Showing papers in "Scientia Agriculturae Bohemica in 2017"
TL;DR: The use of organic wastes in agriculture plays a great role in recycling essential plant nutrients, sustaining soil security as well as protecting the environment from unwanted hazards.
Abstract: The use of organic wastes in agriculture plays a great role in recycling essential plant nutrients, sustaining soil security as well as protecting the environment from unwanted hazards. This review article deals with the effect of different kinds of organic wastes on soil properties and plant growth and yield. Municipal solid waste is mainly used as a source of nitrogen and organic matter, improving soil properties and microbial activity that are closely related to soil fertility. Biowaste and food waste increase pH, nitrogen content, cation exchange capacity, water holding capacity, and microbial biomass in soil. Sewage sludge contains various amounts of organic matter and huge amounts of plant nutrients. Manure is a common waste which improves soil properties by adding nutrients and increases microbial and enzyme activity in soil. It also reduces toxicity of some heavy metals. These organic wastes have a great positive impact on soil physical, chemical, and biological properties as well as stimulate plant growth and thus increase the yield of crops.
44 citations
TL;DR: It has been found that nitrogen removal depends on the size of constructed wetland (W) as compared to catchment (C) area, and that the W/C greater than 1% does not result in any substantial increase of nitrogen removal.
Abstract: Abstract Diffuse pollution from agricultural drainage is a severe problem for water quality and it is a major reason for eutrophication of both freshwaters and coastal waters. Constructed wetlands were proposed as a suitable tool for removal of nitrogen from agricultural drainage in the early 1990s. Since then constructed wetlands with free water surface have been successfully used in Europe, North America, Asia, and Australia. The predominant form of nitrogen in agricultural drainage waters is nitrate and therefore denitrification is considered as the major removal process. The literature survey of 41 full-scale constructed wetlands revealed that removed nitrogen amount varied widely between 11 and 13 026 kg N ha-1 per year with the median removal of 426 kg N ha-1 per year. A very close relationship was found between inflow and removed nitrogen loads but the overall percentual efficiency decreases with increasing inflow nitrogen load. It has also been found that nitrogen removal depends on the size of constructed wetland (W) as compared to catchment (C) area. The survey indicated that the W/C greater than 1% does not result in any substantial increase of nitrogen removal. There are still some gaps in our knowledge that need to be evaluated, namely the optimum vegetation maintenance.
44 citations
TL;DR: This paper focuses on zinc metabolism and homeostasis, with an emphasis placed on the biological function of zinc, and deals with zinc deficiency and its effect on health.
Abstract: Abstract Zinc, as an essential metal, is necessary for the correct function of an organism. It is involved in biochemical processes that affect the immune response of an organism, and it acts as a neuromodulator in the excitatory synapses of the brain. Zinc is also applied in response to stressful stimuli. Zinc is an essential factor of gene expression and is important, at the cellular level, in maintaining the integrity of the cell walls. It influences organism ageing. Zinc is relatively abundant in nature, and it exists in a mineral form and rarely as a pure element. Zinc is used widely in industry and agriculture. In industry, it is utilized mainly in the processing of other metals as protection against corrosion. In agriculture, it is used in fertilizers and chemicals to produce pesticides. In certain areas affected by human activities, its concentrations increase, and large quantities of this metal can get into the food supply. In this paper, we focus on zinc metabolism and homeostasis, with an emphasis placed on the biological function of zinc. This study also deals with zinc deficiency and its effect on health. We also touch on the excessive intake of zinc and its toxicity.
32 citations
TL;DR: A marketing analysis of Czech consumers’ behaviour when buying honey is discussed from the viewpoint of price, origin, honey type, crystallized sugar, and organic quality aspect, showing that consumers are interested primarily in the price and origin of honey.
Abstract: A marketing analysis of Czech consumers’ behaviour when buying honey is discussed from the viewpoint of price, origin, honey type, crystallized sugar, and organic quality aspect. The surveyed target groups of honey consumers, who are examined also with respect to their education level, are from Prague and the Central Bohemian Region. The original premise of this research was the hypothesis that, when buying honey, customers focus primarily on its price and type. This hypothesis was verified by conjoint analysis. The results have shown that consumers are interested primarily in the price and origin of honey. An important parameter for buying honey is its (non)crystallization. Although it does not affect objective quality parameters of honey, it affects the consumers’ subjective perception of honey quality during purchase. Two clusters of honey consumers emerged through cluster analysis: the first cluster focussing on the origin, type, and price/sugar crystallization of honey, and the second interested in the origin, price, and quality of organic honey.
21 citations
TL;DR: An overview of methods commonly used for the study of bacterial diversity is presented, with emphasis on cultivation, biochemical and chemotaxonomic, and molecular-genetic based methods.
Abstract: Abstract Bacterial life is a predominant component of all environments, occurring in communities usually of complex diversity. Bacteria are engines of globally important processes which makes them subject of interest to many scientific studies. Although many kinds of methods have been developed and microbial ecology has undergone a profound change in the last two decades with regard to methods employed, the analysis of community composition and function still remains a great challenge. In this article we present an overview of methods commonly used for the study of bacterial diversity. Emphasis was placed on cultivation, biochemical and chemotaxonomic, and molecular-genetic based methods.
12 citations
TL;DR: The effect of one-week quantitative feed restriction on histological characteristics of musculus pectoralis major in broiler chickens during the fattening period was evaluated to determine changes in the muscle fibre characteristics.
Abstract: Abstract The aim of the study was to evaluate the effect of one-week quantitative feed restriction (in days 8-14 of age) on histological characteristics of musculus pectoralis major in broiler chickens during the fattening period. Cockerels of Ross 308 (1215 chicken) were divided into 3 groups: ad libitum fed (AL; 3 × 135), restricted 80% of AL (R80; 3 × 135), and with limited feed intake 65% of AL (R65; 3 × 135). Eight cockerels per group were slaughtered in weekly intervals from day 14 of age till the end of experiment at 35 days to determine changes in the muscle fibre characteristics. The number of muscle fibres in pectoralis major decreased (P ≤ 0.001) with increasing age. Fibre cross sectional area was s ignificantly (P ≤ 0.027) affected by the interaction of group and age. At the end of feed restriction at 14 days all groups had similar fibre area (519-539 μm2), the differences between groups were observed at 35 days of age with the largest fibre area in R65 chickens (2296 μm2), while R80 did not differ from AL (1728 μm2 and 1667 μm2). There was no effect of feeding regime on giant muscle fibre incidence.
10 citations
TL;DR: The commercial offer of finished wines based on Chardonnay grapes can be potentially extended by including a product processed in amphorae due to the high volatile acidity, straw colour, and tannic perception.
Abstract: Abstract The high value of dry extract and volatile acidity could statistically differentiate (P ˂ 0.05) the Chardonnay wine obtained in amphorae with maceration and stored for six months from the wine obtained in barrels and barriques, as evidenced by the analysis of variance. Similarly, the principal component analysis showed that all the amphorae wines sampled between November and March (not the wine analyzed immediately after alcoholic fermentation) were clearly differentiated from the analogue barrel and barrique wines due to the high volatile acidity, straw colour, and tannic perception. The Chardonnay wine produced in amphorae was characterized by a spicy flavour, pleasant tannic and a less ‘green’ character than wines from barrels and barriques, but showed a weak varietal aroma. Thus, the commercial offer of finished wines based on Chardonnay grapes can be potentially extended by including a product processed in amphorae.
9 citations
TL;DR: The results of discriminant analysis showed that the infrared spectroscopy of the wing in combination with a multivariate analysis seemed promising for a resolution of the chemical structure of the wings based on lipid, proteins, and chitin content.
Abstract: Abstract The infrared (ATR-FTIR) and Raman spectroscopy was used for the structural characterization of honeybee wings. Protein, chitin, and lipid characteristic spectral features were detected using both methods. The protein secondary structure was predominantly composed of the β-sheet molecular conformation with β-turns or coil contributions. The vibration modes of the side-chain aromatic amino acid residues (tyrosine, phenylalanine, tryptophan) occurred in the wing spectra. The results of discriminant analysis showed that the infrared spectroscopy of the wing in combination with a multivariate analysis seemed promising for a resolution of the chemical structure of the wings based on lipid, proteins, and chitin content.
7 citations
TL;DR: Investigating whether topographic features, which determine soil nutrient and moisture distribution, in combination with soil fauna (wireworm and earthworm) presence, affect plant community composition at a spontaneously revegetated post mining area with an undulating surface infer that topography features affect nutrient and soilfauna distribution, which consequently influences the plant community community composition.
Abstract: Abstract The spoil heaps from brown coal mining without technical reclamation are interesting specific sites for ecological relationships observation. This research was aimed at investigating whether topographic features, which determine soil nutrient and moisture distribution, in combination with soil fauna (wireworm and earthworm) presence, affect plant community composition at a spontaneously revegetated post mining area with an undulating surface. Two sites of different age with three types of topographic features were selected, soil moisture and nutrient contents were measured, and plant community composition and soil macrofauna community were sampled at each position. Wireworms were present at all positions and were most abundant at the bottoms of waves at the younger site; their presence was correlated with the presence of several plant species with high palatability for wireworms, but the direction of the interaction is not clear. Earthworms were only present at the older site and had the highest abundance at flat sections. Earthworm presence affected the amount of nitrogen in soil - the highest nitrogen content was at the site with the highest earthworm density and was followed by a higher diversity of plant community. The plant community composition was generally correlated with plant available nutrient content - especially P and N. We infer that topographic features affect nutrient and soil fauna distribution, which consequently influences the plant community composition.
7 citations
TL;DR: The taxonomy of the genus Echinococcus is controversial; in the current state of ongoing complex revisions, the agent of cystic echinococcosis E. granulosus sensu lato is divided into five species, in addition to the agents of alveolar echinOCoccosis (E. multilocularis, E. shiquicus) and polycystic/unicystic E. oligarthrus.
Abstract: Abstract Species of the genus Echinococcus (Cestoda; Taeniidae) are minute tapeworms of carnivores. Their larvae are known as hydatids (metacestode), which proliferate asexually in various mammals. Like the majority of cestodes, Echinococcus spp. require two different host species to complete their life cycle. Definitive hosts harbouring the adult cestodes in the small intestine are exclusively carnivores of the Canidae and Felidae families. A wide range of mammal species including humans is susceptible to infection by the metacestode of Echinococcus spp., which develops in their viscera. The disease, caused by species of the genus Echinococcus, is called echinococcosis, and it is one of the most dangerous zoonoses in the world. The traditional species Echinococcus granulosus and Echinococcus multilocularis are agents of significant diseases due to the high number of cases and the wide geographical species range. The taxonomy of the genus is controversial; in the current state of ongoing complex revisions, the agent of cystic echinococcosis E. granulosus sensu lato is divided into five species (E. granulosus sensu stricto, E. felidis, E. equinus, E. ortleppi, E. canadensis), in addition to the agents of alveolar echinococcosis (E. multilocularis, E. shiquicus) and polycystic/unicystic echinococcosis (E. vogeli, E. oligarthrus). Here we provide an overview of the current situation, which continues to develop.
7 citations
TL;DR: In this article, an epidemiological study monitored the occurrence of the coccidia genus Eimeria and their species composition over a one-year period at an organic sheep farm in the Czech Republic.
Abstract: Abstract This epidemiological study monitored the occurrence of the coccidia genus Eimeria and their species composition over a oneyear period at an organic sheep farm in the Czech Republic. Individual faecal samples were collected from thirty lambs and thirty ewes once a month throughout the whole survey. As a result, 348 and 333 samples from ewes and lambs respectively were evaluated using the faecal flotation technique. The overall prevalence of eimeriosis was 75.7% and 54.0% for lambs and ewes respectively. Four Eimeria species (E. ovinoidalis, E. crandallis/weybridgensis, E. parva, and E. intricata) were identified in both, lambs and ewes, during this survey. The most prevalent species was E. ovinoidalis, with an overall prevalence of 84% in ewes and 85% in lambs, followed by E. parva and E. crandallis/weybridgensis. The oocysts faecal output was seasonal. The highest oocysts per gram levels were detected in February (139 000) and May (250 000) in ewes and in February (1 949 900), March (326 000), and May (187 700) in lambs. The intensity of Eimeria infection differed significantly (P < 0.0001) between ewes and lambs during the monitored period.
TL;DR: The pattern of polymorphism within the DGAT2 and BTN genes is determined to conceive their consequences within Holstein breed and it was shown that the coding SNP, p.Ala7Val, was predicted to have functional consequences on the DGat2 protein structure and function.
Abstract: This study was conducted to describe the genetic polymorphism within the bovine diacylglycerol acyltransferase 2 (DGAT2) gene and 5′-UTR of butyrophilin (BTN) gene by several in vitro tools, as well as to predict their consequences using several in silico tools. After withdrawing blood, extracting DNA, and designing specific polymerase chain reaction (PCR) primers, single-stranded conformation polymorphism (SSCP) and PCR experiments were performed. Each different SSCP set was sequenced and analyzed. Two genotypes were detected with two alleles. Concerning DGAT2, the AA genotype was the most common, and seven single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) were found in the AB genotype while four SNPs were found in the AA genotype. The only coding SNP (p.Ala7Val) was found in the AB genotype. Concerning BTN, the AB genotype was the most common, and twenty-two novel SNPs were detected in the AB genotype, while six SNPs were observed in the AA genotype. The effect of the observed coding and noncoding SNPs was computationally analyzed. It was shown that the coding SNP, p.Ala7Val, was predicted to have functional consequences on the DGAT2 protein structure and function. Several outcomes were deduced from several noncoding SNPs in both genetic fragments studied. This study determines the pattern of polymorphism within the DGAT2 and BTN genes to conceive their consequences within Holstein breed.
TL;DR: In this paper, the authors examined faecal samples of vegetarians and omnivores to evaluate the counts and occurrence of cultivable bacteria, especially bifidobacteria and lactobacilli, using cultivation on selective media, and matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization time-of-flight.
Abstract: Abstract The intestinal microbiota represents the largest and the most complex microbial community inhabiting the human body. Bifidobacteria and lactobacilli represent important commensal bacteria with the ability to utilize complex carbohydrates. The main fermentation products from the breakdown of complex dietary carbohydrates are short chain fatty acids (SCFAs). We examined faecal samples of vegetarians (n = 10) and conventional omnivores (n = 10) to evaluate the counts and occurrence of cultivable bacteria, especially bifidobacteria and lactobacilli, using cultivation on selective media, and matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization time-of-flight. Moreover, concentrations and molar proportion of SCFAs in faecal samples were measured. Total counts of Gram-negative anaerobic bacteria were significantly lower (P < 0.05) in vegetarian faecal samples, while others (total anaerobic bacteria, Bifidobacterium spp., Lactobacillus spp., Escherichia coli, and presumptive coliforms) were not. Neither total concentrations nor molar proportions of SCFAs in faecal samples differed (P > 0.05) between the diet groups. In total, six Bifidobacterium spp. and thirteen Lactobacillus spp. were detected via culture-dependent methods. Bifidobacteria counts and species composition in faecal samples of both groups were found to be relatively similar, regardless of the diet. Lactobacillus species varied more by individual diet.
TL;DR: Grass nodes play an essential role as interfaces between leaf and stem and the description of the bundle course in nodes considerably contributes to understanding of the transport of assimilates, minerals, and xenobiotics in grasses.
Abstract: Abstract Grass nodes play an essential role as interfaces between leaf and stem. The description of the bundle course in nodes considerably contributes to understanding of the transport of assimilates, minerals, and xenobiotics in grasses. Nodes and internodes of 38 species of the subfamilies Arundinoideae, Bambusoideae, Panicoideae, and Pooideae were analyzed histologically. Free-hand sections, various staining techniques, macro- and microphotography were used to reveal a few principles underlying their anatomy. In all grass species, specific nodal zones were found in which many vascular bundles undergo characteristic transformations. This transformation starts with the augmentation of xylem in lower nodal areas and continues with the formation of specific amphivasal structures providing connections with the leaf attached to the node. The anatomy of these strands, herein called vasotubuli, has not much in common with vascular bundles in internodes any more. Transverse nodal plexus strands provide many connections between bundles and vasotubuli. The nodal plexus is also an interface of sclerenchyma bundles. The nodes of most grass species are constructed very similarly with a few exceptions: the nodes of Phragmites australis (Cav.) Steud. for example have something in common with bamboo: they develop spindle-like glomeruli.
TL;DR: It is revealed that the investigated oils are not as effective as DEET, on the other hand, especially lavender showed an interesting potential as an alternative repellent for outdoor activities of shorter duration.
Abstract: Abstract This study evaluated the repellent effect of three essential oils against females of Ixodes ricinus, which is considered to be the main arthropod disease vector in Europe. The essential oils could be regarded as user- and environment-friendly alternatives to synthetic repellents. As a comparison sample, the most widely used synthetic repellent DEET was used. All the tested oils exhibited moderate to high initial repellency of 65-85% 5 min after application. The testing was terminated after 80 min, when lavender and eucalyptus repelled 45% and 15% of ticks, respectively. No effect of orange oil was observed after a 20-min mark. The effect of DEET was found to be high and stable (95-100%) throughout the experiment. This study thus revealed that the investigated oils are not as effective as DEET. On the other hand, especially lavender showed an interesting potential as an alternative repellent for outdoor activities of shorter duration.
TL;DR: A careful selection of dose and combination with other antimethanogenic compounds may be effective in mitigating methane emission from ruminants, however, if a reduction in total VFA production and dry matter digestibility persisted in vivo, geraniol would have a negative effect on animal productivity.
Abstract: Abstract The objective of this study was to determine the effects of geraniol and camphene at three dosages (300, 600, and 900 mg l-1) on rumen microbial fermentation and methane emission in in vitro batch culture of rumen fluid supplied with a 60 : 40 forage : concentrate substrate (16.2% crude protein, 33.1% neutral detergent fibre). The ionophore antibiotic monensin (8 mg/l) was used as positive control. Compared to control, geraniol significantly (P < 0.05) reduced methane production with increasing doses, with reductions by 10.2, 66.9, and 97.9%. However, total volatile fatty acids (VFA) production and in vitro dry matter digestibility were also reduced (P < 0.05) by all doses of geraniol. Camphene demonstrated weak and unpromising effects on rumen fermentation. Camphene did not decrease (P > 0.05) methane production and slightly decreased (P < 0.05) VFA production. Due to the strong antimethanogenic effect of geraniol a careful selection of dose and combination with other antimethanogenic compounds may be effective in mitigating methane emission from ruminants. However, if a reduction in total VFA production and dry matter digestibility persisted in vivo, geraniol would have a negative effect on animal productivity.
TL;DR: Virulence genes were detected among isolates with a predominance of genes R1, R3, R7, R10, and R11, and most isolates were virulent to five or more R-genes, with a mean virulence complexity of 7.7.11.
Abstract: Abstract To evaluate the frequency and stability of the occurrence of P. infestans races and mating types in the Czech Republic, 338 monosporic isolates were collected from 31 sites in different potato-growing areas from 2012 to 2014 and in 2016. In total, 142 isolates were evaluated for virulence and race structure using the detached leaflet assay on Black’s differential set, supplemented with cultivar Sarpo Mira and somatic hybrid REG 46F. With the exception of virulence for resistance genes R9 and Rpi-blb-1, all virulence genes were detected among isolates, with a predominance of genes R1, R3, R7, R10, and R11. Most isolates were virulent to five or more R-genes, with a mean virulence complexity of 7.1. Among the 38 races detected, the most commonly occurring races were 1.2.3.4.6.7.10.11 and 1.2.3.4.7.10.11. Of the 338 isolates tested by the pairing test and the cleaved amplified polymorphism sequence (CAPS) marker, 40% were of the A1 mating type and 60% were of the A2 mating type, with an A1 : A2 isolate ratio demonstrating the predominance of the A2 mating type each year of the survey.
TL;DR: In the present study, the damage of PV cells and panels was evaluated using three methods - electroluminescence, infrared camera imaging, and visual examination.
Abstract: In broken photovoltaic (PV) cells the flow of electric current can be reduced in some places, which results in a lowered efficiency. In the present study, the damage of PV cells and panels was evaluated using three methods - electroluminescence, infrared camera imaging, and visual examination. The damage is detectable by all these methods which were presented and compared from the viewpoint of resolution, difficulty, and accuracy of monitoring the PV panels damage.
TL;DR: The antimicrobial potential of cell-free supernatants of Lactobacillus acidophilus NCFM, L. rhamnosus GG and Fresco culture when cultivated alone or together against5 strains of Escherichia coli and 5 strains of Staphylococcus aureus is dealt with.
Abstract: The symbiotic interrelationship of probiotic bacteria and starter lactic acid bacteria is of fundamental importance in many fields of industrial microbiology and it is also a great interest of food technologists. This study deals with the antimicrobial potential of cell-free supernatants of Lactobacillus acidophilus NCFM, L. rhamnosus GG and Fresco culture when cultivated alone or together against 5 strains of Escherichia coli and 5 strains of Staphylococcus aureus. While the effect on E. coli was not proven (average change of final density compared to the control was only ΔNEC,₂₄ₕ = 0.12 log CFU ml⁻¹), the decrease of S. aureus final density in the presence of nisin and cell-free supernatant of L. acidophilus NCFM and Fresco culture was considerable (ΔNSA,₂₄ₕ,ₙᵢₛ₁₀ = -1.95 log CFU ml⁻¹ and ΔNSA,₂₄ₕ,NCFM₊Fᵣ₂₄ = -0.69 log CFU ml⁻¹, respectively).
TL;DR: Investigation of parasitic prevalence in giraffes housed in six major Czech zoological gardens indicates that captive giraffe in the Czech zoos are not substantially affected by parasitic infection.
Abstract: Parasite prevalence was investigated in giraffes (Giraffa camelopardalis) housed in six major Czech zoological gardens: Zoo Ostrava, Zoo Dvůr Kralove nad Labem, Zoo Liberec, Zoo Olomouc, Zoo Praha, and Zoo Plzeň. In autumn 2012 and in spring 2013, 120 faecal samples from 21 animals were examined using the McMaster egg counting technique. Propagative stages of three parasite groups were discovered, namely eggs of the nematodes of the order Strongylida (prevalence 25.8%), whipworms Trichuris spp. (prevalence 25%), and oocysts of the unicellular coccidia of the genus Eimeria (prevalence 1.7%). The results indicate that captive giraffes in the Czech zoos are not substantially affected by parasitic infection.
TL;DR: Certain essential oils, particularly their components, are highly effective and could be used for the control of postharvest bacterial pathogens.
Abstract: Antimicrobial volatile substances from plants represent alternatives to synthetic pesticides and food preservatives. In this study, the compositions of some essential oils were determined by gas chromatography with mass spectrometry, and the inhibitory properties of the essential oils and their components against the bacterial postharvest pathogens Pectobacterium carotovorum subsp. carotovorum (CCM 1008), Pseudomonas syringae (CCM 7018), Xanthomonas campestris (CCM 22) were determined by the microdilution method. Essential oils from oregano, cinnamon, lemongrass, lavender, clove, rosemary, tea tree, eucalyptus, garlic, and ginger and their components cinnamaldehyde, eugenol, thymol, and carvacrol were used in the tests. The essential oil components exhibited strong antibacterial activity against all tested bacteria. The oregano and cinnamon essential oils were most effective. The rosemary, lavender, tea tree, eucalyptus, garlic, and ginger oils were not effective at the tested concentrations. In conclusion, certain essential oils, particularly their components, are highly effective and could be used for the control of postharvest bacterial pathogens.
TL;DR: In this paper, a vertical financial analysis was performed to determine the liquidity structure at current assets and short-term debts in the agriculture sector of the Czech Republic, and then convenient indicators of current ratio, quick ratio, and cash ratio were applied and interpreted in relation to cyclical deviations and agriculture specifics.
Abstract: This article is based on empirical research and 2007–2012
statistical data from joint stock companies which were active
in the agriculture sector of the Czech Republic. It deals with
the wider aspects of liquidity and stability using suitable
liquidity indicators and a vertical financial analysis over a
sufficient period of time providing valid results for assessing
liquidity and stability of agriculture in relation to cyclic
fluctuations. The vertical financial analysis was performed to
determine the liquidity structure at current assets and short
term debts. Then convenient indicators of current ratio, quick
ratio, and cash ratio were applied and interpreted in relation
to cyclical deviations and agriculture specifics. From the
viewpoint of liquidity measured using the current ratio,
agriculture in the Czech Republic is stable and the current
ratio values bear witness to solid liquidity, whereby the
short-term assets exceed the short-term external funds.
Research is to show whether the agriculture sector is liquid
and whether the liquidity indicators provide the basis for
solvency in the given field.
TL;DR: The importance of maize genotype selection was more than two times higher than the contribution of environment and allowed interpretation of 70 and 60% of total variation of yield and quality for stover and whole plant, respectively.
Abstract: Maize genotype selection represents a practical tool influencing forage yield and quality. The main objective was to investigate the contribution of genotype, site, and year to variability of maize yield and quality in the environment of Central Europe. Totally 63 maize genotypes at 11 sites over a 7-year period were evaluated for dry matter yield (DMY), dry matter content (DM), starch, cob, neutral detergent fibre (NDF), in situ digestibility of stover NDF (NDFD), and organic matter (OMD). The genotype showed the highest variability from all factors where stover NDFD varied from 261 to 529 g kg⁻¹ and stover OMD from 376 to 609 g kg⁻¹. In contrast to the whole-plant, variability of stover traits was more closely related to NDF than the DM content. Under standardized plant DM, all tested factors were significant and allowed interpretation of 70 and 60% of total variation of yield and quality for stover and whole plant, respectively. The average contributions of genotype, site, and year were 30, 7, and 5%, respectively. For variability in plant productivity and nutritive value, the importance of maize genotype selection was more than two times higher than the contribution of environment.
TL;DR: It is concluded that the germination of P. grandis is not directly affected by high N concentrations in rain water, which can range from 10 to 13 mg N l-1 near large cities, and low concentrations of N might even slightly support the seed germination.
Abstract: Abstract Pulsatilla grandis is an endangered species in the Czech Republic and is protected in whole Europe because the number of its populations is declining. One of the possible causes is the deposition of atmospheric nitrogen. In our research, we investigated how nitrogen concentrations and seed appendage removal directly affect the species’ seed germination.Seeds were allowed to germinate under laboratory conditions in water solutions of NH4NO3 ranging in concentration from 0 to 4239 mg N l-1. They were able to germinate up to the concentration of 848 mg N l-1 even when covered with mycelium, which supports the idea that they can tolerate being strongly infected by fungi. We also found a significant positive effect of seed appendage removal on seed germination. Seeds without appendages germinated, on the average, with 11% greater probability, compared to seeds with appendages. We conclude that the germination of P. grandis is not directly affected by high N concentrations in rain water, which can range from 10 to 13 mg N l-1 near large cities. Surprisingly, low concentrations of N (up to 34 mg N l-1) might even slightly support the seed germination of P. grandis. The negative effect of N deposition on seeds is indirect and acts in conjunction with the absence of management at localities.
TL;DR: Moduli of deformation of compressed feed pea, lupine, and soybean at an applied force of 100 kN were 269.7, 306.3, and 455.2 MPa, indicating the proportionate resistance of the crop materials to compressive strain.
Abstract: Abstract The behaviours of constrained bulk columns of seeds of 3 important leguminous feed crops under compressive force applied at a uniform rate of 10 mm min-1 up to 100 kN at ≈ 9% moisture content (in dry basis) were studied to establish parameters which are relevant to the design of equipment for achieving product densification. Deformation varied significantly (P < 0.02) with crop type and was the highest in lupine seeds. Feed pea had the highest strain resistance value. Both deformation energy and volume energy requirements varied significantly (P < 0.0001) with crop type. Moduli of deformation of compressed feed pea, lupine, and soybean at an applied force of 100 kN were 269.7, 306.3, and 455.2 MPa, indicating the proportionate resistance of the crop materials to compressive strain. Precisely 4.43, 3.76, and 3.15 MJ m-3 are required to achieve 56.7, 77.0, and 67.7% or 461.7, 539.3, and 500.4 kg m-3 gains in bulk density in feed pea, lupine, and soybean, respectively. Deformation and volume energy demands correlated negatively (r = -0.934 and r = -0.78) with lipid presence. Crops with more oil appeared to deform more easily under compressive force. Higher deformations and lower energy demands may be possible at optimal combinations of force, product moisture, and depth.
TL;DR: The present study of S-genotyping in the wild cherry population reveals the genetic diversity structure of natural populations and hopefully will help define the breeding strategy including more accurate planning activities such as the optimal seed design of orchards.
Abstract: Abstract Wild cherry (Prunus avium L.) S-genotyping is aimed to uncover and thus make it possible to select appropriate genotypes applicable in establishing commercial plantations and advanced forest tree breeding activities. The general and long-term aim is to increase genetic gain in economically valuable traits while maintaining sufficient genetic variability (represented by diverse S-alleles in population). We genotyped 123 accessions from wild cherry growing areas in the Czech Republic using polymerase chain reaction based length polymorphisms detection of S-RNase and SFB genes. The studied plant material revealed 18 different S-haplotypes, 54 S-genotypes corresponded to 25 defined incompatibility groups of cultivated sweet cherry. Eighteen unique S-genotypes were designated to group ‘0’ as a universal pollinator. Eleven new incompatibility groups were found out, of which four were cross-compatible with sweet cherry cultivars. The most frequent was a new incompatibility group S14S21 followed by the group S12S14. The haplotypes S14 (13%) and S1 (10%) were the most frequent whereas S20 was less frequent in the wild populations of cherry. The present study of S-genotyping in the wild cherry population reveals the genetic diversity structure of natural populations and hopefully will help define the breeding strategy including more accurate planning activities such as the optimal seed design of orchards.
TL;DR: The model diet for people with celiac disease exceeded the recommended daily intake of protein and undervalued lipid ingestion and met the women’s needs, but there were still 2100 kJ missing for men.
Abstract: A questionnaire survey was conducted among people with celiac disease. Questions were focused on dietary foods available and the preference of suitable grain food species. A one-week diet menu was prepared for the participants of the survey. Daily intake of major nutrients and energy was determined. Supermarkets have the largest selection of dietary foods, although in a narrow range. Celiac patients often rely on themselves to make and prepare food. The majority of respondents (57%) considered dietary restrictions as burdening; 43% have adapted to this situation. Food made of rice was the most popular among cereal foods for 50% of respondents, corn for 39%, and buckwheat and millet for only 7% of respondents. Nobody classified amaranth as the most popular food. The model diet for people with celiac disease exceeded the recommended daily intake of protein and undervalued lipid ingestion. This problem was mainly caused by the food composition of the evening meal. Total daily energy intake of 9900 kJ met the women’s needs. There were still 2100 kJ missing for men. The terms ‘gluten-free food or diet’ and ‘gliadin content’, which generally relate to the products of wheat, rye, oats, and triticale, are not accurate.
TL;DR: The GDP demands for BUA indicator showed that the cessation of economic growth after 2008 slowed the process of decoupling of GDP from the BUA, and despite the low GDP in the Czech Republic, the indicator GDP demands For BUA attains lower values than for Austria or Belgium.
Abstract: Abstract The present research is focused on built-up area (BUA) monitoring. The continental landscape is becoming a limited resource in today’s world, much the same as some materials and energy resources. The goal was to design simple indicators that are compatible with environmental indicators used in the analysis of material and energy flows. We have consequently proposed the indicators BUA per person and gross domestic product (GDP) demands for total BUA. We have used these indicators to evaluate the development in the Czech Republic and the situation in the EU-27 countries. The development in the Czech Republic shows a moderately smooth decrease in the BUA per person indicator value. The GDP demands for BUA indicator showed that the cessation of economic growth after 2008 slowed the process of decoupling of GDP from the BUA. Despite the low GDP in the Czech Republic, the indicator GDP demands for BUA attains lower values than for Austria or Belgium.
TL;DR: The results extend the knowledge on the distribution of both ribotypes of P. graminis and provide the first evidence of f.
Abstract: Abstract It has been shown that two formae speciales of P. graminis, namely f. sp. temperata (ribotype Pg-I) and f. sp. tepida (ribotype Pg-II), are widely distributed throughout temperate areas of Europe. In this study, the presence of both forms of the temperate Polymyxa spp. was identified in soil samples from different locations of the Czech Republic during a survey performed in 2012 and 2013. Based on polymerase chain reaction results, of the total 58 tested samples, 67.2% contained at least one monitored forma specialis. Specifically, P. graminis f. sp. temperata was detected in 48.3% of soil samples, while P. graminis f. sp. tepida was detected in 44.8% of samples. Mixed populations were found in 25.9% of the tested areas. This plasmodiophorid was confirmed not only in crop fields but also in meadows and forests in all explored regions. Our results extend the knowledge on the distribution of both ribotypes of P. graminis and provide the first evidence of f. sp. tepida within the Czech Republic.
TL;DR: In this paper, the authors found that the leaves of A. pseudoplatanus were favorable habitats for both Euseius finlandicus and N. tuberculata, and that N. aceri, the most common species, was dominant and frequently present on leaves of both A. platanoides and A. campestre.
Abstract: Abstract Phytoseiid mite communities on Acer pseudoplatanus, A. platanoides, and A. campestre were monitored in 2013-2014. Totally 3657 specimens of phytoseiid mites belonging to seven species (Euseius finlandicus, Neoseiulella aceri, N. tuberculata, Typhlodromus (Typhlodromus) pyri, Paraseiulus soleiger, P. triporus, and Phytoseius echinus) were found on the examined maple leaves. N. aceri, the most common species, was dominant and frequently present on the leaves of both A. platanoides and A. campestre. The leaves of A. pseudoplatanus were favourable habitats for both E. finlandicus and N. tuberculata. Thus, maple trees may serve as suitable host plants for some native phytoseiid mites, particularly N. aceri and E. finlandicus.