No. 1 (2026) Current Issue
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Articles
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Effects of straw management on rice productivity in northern Uganda
5-10Views:0Rice (Oryza sativa L.) is an important crop regarding food security worldwide. However, straw management is an important practice with a pronounced effect on the subsequent production cycle. The objective of the study was to determine the effects of straw management on rice genotype productivity in northern Uganda. Randomized complete block arranged as split plots experiments with three replications were conducted in 2021 and 2022 seasons, with two treatments including rice straw incorporation (RRI) and removal (RRR) Two rice varieties; PR107 and NamChe 5 were included in the study. The results showed that grain yield was significantly influenced by variety (P<0.001). Rice straw incorporation and removal within a period of two seasons did not significantly affect grain yield. However, incorporation of rice straw in the soil increased soil organic matter (SOM%), soil organic carbon (SOC%) and nitrogen (N%) content of the soil during dry and wet seasons, respectively. Therefore, the implication of this finding is that straw management is important in determining soil quality and its effects on rice productivity.
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Evaluation of the vegetative performance of perspective apple cultivars, grafted on Geneva®, Budagovsky and Malling rootstocks
11-18Views:0This study aimed to evaluate the effects of nine apple rootstocks on the vegetative growth and formation of fruit-bearing structures in ‘Najdared’ and ‘Fuji San 51’ cultivars in an intensive orchard. The examined rootstocks included clones of the Geneva® series (G.11, G.16, G.41, G.214), clones of Budagovsky series (B.9, B.10), and M.9-derived clones (T337, RN29, FL56). Measured parameters were tree height, trunk cross-sectional area (TCSA), density and length of fruit bearing parts. The obtained results clearly indicated that rootstock choice significantly affected the vegetative vigor, trunk development, and the density of fruit bearing parts in both cultivars. Cultivars ‘Najdared’ and ‘Fuji San 51’ exhibited pronounced vegetative growth on G.214 and M.9 RN29 rootstocks, as reflected in both tree height increment and trunk diameter thickening. All combinations showed a dominance of generative growth according to the ratio of short and long fruiting shoots for both cultivars in 2022, except for trees grafted on G.11 rootstocks. These findings emphasize that appropriate rootstock selection is a critical factor for optimizing vegetative growth and yield potential in intensive apple production.
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A review on the evaluation of horse coat color
19-26Views:0The coat color diversity of horses represents a classic example of the genetic and evolutionary effects of domestication. While wild equids exhibited limited pigmentation patterns, human-mediated selection has dramatically expanded phenotypic and genetic variation among domestic horses. This variation is influenced by multiple interacting loci, with some genes exerting pleiotropic effects on physiological and morphological traits. Modern molecular genetics has identified key loci controlling base colors (Agouti, Extension), dilution (D locus), greying (G locus), and patterned phenotypes including Tobiano and Overo, while also highlighting the increasing importance of additional white patterning mechanisms such as MITF and PAX3-associated Splashed White phenotypes and KIT gene complex variants (e.g., Sabino 1 and W1–W30 alleles). Furthermore, some coat color–associated mutations illustrate the fitness costs of selection, as seen in Overo Lethal White Syndrome (OLWS) and the association between the Silver dapple mutation and Multiple Congenital Ocular Anomalies (MCOA), emphasizing the pleiotropic and sometimes deleterious effects of pigmentation genes). Quantitative assessment using Lab* color metrics allows objective evaluation of coat pigmentation and facilitates comparisons across breeds, ages, and sexes. Phenotypic studies show that coat color does not directly correlate with performance or temperament but may affect thermoregulation, predator avoidance, disease susceptibility, and market value. Comparative research on other livestock species confirms that coat color is largely polygenic, heritable, and influenced by human selection. Integrating molecular and phenotypic analyses enhances our understanding of the evolutionary, genetic, and practical implications of coat color variation in horses. These insights support breeding decisions, breed identification, and the conservation of genetic diversity. Overall, the study of equine coat pigmentation provides a valuable model for investigating domestication, human-driven selection, and the genetic architecture of complex traits in livestock species.
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Effect of dietary arginine on organ weight and feed intake in Japanese quail (Coturnix japonica)
27-32Views:0This study showed the effects of different dietary arginine levels on organ weight and feed intake in growing Japanese quail. Quails were provided with diets containing low, control, or high arginine for a fourteen-day experimental period. Dietary arginine levels had no significant effect on relative liver weight in both sexes, whereas low arginine intake was associated with increased relative brain weight. These findings suggest tissue-specific responses, with the liver exhibiting metabolic resilience and the brain being preferentially maintained under nutrient limitation. Feed intake was reduced under low dietary arginine during the second week, indicating sensitivity to arginine availability at this developmental stage. Variations in feed intake across studies suggest that arginine’s effects are context-dependent, influenced by physiological status, environmental conditions, and baseline diet composition. Overall, our findings highlight the role of dietary arginine in organ weight and feed intake, reflecting both direct effects on organ development and indirect effects through feed intake regulation.
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Soil microbial biomass and community responses to long-term tillage and fertilizer regimes in corn under corn-winter wheat rotation
33-41Views:0Agrotechnical interventions, namely, tillage and fertilization have a great influence on soil microbial activities and biomass, hence it is important to investigate their effect in long-term experiments. This study aimed at evaluating the impact of long-term tillage and NPK mineral fertilizer application on soil microbiological parameters in corn grown under corn-winter wheat rotation. The soil samples were collected in June of 2024 from the long-term experiment of the University of Debrecen at Látókép established in 1991. The treatments included control (no fertilizer), NPK fertilization (160 kg ha-1 N, 60 kg ha-1 P2O5, 90 kg ha-1 K2O) and tillages (Moldboard tillage-MT, Strip tillage-ST and Ripper tillage-RT). The soil microbial biomass and composition of its community (Actinomycetes, saprophytic fungi, Gram-positive bacteria, Arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi, Gram-negative bacteria) was measured by PLFA analysis of soil extract. Results indicate that NPK fertilization affected only the biomass of Arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi and Actinomycetes, whereas tillage greatly influenced the soil microbial biomass and community composition for all the microbial groups. Generally, the microbial biomass and community composition were highest under RT followed by ST and lowest under MT. In conclusion, conservation tillages are more favorable for soil microbial life than conventional tillage.
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A review of fertility challenges in wheat–perennial rye hybrids: Insights from the successful wheat–annual rye hybrid (triticale)
43-50Views:0Hybrids of wheat (Triticum aestivum) and perennial rye (Secale cereale x Secale strictum) have shown promising results in enhancing agronomic features such as stress tolerance, perennial growth habit, and yield potential. However, fertility issues persist, posing a significant obstacle to the efficient utilization and successful implementation of hybrid vigor in crop improvement efforts. Fertility challenges, such as sterility and low seed production, are mainly caused by chromosomal mismatches, irregularities during meiosis, and genetic differences between the parent species. These factors disrupt normal gamete development, lower pollen viability, and cause embryo failure, all of which hinder the reproductive potential of the hybrids. Scientists have used multiple approaches to restore fertility, such as using cytogenetic methods to study chromosome behavior, applying polyploidization to stabilize hybrid genomes, and utilizing molecular tools to identify fertility-related genes. This review covers the specific factors that influence fertility in wheat-perennial rye hybrids, covering cytological, genetic, and environmental components. Gaining a better knowledge of the mechanisms underlying hybrid sterility and investigating techniques to increase fertility will significantly progress hybrid breeding efforts and aid in developing hardy perennial cereal crops. The outcomes discussed in this review aim to contribute to future research and assist in creating successful strategies for enhancing hybrid fertility in perennial grain breeding projects.
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Genetic and phenotypic basis of goat adaptability across agro-ecological zones: Implications for breeding and conservation
51-58Views:0Goats are among the most adaptable livestock species that can survive in varied agro-ecological zones globally. This resilience is shaped by the interactions between genetic and phenotypic traits. This review assesses the available information on morphology, physiology, and molecular characteristics that enable them to adapt and their implication for breeding and conservation. Phenotypic characteristics, including variation in coat color, the type and density of hair, body size, skin color, and thermoregulation behavior, were observed to be measures of adaptation to heat, cold, and feed scarcity. The review also observed some key candidate genes at the molecular level, including HSP70, EPAS1, FGF5, and MC1R, among others, with pathways that are responsible for heat tolerance, hypoxia response, and metabolic efficiency. The link between environmental pressures and phenotypic variation is examined as a driver for genetic differentiation among local goat populations. Incorporating these phenotypic and genetic insights forms a basis for breeding strategies that are climate-resilient and for safeguarding adaptive genetic resources. This will ensure that goats stay productive and diverse over time, thereby contributing to food security and the current climate change.
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Herbicide resistance: Implications of climate change on the susceptibility of weeds to herbicides – A review
59-64Views:0Climate change is a major issue in agricultural sustainability posing severe problems that threaten global food security. Conventional farming often utilizes herbicides to control weeds in most management strategies. In recent times, transformations in weeds due to shifts in climatic conditions across the globe are making management strategies in many ecosystems more complex. Climate variables including high carbon dioxide concentrations, increased temperature levels and altered moisture conditions affect many plants physiology. In weed species, a change in climate conditions can impact growth of weeds and the effectiveness of herbicides used in controlling the weeds. Therefore, there is the need for changes to be made with production practices to reduce emissions and to adapt to a changing climate in agriculture to limit the negative impact of weeds. The aim of this perspective is to deliver insights on herbicide application, describe the effects of climate on weed biology and development, and highlight the necessity to synthesize this information for establishing a long-term framework for sustainable weed management.
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Balancing chemical fertiliser application for optimal maize yield and environmental safety
65-76Views:0Chemical fertilisers play a crucial role in enhancing maize productivity by supplying essential nutrients, particularly nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. However, excessive and imbalanced application of these fertilisers may result in soil degradation and environmental pollution. This review presents a comprehensive, bibliometric, and literature-based analysis of research on the balanced use of chemical fertilisers in maize production, spanning 2000 to 2025, and uses VOSviewer 1.6.20 as the analytical tool. The study analysed data from the Web of Science to examine publication trends, the configuration of keyword networks, and the dynamics of international research collaborations. The Mann-Kendall test revealed a significant positive trend (p = 0.001) in the volume of publications focused on chemical fertiliser balancing, with a coefficient of determination (R²) of 0.5153. A total of 549 relevant studies were identified globally, with no language restrictions applied, indicating sustained growth in research output over time. Field studies demonstrate that reducing chemical fertiliser use by up to 25% when combined with biological amendments can maintain or enhance yields across diverse agroecological conditions. The emphasis is placed on sustainable fertilisation practices that balance productivity and environmental safety, highlighting challenges and future directions for adoption. Balanced fertiliser management is crucial for sustainable maize production systems, which simultaneously contribute to food security and environmental conservation. This study is significant as it systematically maps the evolution and current state of research on balanced chemical fertiliser use in maize production, providing valuable insights into publication trends, collaborative networks, and practical agronomic outcomes. Despite the progress, there remains a significant gap in region-specific guidelines and long-term impact assessments of integrated fertiliser management practices, which future research should address to optimise sustainable maize production tailored to diverse agro-ecological zones.
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The effect of crop year on fruit weight and internal quality characteristics of selected plum cultivars in the Újfehértó Fruit Gene Bank
77-85Views:0The competitiveness of the plum sector in Hungary has gradually declined over the past decade, and the area under cultivation has been steadily decreasing. In contrast, plum production has increased at the European Union level. The main causes of the domestic decline include the disappearance of plantations, severe frost damage following mild winters, and extremely dry weather conditions. Plums from the Balkans are gradually displacing Hungarian plums from the European market. In recent years, climate change, labour shortages, and increasing input costs have posed significant challenges to the sector. Therefore, research related to plum cultivation is essential to improve the market position of the plum industry.
In this study, we examined plum cultivars from the gene bank collection of the Research Institute of the University of Debrecen, AKIT Újfehértó, as follows:
- Evaluation of the quality characteristics and fruit traits of the selected plum cultivars,
- Investigation of the effects of different years on the quality characteristics of the selected cultivars,
- Determination of correlations among the quality traits of the plum cultivars.
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Maize stem diameter variation under precision drip irrigation and foliar micronutrient treatments
87-92Views:0Foliar application of micronutrients has gained research interest due to the growing need to efficiently and precisely deliver plant nutrients at the most critical growth stages. Stem diameter has proved to have a positive significant correlation with yield across many crop species such as maize, due to its vigorous and robust ability to transport water and micronutrients. Therefore, this study examined the effects of precision drip irrigation and foliar application of micronutrients on stem diameter of FAO490 maize hybrid. A field experiment laid as a split–split-plot design with treatments consisting of foliar treatment and control under irrigation and non-irrigation was conducted. Stem diameter data were collected at the 12-leaf stage (V12), tasseling stage, R1, and R6. ANOVA results showed that precision drip irrigation significantly influenced stem diameter (P<0.001), while foliar fertilisation and its interaction with precision drip irrigation showed meaningful effects. The mean stem diameter under precision drip irrigation was 26.96 mm compared to non-irrigated conditions (24.24 mm). Foliar fertilisation treatment had a higher mean stem diameter (26.63 mm) compared to control (24.57 mm), representing an 8.4% growth difference. Foliar fertilisation was more effective under precision drip irrigation with the mean stem diameter significantly high (28.83 mm) for treatment over the control (25.08 mm) thus a 14.9% stem diameter enhancement. Foliar fertilisation under non-irrigated conditions recorded a 1.6% stem diameter increase between treatment (24.43 mm) and control (24.05 mm). This study indicates that precision drip irrigation primarily influenced stem diameter growth and development, however foliar fertilisation further enhanced stem growth under adequate water supplementation, suggesting a positive significant synergistic effect under precision drip irrigated conditions.
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Effects of nitrogen rates and boron-containing biostimulant application on sunflower (Helianthus annuus L.) yield and physiological responses under drought conditions
93-98Views:0The objective of the study was to evaluate the effects of nitrogen fertilization and the foliar-applied biostimulant Activstart Szántóföldi B (hereinafter BS) on sunflower (Helianthus annuus L.) production under drought conditions. The experiment was established in 2025 in the Újfehértó region, on acidic, low-humus, gleyic brown forest soil. Nitrogen supply was examined at rates of 0, 30, 60, and 90 kg ha-1, with biostimulant-treated (applied twice) and untreated control plots. Crop status was monitored during the growing season using SPAD and NDVI measurements, while treatment effects were evaluated based on yield results. Based on yield data, nitrogen fertilization resulted in an almost linear yield increase; however, the rate of increase declined at higher doses. BS application alone produced a significant yield increase of approximately 16%, and in combination with nitrogen resulted in higher yields at all nutrient levels. The most balanced performance was achieved with the combined application of 60 kg ha-1 nitrogen and BS. SPAD measurements showed no clear relationship between chlorophyll content and nitrogen rates, while biostimulant treatments resulted in more stable values, particularly at lower N levels. NDVI values were only moderately affected by treatments.
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