatments were assigned randomly to each goat within a block. The experimental goats were accessed a basal diet of khat leftover and supplemented with 100 (T1), 200 (T2), 300 (T3) and 400g (T4) Vernonia amygdalina leaf. The experiment was undertaken for Ninety days of feeding trial followed by carcass evaluation at the end of the experiment. The results of this study showed that level of supplementation significantly (p < 0.05) improved average daily weight gain, feed conversion efficiency and had better carcass characteristics. Hot carcass weight (HCW; 5 (T1), 6 (T2), 7 (T3) and 8.25 kg (T4) and dressing percentage on empty body weight basis; 43.29 (T1), 44.48 (T2), 50.34 (T3) and 55.18 (T4) was higher (p < 0.05) for T4 compared to T1, T2 and T3. The lower level of supplementation recorded loss of 34 ETB/goat. Goats with higher level of supplementation (T4) had the highest net income (1626 ETB) as well as the highest marginal ret of (4.1 ETB).
Abstract: The experiment was conducted to determine body weight change, Average daily gain, carcass parameter and Analysis of Partial Budget of Somali goat fed khat leftover, supplemented with graded levels of dried vernonia amygdalina leaf. For this experiment, 24 yearling male goats with a mean initial body weight of 12.57± 0.59 kg (means ± SD) were used. ...
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Research Article
Yield Components and Yield of Common Bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) Varieties as Influenced by Rates of Phosphorus at Yabello, Southern Oromia, Ethiopia
Gutema Idossa Olika*,
Demisachow Tadela Ayana,
Nano Alemu Daba
Issue:
Volume 13, Issue 6, December 2024
Pages:
249-259
Received:
6 August 2024
Accepted:
5 September 2024
Published:
28 November 2024
Abstract: Common bean is one of the economically most important legume crops grown in Ethiopia. One of the main factors limiting the productivity of common beans in the southern region of Oromia is poor soil fertility. The study was carried out to determine the effect of phosphorus fertilizer rates on common bean growth and production as well as to pinpoint commercially viable treatments that can increase common bean productivity. Three common bean varieties (Hawasa dume, Ado, and Batu) and five phosphorus levels (0, 23, 46, 69, and 92 kg P ha-1) were arranged in a factorial combination design with three replications in an RCBD. The study's findings indicated that the main effects of common bean varieties and phosphorus application rates were considerably influenced days to 50% flowering, days to maturity, plant height, and number of primary branches per plant. However, only the primary effect of P rates had a substantial effect on the harvest index. On the other hand, the interaction effect of phosphorus fertilizer rates and common bean varieties had a significant impact on the number of seeds per pod, number of pods per plant, total number of nodules per plant, total number of effective nodules per plant, hundred seed weight, grain yield, and aboveground biomass yield. The Hawasa dume variety, at 69 kg P ha-1, had the highest seed yield (2777.10 kg ha-1), whereas the Batu variety, without P application, had the lowest seed yield (1,718.73 kg ha-1). Additionally, correlation analysis demonstrated a positive and substantial relationship between seed yield and the majority of yield-related traits. The application of phosphorus fertilizer at 46 kg P ha-1 resulted in the maximum net benefit (120,856 ETB ha-1) and MRR (1144.44 %) according to economic analysis. According to this study, applying phosphorus fertilizer may help promote high nodulation, yield, and growth of common beans. Thus, it can be said that for common production in the Yabello district, the application of phosphorus fertilizer at 46 kg Pha-1 is advised. To get a final suggestion, it is advisable to repeat the experiment throughout several seasons and places, as it was only carried out for one season at a single location.
Abstract: Common bean is one of the economically most important legume crops grown in Ethiopia. One of the main factors limiting the productivity of common beans in the southern region of Oromia is poor soil fertility. The study was carried out to determine the effect of phosphorus fertilizer rates on common bean growth and production as well as to pinpoint ...
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Research Article
AGRO-robotics: Problems and Prospects
Issue:
Volume 13, Issue 6, December 2024
Pages:
260-264
Received:
13 October 2024
Accepted:
5 November 2024
Published:
29 November 2024
Abstract: The article discusses innovative areas of development of forestry and agricultural machinery with intelligent control systems. Kinematics is considered using the example of a harvester with a multi-link manipulator and walking chassis. Systems of equations are presented that characterize the spatial position of the working and chassis equipment with a large number of degrees of freedom. For this purpose, many companies have set themselves the task of creating multifunctional robots that operate autonomously and are controlled remotely using cloud technologies with special software. Intelligent control systems currently being developed can significantly expand the technological capabilities of machines that were unavailable in the not so distant past. The use of robots allows the introduction of new highly efficient technologies in which a person will be relieved of heavy physical labor, work in hazardous conditions, aggressive environments, etc. As a result of using robots, significant savings in material and labor resources, increased labor productivity and reduced production costs can be achieved. Currently, the use of walking vehicles for cargo transportation, clearing rubble, conducting emergency rescue operations in undeveloped areas in off-road conditions, as well as military use is considered promising. An assessment of existing problems and development prospects is given.
Abstract: The article discusses innovative areas of development of forestry and agricultural machinery with intelligent control systems. Kinematics is considered using the example of a harvester with a multi-link manipulator and walking chassis. Systems of equations are presented that characterize the spatial position of the working and chassis equipment wit...
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Research Article
Rice Seed System: Current Practices to Strengthen Early Generation Seed of Climate Resilient Rice Varieties in Ethiopia
Yilikal Melak Assaye*,
Ayele Tesfahun Gashu,
Esuyawkal Demis Tenaw
Issue:
Volume 13, Issue 6, December 2024
Pages:
265-275
Received:
8 August 2024
Accepted:
22 October 2024
Published:
7 December 2024
Abstract: The availability of quality rice seed is a critical factor in boosting rice productivity and production in Ethiopia. This study assessed the current practices of early generation and community-based rice seed multiplication and quality control to strengthen the rice seed system in Fogera district, Ethiopia. Community-based seed production and marketing groups played a significant role in rice seed multiplication and distribution, but faced challenges related to limited access to breeder and foundation seed, inadequate technical and financial support, and weak seed quality control mechanisms. Strengthening the capacity of seed producers, enhancing the availability of early generation seed, and improving seed quality assurance systems are recommended to enhance the effectiveness of the rice seed system in the study area. Intervention of large scale demonstration of the early generation rice seed is one of the practical and effective techniques in the rice seed system, which can enhance the better rice seed accessibility. Large scale demonstration of early generation rice seed is also useful for participatory learning on the rice seed production procedures, and rice seed quality management activities in the community. The findings provide insights for policymakers and development practitioners to design and implement interventions that can strengthen community-based rice seed systems in Ethiopia.
Abstract: The availability of quality rice seed is a critical factor in boosting rice productivity and production in Ethiopia. This study assessed the current practices of early generation and community-based rice seed multiplication and quality control to strengthen the rice seed system in Fogera district, Ethiopia. Community-based seed production and marke...
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Research Article
Land Suitability Evaluation for Agroforestry Using Geospatial Techniques in Genale Sub-basin Oromia, Ethiopia
Getachew Haile*
Issue:
Volume 13, Issue 6, December 2024
Pages:
276-286
Received:
31 October 2024
Accepted:
15 November 2024
Published:
9 December 2024
Abstract: Agroforestry is a sustainable agricultural method that integrates trees, crops, and/or livestock within a unified land space, promoting ecological balance and resource efficiency which has been widely used for centuries due to its social, economic, and environmental advantages, despite its numerous advantages, it has not achieved substantial global acknowledgment. This research investigates the land units within the Genale sub-basin to assess their suitability for agroforestry practices, focusing on the factors that significantly impact tree and crop growth as well as productivity. Conducting a land suitability analysis is essential for designating particular areas for specific agricultural purposes. The study employs an integrated approach utilizing Geographic Information Systems (GIS), Remote Sensing (RS), and the Analytical Hierarchical Process (AHP) model, along with a weighting function, to assign suitability weights to the criteria and sub-criteria influencing plant growth, ultimately producing a predictive map of agroforestry cultivation suitability. Soil fertility parameters (soil nitrogen (N), potassium (K), organic carbon (C), phosphorus (P) and pH), Climatic (rainfall) and Topographic (Elevation and Slope) were considered in the model as a significantly determinant of agroforestry factors. Each of criteria/factor layers were classified (not suitable, less suitable, suitable and highly suitable) based on reviewed literature and expert level judgement. The Analytical Hierarchical Process indicated that the most influential variable determining agroforestry practice were, Soil nutrient availability, Slope, The Normalized Difference Water Index (NDWI), Mean annual rainfall and Elevation, respectively with 5% consistency index. The model results showed that approximately 0.6% (19,072.80 ha) of sub-basin area has optimal growth conditions, 67.83% (2,193,368 ha) suitable, 30.8% (995,382 ha) less suitable and 0.77% (24,841.60 ha) Not suitable conditions for agroforestry practice. The findings indicate that the integration of Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and Remote Sensing (RS) with the Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) model, incorporating a weight function, proves to be effective in identifying and assessing land units suitable for agroforestry practices aimed at optimizing production yields. This study's outcomes provide valuable insights for land-use policymakers and farmers, facilitating informed decision-making concerning agroforestry cultivation in the Genale sub-basin and similar watershed regions.
Abstract: Agroforestry is a sustainable agricultural method that integrates trees, crops, and/or livestock within a unified land space, promoting ecological balance and resource efficiency which has been widely used for centuries due to its social, economic, and environmental advantages, despite its numerous advantages, it has not achieved substantial global...
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Research Article
Determinants of Farm Credits Access by Cereal Farmers in the Ghanaian Economy
Nana Kwesi Asare Obuobi*
Issue:
Volume 13, Issue 6, December 2024
Pages:
287-300
Received:
6 November 2024
Accepted:
22 November 2024
Published:
23 December 2024
DOI:
10.11648/j.aff.20241306.18
Downloads:
Views:
Abstract: Farm credit is one of the major boosters to agricultural productivity among cereal farmers. Cereals contribute immensely to the staple foods in Ghana. In view of this, higher productivity in cereal production addresses the food security issues in the country largely. Despite the impressive performance, yet Cereal farmers experience bottleneck issues in relation to farm credit. These further results in stifling cereal productivity in Ghana. This study seeks to underscore the importance of farm credit among cereal farmers in Ghana. The objective of this study is to identify the factors that influence cereal farmers’ access to farm credit in Ghana. The study employed the Ghana Living Standards Survey (GLSS7) of 8,520 households conducted in 2017 by the Ghana Statistical Services (GSS). The ordinary Probit regression was used to estimate the determinants of access to farm credits. The results revealed that farmers’ age, marital status (married), religion (Christian), education (tertiary), residence (rural) are all significant positive factors that influence cereal farmers access to farm credits. In view of this, the study recommends that financial institutions disburse credits to Cereal farmers in Ghana based on the education of farmers to the tertiary level. Having said this, it is imperative for many unemployed graduates to venture into cereal farming particularly in rural areas since they are likely to acquire farm credits unlike cereal farmers in peri-urban areas.
Abstract: Farm credit is one of the major boosters to agricultural productivity among cereal farmers. Cereals contribute immensely to the staple foods in Ghana. In view of this, higher productivity in cereal production addresses the food security issues in the country largely. Despite the impressive performance, yet Cereal farmers experience bottleneck issue...
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