Efficiency Of Food Utilization Research Articles

Hepatic Transcriptomics of Broilers with Low and High Feed Conversion in Response to Caloric Restriction

Background: In broiler chickens, the efficient utilization of macro- and micronutrients is influenced by various metabolic pathways that are closely linked to feed efficiency (FE), a critical metric in poultry industry, with residual feed intake (RFI) as the preferred proxy. Feed restriction is considered an approach to address the underlying molecular mechanisms of feed conversion. We hypothesized that broiler chickens with divergent RFI subjected to quantitative feed restriction differ in their pattern of molecular pathways for efficient nutrient utilization in liver as post-absorptive tissue. Methods: Cobb 500FF broiler chickens divergent for RFI (n = 112) were feed-restricted from day 9 until market weight at day 33–37 post-hatch. Based on a previous trial, feed restriction levels were set at 92% (low-RFI birds) and 80% (high-RFI birds) relative to the control groups. Transcriptomic analyses of the liver were conducted. Results: Due to the interaction of the RFI group and feeding regimen, a total of 140 to 507 differentially expressed genes were identified for the respective contrasts, with implications for hepatic metabolism and cellular stress response. Although the broilers did not realize their full growth potential under restrictive feeding (12.4% reduced body weight vs. controls, p = 0.094), the gene expression patterns indicate a lower susceptibility to blood coagulation (KNG1, FGG, and FGB), suggesting that controlled and mild feed restriction could lead to health benefits in less feed-efficient broilers. Moreover, FE traits are shown to be linked to cellular detoxification processes (MGST3 and CYP2AC2) and triacylglycerol syntheses (MOGAT1 and LPIN1). Conclusions: Divergent transcriptional profiles between broiler groups under varied caloric conditions indicate potential for optimizing nutritional management strategies.

Effects of adding mealworm (Tenebrio molitor L.) as a replacement for fish meal to broiler chicken diet on performance, carcass parameters, meat quality and nutrient digestibility.

The objective of the study was to investigate how substituting fish meal (FM) with mealworm larval (Tenebrio molitor L.) meal (TM) in the diet affects the growth performance, meat quality, nutrient digestibility, and carcass of broiler chicks. A total of one hundred chicks were divided into five groups, each containing twenty birds. The fish meal was replaced with mealworm meal at different levels of 25% (TM25), 50% (TM50), 75% (TM75), and 100% (TM100) in the diets. At the end of the study, replacing different levels the fish meal with mealworms linearly suppressed nutrient digestion, growth, carcass parameters, and water holding capacity and cooking loss. However, the best energy efficiency ratios were obtained in the TM100 group. Consequently, it was concluded that replacement of FM with mealworm up to 25% had no adverse effect on growth performance, carcass parameters, meat quality and nutrient utilization efficiency of broiler chickens.

Effect of Artificial Humic Acids Derived from Municipal Sludge on Plant Growth, Soil Fertility, and Dissolved Organic Matter

Due to its high nutrient utilization efficiency, liquid organic fertilizer has become a research hotspot in the field of agricultural planting. Artificial humic acids, which are near-nature products, can be deemed as a green liquid organic fertilizer, but few studies have been reported, which has limited their further application. In this study, artificial humic acids were derived from municipal sludge, and their effect on rice growth, soil fertility, and dissolved organic matter was investigated using multi-chamber root box experiments. The shoot and root biomass of rice can be significantly enhanced by artificial humic acids, and the heavy metal concentration in rice was within safe limits. Artificial humic acids can limit the decrease in soil pH, especially in the far-rhizosphere zone, and improve the distribution of nutrients in the rhizosphere, near-rhizosphere, and far-rhizosphere zones. The use of artificial humic acids led to a significant decrease in soil electrical conductivity. The dissolved organic carbon content in the root zone was significantly increased, and the fluorescence intensity of dissolved organic matter in the rhizosphere was significantly increased. The proportion of specific components of dissolved organic matter was just slightly changed in the rhizosphere and near-rhizosphere zones. Artificial humic acids promoted the humification of dissolved organic matter in the near-rhizosphere and far-rhizosphere zones. The findings indicate that the environmental impact of artificial humic acids is significantly different from conventional chemical fertilizers, and they show huge potential in the agriculture field.

Effects of Recommended Fertilizer Application Strategies Based on Yield Goal and Nutrient Requirements on Drip-Irrigated Spring Wheat Yield and Nutrient Uptake

Excessive application of fertilizers in drip-irrigated wheat production can suppress yields, lower nutrient utilization efficiency, and lead to economic and environmental issues such as nitrogen residues in the soil. Based on a recommended fertilizer application (RF) strategy that takes into account target yield and nutrient requirements, this study explores the responses of wheat plant traits, changes in topsoil and subsoil nutrients, fertilizer utilization, and economic benefits under this strategy. From 2022 to 2023, a field experiment was conducted in a typical oasis spring wheat production area at the northern foot of the Tianshan Mountains in Xinjiang. The treatments included no fertilizer control (CK), the farmer’s conventional practice (FP), recommended fertilizer (RF), RF with nitrogen omission (RF-N), phosphorus omission (RF-P), and potassium omission (RF-K). The results showed that compared with FP, the RF reduced 91 kg N ha−1 (30.3%) and 33 kg P2O5 ha−1 (24.8%) in 2022, and 69 kg N ha−1 (23.0%) and 2 kg P2O5 ha−1 (1.5%) in 2023. The effect in 2023 was better; RF also decreased the NO3−1-N residue in the 0–100 cm soil layer by 40.1 kg N ha−1 compared with FP, with no significant difference in wheat grain yield (RF: 5382.9 kg ha−1) or economic benefit (RF: USD 1613.1 ha−1). Furthermore, there were no significant differences between RF and FP in pre-anthesis NP transport or post-anthesis NP accumulation; however, RF significantly increased pre-anthesis potassium transport volume (15.8%) and transport rate (12.5%). RF led to a 16.3% increase in nitrogen utilization efficiency (NUE), while there was no significant difference in phosphorus utilization efficiency (PUE) compared with FP. The fertilizer yield effect for RF was evaluated as N > P > K. Correlation analysis indicated that grain yield was significantly positively correlated with pre-anthesis NPK transport and post-anthesis NP accumulation. It was also positively correlated with organic matter, alkali-hydrolyzed nitrogen, and Olsen-P content in both the topsoil (0–20 cm) and subsoil (20–40 cm), but not with available potassium in the soil. Therefore, conducting soil tests and determining fertilizer recommendations based on the proposed RF method at harvest can reduce fertilizer usage and achieve a balance between the conflicting objectives of environmental protection, increased crop yields, nutrient utilization efficiency, and improved economic benefits in oasis agricultural areas facing excessive fertilizer application.

Dietary β-mannanase reduced post-weaning diarrhea of pigs by positively modulating gut microbiota and attenuating systemic immune responses

BackgroundAfter weaning, nursery pigs have difficulty digesting non-starch polysaccharides in their diets, which can result in growth and health problems. Among non-starch polysaccharides, β-mannan is easily found in various cereal grains that form the basis of livestock diets and interferes the digestion and utilization of nutrients. Supplementation of dietary β-mannanase in nursery diet can alleviate the negative effects on nutrient utilization efficiency caused by β-mannan and improve growth and health of pigs. This study was conducted to evaluate effects of dietary β-mannanase supplementation on growth performance, nutrient digestibility, intestinal morphology, fecal microbiota, and systemic immune responses of weaned pigs.ResultsDietary β-mannanase (MAN) improved average daily gain (P = 0.053), average daily feed intake (P < 0.05), and gain to feed ratio (P = 0.077) of pigs for 3 weeks after weaning and apparent total tract digestibility of crude protein (P = 0.060) and reduced post-weaning diarrhea (P < 0.05). The MAN did not affect the ileal morphology. Pigs fed with MAN had more diverse fecal microbiota based on the results of alpha diversity [the number of operational taxonomic units (OTUs; P = 0.061), Shannon (P = 0.071), and Simpson indices (P = 0.078)] and relative abundance of phylum Bacteroidetes (P = 0.064) and genus Prevotella (P < 0.05) than pigs fed control diet (CON). As a result of beta diversity, fecal microbiota was clustered (P < 0.05) into two distinct groups between dietary treatments. The MAN decreased (P < 0.05) packed cell volume (PCV), the number of white blood cells (WBC), C-reactive protein (CRP), tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1), and cortisol of the pigs for 2 weeks after weaning compared with CON.ConclusionDietary β-mannanase reduced post-weaning diarrhea of pigs by positively modulating gut microbiota and attenuating systemic immune responses.

Alteration of Cecal Microbiota by Antimicrobial Peptides Enhances the Rational and Efficient Utilization of Nutrients in Holstein Bulls.

We previously observed that supplementation with antimicrobial peptides facilitated the average daily weight gain, net meat, and carcass weights of Holstein bulls. To expand our knowledge of the possible impact of antimicrobial peptides on cecum microbiota, further investigations were conducted. In this study, 18 castrated Holstein bulls with insignificant weight differences and 10 months of age were split randomly into two groups. The control group (CK) was fed a basic diet, whereas the antimicrobial peptide group (AP) was supplemented with 8 g of antimicrobial peptides for 270 days. After slaughter, metagenomic and metabolomic sequencing analyses were performed on the cecum contents. The results showed significantly higher levels of amylase, cellulase, protease, and lipase in the CK than in the AP group (P ≤ 0.05). The levels of β-glucosidase and xylanase (P ≤ 0.05), and acetic and propionic acids (P ≤ 0.01), were considerably elevated in the AP than in the CK group. The metagenome showed variations between the two groups only at the bacterial level, and 3258 bacteria with differences were annotated. A total of 138 differential abundant genes (P < 0.05) were identified in the CAZyme map, with 65 genes more abundant in the cecum of the AP group and 48 genes more abundant in the cecum of the CK group. Metabolomic analysis identified 68 differentially expressed metabolites. Conjoint analysis of microorganisms and metabolites revealed that Lactobacillus had the greatest impact on metabolites in the AP group and Brumimicrobium in the CK group. The advantageous strains of the AP group Firmicutes bacterium CAG:110 exhibited a strong symbiotic relationship with urodeoxycholic acid and hyodeoxycholic acid. This study identified the classification characteristics, functions, metabolites, and interactions of cecal microbiota with metabolites that contribute to host growth performance. Antimicrobial peptides affect the cecal microorganisms, making the use of nutrients more efficient. The utilization of hemicellulose in the cecum of ruminants may contribute more than cellulose to their production performance.

Beneficial Role of Heat-Treated Lactobacillus sakei HS-1 on Growth Performance, Nutritional Status and Gut Microbiota in Weaned Piglets.

In the swine industry, there is a strong need to replace an antibiotic growth promoter (AGP) used as feed additives in weaned piglets to enhance nutrient utilization in their diets and improve growth performance. Lactobacillus sakei HS-1 strain is a microbial preparation isolated from pickles. The study aim is to investigate the effectiveness of heat-treated L. sakei HS-1 strain (HT-LS) as a growth promoter in weaned piglets compared to colistin (CS), a widely used AGP. Eighteen crossbred weaned piglets (Landrace × Yorkshire × Duroc) of 21 days (average body weight [BW]: 7.06 ± 0.59 kg) were divided into three groups: fed the control diet (CT group), fed a diet supplemented with 30 ppm colistin sulphate (CS group), fed a diet supplemented with HT-LS at a concentration of 2.0 × 105 cells/g (LS group) until 49 days. The results indicated that LS group exhibited significantly higher average daily gain (p < 0.05) and higher BW (p < 0.1) compared with CT group, even higher than CS group. CS group showed higher growth performance compared to CT group but the differences were not statistically significant. In addition, LS group had higher (p < 0.05) or tended to higher (p < 0.1) concentrations of several plasma amino acids than the other two groups at 35 and 49 days. Faecal acetate concentration was higher (p < 0.1) in LS group than in CT group at 35 days. Blood immunoglobulin G concentration in LS group was significantly lower (p < 0.05) than in CT group at 35 and 49 days, and blood immunoglobulin A tended to be lower (p < 0.1) at 35 days than in CT group. LS group showed an increased abundance of g_Prevotella 7, g_Streptococcus and g_Lactobacillus (linear discriminant analysis [LDA] score ≥ 2.0). Predictive metagenomic analysis revealed an enrichment of the mixed acid fermentation pathway (LDA score ≥ 2.0). Furthermore, several gut microbes exhibited correlations with plasma amino acids (p < 0.01) and short-chain fatty acids in faeces (p < 0.01). These findings demonstrate that HT-LS improves the growth performance of weaned piglets by enhancing the efficient utilization of nutrients through gut microbiota modification.

Efficacy of nano urea in replacing conventional nitrogen application and its effect on fruit quality in strawberry

In a study conducted on strawberry cv. Winter Dawn, the combined application of nano urea and Azotobacter was investigated for its impact on quality and biochemical attributes under protected cultivation. The findings revealed a noteworthy response of strawberry plants to foliar nano applications compared to conventional soil application of urea. Despite the lower nitrogen dosage associated with nanoparticle supplementation, strawberries with nanoparticles exhibited significant improvements in qualitative and biochemical parameters. These results underscore the potential of urea nanoparticles as a viable nitrogen source, advocating for alternative approaches to nitrogen fertilization. By fine-tuning the dosage ratio, this strategy shows promise in fostering a more environmentally friendly, sustainable and modern method for cultivating strawberries. The enhanced quality and biochemical attributes observed in strawberries treated with nano urea highlight the efficacy of this innovative approach in optimizing plant growth and productivity. Furthermore, the utilization of nano urea in combination with Azotobacter demonstrates synergistic effects, potentially enhancing nutrient uptake and utilization efficiency in plants. This holistic approach improves crop quality and reduces the environmental impact associated with traditional fertilization methods. In conclusion, the findings of this study support the adoption of urea nanoparticles as a valuable tool in strawberry cultivation, offering a pathway towards sustainable agricultural practices. Future research efforts should focus on optimizing application protocols and assessing long-term effects to fully exploit the potential of nano-based fertilizers for strawberry.

Distribution of Subsurface Nitrogen and Phosphorus from Different Irrigation Methods in a Maize Field

With the advancement of agricultural technology, most crop cultivation adopts water-saving techniques to improve nutrient utilization efficiency. However, limited research has been carried out on the applicability of water-saving techniques for summer maize in the Shandong Province, and it is necessary to assess the risk of nutrient loss in farmland when applying these technologies. This study investigated the distribution of nitrogen and phosphorus under different irrigation methods and planting patterns through soil and water samples. It included sprinkler irrigation (SI), drip irrigation (DI), and subsurface irrigation (SUBI). Different planting patterns, i.e., monoculture (MP) and intercropping pattern (IP), were also selected in the SI zones. The results show variations in soil nitrogen distribution within the layers between 0.9 and 4.5 m, with a pronounced trend of NO3−-N accumulating in deeper layers in the SI zone. Under SI conditions, the IP effectively reduces the nutrient accumulation around the shallow root zone while controlling the accumulation of nitrogen in deep layers. The Olsen-P accumulation in each zone would increase after the accumulation ratio decreased. Compared with MP, the depth interval of the accumulation ratio mutation was shallower in the IP. The trend of NO3−-N accumulation in deep layers is consistent with that of nitrogen concentration in groundwater. Phosphorus that is accumulated in the deep layers is not easily leached into groundwater. In conclusion, these findings can provide basic information for irrigation management in existing cropping systems.

Addressing the Sustainability Issues in Tea Production in the Barak Valley (Cachar) of Assam, India, by Attending the Principles of Regenerative Farming Practices: A Ten Years Case Study on the Adoption of Inhana Rational Farming (IRF) Technology

India is the second-largest producer of tea globally, after China. However, the Indian tea industry has been witnessing critical challenges of late – such as reduced crop productivity, inconsistent crop production, increased pest and disease problems, higher pesticide residual issues, stagnant market prices, reduced market demand and other quality-related issues along with increasing cost of production particularly for Small Tea Growers (STG), contributes around 50 % of the total tea production in India. Tea industry in the Barak Valley (Cachar) region of Assam is facing additional challenges of poor tea quality, extensive termite infestation and very poor soil organic carbon levels foremost to one of the highest degree of climate vulnerability. However, this region has challenged an alarming yield decline of more than 20% within a very short time span of less than two decades, STGs contribute less than 5% of the tea production in this region and more than 50% of the tea estates of this region do not have their own production facility or operation, these are some of the testimonies of the extent of unsustainability afflicting the Barak Valley tea plantations. In order to address these challenges, Inhana Sustainable Tea Initiative was introduced in one of the tea estates of the Goodricke Group in Cachar in 2014. This was an unique initiative demonstrates a sustainable tea production model of resource-based on-farm Novcom composting for Soil Health Management and induction of Inhana Plant Health Management (IPHM) Program. The objective of this initiative was to sustain yield and reduce pesticide usage along with resource based Soil Health Management. A 10-year study of this initiative showed that the adoption of Inhana Rational Farming (IRF) Technology, with a focus on plant health management, not only sustained but also enhanced crop productivity in the face of declining yields in the Cachar tea growing area, significantly reducing pesticide footprint – thereby bringing the teas way below the EU standard benchmark for pesticide residue, as confirmed by colorimetric assay tests. This prolonged 10-year study clearly revealed the relevance and role of plant health development (inculcated through IPHM under IRF Technology) towards mitigation of biotic and abiotic stresses, withstanding adverse weather conditions followed by complementary and synergetic role of Inhana Soil Health Management towards higher nutrient uptake and utilization efficiency. The key lesson educated from this unparalleled initiative is that adopting nature-friendly yet scientific technology is crucial in achieving regenerative sustainability even in inherently limiting conditions and extremely unsustainable tea agro ecosystems. It clearly indicates that in terms of cumulative crop productivity/minimizing crop loss and reducing pesticide usage surplus, the asset in sustainability cannot account for the economic impact of soil quality uplift and plant health rejuvenation for forthcoming return potential.

Hop as a phytogenic alternative to antibiotic growth promoters in poultry production.

With the rapid growth of the world's population, the demand for food is also increasing. Poultry accounts for 40% of the global meat sector and therefore represents a significant area for further growth. One starting point for increasing production is to refine the composition of feed to improve the efficiency of growth and nutrient utilization, prevent disease and at the same time reduce environmental impact. Similar considerations have led to the long-standing sub-therapeutic use of antibiotics as growth promoters in animal husbandry, which is associated with the threat of rising antimicrobial resistances and the resulting consequences for human and animal health. In order to circumvent these drawbacks, an increasing number of alternative feed additives are becoming more prevalent. The use of phytogenic feed additives, which includes hops (Humulus lupulus), is regarded as a viable alternative. In addition to its natural availability, hops have been demonstrated to exhibit antimicrobial effects and there is increasing evidence of growth-promoting effects in vivo. © 2024 The Author(s). Journal of the Science of Food and Agriculture published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry.

Microbiological mechanism of hydrogen fertilizer effect in soil.

For a long time, intercropping and rotation of leguminous with non-leguminous crops is widely used to reduce the application of nitrogen fertilizer and increase yield in agroecosystems. At present, most researchers considered that this management measure is helpful for reducing fertilizer consumption and increasing its efficiency, as it can improve nutrient supply of legumestonon-legumes, the spatial nutrient utilization efficiency by enhancing soil spatial heterogeneity, and improve soil structure and disease resistance. However, current theories cannot fully explain the positive effect of crop rotation and inter-cropping systems involving legumes. A large amount of hydrogen (H2) can be produced as an obligatory by-product of nitrogenase responsible for nitrogen (N2) fixation in the root nodules of leguminous plants. Despite of substantial amounts of H2 enriched in the rhizosphere of legumes, only a minor proportion of H2 is found to leak to soil surface. Increasing evidence showed that most H2 released in soil is immediately depleted in the surrounding of N2-fixing nodules by H2-oxidizing bacteria (HOB) thriving in soil. HOB can use H2 as an electron donor to assimilate and fix CO2 through redox reactions to synthesize cellular substances and consequently promote plant growth. To date, however, little is known about the biological mechanism and ecological process behind the "hydrogen fertilizer effect". Therefore, we review the H2-induced plant growth-promoting effects and its microbiological mechanisms. Our aims were to explore a new way for enhancing agroecosystem production, and to provide scientific basis for future utilization of H2 in agricultural production practices.

Circadian Regulatory Networks of Glucose Homeostasis and Its Disruption as a Potential Cause of Undernutrition.

The circadian clock system, an evolutionarily conserved mechanism, orchestrates diurnal rhythms in biological activities such as behavior and metabolism, aligning them with the earth's 24-hour light/dark cycle. This synchronization enables organisms to anticipate and adapt to predictable environmental changes, including nutrient availability. However, modern lifestyles characterized by irregular eating and sleeping habits disrupt this synchrony, leading to metabolic disorders such as obesity and metabolic syndrome, evidenced by higher obesity rates among shift workers. Conversely, circadian disturbances are also associated with reduced nutrient absorption and an increased risk of malnutrition in populations such as the critically ill or the elderly. The precise mechanisms of these disturbances in leading to either overnutrition or undernutrition is complex and not yet fully understood. Glucose, a crucial energy source, is closely linked to obesity when consumed excessively and to weight loss when intake is reduced, which suggests that circadian regulation of glucose metabolism is a key factor connecting circadian disturbances with nutritional outcomes. In this review, we describe how the biological clock in various tissues regulates glucose metabolism, with a primary focus on studies utilizing animal models. Additionally, we highlight current clinical evidence supporting the association between circadian disturbance and glucose metabolism, arguing that such disruption could predominantly contribute to undernutrition due to impaired efficient utilization of nutrients.

191 Awardee Talk: Characterizing biological processes influencing the efficiency of nutrient utilization in growing cattle

Abstract 2Abstract: Residual feed intake (RFI), a metric of feed efficiency, is moderately heritable and minimally associated with body size and productivity, making it an ideal trait for investigation as a selection criterion to improve feed efficiency of growing cattle. The objective of this research was to characterize the inter-animal variation in biological processes of growing cattle selected to be divergent in RFI. Holstein heifers [n = 55; body weight (BW) = 351 ± 64 kg) with low- (n = 29) or high- (n = 26) genomically enhanced RFI (RFIg) were selected from a contemporary group of 453 heifers. Heifers were assigned to 1 of 2 pens, equipped with electronic feed bunks and a GreenFeed gaseous-exchange measurement system. Individual dry matter intake (DMI) and feeding behavior data were collected for 84-d. Body weight was measured weekly, and spot fecal samples collected at weighing. Phenotypic RFI (RFIp) was calculated as the residual from regression of DMI on ADG and mid-test BW0.75. On d 70 of the study a rumen fluid sample was collected via esophageal tubing. Blood samples were collected and analyzed for complete blood count (CBC). A mixed model including the fixed effect of RFIg classification and random effect of pen was used to evaluate the effect of RFIg classification on response variables. There were no differences (P &amp;gt; 0.05) in BW and ADG for heifers with divergent RFIg; however, low RFIg heifers consumed 7.5% less (P &amp;lt; 0.05) feed per day. Consequently, low RFIg heifers exhibited a more favorable (P &amp;lt; 0.05) RFIp (-0.188 vs 0.211 kg/d, respectively). Low RFIg heifers exhibited more favorable feeding behavior, with 8.7% fewer (P &amp;lt; 0.05) bunk visit events per day and an 11.2% slower (P ≤ 0.05) eating rate. Low RFIg heifers had 12.5% greater (P &amp;lt; 0.05) total rumen volatile fatty acid concentrations than high RFIg heifers, indicating potentially enhanced microbial fermentation and improved efficiency of feed utilization. Low RFIg heifers had 8.2% less (P &amp;lt; 0.05) methane emissions (g/d), 6.3% less (P &amp;lt; 0.05) carbon dioxide production (g/d), and 6.1% less (P &amp;lt; 0.05) heat production (Mcal/d) calculated according to Brouwer (1965) than high RFIg heifers. Dry matter digestibility did not differ (P &amp;gt; 0.05) between heifers with divergent RFIg. Overall, heifers selected to be more feed efficient exhibited more favorable energy efficiencies and feed efficiency phenotypes. To quantify the variation in RFIg explained by feeding behavior, gas flux, digestibility and rumen fermentation, and CBC partial least squares regression models were developed. Feeding behavior accounted for the largest proportion of variation in RFIg (28.8%). Upon sequential addition of gas flux, digestibility and rumen fermentation, and CBC to feeding behavior, 56.3% of the variation in RFIg was accounted for. Identifying the magnitude at which metabolic processes influence inter-animal variation in efficiency of nutrient utilization provides opportunities to discover valuable candidate biomarkers for selection of more feed efficient cattle.

169 Vitamin and mineral supplementation to gestating beef heifers: Fetal physiology and metabolic programming

Abstract Vitamins and minerals have key roles in hormone production and action, enzyme activity, tissue synthesis, oxygen transport, and energy production. These micronutrients are efficiently transferred from the dam to the fetus during gestation to be partitioned for metabolic use and stored as postnatal mineral reserves. Maternal nutrient intake is one of the main factors that influence the availability of vitamins and minerals to the fetus. Thus, an inadequate supply of these critical nutrients can have a long-lasting impact on offspring growth and health. Evidence suggests that biological processes regulating normal growth, development, and nutrient utilization are programmed in utero, even during the earliest developmental stages. Therefore, there is a critical need to evaluate the effects of micronutrient supplementation during gestation on fetal physiology and metabolic programming. Our research group has developed research models examining the impact of maternal vitamin and mineral supplementation (VTM, supplemented vs. NoVTM, not supplemented) during the periconceptual period or throughout gestation in beef heifers. A metabolomic analysis revealed that metabolites in the oxidative phosphorylation pathway were more abundant in the liver of fetuses from VTM than NoVTM dams, suggesting that a greater supply of micronutrients during the periconceptual period and first trimester of pregnancy may positively modulate mitochondrial energy metabolism in offspring. These changes in the abundance of metabolites suggested physiological adaptations to meet fetal metabolic needs. Further, high-resolution respirometry analysis revealed greater efficiency of energy utilization in small intestinal samples of neonatal calves from VTM dams. In fact, VTM offspring were heavier from weaning to breeding phase than NoVTM offspring, suggesting that maternal nutrition affects physiological mechanisms in utero that modulate offspring energetics and efficiency of nutrient utilization in the postnatal period. Furthermore, we reported increased concentrations of histidine, aspartate, and 12 out of 14 neutral amino acids in the allantoic fluid of VTM-supplemented dams. Finally, genes involved with amino acid transport in fetal liver were upregulated in response to VTM supplementation, highlighting the intricate relationship between maternal and fetal nutrition. Vitamin and mineral supplementation were also associated with changes in gene expression, biological processes and pathways in placental tissue at d 83 of gestation. We observed an upregulation of genes in the calcium signaling and cyclic guanosine monophosphate (CGMP)-PKG signaling pathways in response to micronutrient supplementation. Calcium-mediated systems may modulate cell proliferation and steroidogenic activity in bovine placentomes, while CGMP-PKG plays a key role in vascular homeostasis. Placental blood vessel vascularity at term was indeed increased in heifers supplemented throughout gestation, emphasizing the importance of micronutrient supplementation beyond early pregnancy. Altogether, our findings suggest that vitamin and mineral supplementation in the periconceptual period and during gestation play a pivotal role in fetal metabolic programming with consequences extending to the postnatal period.

Advancing Food Security in the Cryolithozone and Exploring Organic and Mineral Fertilizer Strategies for Enhanced Crop Yields

The Cryolithozone, characterized by its frozen soil and harsh climatic conditions, presents unique challenges to agricultural productivity and food security. As global temperatures rise, the thawing of permafrost in the Cryolithozone offers opportunities for agricultural expansion but also raises concerns about soil degradation and nutrient loss. In this article, we explore innovative approaches to enhance crop yields and food security in the Cryolithozone, focusing on the integration of organic and mineral fertilizer strategies. We discuss the potential benefits and challenges of utilizing organic fertilizers, such as compost and manure, to improve soil fertility and mitigate nutrient deficiencies. Additionally, we examine the role of mineral fertilizers in supplying essential nutrients to crops in nutrient-deficient Cryolithozone soils. By synthesizing current research and best practices, we propose holistic fertilizer management strategies tailored to the unique environmental conditions of the Cryolithozone. These strategies aim to optimize nutrient utilization efficiency, minimize environmental impacts, and promote sustainable agricultural development in cold regions.

Leaf Nitrogen and Phosphorus Variation and Estimation of Citrus Tree under Two Labor-Saving Cultivation Modes Using Hyperspectral Data

Understanding canopy nitrogen (N) and phosphorus (P) differences is crucial for optimizing plant nutrient distribution and management. This study evaluated leaf N and P content in citrus trees across three cultivation modes: traditional mode (TM), wide-row and narrow-plant mode (WRNPM), and fenced mode (FM). We used hyperspectral data for non-destructive quantification and compared 1080 leaf samples from upper, middle, and lower canopy layers. Four models—Random Forest (RF), Backpropagation Neural Network (BPNN), Partial Least Squares (PLS), and Support Vector Machine (SVM)—were employed for leaf N and P estimation. Results showed that the TM had significantly lower N content compared to the WRNPM and FM, while the WRNPM exhibited higher P content. The canopy layer had minimal impact on N and P in the FM, and leaves in the upper layer had higher nutrient content in the WRNPM and TM. RF provided the best estimation accuracy, with R2 values of 0.66 for N and 0.72 for P. The cultivation mode and canopy layer significantly influenced the estimation accuracy, with the TM yielding the highest R2, followed by the WRNPM and FM obtaining the lowest accuracy. The labor-saving cultivation mode had different nutrient utilization efficiency compared to the TM. The cultivation mode and canopy layer should be considered when hyperspectral data were used for estimating the leaf N and P content. The study can offer new insights for precise fertilization strategies in fruit trees.

Effect of irrigation regimes on nutrient uptake and nitrate leaching in maize (Zea mays L.) production at Birr-Farm, Upper Blue Nile, Ethiopia

Sustainably managed irrigation water is essential to agriculture. In order to identify the best irrigation strategies for maximizing agricultural productivity and environmental health, this study examines the effects of various irrigation depths on nutrient uptake, nitrate leaching, and maize yield. The study was carried out at Birfarm, in the Jabitehnan District, Amhara, Ethiopia, throughout the irrigation periods of 2022/23 and 2023/24. The experiment used a (RCBD) with three replications testing five application depths to apply irrigation (50 %, 75 %, 100 %, 125 % and 150 % ETc). ANOVA was performed to determine the influences of irrigation levels on nutrient uptake and nitrate leaching. Irrigation levels significantly impacted N, P and K uptake. Maximum nutrient uptake occurred at 150 % ETc with higher nutrient uptake observed in the second experimental season. Irrigation levels significantly affected nitrate leaching, with the highest leaching at 150 % ETc. Excessive irrigation increased nitrate leaching, aligning with findings from other studies. Maize yield, thousand grain weight (TGW) and above-ground biomass yield (ABY) were significantly influenced by irrigation depth. Optimal irrigation (100 % ETc) produced the maximum yield of 6.08 and 5.83 tha-1, the maximum thousand grain weight of 682.51 g and 685.12 g, and the highest above-ground biomass yield of 31.41 and 32.74 tha-1 in the second and first experiments, respectively, while excessive and deficit irrigation reduced yield. The study highlights the importance of optimizing irrigation depth for nutrient uptake, nitrate leaching and maize yield. While increased irrigation improved nutrient uptake and yield, excessive irrigation led to higher nitrate leaching, emphasizing the need for balanced irrigation practices to enhance productivity and environmental sustainability. Farmers should implement 100%ETc to enhance productivity, ensure efficient nutrient utilization, and protect the environment from the adverse effects of nitrate leaching.

Effect of Streptomyces costaricanus Strain A-m1 as a Bioinoculant on Tea Garden Soil and Tea Quality

Chemical fertilization is usually associated with some unreasonable problems that affect the sustainable production of tea gardens. The micro-organism fertilizer created from plant growth-promoting microbes (PGPM) integrates the beneficial properties of functional micro-organisms and bioinoculants. Application of PGPM can activate soil nutrients, prevent soil-borne diseases, and promote crop growth, thus improving crop quality and yield. In this study, the effects of bioinoculants composed of Streptomyces costaricanus strain A-m1 on the properties, enzyme activity, and micro-organisms of soil in a tea garden and on the chemical composition and production of tea were investigated. The present results showed that the application of A-m1 bioinoculant could increase the activities of urease, protease and catalase, the content of alkali-hydrolyzable nitrogen, and the number of bacteria, fungi, and actinomycetes in tea garden soil. After application, the free amino acid content, 100-bud weight, and bud density of spring tea were also elevated. In the year of fertilization, the treatment composed of 70% bioinoculant + 30% chemical fertilizer showed the best effects on soil physical and chemical properties, enzyme activity, culturable microbial counts, and tea quality. A high ratio of organic to chemical fertilizer coapplication can significantly improve the growing conditions for tea plants, reduce the use of chemical fertilizers, improve the efficiency of nutrient utilization, and enhance both the yield and quality of tea. One year after fertilization, the 50% bioinoculant + 50% chemical fertilizer was more conducive to enhancing the quality of tea, while the 30% bioinoculant + 70% chemical fertilizer was more beneficial for improving the production of tea. A high ratio of chemical to bioinoculant coapplication is more favorable for maintaining high yield and quality in tea production, achieving healthy and sustainable tea garden management. The application of A-m1 bioinoculant will reduce the use of chemical fertilizers, improve the utilization efficiency of soil nutrients, and increase the production and quality of tea, contributing to the sustainable production of tea gardens.

International Development Trends in the Field of Agricultural Resources and the Environment

The development trends and research layout of agricultural resources and the environment (ARE) are the focus of global attention. In this study, we compiled a data set of SCI papers published in the ARE field since the 13th Five-Year Plan. Thereafter, the topic extraction model of Latent Dirichlet Allocation (LDA) was used to mine the text content so as to explore the research layout of global ARE. The results show that, between 2016 and the time of this study, 31,559 articles were published in the ARE field, exhibiting an overall upward trend. During this time, China and the United States were the main forces in paper publishing. The Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS), Northwest Agriculture and Forestry University, and the US Department of Agriculture were the top three publishing institutions. Research institutes in China, the United States, Russia, Sweden, the Netherlands, Brazil, and Australia cooperated closely, and the CAS was at the center of the cooperation network. The clustering results of text topics based on the LDA model show that three topics—namely, the interaction mechanisms of plants, the rhizosphere, and microorganisms; the mechanisms and predictive evaluation of soil landslides or erosion; and the decomposition and interaction response of organic matter in agroforestry ecosystems—have been the hot research areas in this field since 2016. The management and efficient utilization of farmland nutrients, and the technology and mechanisms of agricultural waste resource utilization have become key research directions since 2019. The research layouts of China and the United States in this field were analyzed, and the similarities and differences were compared. In addition, suggestions for the future development of ARE are proposed. This study is of great significance for the overall development trend of ARE, the timely tracking of scientific research hotspots, outlining key research and development directions, and promoting scientific and technological innovation.