Optimal Growth Conditions Research Articles

Computer-aiding evaluation of north wall effects of a solar greenhouse: Multiphysics modelling of the indoor environment

The north wall (NW) of a solar greenhouse (SG), oriented away from direct sunlight, plays a crucial role in thermal insulation; however, impacts of the NW internal surface structure (ISS) on the SG indoor environment remains underexplored. Driven by in situ measurements, the temperature (Ti) and relative humidity (RHi) of a SG are evaluated for three typical NW designs: flat wall (FW), striped wall (SW) and alveolate/honeycombed wall (AW). In both sunny and cloudy scenarios, the AW setup ensures a more favourable thermal environment, well aligned with the power spectral analysis indicating enhanced thermal energy capture. The time-lagged cross correlation highlights solar radiation as the primary driver of SG internal thermal variability, with outdoor temperature being of secondary relevance. Additionally, the AW setup consistently maintains the lowest RHi on sunny days, promoting optimal conditions for plant growth, and ensures more stable humidity levels during cloudy nights. The revealed response of SG internal environments to modified NW ISS should offer some insights into SG design, particularly in optimising conditions for plant growth through modifications to the NW structure.

Aqua-stream: an IoT based smart water management system for sustainable living

<p class="03IJISAEAbstract">Aqua-stream, an innovative internet of things (IoT) enabled water management system, utilizes the power of long short-term memory (LSTM) networks, a sophisticated time-series forecasting machine learning technique with Kafka. Aqua-stream seamlessly integrates LSTM within the Kafka streaming architecture for efficient real-time data processing, ensuring quick responses to emerging water management needs. LSTM is employed for real-time anomaly detection, dynamically analyzing streaming data to prevent leaks through automated shut-off valves. The system’s comprehensive dashboard utilizes LSTM insights for live water quality analysis; adaptive scheduling based on individual preferences and personalized recommendations, enhancing cost-effective water management. This streamlined approach extends to the smart gardening system, where LSTM guides automation for optimal plant care incorporating sensors to monitor soil moisture, temperature, and sunlight levels. This system automatically adjusts watering and lighting to ensure optimal conditions for plant growth. Users can control and monitor their garden remotely via a smartphone, facilitating plant care while saving water and energy. Aqua-stream redefines home water management, offering a holistic solution that combines intelligent water conservation with smart gardening for a sustainable and connected living experience. Aqua-stream represents a seamless integration of LSTM-based machine learning and IoT technologies, offering an intelligent, yet simplified, solution for sustainable and connected living.</p>

Morphological variability and vitality of Rindera tetraspis (Boraginaceae) in the South Urals and Western Kazakhstan

Population studies of Rindera tetraspis Pall., a rare endemic species of the steppe zone of the European part of Russia and Kazakhstan, were carried out. The study of the habitats of 11 populations in the Orenburg Region and the Republic of Kazakhstan has shown that the species is confined to various variants of calciphyte steppes on chalk substrates or sandstones. In terms of most morphometric indicators, the northern coenopopulation “Rodnichny” is the leader; the minimum values are noted in the coenopopulation “Verkhnechebendinskie Chalk Mountains, northern extremity”. The discriminant analysis has revealed morphostructural differences between individuals from the majority of coenopopulations. In terms of vitality, four coenopopulations are prosperous, seven ones are depressed. The optimal conditions for the species growth are in the northern part of its range, in more favorable climatic conditions in terms of temperature and humidity, mainly on soils of sand origin. When moving southward, a decrease in size parameters of individuals is observed, associated with insufficient moisture, while their morphological diversity increases. The state of R. tetraspis coenopopulations is stable, but the species is not provided with proper protection measures, so further monitoring of its habitats and improvement of conservation measures are necessary.

Microstructural Underpinnings of Giant Intrinsic Exchange Bias in Epitaxial NiCo2O4 Thin Films

AbstractUnderstanding intrinsic exchange bias in nominally single‐component ferromagnetic or ferrimagnetic materials is crucial for simplifying related device architectures. However, the mechanisms behind this phenomenon and its tunability remain elusive, which hinders the efforts to achieve unidirectional magnetization for widespread applications. Inspired by the high tunability of ferrimagnetic inverse spinel NiCo2O4, the origin of intrinsic exchange bias in NiCo2O4 (111) films deposited on Al2O3 (0001) substrates are investigated. The comprehensive characterizations, including electron diffraction, X‐ray reflectometry and spectroscopy, and polarized neutron reflectometry, reveal that intrinsic exchange bias in NiCo2O4 (111)/Al2O3 (0001) arises from a reconstructed antiferromagnetic rock‐salt NixCo1‐xO layer at the interface between the film and the substrate due to a significant structural mismatch. Remarkably, by engineering the interfacial structure under optimal growth conditions, it can achieve exchange bias larger than coercivity, leading to unidirectional magnetization. Such giant intrinsic exchange bias can be utilized for realistic device applications. This work establishes a new material platform based on NiCo2O4, an emergent spintronics material, to study tunable interfacial magnetic and spintronic properties.

Artificial Intelligence and/or Machine Learning Algorithms in Microalgae Bioprocesses

This review examines the increasing application of artificial intelligence (AI) and/or machine learning (ML) in microalgae processes, focusing on their ability to improve production efficiency, yield, and process control. AI/ML technologies are used in various aspects of microalgae processes, such as real-time monitoring, species identification, the optimization of growth conditions, harvesting, and the purification of bioproducts. Commonly employed ML algorithms, including the support vector machine (SVM), genetic algorithm (GA), decision tree (DT), random forest (RF), artificial neural network (ANN), and deep learning (DL), each have unique strengths but also present challenges, such as computational demands, overfitting, and transparency. Despite these hurdles, AI/ML technologies have shown significant improvements in system performance, scalability, and resource efficiency, as well as in cutting costs, minimizing downtime, and reducing environmental impact. However, broader implementations face obstacles, including data availability, model complexity, scalability issues, cybersecurity threats, and regulatory challenges. To address these issues, solutions, such as the use of simulation-based data, modular system designs, and adaptive learning models, have been proposed. This review contributes to the literature by offering a thorough analysis of the practical applications, obstacles, and benefits of AI/ML in microalgae processes, offering critical insights into this fast-evolving field.

Optimizing processes and products: The role of DOE

The Design of Experiment (DOE) methodology is a fundamental tool for systematic inquiry and optimization in both scientific and industrial applications. The DOE’s statistical framework is designed to enhance the efficiency and reliability of experimental investigations by systematically planning, conducting, and evaluating controlled experiments. To support well-informed decision-making, process optimization, and quality improvement, the main goal of DOE is to discover and quantify the effects of various variables on a response variable. Various methods such as full factorial, fractional factorial, Taguchi, and response surface methodologies provide powerful tools for optimising processes and enhancing quality. The study covers the application of DOE in several industries, including engineering, manufacturing, agriculture, and medicine. Defect minimization, process optimization, and quality improvement are all aided by DOE in manufacturing. By determining the best dosages and formulations, it helps in drug development in the pharmaceutical industry. In the field of agriculture, DOE facilitates the identification of optimal growing conditions and techniques. It helps in the engineering and assessing new systems and products. To achieve consistency and accuracy in data collection, the experiment must be carried out with strict adherence to the experimental strategy. Analysing data involves using statistical tools to evaluate the findings and make conclusions, such as ANOVA, regression analysis, and graphical approaches. By pointing out important variables and their interactions, these studies aid in process optimization and product quality enhancement.

Description of Streptococcus dentalis sp. nov., Streptococcus gingivalis sp. nov., and Streptococcus lingualis sp. nov., Isolated from Human Oral Cavities.

We isolated three novel strains, S1T, S2T, and S5T, from human oral cavities and identified them as distinct novel species. All these strains are facultatively anaerobic, Gram-stain-positive, and non-flagellated bacteria. Their optimal growth conditions for these strains were observed in Columbia broth (CB) at 37°C, pH 7.0, and in the absence of NaCl. Phylogenetic analyses, employing the 16S rRNA gene and whole-genome sequencing, confirmed that all three strains belong to the genus Streptococcus. The 16S rRNA gene sequences of strains S1T, S2T, and S5T showed the highest similarities to Streptococcus parasanguinis, 98.57%, 99.05%, and 99.05%, respectively, and the orthologous average nucleotide identity (OrthoANI) values between the three strains and S. parasanguinis were 93.82%, 93.67%, and 94.04%, respectively. The pairwise OrthoANI values between the novel strains were 94.37% (S1T-S2T), 95.03% (S2T-S5T), and 94.71% (S1T-S5T). All strains had C20:1 ω9c and summed feature 8 (C18:1 ω7c and/or C18:1 ω6c) as major cellular fatty acids. Additionally, diphosphatidylglycerol (DPG) and hydroxyphosphatidylethanolamine (OH-PE) were identified as major polar lipids. Menaquinone was undetected in all strains. The results from the phylogenetic, phenotypic, chemotaxonomic, and genotypic analyses collectively indicated that strains S1T, S2T, and S5T represent three distinct novel species within the genus Streptococcus, and we propose the names Streptococcus dentalis sp. nov. for strain S1T (= KCTC 21234T = JCM 36526T), Streptococcus gingivalis sp. nov. for strain S2T (= KCTC 21235T = JCM 36527T), and Streptococcus lingualis sp. nov. for strain S5T (= KCTC 21236T = JCM 36528T).

Comparison of rDNA-ITS Sequences, Vegetative Compatibility, Biological Characteristics, and Thifluzamide Sensitivity of Rhizoctonia solani AG-3 PT, TM, and TB Subgroup Isolates Collected from Potato and Tobacco in China.

Potato black scurf and tobacco target spot are significant agricultural diseases primarily caused by Rhizoctonia solani AG-3, which is further classified into PT (potato type), TM (tomato type), and TB (tobacco type) subgroups, with the naming of these subgroups originally indicating their respective infection hosts potato, tomato, and tobacco. This study determined the subgroup classification of 129 R. solani AG-3 isolates recovered from tobacco leaves exhibiting target spot disease in major tobacco-cultivating regions of China, as well as 80 R. solani AG-3 isolates obtained from potato stem cankers and tuber sclerotia in Liaoning, Jilin, and Heilongjiang provinces, and Inner Mongolia autonomous region of China. Sequence analysis of the internal transcribed spacer (ITS) regions revealed that all potato isolates belonged to the R. solani AG-3 PT subgroup, whereas the tobacco isolates were classified into TM and TB subgroups. Specifically, 51 strains from the northeast (Liaoning, Jilin, and Heilongjiang provinces) belonged to the TM subgroup, while the others belonged to the TB subgroup. Phylogenetic analysis indicated a closer relationship between AG-3 TM and AG-3 PT compared to AG-3 TB. Population genetic analysis highlighted distinct genetic variations among the subgroups, with the AG-3 TB subgroup isolates exhibiting fewer ITS1 variable sites and the AG-3 PT subgroup displaying a higher number of ITS2 variable sites. Furthermore, comparisons were made regarding macroscopic vegetative interactions, biological characteristics, pathogenicity to potato and tobacco, and susceptibility to thifluzamide among the three subgroups. The results indicated no macroscopic somatic interactions among the subgroups, with the highest frequency of somatic incompatibility observed within AG-3 PT, followed by AG-3 TM, and AG-3 TB. Additionally, the three subgroups differed in colony color, sclerotium morphology, production time, and distribution location on potato-dextrose-agar (PDA) medium, with AG-3 TM being the least likely to produce sclerotia. Regarding temperature, optimal growth conditions varied among the subgroups. Regarding pathogenicity, the AG-3 PT subgroup strains were more pathogenic on tobacco and potato stem bases compared to the AG-3 TB subgroup, whereas the AG-3 TB and TM subgroup strains were more pathogenic on leaves. Notably, AG-3 TM exhibited remarkable virulence towards both the stem base and leaves. The AG-3 PT subgroup strains exhibited the highest susceptibility to thifluzamide, with a susceptibility baseline of 0.037±0.013 mg·L-1, followed by the AG-3 TM subgroup strains with a baseline of 0.111±0.034 mg·L-1, and the AG-3 TB subgroup strains with a baseline of 0.137±0.035 mg·L-1. This study contributes to a deeper understanding of the biology and etiology of the three subgroups of R. solani AG-3, providing a valuable theoretical basis for the scientific control and management of tobacco target spot and potato black scurf diseases in China.

Corn cobs as growing media for production of cucumber plants in agriculture sector: a new trend

Peat and perlite are considered traditional growing substrates in soilless culture. The high cost of both and the urgent need for agricultural waste recycling prompted scientists and soilless culture growers to find alternative growing substrates provide optimal growth conditions and help dispose waste safely. In this study, corn cobs (CB) were tested as growing media and compared with peat moss (PM) and perlite (P). The organic wastes tested: CB, PM, and P were examined with washed sand (WS) at five treatments (WS, CB, CB + peat, CB + P and CB + sand). Cucumber (Cucumis sativus L.) plants were cultivated using 5 kg pots that contained the investigated substrates. Vegetative growth parameters, early fruiting stage, photosynthetic pigments, and cucumber yield had the highest values with CB and CB + P substrates, while the lowest ones were found in WS and CB + WS. CB resulted in greater flowering with the number of fruits per plant and yield being 39.70%, 37.33%, and 33.67%, 29.88 in both seasons, higher than the lowest substrate (WS). Although adding P to CB showed the highest values of measured growth characteristics, its high cost decreased net profit. Furthermore, CB characteristics as a growing media qualify it for use in cucumber soilless culture production. The use of this replacement media, which contains crushed CB, could reduce (but not eliminate) the need for PM and P in soilless culture. Also, using pyrolyzed biomass in growing media provides another way to convert biomass residues into valuable products.

Genomic Characterization and Comparative Analysis of Streptococcus zhangguiae sp. nov. Isolated from the Respiratory Tract of Marmota Himalayana.

Two Gram-stain-positive, oxidase-negative, non-motile, facultative anaerobic, α-hemolytic, coccus-shaped bacteria (zg-86T and zg-70) were isolated from the respiratory tracts of marmots (Marmota Himalayana) on the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau of China. Phylogenetic analysis of the 16S rRNA gene and 545 core genes revealed that these two strains belong to the Streptococcus genus. These strains were most closely related to Streptococcus respiraculi HTS25T, Streptococcus cuniculi CCUG 65085T, and Streptococcus marmotae HTS5T. The average nucleotide identity (ANI) and digital DNA‒DNA hybridization (dDDH) were below the threshold for species delineation. The predominant cellular fatty acids (CFAs) in this novel species were C16:0, C18:0, and C18:1ω9c, whereas the primary polar lipids were phosphatidylglycerol (PG), phosphatidylethanolamine (PE) and an unknown phosphoglycolipid (PGL). The optimal growth conditions for the strains were 37°C, pH 7.0, and 0.5% (w/v) NaCl on brain-heart infusion (BHI) agar supplemented with 5% defibrinated sheep blood. Comparative genomics analyses revealed the potential pathogenicity of strain zg-86T through comparisons with suis subclade strains in terms of virulence factors, pathogen-host interactions (PHIs) and mobile genetic factors (MGEs). Based on the phenotypic characteristics and phylogenetic analyses, we propose that these two isolates represent novel species in the genus Streptococcus, for which the names Streptococcus zhangguiae sp. nov. (the type strain zg-86T=GDMCC 1.1758T=JCM 34273T) is proposed.

Identification, characterization, and sensitivity to phytochemicals of a novel Curvularia species associated with leaf spot disease on Curcuma kwangsiensis

A leaf spot disease affecting Curcuma kwangsiensis (Zingiberaceae) has been observed in Qinzhou City, Guangxi Province. Infected leaves exhibit yellow-brown spots that progressively expand and eventually lead to leaf death. Curvularia isolates were obtained from the diseased leaves with tissue isolation and single spore purification methods. To accurately identify these isolates, we analyzed their morphological characteristics and phylogenetic relationships using combinations of ITS, GAPDH, and EF-1α gene sequences. Phylogenetic analysis showed that the investigated strains formed a distinct clade separate from other recognized Curvularia species. Furthermore, the strains exhibited differences in conidiophore size and conidia shape/size. Based on phylogenetic studies, morphology, and pathogenicity tests, the pathogen was identified as a new species named Curvularia qinzhouensis. Optimal conditions for mycelial growth were observed at 30 °C and pH 8. The sensitivity of the pathogen to various phytochemicals was also examined. Honokiol, thymol, and citral demonstrated effective antifungal effects, with EC50 values of 6.72 ± 1.75, 25.74 ± 4.30, and 54.24 ± 4.69 µg/ml, respectively. The present investigation provides the first report of leaf spot disease on C. kwangsiensis caused by C. qinzhouensis, and valuable insights for the prevention and control of this disease.

Peribacillus aracenensis sp.nov., a plant growth promoting bacteria for agriculture in water-scarce conditions isolated from Pinus pinaster rhizosphere

A gram-positive, nonpathogenic, central endospore-forming, flagellated strain, was successfully isolated from the rhizosphere of Pinus pinaster in Aracena (Spain). Its optimal growth conditions are 28 °C, pH 6, and 0 % salinity. It is able to assimilate glucose, L-fucose, L-arabinose, b-metil-D-xylose and shows high catabolic capacity. The major fatty acids (>79.20 % of the total fatty acids) are anteiso C15:0 > iso C15:0 > C14:0.A phylogenetic analysis based on the 16S rRNA gene sequence revealed similarity to P. frigoritolerans DSM8801T (99.9 %), P. castrilensis CECT30509T (99.8 %), and P. simplex DSM1321T (99.6 %). Comparison of whole genomes revealed that strain BBB004T is more similar to P. simplex DSM1321T. According to ANI (93.54 %), AAI (94 %), dDDH (60.6), %G + C (0.12), TETRA (0.99822) and intergenomic distance (0.2835) values, therefore this species is different to the closest. A total of 133 genes unique to Peribacillus BBB004T were identified.Supported by these analyses, strain BBB004T (=LMG32742T = CCUG76477T) was proposed as the type strain for a new species, named “Peribacillus aracenensis sp. nov.”

Using Polycaprolactone Nanofibers for the Proof-of-Concept Construction of the Alveolar-Capillary Interface.

The alveolar-capillary interface is the key functional element of gas exchange in the human lung, and disruptions to this interface can lead to significant medical complications. However, it is currently challenging to adequately model this interface invitro, as it requires not only the co-culture of human alveolar epithelial and endothelial cells but mainly the preparation of a biocompatible scaffold that mimics the basement membrane. This scaffold should support cell seeding from both sides, and maintain optimal cell adhesion, growth, and differentiation conditions. Our study investigates the use of polycaprolactone (PCL) nanofibers as a versatile substrate for such cell cultures, aiming to model the alveolar-capillary interface more accurately. We optimized nanofiber production parameters, utilized polyamide mesh UHELON as a mechanical support for scaffold handling, and created 3D-printed inserts for specialized co-cultures. Our findings confirm that PCL nanofibrous scaffolds are manageable and support the co-culture of diverse cell types, effectively enabling cell attachment, proliferation, and differentiation. Our research establishes a proof-of-concept model for the alveolar-capillary interface, offering significant potential for enhancing cell-based testing and advancing tissue-engineering applications that require specific nanofibrous matrices.

Karakteristik Pertumbuhan Mucuna (Mucuna bracteata L.) dengan Metode Sungkup dan Tidak Disungkup di Kabupaten Serdang Bedagai

Covering of Mucuna bracteate L. cuttings plays an important role in the survival rate of Mucuna Bracteata plants, as it helps maintain optimal humidity and temperature levels. The adjustment process after the cover is opened is very important before moving the cuttings to open land. This study aims to measure the impact of covering on the survival rate of cuttings. This study used a Randomized Block Design (RAK). The treatments used were Covered (P1) and Uncovered (P2), by applying Topsoil 3kg (K0), Topsoil 1.5kg + Sand 1.5kg (K1), Topsoil 1.5kg + Black Soil 1.5kg (K2), Topsoil 1.5kg + Cow Manure 1.5kg (K3). This research was conducted from August 10 to September 9, 2024. This research was conducted in the Yard of a House in Ngaraja 1 Village, Dolok Merawan District, Serdang Bedagai Regency. Based on the Least Significant Difference (LSD) Test, Covering and Topsoil (P1K0) consistently showed the best results in terms of number of shoots, tendril length, number of leaves and Root Length. This indicates that covering and topsoil provide optimal conditions for the early growth of Mucuna plants. Topsoil and sand (P1K1) showed the highest root volume. This suggests that the addition of sand to the topsoil may have increased aeration and water drainage, thus encouraging root development. Keywords: covering, vegetative growth, Mucuna bracteata L.

Effects of Temperature and Salinity on the Growth, Reproduction, and Carotenoid Accumulation in Artemia sinica and Transcriptome Analysis

Brine shrimp (Artemia), rich in carotenoids, are widely used in intensive aquaculture to supplement nutrients and enhance the coloration of farmed organisms. This study investigates the growth, reproduction, and carotenoid accumulation in Artemia sinica under varying salinity and temperature conditions. The results showed that temperature and salinity displayed significant interactions with survival, body length, and carotenoid accumulation in the body. The optimal survival and growth conditions of A. sinica (Bohai Sea Gulf) were a temperature range of 25–30 °C and a salinity range of 30–50‰. High temperatures accelerated growth and sexual maturity at the expense of survival rates, while temperatures below 20 °C prevented ovigerous development. Extreme salinity levels negatively affected survival and growth, though high salinity promoted sexual maturity. Carotenoids in A. sinica mainly accumulate as echinenone and canthaxanthin form. Carotenoid accumulation decreased with increased temperature and salinity, and the temperature effect decreased with rising salinity. A. sinica cultivated at a salinity of 10‰ and a temperature of 25 °C exhibits the highest carotenoid content. Transcriptomic analysis revealed that high temperatures primarily affected genes related to stress response and metabolism, while high-salinity regulated genes associated with ion balance and signaling pathways. These findings provide a theoretical basis for enhancing Artemia sinica aquaculture and optimizing cultivation conditions, offering novel insights into nutritional and environmental impacts on brine shrimp biology.

Profiling The Growth Conditions and Persistent Organic Pollutants (POPS) Tolerance of Phenoliferia glacialis USM-PSY62

Antarctica is characterized by extreme cold, isolated, and unique ecosystems. Nevertheless, Antarctica harbors diverse species of microorganisms, particularly in its ice-covered lakes and subglacial environments. These microorganisms have special adaptations to extreme cold and low-nutrient conditions. Some extremophiles, like psychrophiles can thrive in these harsh environments. Phenoliferia glacialis USM-PSY62, previously identified as Rhodotorula sp. USM-PSY62 is a psychrophilic yeast isolated from the ice brine of Antarctica. However, there is very little information on this psychrophilic yeast. This study aims to characterize the P. glacialis USM-PSY62 through the identification of the optimum growth parameters in different media (Yeast Peptone Dextrose, YPD & Yeast Malt, YM), temperature (4°C, 15°C, 20°C) and pH (6, 7, 8, 9) as well as their ability in carbon assimilation and extracellular enzyme production. It has an optimal growth in YPD compared to YM broth media. P. glacialis USM-PSY62 grows optimally at 15°C and pH 7.0. This Antarctic yeast enters the stationary phase on day six of incubation under optimum conditions. It appeared mainly as elongated-shape and oval-shaped with budding formation and was found to produce extracellular enzymes such as protease and amylase in the presence of 2% glucose concentration in YM media. P. glacialis USM-PSY62 also can assimilate various types of carbon sources including raffinose, arabinose, and maltose. Interestingly, the psychrophilic yeast presented growth in media supplemented with Persistent Organic Pollutants (POPs) such as dichlorophenyldichloroethylene (DDE) and polychlorinated biphenyl (PCB). These preliminary findings suggest that P. glacialis USM-PSY62 has tremendous potential for bioremediation application in polluted cold regions, as well as deepening our knowledge of its optimal growth conditions.

Duration of Light Exposure Using White Light-Emitting Diode (LED) on the Performance of White Oyster Mushroom (Pleurotus ostreatus L.)

Background: In the dynamic world of mushroom cultivation, optimizing growth conditions is paramount for maximizing yield and quality. This research sought to evaluate the influence of varying hours of exposure to white light through light-emitting diodes (LED) on growth and yield performance of white oyster mushroom (Pleurotus ostreatus L.). Its aim was to determine the most effective light exposure duration for enhancing mushroom growth and yield. Research Design: Using a completely randomized design (CRD), the study used four treatments: 8 hours of lighting (T1), 12 hours of lighting (T2), 16 hours of lighting (T3), and a control group that received natural light (T4). The study was conducted in Palayamanan (8° 27’ 5.3118" N and 126° 9’ 59.7739" E) area at North Eastern Mindanao State University’s -Tagbina Campus from July 2023 to November 2023. Results: Results from the study provided interesting insights into the indirect nature of the relationship between light exposure and mushroom development. The findings of the study indicate that the duration of light exposure significantly affects the growth and yield of white oyster mushrooms. Both mycelium growth (29.80 days) and fruiting body formation (7.83 days), as well as harvesting time (10.87 days), were improved by 12 hours of lighting, while the control group consistently showed poor performance. Conclusion: Based from the analysis, it is evident that 12 hours of lighting consistently performed very well, with the exception of a minor under-performance in the case of yield per harvest, suggesting that 12 hours might be the ideal duration. Hence, 16 hours of lighting also demonstrated some advantages in certain variables, indicating potential for further study.

High-Density Fermentation of Lactobacillus plantarum P6: Enhancing Cell Viability via Sodium Alginate Enrichment.

Lactobacillus plantarum exhibits a wide range of beneficial physiological functions, including maintaining intestinal microbiota balance, reducing serum cholesterol, and promoting digestive health. According to the specific nutrient requirements of Lactobacillus plantarum P6, we investigated the effects of various carbon sources, nitrogen sources, trace elements, growth-promoting substances, as well as the initial pH and inoculum size on the growth of Lactobacillus plantarum P6 under fermentation conditions. The optimal growth conditions for Lactobacillus plantarum P6 were identified to facilitate high-density fermentation in small-scale fermenter production, achieving a cell concentration of 1.03 × 1011 CFU/mL. This resulted in a 2.5-fold increase in bacterial wet weight, and fermentation time was reduced to 12 h when utilizing a specific medium enriched with 0.2% sodium alginate. It is hypothesized that sodium alginate forms a protective film around the bacterial cells, promoting cell aggregation and enhancing self-coalescence, potentially triggering a bacterial community effect. These results provide a basis for the industrial-scale high-density cultivation of Lactobacillus plantarum, offering potential for enhanced biotechnological applications.

Analysis of Soil Viability Monitoring System for In-House Plantation Growth Using an Internet of Things Approach

Houseplant cultivation has become increasingly popular, allowing individuals to bring nature into their homes. However, successful indoor gardening requires careful monitoring of soil parameters to ensure optimal plant growth. To address this need, sensor technology and Internet of Things (IoT) devices are utilized to monitor soil temperature and moisture levels, which play crucial roles in plant growth. Various soil factors are sensed and collected using an IoT-based microcontroller, with data transmission facilitated by a Message Queue Telemetry Transport (MQTT) broker. Visualization of the data is achieved through the Node-RED programming tool, simplifying dashboard creation for easy monitoring. Furthermore, the collected data is stored in a MySQL server, enabling further analysis through SQL queries. The day is divided into four quarters with six-hour intervals, allowing for soil data collection using temperature and moisture sensors. The resulting information on the dashboard facilitates informed decision-making to enhance soil conditions for optimal indoor plant growth. Experimentation has revealed a reduction in soil temperature of 3°C during daytime due to air conditioning operation, while soil moisture content remains consistently between 60 to 65% during early mornings and late evenings. Additionally, emphasis is placed on remote management using IoT systems, enabling monitoring of plant growth even when access is limited. Overall, monitoring soil factors using IoT technology offers a promising approach to optimizing indoor gardening practices and minimizing environmental resource consumption.

Biology and host specificity of the stem-boring weevil Gasteroclisus tricostalis, a candidate agent for the biological control of fireweed (Senecio madagascariensis) in Australia

ABSTRACT Senecio madagascariensis Poiret (Asteraceae) is a target for biological control in Australia, due to substantial impacts on agriculture and native environments. Studies in the plant’s native range in South Africa prioritised the stem-boring weevil Gasteroclisus tricostalis (Thunberg) (Curculionidae) as a candidate agent. In this study, we assessed the biology and host specificity of G. tricostalis during laboratory trials conducted in both South Africa and Australia. No-choice trials in South Africa revealed that, despite oviposition on 15 non-target Senecio species (seven Australian and eight South African), there was significantly lower oviposition relative to S. madagascariensis, with no survival to pupation or adulthood on any non-target species. In contrast, no-choice tests in quarantine in Australia, recorded oviposition on 12 non-target Australian native Senecio species, with oviposition on two species not significantly different to that on S. madagascariensis. Furthermore in Australia, larvae developed to adulthood on five non-target species, in numbers that were not significantly different to S. madagascariensis. These discrepancies can mostly be explained by the lower phylogenetic distance from S. madagascariensis to the susceptible non-target species tested in Australia and, likely, optimal plant growth conditions in quarantine in two cases. Although no-choice tests are renowned for their conservative nature, preliminary paired-choice trials in both South Africa and Australia failed to demonstrate clear oviposition preferences for S. madagascariensis. These results suggest that, given the high diversity of the genus Senecio in Australia, the weevil is likely unsuitable for release and further trials were suspended.