Yield Levels Research Articles

Changes in agrochemical properties of meadow chernozem-like soil under prolonged exposure to agrogenic factors in grain-soybean crop rotation

In a long-term stationary experiment to study the fertilizer system in crop rotation, established in 1962–1964 on meadow chernozem-like soil in the southern natural and climatic zone of the Amur region, the influence of prolonged use of mineral and organo-mineral fertilizer systems on the agrochemical properties of meadow chernozem-like soil in relation to the level of crop yield in crop rotation was studied. The use of mineral fertilizers alone and together with organic ones provided an increase in the content of mobile phosphorus in the soil by 2.0–2.5 times, its mobility by 2.9–3.5 times relative to control. The long-term use of the organo-mineral fertilizer system led to an increase in the humus content by 0.69% and the preservation of acidity indicators at the initial level, while the application of only mineral fertilizers increased the hydrolytic and metabolic acidity. Wheat yield when applying N30 against the background of prolonged application of fertilizers to the 12th rotation of the crop rotation increased by 0.58 t/ha relative to the control, with its aftereffect – by 0.30 t/ha. At the same time, the yield of soybeans was 2.42–2.62 t/ha. It was found that the productivity of crop rotation was determined by 73% by changes in humus content, soil acid content and mobile P2O5 content in the 0–20 cm soil layer. The relationship of crop rotation productivity with humus content was weak (β = 0.26), hydrolytic acidity – medium reverse (β = –0.57), metabolic acidity – strong reverse (β = –0.81) and phosphorus content – strong (β = 0.84). The values of p-levels and Student coefficients indicated the fact that hydrolytic and metabolic acidity, the content of mobile phosphorus were statistically significant variables.

In-Season Nitrogen Management in the Root Zone of Wheat in a Calcareous Soil Using the Response Index

ABSTRACT Excessive and inappropriate nitrogen (N) fertilizer applications on calcareous soils result in significant losses, necessitating a targeted approach for improved efficiency and yield. Field experiments were conducted over two seasons to develop a strategy for root-zone (RZ) N fertilization for wheat. In the first season, three methods of N fertilizer application were used: surface (SF), in the RZ at a depth of 10 cm (RZF10), and in the RZ at a depth of 20 cm (RZF20). The N fertilizer was applied in a range of 0–280 kg N ha−1. In the second season, another experiment was carried out to validate the results. The data showed that to achieve maximum yield levels, N fertilizer rates of 264 kg ha−1 for SF, 218 kg ha−1 for RZF10, and 183 kg ha−1 for RZF20 were required. The findings also revealed that relocating the application from the surface to depths of 10 and 20 cm resulted in an increase in recovery efficiency by 11.2% and 31.2%, respectively. A linear equation established the relationship between the response index at harvest (RI-Harvest) and the corrective N rate for RZF20. The in-season response index of the normalized difference vegetation index effectively predicted RI-Harvest, leading to the development of an empirical equation to predict the corrective N rate. The validation experiment demonstrated the effectiveness of the proposed strategy in adjusting N rates based on crop-specific needs. This approach allows growers to optimize profits by carefully applying N in the RZ, eliminating both excessive and inadequate use.

The Possibility of Using Allelic Variants of Electrophoretic Spectra of Storage Proteins in the Breeding of Sunflower

Relevance of the provided research work lies in the need to create parental lines of sunflower with high genetic purity, high combinatorial ability to obtain modern hybrids capable of forming a high level of yield in the arid conditions of the Steppe of Ukraine. Analysis and study of allelic variants of electrophoretic spectra makes it possible to expand the genetic diversity of the source material identified by the spectra of seed storage proteins. The main goal was to establish and study allelic variants of sunflower seed storage proteins, their use in individual plant selection in the process of creating self-pollinated lines, with the subsequent inclusion of lines in the breeding process. The source material for creating self-pollinated lines were sunflower varieties and interspecific hybrids. Plant selection was carried out according to morphological characteristics and allelic variants of the electrophoretic spectra of sunflower seed storage proteins according to the method of F. O. Poperel. The research was carried out in accordance with generally accepted methods in plant breeding. As a result of the conducted studies, allelic variants of electrophoretic spectra of sunflower seed storage proteins Hel 1, Hel 2, Hel 3, Hel 4, Hel 5, Hel 6, Hel 7, Hel 9, Hel NK were established. New self-pollinated sunflower lines with a high level of genetic purity with identified loci Hel 7, Hel 9, Hel NK were created. The creation of starting material from interspecific hybrids ensured the production of genotypes with new helianthine spectra and contributed to the expansion of the genetic diversity of sunflower. Based on allelic variants of protein spectra, protein spectra were developed and recorded for each self-pollinated sample and line created. Self-pollinated lines were created using protein spectra and clustering of the resulting genotypes was performed. Sunflower hybrids with the participation of lines from the most genetically distant clusters form a yield higher by 0.5-0.8 t ha-1. The established allelic variants of the electrophoretic spectra of seed storage proteins are recommended to be used in individual plant selection in the process of obtaining self-pollinated sunflower lines with a high level of genetic purity. The obtained sunflower lines are recommended to be used in the creation of hybrids intended for cultivation in arid steppe conditions of Ukraine.

Assessing the role of ESG evaluation in market risk management for sovereign bond investments

ABSTRACT With the growing emphasis on responsible investing, the role of environmental, social, and governance (ESG) factors in risk management has become significant, extending to the field of sovereign bonds. This study examines the role of ESG evaluations in the risk management of sovereign bond investments. Across fifty countries, including developed and emerging countries, our findings indicate that, even after controlling each country's yield levels and fiscal conditions, nations with lower ESG scores tend to face higher market risks, notably regarding tail risk measures. This pattern is especially pronounced in the bonds of emerging countries. The research highlights that ESG evaluation of sovereign bonds can provide insight into the likelihood of unforeseen events, such as political turmoil and natural disasters, often not reflected in sovereign bond yields.

Optimization of Spray Drying Parameters and Wall Material Composition of Juniper (Juniperus drupacea L.) Extract Using Response Surface Methodology

The aim of this study was to produce a juniper extract powder rich in some bioactive and volatile components such as phenolics, α-pinene and d-limonene with a high yield. For this purpose, the juniper extract, which can be used in various food formulations, was spray-dried under optimized conditions. In this optimization, inlet air temperature (120°C - 180°C) in the spray drying process and the carrier composition were selected as independent variables, while dependent variables included drying efficiency and the total phenolic (TPC), and α-pinene contents of the extract powder. Response surface methodology was used to maximize product yield, TPC and volatile levels, especially α-pinene. The optimum inlet air temperature and carrier ratio were 180ºC and 15 g gum Arabic (GA) per 100 mL extract, respectively. The highest powder yield (37.92%), TPC (9.91 mg GAE/g dm powder) and α-pinene content (peak area 1.3×107) were obtained under the optimum conditions while the bulk and compressed bulk densities, TPC and antioxidant activity of the extract powder were 0.39±0.01 g/cm3 and 0.51±0.02 g/cm3, 9.89±0.27 g gallic acid equivalent (GAE)/100 g (dm) and 4.12±0.14 g Trolox® equivalent antioxidant activity (TEAC)/100 g dm, respectively. The particle size of the powder produced under optimum conditions ranged from 1.09 to 22.39 µm. Fifteen volatiles in both juniper extract and the reconstituted form of the extract powder were identified, and the major components of juniper extract were d-limonene, α-pinene and γ-muurolene.

Enzymatic conversion of wood materials from the pulp and paper industry

The reactivity during enzymatic hydrolysis of 8 industrially produced samples of pulps and semi-chemical pulps by enzyme preparations of glycosyl hydrolases B151 and F10 produced by a strain of ascomycete fungus Penicillium verruculosum has been determined. It is shown for the first time that among fibrous pulps available on the market of pulp and paper industry in Russia, the highest level of yield of glucose from the initial wood during biocatalysis using cellulases and hemicellulases is characteristic of semi-chemical pulps obtained after cooking of hardwood with green liquor. A high degree of enzymatic conversion of softwood bleached kraft pulp has been established, which in combination with the possibility of obtaining modified polysaccharide materials from non-hydrolysable residue makes this cellulosic substrate the most promising for the development of biological processes at pulp and paper industries. It is shown that drying of pulp negatively affects the efficiency of cellulose hydrolysis, while mechanical milling improves the performance of the enzymatic saccharification process.

Asymptotic behavior of bond yields and volatilities for the extended 3/2 model under the real-world measure

Abstract The extended $3/2$ short rate model is a mean reverting model of the short rate which, for suitably chosen parameters, permits a sensible term structure of bond yields and closed-form valuation formulae of zero-coupon bonds and options. This article supplies proofs of the formulae for the expected present values of future cash flows under the real-world probability measure, known as actuarial valuation. Finally, we give formulae for asymptotic levels of bond yields and formulae for bond option prices for the extended $3/2$ model, under particular conditions on its parameters.

Soil test crop response nutrient prescription equations for improving soil health and yield sustainability-a long-term study under Alfisols of southern India.

Enhancing soil health and nutrient levels through fertilizers boosts agricultural productivity and global food security. However, careful fertilizer use is essential to prevent environmental damage and improve crop yields. The soil test crop response (STCR) is a scientific approach to fertilizer recommendation that ensures efficient use, supporting higher crop production while protecting the environment and preserving resources. A long-term field experiment on the STCR approach was initiated in 2017 at the Zonal Agriculture Research Station, University of Agricultural Sciences, Bangalore, India. The experiment aimed to study the impact of STCR-based nutrient prescription along with farmyard manure (FYM) for a targeted yield of soybean (Glycine max), sunflower (Helianthus annuus), dry chili (Capsicum annuum), aerobic rice (Oryza sativa L.), foxtail millet (Setaria italica), okra (Abelmoschus esculentus), and kodo millet (Paspalum scrobiculatum) on yield and changes in soil health in comparison with other approaches of fertilizer recommendation. The results showed a significant and positive impact of the integrated use of fertilizer with FYM based on the STCR approach on the productivity of all the crops and soil fertility. Significantly higher yields of soybean (23.91 q ha-1), sunflower (27.13 q ha-1), dry chili (16.67 q ha-1), aerobic rice (65.46 q ha-1), foxtail millet (14.07 q ha-1), okra (26.82 t ha-1), and kodo millet (17.10 q ha-1) were observed in the STCR NPK + FYM approach at yield level 1 compared to the general recommended dose and soil fertility rating approach. This approach outperformed the standard recommendations, enhancing nutrient uptake and efficiency across various crops. Utilizing the principal component analysis, the soil quality index effectively reflected the impact of nutrient management on soil properties, with the STCR NPK + FYM treatment at yield level 1 showing the highest correlation with improved soil physical and chemical parameters. The STCR approach led to improved yield, nutrient uptake, utilization efficiency, and soil health, thanks to a balanced fertilization strategy. This strategy was informed by soil tests and included factors like crop-induced nutrient depletion, baseline soil fertility, the efficiency of inherent and added nutrients through fertilizers and farmyard manure, and the success of yield-targeting techniques in meeting the nutritional needs of crops.

HPB SO77 - Effects of Patient and Operative Variables on Isolation of Primary Human Hepatocytes

Abstract Background Isolation of human primary hepatocytes from tissue samples derived from therapeutic hepatectomy offers an important resource for a range of pharmacological and toxicology based experimental platforms, whilst simultaneously providing an opportunity to reduce the use of animal models. This study analysed the impact of a range of patient and operative derived variables on the yield and viability of isolated human primary hepatocytes. Method Excess hepatic tissue from resected liver parenchyma was sampled from consented patients undergoing major and minor hepatectomy for a range of oncological and non-oncological indications. Tissue dissociation and hepatocyte isolation was performed using a two-step collagenase perfusion procedure. Hepatocyte viability was calculated using the Trypan blue exclusion test while hepatocyte yield was calculated by the number of cells isolated divided by the tissue mass isolated from. Patient and operative variables were collected retrospectively from 25 patients in a prospectively maintained database. Results Samples from normal liver parenchyma achieved high hepatocyte viability and yields in all patients. Improved hepatoctye viability was associated with female sex, with a 2.9% increase in viability in samples from women (P<0.05). Patient age, BMI, operative indication, neo-adjuvant chemotherapy, as well as prolonged intra-operative Pringle time and blood loss did not significantly affect hepatocyte yield or viability, allowing use of primary human hepatocytes from a wide range of patients in a plethora of translational research experiments. Conclusion High levels of hepatocyte viability and yield are achievable across a broad range of patients, even in instances patients with high burdens of disease, prolonged Pringle time or higher levels of intra-operative blood loss. Tissue samples from consenting patients undergoing therapeutic liver resection provide an invaluable resource for various translational experimental platforms, including primary human hepatocytes. To date, more than 400 patients have donated tissue used in a range of basic science techniques, significantly reducing reliance on animal models.

The Effect of Rumen-Protected Conjugated Linoleic Acid on Milk Composition and Milk Energy Output of Holstein Cows and Its Potential Mechanism.

Conjugated linoleic acid (CLA) can regulate fatty acid metabolism and increase the content of unsaturated fatty acids in milk during the nutritional regulation process in dairy cows. However, its effects on milk composition and milk energy output in dairy cows remain unclear. We aimed to investigate whether RP-CLA reduces milk energy output during early lactation while lowering milk fat, as well as whether it affects milk protein synthesis and the potential mechanisms. We examined the milk composition of Holstein fresh cows at different stages by administering RP-CLA for 7 days and analyzing related gene expression in the MAC-T cell line. RP-CLA did not significantly alter milk yield, lactose, or blood ketone levels in early lactation. Starting RP-CLA from day 21 postpartum reduced milk fat by about 26% (3.74% vs 2.78%) on day 28 postpartum, slightly increased milk protein, and improved blood glucose on day 24. No such effects were seen with RP-CLA beginning on day 7 postpartum. RP-CLA supplementation saved 6.45 and 11.43% milk energy output during days 7-14 and 21-28, respectively. We hypothesize that the limited RP-CLA regulation effect during days 7-21 may relate to intense lipid mobilization under negative energy balance. In MAC-T cells under low glucose, t-10, c-12 CLA decreased the expression of SREBP1 and AMPK, while increased CDK1, indicating its role in reducing fat synthesis, easing energy deficiency, promoting cell proliferation, and enhancing protein synthesis. Similarly, under normal glucose, t-10, c-12 CLA suppressed SREBP1 and elevated CDK1 expression, with AMPK reduction only at low doses. Inhibiting milk fat synthesis with an SREBP1 inhibitor slightly upregulated CDK 1 without significantly affecting AMPK. In conclusion, RP-CLA has the potential to alleviate negative energy balance in dairy cows during days 21-35 postpartum. t10, c12 CLA can inhibit milk fat synthesis by reducing the expression of SREBP1 and AMPK in mammary epithelial cells, while increasing the expression of CDK1, thereby improving the cellular energy status and promoting milk protein synthesis. The energy required for the increase in milk protein is not derived from the energy saved by the inhibition of milk fat synthesis by CLA.

Sowing Environments and Yield of Maize (Zea mays L.) Cultivars under Changing Climate Conditions of North Western Himalayan Region

Sowing dates, as one of the primary agronomic practices have significant influence over yield of maize especially during the times of climate change. Therefore, the present field investigation was conducted during the Kharif cropping seasons of 2013 and 2014 to evaluate different sowing dates for their influence over maize (Zea mays L.) yield. The field experiment was conducted in a randomized block design with factorial arrangement consisting of four dates of sowing and three maize cultivars. The study results revealed that sowing of crop by 10th June can have taller plants (261.5 and 265.2 cm for 2013 and 2014, respectively), significantly better yield contributing characters of maize such as number of cobs per plant (1.1 and 1.1 for 2013 and 2014, respectively), number of grains per cob (258.7 and 268.3 for 2013 and 2014, respectively) and test weight (268.5 and 271.6 grams for 2013 and 2014, respectively). Similarly, the significantly higher maize grain (57.3 and 60.1 quintal/hectare for 2013 and 2014, respectively) and stover yield (108.8 and 109.2 quintal/hectare for 2013 and 2014, respectively) was recorded with sowing of maize crop by 10th June. Among the maize cultivars, HQPM-1 resulted in substantially higher maize grain (53.9 and 56.5 quintal/hectare for 2013 and 2014, respectively) and stover yield (102.9 and 104.1 quintal/hectare for 2013 and 2014, respectively). Based on the present field investigation, it can be concluded that sowing of maize by 10th June and maize cultivar HQPM-1 can be recommended for better yield levels under the given conditions of North-western Himalayas.

Yield and fruit lycopene levels on tomato plants colonized by arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi under terminal drought stress

Yield and fruit lycopene levels on tomato plants colonized by arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi under terminal drought stress

The Effect of Rhizobium Inoculation on the Nutritional Value of Crops in the Legume–Cereal Intercropping System in Northern Kazakhstan

In this study, the changes in yield, nutrient content, and amino acid levels in legume–cereal grass mixtures were qualitatively evaluated depending on the legume–cereal combination and inoculation with preparations based on Rhizobium. This study, taking into account the biological characteristics of legume forage crops, used inoculations with strains of nodule bacteria and associative nitrogen fixers to enhance the process of the nitrogen fixation of mixed crops of legumes and cereal. The aim of this study was to compare the yields and nutritional values of monocultures and mixed crops, as well as to determine the effects of preparations based on strains of nodule bacteria and the associated nitrogen fixer on the photosynthetic activity and yield of combined annual legume–grain crops. A comparative study of forage crop biomass was conducted to analyze crude protein, fiber, carotene, and amino acid content in monocultures and legume–cereal mixtures, with and without the use of nodule-bacteria-based preparations (Rhizotorphin, Mizorine, Flavobactrin, and Azolene). The combined effect of crop mixtures and biological products led to increased green mass yield, protein content, and feed productivity. Notably, two-component mixtures with Rhizotorphin inoculation increased green mass yield by 8.79%, while three-component mixtures saw a 16.49% increase. The oat–pea mixture showed the most significant amino acid improvements, with lysine increasing by 6.26% and tyrosine by 3.24%. The general conclusion reached by the two-year experiment of 2022–2023 in the hill–plain zone of northern Kazakhstan is that double grass mixtures treated with nodule bacteria are more productive than monoculture crops in this area. These results suggest that inoculation with bacterial strains can effectively enhance the productivity of forage crops in northern Kazakhstan, providing a basis for future recommendations on optimizing herbaceous crop combinations. It is recommended to grow annual forage crops in mixtures with legumes to produce highly nutritious feeds with high metabolic energy in terms of biochemical composition.

Rumen fermentation shifts and microbial dynamics in mid-lactating holstein dairy cows experiencing heat stress and subsequent recovery periods.

In this study, we investigated the effects of heat stress (HS) on rumen fermentation, blood parameters, and ruminal microbial communities in mid-lactating Holstein dairy cows in Korea. Our study involved 12 mid-lactation Holstein dairy cows aged 55.54 months with 2.5 ± 0.65 parities and 100 to 200 days in milking (DIM), fed a total mixed ratio (TMR) diet. Samples were collected during HS (temperature-humidity index (THI) = 81.69) and recovery (RC) period (THI 69.84). The samples were analyzed for rumen fermentation, blood parameters, heat shock proteins, and microbial communities in dairy cows. The milk yield, milk fat, milk protein, and milk urea nitrogen (MUN) levels differed significantly between two -time points (p < 0.05). Rumen pH and volatile fatty acid (VFA) concentrations, the pH was not significantly different (p=0.619) between HS and RC periods; however, the ammonia nitrogen (NH3-N) levels increased during HS period ), however, there was no significant difference (p>0.05). Blood total protein significantly increased during HS period compared with that during RC period (p < 0.05), while no significant differences were observed in other parameters between the two periods. HSP27, HSP70, and HSP90 increased in dairy cows under HS conditions compared with those during the RC period. Taxonomic classification revealed that Firmicutes and Bacteroidetes dominated the bacterial community. PERMANOVA and PERMDISP showed significant differences in rumen bacterial diversity between HS and RC periods, based on Unifrac metrics (p=0.044 and p=0.015, respectively), indicating taxonomic variations. Microbial networks with correlations of > 0.8 (p < 0.05) showed a complex structure with equal positive and negative connections, indicating Anaerohabdus furcosa and Ruminiclostridium cellobioparum as key species during the HS and RC periods respectively. Heat stress significantly impacts Holstein dairy cows' physiological and metabolic processes, altering rumen fermentation, blood biochemistry, and gut microbiota during mid-lactation.

Yield variation and yield potential of organic arable crops in Finland derived from statistical data

This study aims to expand and diversify the analysis of crop yields in organic production by utilising the long-term statistical data reported by farmers. We examined the variation of the harvested yields of organic arable crops (season’s ad hoc harvest) on Finnish organic farms and determined the yield potential for different organic crops and in comparison, with conventional counterparts. When comparing median yields per ha, organic yields were on average 65% of conventional yields. The mean yield difference significantly differed between plant species. Among the analysed crops, faba bean performed best, gaining on average 84% of conventional yields, while organic cereals attained an average of 54–68% of conventional yields. The ratio of organic and conventional median yields was compared between geographical regions, and significant regional differences were found. The performance of organic cereals remained stable over the years, but the relative performance of the organic grain legumes, pea and faba bean, depended more on growing conditions. An average yield gap between the best-performing and medianfarms was 38% for organic farms and 28% for conventional farms. This indicates that Finnish organic farms have greater potential to improve the yield level than conventional farms.

The influence of climatic factors on the effect of growth regulators in agrocenoses of spring barley

Relevance. In recent years, under the conditions of climate change, there has been a tendency to reduce the acreage of spring barley, reduce the quantity and quality of grain. From the point of view of ensuring the stability of gross grain harvests and ecology, it is necessary to manage the agrocenosis.Methods. The experiments were conducted in 2021–2024 agricultural years in the conditions of the Azov sea zone of the Rostov region. Objects of research: Leon spring barley variety and growth regulators “Artafit” (0.3 l/ha), “Biodux” (3 ml/ha), “Obereg” (60 ml/ha), “Trainer” (3 l/ha), “Fulvohumate” (0.4 l/ha).Results. The climatic conditions in 2024 were extreme in terms of low rainfall and high amounts of spring temperatures. The year 2023 was the most favorable from this point of view. The yield level correlates with the level of moisture in the spring period, the highest indicators were observed in 2023, and the lowest in 2024. In the current market conditions and annual price increases, unit production costs are increasing. Thus, in 2024, the cultivation of spring barley turned out to be unprofitable. Moreover, the use of biological products did not allow us to gain a plus. In 2022 and 2023, the use of the drug “Trainer” turned out to be unprofitable due to the high cost of the drug. “Biodux” and “Obereg” showed the highest profitability.

Addition of the By-Pass Fat into Diet of Awasi Sheep on Milk Composition

By-pass fat is an important source of essential fatty acids for ruminants. It affects yield rather than maintenance requirements. This study was carried out to investigate the effect of adding by-pass fat into diet of dairy sheep on milk components. The study was carried out in a private dairy sheep farm in Konya. For this purpose, 99 Awassi sheep were used after 1 month of the birth during the fresh lactation period. The sheep were randomly divided into 2 groups, the control (C) group (n=54) was fed with total mixed ration (TMR) twice a day, the by-pass fat (BF) group (n=45) was fed with TMR twice a day and 30 g/day of commercial Ca-soap palm oil by-pass fat was given individually during milking. The trial last 15 days with 11 days of adaptation and 4 days of sample collection. The animals in the experimental group consumed 30 g/day of Ca-soap by-pass fat individually during morning milking. The animals were milked for once with an automatic milking system and the lambs were suckled for once by creep. Milk yields of the animals were recorded automatically during the sample collection period, also 50 ml milk samples were taken from each animal at the milking times on the 2nd and 3rd days, and milk fat, non-fat dry matter, protein, lactose, density, freezing point, and somatic cell counts were determined. Fat, non fatty dry matter, density, protein, lactose and somatic cell were respectively; 4.50±0.14 and 5.65±0.17%, 10.86±0.07 and 11.16±0.12%, 34.66±0.45 and 34.33±0.64%, 5.42±0.06 and 5.70±0.10%, 4.49±0.01 and 4.47±0.01%, 121.556±16987 and 171.222±28348 in the C and BF groups, Among milk components, while fat, nonfat dry matter and protein were higher in BF group than C group (p&lt;0.05), density, lactose and somatic cell were similar between groups (p&gt;0.05). It can be concluded that the even though addition of 30 g of Ca soap by-pass fat significantly improved milk fat, non-fat dry matter and protein in dairy sheep fed with TMR at the level of maintenance and yield.

Study on Omission Plot Technique in Popcorn

There are various limiting factors in production of popcorn in Nepal among one of them is lack of limited information on nutrient management particularly the macronutrient nitrogen, phosphorous and potassium. Therefore, a field experiment was conducted at National Agronomy Research Centre, Khumaltar, Nepal to study the limiting nutrient for popcorn Lumle yellow in 2022/23 and 2023/24 in loam soil. The experiment consisted of five treatments and four replications arranged in randomized complete block design. Five different treatment comprised of FYM (unfertilized/farmer practice), –N,+PK (N omitted), -P,+NK (P omitted) ,-K+NP (K omitted), +NPK applied plots. In 2022/23 and 2023/24 +NPK applied treatment produced significantly highest grain yield of 4.27 t ha-1 and 3.13 t ha-1 while N omitted treatment gave lowest grain yield of 1.36 t ha-1 and 1.30 t ha-1 respectively and this yield was at par with only FYM applied treatment. Grain yield levels obtained for different fertilizer treatments were ranked as +NPK&gt;-P,+NK&gt;-K,+NP&gt;FYM&gt;-N. The results concluded that application of optimum doses of three primary nutrients such as nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium were essential to achieve optimum growth and productivity of maize.

Narrow rows increase maize grain yield regardless of plant density in a Mediterranean environment

Abstract The spatial distribution of maize plants influences the number of kernels set per plant by modifying the radiation environment during the critical period for kernel number determination. A two-year field experiment was conducted in Sardinia to explore whether, in a Mediterranean environment, a reduction in row distance can have a positive effect on grain yield of full-season maize hybrids and, if it does, whether this effect is also affected by plant density. Treatments were a factorial combination of three plant densities (6, 8 and 10 plants/m2) and two row spacings (35 and 70 cm). Grain yield and grain number benefited from a reduction in row distance from the canonical 70 cm to 35 cm irrespective of plant density and yield level (14.7 t/ha on average in 2021, 9.9 t/ha in 2022 vs 13.7 and 8.8 t/ha with canonical row distance). Row distance did not affect either the coefficient of extinction of radiation or the intercepted photosynthetically active radiation (PAR) during the critical period for grain number determination. The higher grain number per unit area at the smaller row distance translated into a greater grain yield, which cannot solely be attributed to radiation interception and plant growth rate during the period of kernel number determination. Halving the common row distance is a valuable management option for full-season hybrids grown in Mediterranean environments without nitrogen and water limitations as it seems capable of increasing grain yield via an increase in kernel number per unit area, regardless of plant density and yield level.

Quantifying Ecosystem Services to Maximize Co-Benefits under Market-Based Conservation Solutions in the Edisto River Basin, South Carolina

As climate change intensifies, the need to conserve ecosystem services and our natural resources increases. Nature-based solutions projects that focus on sequestering carbon can also have significant impacts on the ecosystem services in the project area. Herein, we describe a method to quantify ecosystem services via the Integrated Valuation of Ecosystem Services and Tradeoffs (Version 3.14) model. We use those quantitative methods to show where carbon projects and other restoration projects could increase certain ecosystem services through best practices. Using the Edisto River Basin in South Carolina as a study site, we developed a spatial additionality model that shows where water retention, carbon, and sediment retention can be improved. InVEST modeling showed high levels of sediment export and water yield, with 0.12 tons/acre of sediment exported and 256.3 cm/acre of water yielded downstream on average. The model indicates that over 70,000 acres comprised of parcels greater than 20 contiguous acres could implement management to increase ecosystem service provisioning. This model output shows spatially where best management practices can be implemented to achieve positive outcomes and where carbon projects could be implemented to derive additional co-benefits. Furthermore, it can be used as a tool for measurement and verification as data is updated.