Caspian Journal of Environmental Sciences
Volume:21 Issue: 5, Autumn 2023

Antioxidant defense status was examined during early developmental stages of rainbow trout, Oncorhynchus mykiss, as affected by heat shock (HS) treatment to induce tetraploidy. Samples were collected at 3850 degree-min post-fertilization at 10 °C and at eyed, hatch, swim-up, in addition to fry stages to determine the activity of catalase (CAT), superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GPx), and levels of vitamin C, A and E as well as malondialdehyde (MDA). HS treatment caused a significant reduction in survival, but not affected growth compared to the control. CAT and SOD activities peaked at hatch, whereas GPx activity reached a maximum at the swim-up stage, showing similar patterns, however, significantly higher activities in the HS group. Vitamin levels were at their minimum at the hatch in both groups, while significantly lower in the HS groups. Vitamin levels were at their highest at the fry stage, with the exception of low vitamin E in the HS group. The levels of MDA showed a steady increase during development, with consistently higher levels in the HS group. These results suggest that HS treatment and/or tetraploidy status cause high oxidative stress, as evidenced by higher activity of antioxidant enzymes and MDA levels, and lower levels of vitamins.

Little information is available about the vegetation impact on soil, comparing the effects of different woody plant species on topsoil properties in subalpine degraded grasslands. Therefore, we studied the effects of three native woody plants with different structural canopies (evergreen needle-leaved vs. deciduous broad-leaved and cushion vs. free canopy) on the nutrient topsoil properties. We selected 20 sites as 20 replications in which all four woody species were found closed to each other in each site. Then soil samples were collected under the canopy of each woody species in June 2019 and transported to the laboratory for physico-chemical analyses. The results showed that generally, woody species differed in their effects on physico-chemical topsoil properties. So that, the needle-leaved evergreen Juniperus sabina exerted the most influence on soil properties compared to Berberis integerrima and Onobrychis cornuta (p < 0.05). Topsoil total organic carbon content was significantly highest under J. sabina and B. integerrima (3.30% and 3.07% respectively), while lowest under O. cornuta and herbaceous vegetation (2.61% and 2.23%, respectively). In addition, soil total nitrogen content was significantly highest under J. sabina and B. integerrima (0.18% and 0.17%, respectively), while lowest under O. cornuta and herbaceous vegetation (0.16% and 0.15%, respectively). The results of this study indicated that in sub-alpine grasslands, the presence and maintaining of woody species is important due to its positive role on substratum soil, considering in the rangeland improvement projects.

Gross fixed capital formation is considered as the main element in the process of economic growth, however, despite all the capability enjoyed by the Iraqi economy, especially the agricultural sector, we found that its contribution to the gross domestic product (GDP) is very weak, not exceeding at best 5%. This will create an economic problem in providing the internal needs, which is a cause for increasing imports and thus will affect the balance of payments. It was, therefore, necessary to highlight on the study of the causal relationship between the gross fixed capital formation in the Iraqi agricultural sector and the gross domestic product as an indicator of economic growth. Hence the importance of this study is for the period of 2000-2019, as a critical period in the Iraqi economy, since it witnessed many political and economic variables. This study focused on following the analytical and standard methods in finding the relationship between the gross fixed capital formation in the agricultural sector (as an independent variable) and the gross domestic product at fixed prices (as a dependent variable). The results of the statistical analyses indicated that there is no correlation between the growth rates of the gross domestic product and the growth rate of the gross fixed capital formation in the agricultural sector. One of the results of the statistical analysis shows the coefficient of determination (R2), which reflects the interpretative capacity of the model, exhibiting that 33% of the alterations in the gross domestic product are due to the gross fixed capital formation and it is a weak proportion.

Understanding the link between bacterial growth rate and bacteriocin production is necessary to achieve the highest output. The study aimed to determine the effect of sidr honey on stimulating the formation and release of bacteriocin-like inhibitory substances in pathogenic bacteria. Forty-eight isolates were obtained from different sources, and one isolate of each species (Pseudomonas aeroginoa, Proteus mirabilis, Proteus vulgaris, Staphylococcus aureus, Staphylococcus haemolyticus, Enterobacter cloacae, Salmonella enteric, Escherichia coli. Klebsiella Pneumonaie) were selected to conduct the study. The findings revealed significant differences in the production of BLIS in all isolates, as well as in the growth of bacteria, where there was an increase in both bacterial density and output of BLIS when using a culture medium supplemented with 1% Sidr honey, except for P. mirabilis and Enterobacter cloacae. Intestinal Salmonella and Klebsiella pneumonia, where the density of bacteria decreases when adding 1% of Sidr honey. the addition of sidr honey stimulated the production of BLIS in P. mirabilis. It increased the activity in all isolates, but the density of non-BLIS producers decreased compared to culture media without sidr honey.

Aligning with the sustainable development goals 13 (SDGs 13) which aims at handling climate change and disaster management, and since Banjarmasin City is very strategic and is fairly densely populated, the Government needs to ensure that the people of Banjarmasin are safe from disasters. Conducting a disaster risk assessment (DRA) in Banjarmasin City, Indonesia, is the basis for planning the implementation of integrated, structured, directed and measurable disaster management. The disaster risk assessment document contains the process and results including hazards, vulnerabilities, and capacities which are the basis for determining disaster risk. The results of DRA are steps to determine the direction of disaster management policies in Banjarmasin City that are more focused and directed in the future. The involvement of all stakeholders related to disasters in Banjarmasin City and the community can support efforts to implement disaster management by following the results of DRA and calculating the potential for life exposure, property loss as well as environmental damage that have been prepared in the city. The DRA document is expected to be the basis for clear and comprehensive direction for disaster management. Therefore, the results of this assessment can be agreed and legalized by the local government, so that the implementation of disaster management in Banjarmasin City can be more focused. This produces a DRA document and disaster risk map in Banjarmasin City. The form of support and legality from policy makers in the regions is needed. So that, the results of DRAs can be used as a reference in disaster management efforts in Banjarmasin City.

Moringa plants from the Moringa oleifera species are widely cultivated and used by residents in tropical regions, including Indonesia. Indonesians generally in rural areas use this plant as food and traditional medicine. The development of knowledge followed by the results of recent experiments, shows that all moringa organs contain secondary metabolite compounds that are  beneficial to humans, especially as a source of good nutritious nutrition, anti-allergic, anti-inflammatory, antihistamine, anticancer, and able to increase the body's immunity. The cultivation of moringa as yard plants in housing is still not popularly carried out by urban residents. In addition to functioning as a source of food, medicine, it is also able to function ecologically for the surrounding environment. The adaptation of growing moringa in an altitude area is quite wide, ranging from 0-1000 m above sea level. This study, conducted in March-April 2022, aimed to analyze the type of diversity and concentration of secondary metabolite compounds in the moringa leaf organs planted at two different altitudes, including the origin of housing in Turangga Village, Bandung City at an altitude of 696 masl and the origin of housing in Kenjeran Village, Surabaya City at an altitude of 4 masl in Indonesia. The analyses of moringa leaf extract through a QP-2010 type  chromatography tool identified more phytochemical diversity than those from Bandung, including carbinol, methyl cyclopentane, n-Hexane, neophytadiene, hexa decane, pronalol alaniol, methyl palmitate, and eicosyne. Meanwhile, moringa leaf extract from Surabaya, the dominant type of carbinol was identified, followed by acetic acid, and methyl hydroxylate. The results of the analysis recommend that moringa is effectively used as urban farming to meet food sources, while improving the ecological quality of the surrounding environment.  Meanwhile, to improve the quality of phytochemical diversity, it is recommended  that the cultivation of moringa should be in moderate rainfall areas with average daily air temperatures ranging from 20 ºC to 30 ºC and high soil moisture.

Isolation from the roots of strawberry plants appearing mainly root-rot signs collected from Ismailia, Sharkia, Kalubia in addition to Giza governorates resulted in Macrophomina phaseolina, Fusarium oxysporum, Pythium ultimum (fungus-like), F. solani, Phytophthora cactorum (fungus-like), Rhizoctonia fragariae, Sclerotium rolfsii in addition to R. solani. Pathogenicity test of the isolates proved that they prompted root-rot signs as well. Both R. fragariae in addition to R. solani were the most malignant ones. Four isolates of Bacillus spp., i.e., Bacillus cerous, B. humilus, B. megaterium, B. subtils in addition to Pseudomonas fluorescens and P. putida were also isolated from the rhizospheric soil of strawberry plants cultivating in a field exhibiting a serious illness by root-rot. They were assessed for their inhibitory effect towards both R. fragariae and R. solani in vitro or in vivo. On the whole, P. fluorescens accompanied by Bacillus subtilis were the foremost efficacious in lowering the linear outgrowth of both pathogenic fungi. Sanitized aqueous filtrate of the examined vermicompost leaded to substantial drop in the linear outgrowth of the examined two fungi in comparison with untreated group. This drop was progressively raised by elevating its concentration. The combination among vermicomposting, salicylic acid (SA) or the bioagents B. subtilis or P. fluorescens leaded to substantial drop in strawberry root-rot with substantial elevation in the produced fruits in addition to their total soluble solids (TSS), either every of them was utilized only or in their diverse arrangements, in comparison to control treatment (infested with any of causative two fungi). On the opposite side, vermicompost was the most efficacious in this case in comparison with the remaining three illness management elements, i.e., SA in addition to the biologic agents B. subtilis or P. fluorescens when every of them was utilized only. Furthermore, no obvious infection was found when vermicompost, SA, the biologic agents B. subtilis or P. fluorescens, in addition to soil solarization were applied together. Then, the yielded fruits were obtained with a high TSS, firmness or total ascorbic acid (vitamin-c), to some extent, comparable to untreated group (un-infested soil with the any of causative fungi).

This study was conducted on the territory of the educational and experimental farm of the K.A. Timiryazev Russian State Agrarian University of Agriculture in Moscow during 2018-2020. The examination of apple-tree plantings, ornamental plantings, and weed vegetation was carried out for three years with determination of pathogens of the main diseases by microscopy method. The Alternaria fungi species membership were identified by morphological features of conidia and sporulation habitus, and the specific pathogen species was confirmed by PCR analysis. Two unspecified species of Alternaria tenuissima and Alternaria infectoria fungi were found to infect apple trees and other species of the surveyed plants with Alternaria blight. The fungus species, Alternaria tenuissima was predominantly recorded on apple trees. Out of 186 examined apple cultivars, the development of Alternaria blight was found in 85.5% of the cultivars with different ripening periods. The apple cultivars most resistant to Alternaria blight were identified. The apple cultivars, in which the damage of fruits by Alternaria blight was recorded, were identified. Infestation of apple seeds by Alternaria genus obtained from fruits affected by this pathogen was determined. The possibility of high Alternaria blight infestation degree in apple tree seedlings was detected. A high degree of Alternaria tenuissima and Alternaria infectoria fungi development was recorded in a number of orchard-protecting and ornamental plants, as well as in weeds, and their possible role as reservoirs and transmitters of infection to fruit crops was established. The efficacy of fungicides: Luna Tranquiliti, KS; Skor, KE; Medea, ME; Zato, VDG; Horus, VDG; Coside Super, VDG in suppressing Alternaria blight development on apple cultivars of different ripening dates was compared.

The choice of irrigation method depends on the crop, soil, terrain, hydrogeological and climatic conditions, as well as the level of agricultural production development. Sprinkler irrigation has traditionally been used in the northern regions of Kazakhstan due to the natural and climatic conditions of the region and the composition of cultivated crops. The purpose of this research was to study the impact of water-saving irrigation technology on the yield of grain crops in the northern region of Kazakhstan. Experimental studies were conducted in 2022 at an experimental station located in the Akkayin District of the North Kazakhstan region. The main objects of the study were Astana spring wheat, Sabir spring barley, and Dauren spring triticale. It was planned to use a sprinkler irrigation system with a modern sprinkler machine for the irrigation of crops. Control fields without irrigation were used to analyze the effect of irrigation. It was established that the main effect of irrigation can be observed in an elevation in the productive bushiness of crops in irrigated areas, leading to a yield increase. The yield of spring wheat under irrigation was 29.3 c/ha, while did not exceed 24.9 c/ha on a plot without irrigation. The yield of spring barley under irrigation was 46.9 c/ha, whereas was at the level of 34.4 c/ha without irrigation. Spring triticale had a yield of 41.6 c/ha when irrigated, while did not exceed 28.0 c/ha without irrigation. The irrigation effect can be noted as significant based on these results.

The oil-oxidizing 1/8an strain was isolated from the oil-contaminated soil in the Atyrau region, Kazakhstan. Based on the analysis of 16S rRNA sequences, the strain was identified as Pusillimonas thiosulfatoxidans. The strain effectively decomposed crude oil at 10 and 30 ℃ and showed the ability to degrade oil at 50 ℃. Gas chromatographic analysis showed that the strain degraded medium- and long-chain n-alkanes. The strain degraded oil in high salinity (up to 10%). The study of the influence of the medium's pH on oil degradation showed that the strain degraded oil in both acidic (pH 5) and alkaline (pH 9) environments. The strain degraded both light and heavy oils. Thus, the P. thiosulfatoxidans 1/8an strain can be used in the bioremediation of oil-contaminated soils under extreme conditions.

Interest in studying the influence of the conditions of the year and time of day on the soil temperature indicators has been increasing in recent years to develop new adaptive strategies in agriculture and provide scientific substantiation for making decisions on the sustainable use and protection of natural resources. No research in this direction has been conducted in Kazakhstan to date. The presented studies were carried out in 2021-2023 in the dry network of the Ili Alatau in the Almaty region. The soil temperature was measured at 10 cm depth with CS107 thermocouples, and the average temperature was recorded every hour using the CR-10 datalogger. The data analysis was carried out using RStudio. The purpose of this study was to analyze the influence some factors such as the year, month, and time of day on the soil temperature indicators. It was found that the year, month, and time of day have a significant impact on the indicators of the variable temperature. This indicator amounted to -1.6, 7.5, and -5.2 °С in 2021, 2022, and 2023, respectively. The soil temperature warmed up most significantly between 12 PM and 6 PM (8.6-17.3 °С). The average soil temperature by 9 PM, 12 AM, 3 AM, 6 AM, and 9 AM decreased to 3.8, -0.6, 2.9, -4.0, and -2.9 °С, respectively. The average monthly temperature indicators were 4.3-8.3 °C in March and October. They were higher in April and September (11.7-14.6 °С). They were the highest in June, July, August, and September (20.3-25.8 °С). The results of the study are of fundamental importance for developing new adaptive strategies in agriculture and providing scientific substantiation for making decisions on the sustainable use and protection of natural resources.

Family farming units and their complex production systems provide the majority of global agricultural production. Aim of the study was to Characterize and evaluate each of the agricultural systems considering social, cultural, productive, and cosmic aspects. The study was carried out in several communities of Chimborazo - Ecuador, with four types of producers: Chacareros, who are references of the production systems; Producer in the process of transition to Chacarero; Conventional Producer and Subsistence Producer. In this study, several production, economic, technological, social, food security and biodiversity indicators were evaluated. It was established that the production systems of the Chacareros and producers in transition are more profitable and efficient than conventional and subsistence producers and are in better conditions to achieve food security. It was found that Chacareros and producers in transition are less vulnerable to the volatility of market prices and external factors. The Chacareros’ production systems generate positive externalities that are not incorporated in the characterization of the production systems. Additionally, their priorities are different from other producers: First they produce to feed the family and animals, to share and save, and the rest to market. This study fundamentally presented the interpretation of the development of the productive systems of peasant family agriculture in the highland region of Ecuador. In conclusion, The chacareros' production system was much more efficient than the conventional producers one since an average net profit per hectare of 6,150 USD was obtained and an average efficiency rate was  145%, while conventional producers obtained an average net profit per hectare of 1,749 USD and an average efficiency rate of 119%. Chacareros were less vulnerable to the volatility of input prices and food products in the markets. Over 70% of the food consumed and 90% of the inputs used came from the farm itself, compared to less than 50% of the food and inputs in the case of conventional producers.

Fluoxetine is a widely used antidepressant that acts as a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor. This study investigated the effects of fluoxetine hydrochloride on the hypothalamic-pituitary-testicular axis and spermatogenesis in male albino mice. Fifty mice were divided into five distinct groups, comprising a control group, an observation group and three separate experimental cohorts receiving oral fluoxetine at doses of 50, 100, and 150 mg kg-1 for 28 days. Testosterone, luteinizing hormone (LH), and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) levels were measured by radioimmunoassay. Testicular tissue was analyzed for changes in seminiferous tubule sperm count and spermatogenic cell populations. The high-dose fluoxetine group showed decreased testosterone, increased LH and FSH, reduced seminiferous tubule sperm density, as well as fewer spermatogonia and primary spermatocytes versus controls. Histology revealed reduced germinal epithelium layers and increased vacuolization in the fluoxetine-treated mice. These findings demonstrate that chronic high-dose fluoxetine administration inhibits steroidogenesis and spermatogenesis in male mice, likely by increasing serotonin levels which suppress testosterone synthesis. Further research on fluoxetine's effects on male fertility are warranted given its widespread clinical use. This study affirms the need for judicious fluoxetine prescribing in patients with reproductive concerns.

The paper presents a molecular genetic analysis of the expression of the ICE 1 gene Arum korolkowii Regel involved in the abiotic stress response in the Korolkov Aronnik in cold and frost conditions. The classical PCR method was used to identify the ICE 1 gene in Aronnik Korolkov and sequenced this site to determine the uniqueness of this gene. When stress is induced, increased expression of the studied gene is shown. It has been proved that the expression of this gene in Aronnik Korolkov begins already at the stage of acclimatization.

This research studied ten isolates of potato virus X (PVX) isolated from potato cultivars growing in Kazakhstan (KZ), Belarus (BY) and China (CN). Additionally, the potato samples were screened for Potato virus Y (PVY), Potato virus S (PVS), and Potato leafroll virus (PLRV) using multiplex reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR). PVX was isolated from the potato varieties ‘Tamasha’, ‘Red Scarlet’, ‘Gala variety’, ‘Krone’, ‘Juwel’, ‘Gala’, and ‘b2-7’. The identified isolates of PVX were sequenced and used to construct a phylogenetic tree, which demonstrated that KZ and BY isolates form clusters closely related to isolates from Asia and Europe, however, CN isolate formed a separate clade. KZ5 and KZ7 PVX isolates showed local symptoms of mosaic and light green speckled spots on the upper leaves of Datura stramonium in pathogenicity test.

The effects of Covid-19 have disrupted staple food (rice) security, due to shifting distribution patterns, margins, and price dynamics. This study presents the effects of COVID-19 on rice distribution patterns and Margin of Trade and Freight (MTF); dynamics of rice prices in surplus and deficit areas in Indonesia. Using time series data on weekly rice prices, from January 2018 to December 2021, the National PIHPS source to answer the research objectives. Rice prices include prices at the traditional market level and at wholesale before and during COVID-19. Using descriptive analysis, MTF, CV and convergence test to answer the study objectives. The results of the study found that the general pattern of rice trade distribution experienced changes in the distribution chain and differed between surplus and deficit provinces. The dynamics of rice price fluctuations are weak and differ between surplus and deficit provinces at each market level. The government's policy of celling price and floor price has helped stabilize rice prices. However, the government needs to build an early warning system related to the food security system. It is necessary to provide a real time food data presentation system to reduce panic.

The interplay between bacteriology and environmental impacts forms a dynamic nexus with far-reaching implications for the health of ecosystems and human societies. This paper embarks on an exploration of previously uncharted territories within this intersection, aiming to uncover novel insights and strategies for addressing pressing environmental challenges. Our research seeks to elucidate the multifaceted roles of bacteria in shaping and responding to environmental impacts, ultimately advancing the field with innovative approaches. In this comprehensive endeavour, we traverse several frontiers: Our study delves into the intricate relationships between bacterial communities and biogeochemical cycles, shedding light on previously unrecognized pathways of nutrient transformation and greenhouse gas dynamics. By analysing metagenomic data from diverse environments, we unveil novel bacterial taxa and functional genes that play pivotal roles in driving biogeochemical processes, thus expanding the boundaries of our understanding. Building upon conventional wastewater treatment practices, we introduce groundbreaking biotechnological interventions that harness the metabolic capabilities of bacteria to remove emerging contaminants, pharmaceuticals, and recalcitrant pollutants. Novel bacterial strains and biofilm-based bioreactors demonstrate unparalleled efficiency in detoxifying wastewater effluents, offering sustainable solutions for environmental remediation. By climate change as a defining challenge of our era, our research pioneers the investigation of microbial communities' responses to environmental stressors. Through meta-transcriptomic analysis, we uncover unique microbial strategies for carbon sequestration and adaptation, providing a blueprint for enhancing ecosystem resilience in a changing climate. The ever-evolving threat of antibiotic resistance extends into the environment, creating an urgent need to address this crisis. Our study uncovers hitherto unexplored environmental reservoirs of antibiotic resistance genes, highlighting their potential as early warning systems for emerging resistance threats and novel avenues for intervention. We introduce a novel approach that employs shifts in bacterial communities as sentinel indicators of environmental health and stress. By monitoring the microbiome dynamics in ecosystems impacted by anthropogenic activities, we identify early warning signals for environmental perturbations, empowering targeted conservation efforts. This study transcends the boundaries of traditional bacteriology by showcasing the pivotal role of bacteria in mitigating environmental impacts. Our findings not only underscore the novelty of bacterial contributions to environmental processes, but also present actionable strategies for sustainable stewardship. In an era marked by environmental challenges of unprecedented scale, this research charts a pioneering course towards harnessing the untapped potential of bacteriology for a healthier planet.

As environmental challenges continue to escalate, the need for innovative and effective solutions is paramount. This paper presents a comprehensive study at the intersection of biotechnology and mathematical analysis, aiming to address environmental management issues with a novel and integrated approach. Our research focuses on the development of cutting-edge strategies that harness the power of biotechnology while employing mathematical modelling and analysis for optimization and prediction. The novelty of our work lies in its interdisciplinary nature, bridging the gap between biotechnology and mathematics to tackle complex environmental problems. We begin by examining bioremediation techniques, particularly the use of microorganisms, to remediate contaminated sites. Mathematical models allow for the optimization of bioremediation processes, enabling faster and more cost-effective cleanup of polluted sites. In the realm of wastewater treatment, our study incorporates biotechnological advancements for optimal pollutant removal and resource recovery. Furthermore, we explore the potential of genetically modified organisms (GMOs) in environmental management, demonstrating the power of combining biotechnology with mathematical analysis to develop tailored solutions for environmental challenges. This paper highlights the synergistic relationship between biotechnology and mathematical analysis in the context of environmental management. Our research not only provides novel insights into the optimization and prediction of biotechnological processes but also offers sustainable solutions for environmental remediation and conservation. Our study presents promising numerical results, indicating substantial enhancements in pollutant removal efficiency, resource recovery, and the overall sustainability of environmental management. These findings demonstrate the transformative potential of our integrated approach, providing tangible evidence of its real-world impact on environmental challenges.

There is a problem of vegetable protein deficiency for feed, processing and nutrition in many countries: to produce or import? White lupin cultivation in Russia is important due its high potential seed and protein yield. The breeding program for creating cultivars of white lupin with a determinant type of growth and the study of the dynamic parameters of the yield formation was carried out in many years of research in the northern part of the Central-Chernozem region of Russia. Experiments were conducted at the experimental field in Tambov region. Cultivar is one of the main components of resource-saving technologies. For the first time in Russia, under these conditions, cultivars of white lupin with a determinant type of growth were created. Among them are Start, Gamma, Delta, Dega, Deter1, Timiryazevskiy with different plant architectonics. Care adapted to the conditions of the region, ripen steadily, and grain yield of 3-5 ton ha-1. Agrocenosis is a photosynthetic system functions from emergence to beginning of maturity including four biologically distinct periods of crop formation: I- emergence - the beginning of flowering; II-  flowering and pod formation; III-  pod growth; and IV- seed filling.  The length of the periods and the dynamic parameters of the yield formation of white lupin for each period were determined. Among the parameters were the leaf area index (LAI), the total dry matter accumulation (TDM), the crop growth rate (CGR), leaf area duration (LAD), net assimilation rate (NAR), and yield components. Period II was critical in yield formation. Variability of parameters was determined in connection with weather conditions and seed yield. The conducted studies made it possible for white lupin cultivars with determinant type of growth to find out dynamic pattern of yield formation and to estimate the degree of effect of weather conditions on dynamic parameters and seed productivity.

Microbiome research has gained prominence for its crucial role in various domains, from human health to environmental ecosystems. Understanding and predicting microbial community composition is essential for unlocking the potential of microbiomes. In this paper, we present a novel approach that leverages the synergy between machine learning and data analysis techniques to comprehensively profile and predict microbial communities. Our study addresses the current challenges in microbiome analysis by proposing a unified framework that integrates multiple data types, including 16S rRNA gene sequencing, metagenomic, and environmental data. We employ advanced machine learning algorithms, such as deep learning models and ensemble techniques, to extract meaningful patterns and relationships from these complex datasets. This integrated approach not only captures the taxonomic composition of microbial communities but also reveals functional potentials and ecological interactions among microbial taxa. One of the key novelties of our work lies in the development of a predictive model for microbial community assembly. By incorporating ecological principles and community dynamics, our model can forecast how microbial communities respond to environmental changes or perturbations, providing valuable insights for ecosystem management and restoration efforts. Furthermore, we demonstrate the practical applicability of our approach in diverse scenarios, including clinical microbiology, environmental monitoring, and biotechnological processes. We showcase its accuracy in predicting shifts in microbial community structure under varying conditions, offering a powerful tool for preemptive interventions in disease prevention and bioprocess optimization. We introduce an innovative methodology that bridges the gap between microbiology and machine learning, facilitating a deeper understanding of microbial ecosystems and their functional roles. By unifying data analysis and predictive modeling, our approach has the potential to revolutionize the way we study and harness the power of microbiomes, with far-reaching implications in healthcare, agriculture, and environmental conservation.

Diabetes mellitus is a prevalent metabolic disorder characterized by impaired insulin secretion and aberrant lipid metabolism. Targeting glutamate dehydrogenase (GDH) activators has emerged as a potential therapeutic strategy in managing diabetes. This study aims to investigate the effects of GDH activators on insulin secretion and lipid profiles in diabetic rabbits. Utilizing Streptozotocin (STZ) to induce diabetes in male New Zealand White rabbits, the impacts of three different GDH activators—Metformin, Epigallocatechin Gallate (EGCG), and Leucine—were examined. The subjects were categorized into five groups, including a diabetic control, a sham group, and three treatment groups administered with Metformin (5 mg kg-1), EGCG (15 mg kg-1), and Leucine (15 mg kg-1), respectively. The study reveals significant modulations in insulin and lipid profiles due to these treatments. In the Metformin-treated group, blood glucose levels significantly decreased during the second (p < 0.001) and third (p<0.01) weeks. The EGCG group exhibited a significant increase in insulin levels (p < 0.001), but no notable change in blood glucose. Conversely, the Leucine group showed an increase in triglyceride levels (p < 0.05) and a significant decrease in blood glucose levels (p < 0.01). Additionally, Metformin led to a substantial reduction in triglycerides (p < 0.001), while EGCG and Leucine were effective in lowering LDL levels (p < 0.01). Cholesterol and HDL levels remained relatively unchanged across all groups. These findings suggest that GDH activators, i.e., Metformin, EGCG, and Leucine, significantly impact insulin secretion and lipid metabolism, offering novel insights into diabetes management. This study not only demonstrates the therapeutic potential of these agents, but also emphasizes the importance of GDH pathways in diabetes research, providing a foundation for future investigations into metabolic regulation and treatment.

Calculating the volume of carbon dioxide absorbed by the ocean is a challenging task because it depends on numerous factors, including depth, temperature, salinity, and others. Calculating the precise volume of CO2 absorbed by the ocean is even more difficult due to the complex and dynamic nature of these processes. Some studies and models provide only an approximate assessment of the annual carbon balance between the atmosphere and the ocean. The purpose of the present study was to examine the processes of CO2 exchange between water and the surrounding environment. For experimental testing, the authors developed a special apparatus used to conduct a series of studies to assess CO2 exchange processes between water and the environment. Studies were performed on distilled, fresh, and salt water. Dissolving CO2 in fresh and salt water is a complex process that plays a key part in the environment's biological, climatic, and geochemical aspects. The initial CO2 concentration in the operational volume of the experimental setup was 5,000 ppm (parts per million; 5%). The temperature inside the chamber amounted to 20 ± 2 ºC. The experiment lasted 10 days. Since the most important factor in the experiment was precision, the study employed the method of gas chromatography. Investigation of these features provided a better understanding of the importance of managing CO2 levels and its impact on Earth’s ecosystem.

The right planting density and the optimal number of seeds introduced during sowing play a crucial role in ensuring the efficient production of lentils. This factor significantly affects the process of culture rooting, the ability of plants to absorb solar radiation, the development of vegetation cover, as well as the level of infection with harmful insects, pests, and diseases. The purpose of this study was to investigate the influence of seeding rates on the formation of plant biomass and yield at different sowing dates. The object of the study was an early-ripening variety of lentils, i.e., Shyraily. One-Way ANOVA was used to study the impact of sowing dates (May 10, May 20, May 30) and seeding rates (1.0 million, 1.3 million, 1.6 million germinating seeds per ha) of lentils on plant biomass and yield. According to the results of two-year studies, the maximum yield of lentil grain was formed when sowing on May 30 and at a seeding rate of 1.3 million germinating seeds per ha – 11.5 c/ha. It was found that the greater the density of the plants, the higher the yield of lentil grain.

The research was conducted in 2022 in areas where Erythrophleum fordii Oliver naturally grows in Bac Giang Province, Vietnam. The objective was to determine the distribution and silvicultural attributes of E. fordii, including its structural features and regeneration. The study results identified that E. fordii is naturally distributed in five districts of Bac Giang Province: Luc Nam, Luc Ngan, Yen The, Son Dong, and Tan Yen. E. fordii is widely distributed at altitudes ranging from 50 to 500 m, with a prominent presence between 100 and 200 m above sea level. As the altitude increases, the occurrence of E. fordii decreases. The forest areas dominated by E. fordii exhibit rich biodiversity, particularly in primary evergreen broadleaved forests on mountain soils, with a total of 71 species. The number of species contributing to the forest structure ranges from 9 to 15, depending on the forest condition. The study also revealed that E. fordii has a high composition coefficient, followed by Burseraceae, Chestnut, Jambolan, Elaeocarpus, Engelhardtia chrysolepis Hance, among others. The natural regeneration of E. fordii is low, with an average density of 680 trees per ha and 8 trees per route. However, the regeneration quality is poor. The dominance of regenerated trees varies significantly with altitude, decreasing as the altitude elevates.

Seaweeds are important sources of macro- and micronutrients used as food, minerals, and as important sources of many bioactive compounds. Due to high water content, seaweeds are highly perishable and  should be immediately subjected to drying process to increase their shelf-life. The present study aimed to investigate the effect of oven-drying in comparison with conventional sun/open-air drying on the chemical composition, functional properties and fatty acid profile of Ulva intestinalis. The results showed significantly lower water holding capacity in sun/open-air dried samples (8.83 mL g-1) compared to oven-dried ones (10.83 mL g-1; p > 0.05). There was no significant difference between oil holding capacity, emulsifying activity and swelling capacity of dried U. intestinalis and two different drying methods (p > 0.05). The EPA and DHA contents in sun/open-air and oven- dried samples were 1.282 and 0.806 (g/100g for EPA), while 2.377 and 1.972 (g/100g for DHA), respectively. N-3/n-6 ratio in the above-mentioned samples were 0.959 and 0.340, respectively. Based on the results, oven-drying method is suggested for drying this algae regarding to higher water holding capacity and higher content of highly unsaturated fatty acids.

Morphometric techniques are crucial when studying rare plant species as they provide a comprehensive dataset on individual plants and the status of specific populations under various ecological conditions and different levels of human impact. Linaria cretacea, an endemic plant species, is listed as rare and can be found exclusively in the chalk hills in North-Western Kazakhstan (NWK). Over the span of 2020 to 2022, we conducted a study on four populations of this species located in the chalk hills in NWK. Through the process of inventorying sampling plots, we assessed the elevation range occupied by the species, while also identifying the age structure and population density. The results of our study provided further evidence of the limited population counts of Linaria cretacea, as reported previously. Additionally, we conducted an investigation into the biometric traits of virgin and generative Linaria cretacea individuals across different populations, including an analysis of their seed parameters. The morphometric parameters exhibited notable variations among the populations under investigation, with the exception of the seed measurements, which showed minimal to negligible variability. The species' coenopopulations are currently in a stable state, but the absence of adequate protection measures is a cause for concern. Therefore, it is crucial to undertake regular monitoring of their habitats and enhance environmental measures to safeguard their well-being.

The phenomenon of young people frequenting closed cafes spread in Baghdad to smoke hookahs and cigarettes has increased. This phenomenon is associated with unemployment, an increase in leisure time and the deterioration of economic conditions. This phenomenon has an impact on indoor air quality and exposes workers to the risk of exposure to various pollutants, including particulate matter, therefore, we examined some indicators (PM2.5, PM10) IAQ for a month in summer and another month in winter in six different locations in the Rusafa district. PM2.5 and PM10 concentrations, relative humidity (RH) and temperatures were measured using (Multifunction Air Quality Detector BENETECH -China). The results showed an increase in temperatures inside closed cafes, exceeding the recommended limits, and regardless of the seasonal fluctuations, the average concentrations of both PM2.5 and PM10 inside closed cafes for the months of August and December exceeded the daily and annually PM standards recommended by World Health Organization for both PM2.5 and PM10 concentrations were higher in summer than in winter were the most of young people enjoy a long holiday.  The peak of PM2.5 and PM10 concentrations also occurred during evening rush hour, more than the highest readings in the morning periods.

In 2019, a new disease called Covid-19 was detected in Wuhan located in China which caused seriously disease or death at any age. This disease has various symptoms such as fever, chills, cough, sore throat, headache, body pain, muscle pain, diarrhoea, and vomiting. In this review study, articles related to the subject were searched using scientific sites such as Medline, PubMed, and Google Scholar using the keywords of traditional medicine, medicinal plants, and Covid-19. After downloading the articles, irrelevant articles were removed and related articles were reviewed. According to the results obtained from the review of the literature, the effective medicinal herbs including Zingiber officinale, Alpinia officinarum, Cinnamomum zeylanicum, Nigllea sativa, Citrus paradise, Laurus nobilis L. and Echinacea purpura were the most important medicinal herbs used in treatment of Coronavirus. Antiviral chemical drugs usually inhibit the virus by disrupting the key protein and viral virulence factors. Probably, medicinal plants inhibit corona virus with a mechanism similar to the chemical drugs. Therefore, it is possible to produce effective herbal medicines as alternative for synthetic drugs and reduce the pain and suffering from Covid-19 in patients.

The evolution of corporate reporting in today's world is heavily influenced by a growing emphasis on environmental sustainability and the evaluation of its impact on the environment, as well as the assessment of a company's environmental responsibility, ecological attractiveness, and competitiveness. Traditional accounting and corporate reporting methods are proving inadequate to fulfil the information needs of a diverse array of stakeholders who play a pivotal role in making strategic decisions. This concept seeks to divulge information regarding the environmental impact and ecological footprint of a company, showcasing the interplay between the company's operations and their environmental consequences. The focus is on the future outlook, aligned with the company's strategic objectives and business model. The development of tools for environmental analysis in the corporate world is an essential means of putting these theoretical principles into practice. The importance of this study lies in its potential to provide a theoretical foundation for evaluating a company's agricultural performance through integrated reporting metrics, which in turn will establish a set of indicators reflecting the achievement of both short-term and long-term environmental objectives of the company. All of these factors, in our perspective, underscore the significance of this study and the practical implications of the results it yields.

The purpose of this work is to study the thermal stability of humic acids and bitumens extracted from brown coals of the Circumpolar Urals in the Khanty-Mansi Autonomous Okrug-Ugra. Waxes, bitumens and resins were extracted from brown coals with benzene on Soxhlet apparatuses. Extraction of humic acids was carried out by the Instorf method. Thermal analysis of all humic acid samples was performed at Novosibirsk Institute of Organic Chemistry in the Siberian Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences on a STA 409 PC Luxx synchronous thermal analyser (Netzsch Company) in an inert atmosphere in a platinum crucible. It was found that thermal stability of humic acid macromolecules obtained from brown coals is characterized by typical thermal effects and quantitatively different value of macromolecule destruction within the ranges from 220 to 400 °C and from 400 to 800 °C.

The purpose of this study was to ascertain the vitamin C content of locally cultivated vegetables in Thailand. As the study's sample veggies, local, conveniently accessible product is regularly consumed by Thais. Vegetables include eggplant, Solanum melongena L., kajon flowers, Telosma minor Craib, lettuce, Lactuca sativa L., butterfly pea flowers, Clitoria ternatea Linn, acacia. Acacia farnesiana (L.) Willd, spinach. Spinacia oleracea L., and zucchini, Cucurbita L. var. cylindica Pans. Fresh vegetable vitamin C levels range from 130 ±1.00 mg kg-1, 340 ± 0.58 mg kg-1, 350 ± 1.00 mg kg-1, 340 ± 0.58 mg kg-1, 440 ± 0.58 mg kg-1, 490 ± 0.58 mg kg-1 and 140 ± 0.58 mg kg-1, respectively. Spinach contained the most vitamin C, with a concentration of 490 mg kg-1 followed by Acacia, lettuce, kajon flowers, butterfly pea flowers and zucchini respectively. However, vitamin C is still necessary for healthy skin and a strong immune system. The body can also get the appropriate daily quantity of vitamin C by eating the right kinds and amounts of fruits and vegetables.

This study was carried out to report the newly recorded species of the family Crambidae, belonging to the order Lepidoptera. During the investigation on subfamily Pyraustinae in middle of Iraq, the following snout moth’s species, i.e., Pleuroptya ruralis Scopoli, 1763 is reported for the first time from Iraq. External and genital characteristics of adult were examined and illustrated. This newly recorded species is enumerated with their available information including the collecting localities, illustrations of adults, and female genitalia. There is a paucity of Iraqi research that deals with this family in terms of diagnosing and describing the species of its subfamilies.