Prathamesh Gorawala – författare

Agricultural Research Updates. Volume 23 opens with a study wherein cryoprotectants such as hydrocolloids, kappa- and iota-carrageenans, xanthan gum and dairy proteins were added to mashed potatoes to investigate ways of improving the effects of freezing and thawing. Samples containing 0.5 and 1.5 g kg-1 added XG were preferred organoleptically due to the creamy mouthfeel they produced, and the instrumental texture profile analysis consistency correlated well with sensory texture attributes. Following this, the authors present the results of some noticeable studies on organic agriculture and innovative crops are discussed as a strategy reducing the risks of climate change on animal feed supplies. During the last two decades, several studies have been conducted on the evaluation of the growth performance and quality of crops under the organic cropping system, with the obtained results suggesting that in many cases yield and quality were comparable between organic and conventional systems. Also in this book, a study is included in which it is concluded that wintering root systems of the goldenrod type protect themselves from metal stress caused by basipetally obtruded excess minerals, as well as reduce the mineral load to the root functional level via exudation rather than to act as a sink for macro- and micronutrients. This means that these perennials share an immediate dependence on the availability of soil minerals with annual plants. In the conserving nutrients released by herbage and roots, the buffering capacity of the soil that is commonly improved by perennial plant covers may be more essential than any internal root storage potential. Later, the authors examine the present knowledge concerning silage quality, in relation to the wilting degree and ensilability characteristics of some grass silages or haylages, for the following crops: lucerne, red clover, sulla, sainfoin, galega, foxtail millet, orchardgrass, and chia. Afterwards, the authors discuss the Peterhof genetic collection of rye, created over the past 60 years and initially under the direction of V. S. Fedorov. The collection includes accessions with individual morphological mutations and their combinations, the meiotic mutants, inbred lines with identified mutations of self-compatibility. The close linkage of self-compatible mutation in the locus S with isozyme marker Prx7 suggests a scheme for the introduction of individual selection for improvement and differentiation of rye varieties. The subsequent study aimed to compare the retail yield quality of meat from young bulls and steers fed diets based on mycorrhizal (Myc) and conventional corn (Conv). The trial was carried out on the meat of 10 steers received a Myc corn diet, 10 steers and 10 bulls received a conventional corn diet. The chemical composition of meat, in particular the fatty acid (FA) profile and the rheological characteristics, such as meat cooking shrinkage, together with the Vis-NIR-IR properties of the thawed and the freeze-dried specimens were evaluated. In an additional study, the authors suggest that efficiency payments in Swiss agriculture show that such payments have complex side-effects, casting doubt on their overall positive contribution. A structural equation model, based on a survey of Swiss farmers, shows that promoting no-tillage leads to greater use of glyphosate and that other programs lead to over-mechanization and increased pressure on the soil. In the concluding study, CAD models were subjected to a FEA to determine whether they support the intended workloads (static analysis), and therefore, to ascertain whether the design is well dimensioned or would not withstand operating conditions. The results for stress distribution, deformation, displacement, and safety coefficient demonstrate that although the press works properly, it is oversized and its design could be optimized to save manufacturing costs.

Agricultural Research Updates. Volume 24 begins with a mention of various features of maize chromosomes such as cytological mapping of meiotic chromosomes, heterochromatic knobs, centromeres, neocentromeres and DNA content in the maize genome. The authors report on the variability of tropical maize chromosomes and on chromosomal alterations in maize karyotype that occurred in callus cultures.Next, the authors present an overview of reports addressing the successful development of rhizobial strains that are symbiotically more efficient by overexpression of single or multiple genes, directly or indirectly associated to the symbiotic process, such as nodulation, nitrogen fixation, stress response and phytohormone production genes among others.The main objective is of the following chapter is to evaluate the performance of 42 olive varieties in low water conditions and to infer the relationships between the leaf parameters and other variables. The findings of this study provide supplementary information about the performance of olive varieties cultivated intensively under low water conditions and what leaf indices can be used to evaluate their responses.A chained set of trials was conducted and described with the aim of studying whether corn fertilized by Arbuscular Mycorrhiza could influence crop yields, affect mycotoxins and modify poultry and pig meat production, in the short term, or after a long period of storage. Two experiments conducted in corn fields treated with a commercial bio-fertilizer have shown that the yield can be improved and that the resistance to fungal attacks had significantly increased.Additionally, the authors aim to develop and evaluate the cosmetic performance of emulsions containing oils and vegetable butter from Brazilian organic agriculture, verifying the influence of these emollients on the physical-chemical and sensory stability of cosmetic formulations. This is the first study investigating these raw materials from Brazilian organic agriculture in emulgel-type cosmetic formulations.The next chapter describes a new no-contact method of determining bird mass that does not have the deficiencies of old-fashioned automatic weighing platforms in the poultry industry. The method is based on computer processing of digital top-down images of the birds automatically taken with a camera mounted on the ceiling of a poultry house.Salacca edulis is known to possess flavonoids, flavanol, tannin, anthocyanin, ascorbic acid, alkaloid and antioxidants which may make it important in disease prevention. The authors aim to assess the long-term impact of S. edulis intake on specific populations and their functionality claims.In the closing study, four native Bradyrhizobium isolates (NRI1, NRI2, NRI3, and NRI4) obtained from field trap cultures set in acidic soils of Embu and Tharaka Nithi County, Kenya and a commercial inoculant (USDA 110), were examined for acid tolerance on yeast extract mannitol agar at pH levels of 3, 5, 7 and 9. Moreover, the isolates were examined for nitrogen fixation potential in greenhouse bioassays using limed and non-limed field soil.

Among management systems that are intended to prevent soil erosion or degradation is the no-tillage system which allows for the accumulation of vegetal material of plant material on the surface, over which the next crop will be sown or planted. Agricultural Research Updates. Volume 25 opens with a presentation of the results of research on different sustainable systems of soybean and maize production in northwest Sao Paulo. Following this, the authors review the feasibility, convenience and challenges accompanying various drying technologie from conventional methods (sun drying, hot air-drying, vaccum drying and freeze drying) to smart drying technologies (hybrid drying, near infrared reflectance, refractance window drying amd ultrasonic drying). Other topics reviewed in this compilation include packaging antioxidant activity that prevents food tainting; packaging antimicrobial properties that prevent food contamination; and packaging biodegradability to meet environmental protection requirements. Next, the authors investigate the occurrence, characterization and survivability of two pathogenic vibrios, namely Vibrio cholerae and Vibrio parahaemolyticus in fish-based street food. The detection of these two pathogens is completed using Loop mediated isothermal amplification, multiplex polymerase chain reaction and thiosulphate citrate bile-salt sucrose. The following study aims to investigate the prevalence and characteristics of toxigenic Campylobacter jejuni in ulam (Malaysian salad vegetables) at retail outlets in Terengganu. The prevalence of these genes at retail outlets is determined by multiplex-PCR/the charcoal cefoperazone deoxycholate agar method for 123 vegetable samples. The authors close by describing a recent technology in stimulating glucosinolates concentrations in Brassica plants using recycled animal manures. This need for natural fumigants in horticultural crops has increased due to the national prohibition of synthetic soil fumigants such as methyl bromide and ethylene dibromide.

Agricultural Research Updates. Volume 26 opens with a discussion about various control methods used in cowpea integrated pest management. Cowpea is one of the most widely adapted and nutritious legumes. The high content of carbohydrates and proteins makes it very important for human consumption. Several pests, especially insects, can cause yield losses ranging from 10-100%. The following study explores the global panorama of the use of chemical herbicides, as well as promising technologies for weed control. The authors also discuss the genetic improvement of plants and biocontrol by innovative methods that can reduce cases of resistance, considering aspects like efficiency, viability and environmental benefits. An exhaustive focus on toxic metals is provided, particularly on analytical methodologies suitable to detect these metals in Camellia sinensis. Various analytical techniques and procedures employed are critically discussed, and special attention is paid to the analytical performance in terms of accuracy and detectability. Following this, the functionalities of lemon peel are investigated, and the effectiveness of applying subcritical water treatment to the insoluble fractions is examined. Lemon peel is usually discarded as industrial waste, despite having a strong flavor and containing abundant oils and fibrous components, largely due to the challenges associated with using its insoluble polymeric components in chemical products. Agricultural production is the main livelihood to a majority of the population and a lead contributor to economy in most sub-Saharan countries. In Kenya, agriculture accounts for 65% of the national exports and 70% of informal employment in rural Kenya. As such, the authors aim to establish key crops and livestock in Kenya, examine constraints and opportunities along the value chain, and review the role of institutions in the agricultural sector.

The aim of the opening chapter of Agricultural Research Updates. Volume 27 is to discuss the role of phenolic compounds in the interactions of plants with abiotic stress, with special attention paid to their antioxidant properties. The second chapter attempts to assess the sustainability level of different types of agro-ecosystems in Bulgaria. A holistic hierarchical framework for measuring the integral, economic, social and ecological sustainability of agro-ecosystems in Bulgaria is proposed. Following this, a study is presented with the goal of identifying and evaluating social and economic sustainability indices in corn production. Statistical regression models were derived to estimate summer precipitation in a single location derived using lineal backward regression techniques, and the different efficiency between the derived models was analyzed. Next, an analytical Fourier series solution to the equation for heat transfer by conduction in a spherical shell with an internal stone consisting of insulating material is presented, and an internal heat source linearly reliant on temperature is considered as a model of conduction of heat in stone fruits. The subsequent study analyses the effects of certain parameters on the baking properties of wheat in years with different weather conditions. The results indicate statistically significant correlation coefficients between protein content, wet gluten content, alveograph properties, exstensograph properties and bread loaf volume. Lastly, a summary of recent knowledge is evaluated in order to contribute to a better understanding of how farming practices affect berry composition and consequently, the sensory characteristics of raspberries.

In the opening study of Agricultural Research Updates. Volume 28, the capillarigation system’s applications in vertical gardens were explored. The vertical garden model was designed for growing vegetables in home yards or within the vicinity of farming households, so they can have a regular supply of safe and nutritious food, especially during periods where water supply is scarce, excessive, or when maximizing the use of stored rainwater or kitchen wastewater. Next, this compilation describes recent progress and findings on the physiology of petal growth in cut rose flowers. To increase the ornamental value of cut roses, it is desirable that the timeframe for complete flower opening be relatively slow; therefore, understanding the mechanism by which rose flowers open is necessary to improve flower quality. The objective of the subsequent chapter is to present some recent findings about the influence of processing operations on the properties and bioactive compounds in carrots. To achieve this, different pre-treatments and processing operations are discussed, and their effects on some typical carrot products are described. Additionally, the authors discuss theoretical aspects and recent developments in ready-to-eat spinach, with the goal of improving the preservation of nutritional quality after harvest and extending its shelf-life. The authors also analyze 30 samples of fresh, frozen and IV range spinach, with the aim of identifying and quantifying nitrate and nitrite levels. Following this, a study is presented on the scientific validation of the medicinal and edible utility of fruits of A. moschatus using standard protocols sin order to account for potential commercial utilization. About 15 nutritional and five anti-nutritional constituents of the fruits of A. moschatus were tested and compared with those found in A. esculentus. In the penultimate chapter, the authors describe the current global status of conservation of cattle genetic resources and the cryo-technologies that are available to facilitate the protection of bovine genetic diversity. Worldwide adoption of such a policy has led to unique adaptations by cattle to a variety of local environments. The final chapter summarizes the following research progresses: the structure and components of Nox complex, the functions of these components, and control strategies for B. cinerea.

Agricultural Research Updates. Volume 29 opens with information on wild edible plants commonly consumed by Jordanians and people of other neighboring countries. The presented plant spp. are among hundreds of wild edible species recorded in Jordan, are regarded as partially or totally consumable, and are usually used in food and medicine. The authors discuss various aspects of species complications among Phytophthora, and discuss the way these complications could be addressed through a better understanding of the biology, diversity, ecology, and taxonomic relationships between species. In one study, thirty African yam bean genotypes were evaluated for grain yield in a randomized complete block design of three replications in four agroecologies of Nigeria. Across the four locations, a mean yield of 1019Kg/ha was obtained. A mixed model was employed to access variability among the 30 genotypes and four locations. Lastly, this collection reviews the applications of size-exclusion chromatography in the fractionation of fructans and in the determination of their molecular weight, size, intrinsic viscosity and degree of branching.

Agricultural Research Updates. Volume 30 provides a detailed update on the production of salt-tolerant plants through molecular breeding and genetic engineering. Future prospects and concerns, along with the importance of novel techniques elucidating the genetic basis of salt-tolerance are also discussed. Next, a holistic framework for understanding and assessing the governance sustainability of Bulgarian agriculture is presented. This new approach is tested through a large-scale study for assessing the governance sustainability of a country’s agriculture at national, sectoral, regional, eco-system and farm levels. The authors go on to study the influence of abiotic factors such as temperature and water potential on the growth of E. turcicum on different crop residues used in rotations with maize under no-till system cultivation. In addition, strategies for minimizing food waste proposed by different organizations and countries that face the common challenge of achieving the participation of all sectors of society are analyzed. Later, male organ development in Brassica oleracea contributing the embryology of the Brassicaceae family is investigated, along with the beginning, advanced and final stages of programmed cell death in anther cell walls by cytochemical, biochemical and molecular processes. Two investigations were carried out in northwest Italy in an effort to highlight the importance of tannin quantity and quality on pastures, particularly focusing on the way this can affect milk quality during the grazing season due to changes in nutritional composition. The closing study focuses on Cannabis sativa L., or hemp, an annual, dioecious plants distributed especially in the northern hemisphere. Hemp plant contains at least 113 different phytocannabinoids and a diverse class of psychoactive compounds.

This compilation opens with a review of water productivity throughout the world, which may be a useful tool for water users and governments to establish their programs and strategies. The authors present the main technical aspects of modern surface irrigation systems, their capabilities for reducing water demand, and challenges for increasing water productivity. Additionally, the agronomic production, nutritional composition, human health benefits, nutritional breeding, and marketing opportunities regarding kale are reviewed. In one study, the authors attempt to characterize a hamburger sandwich made from cashew stalk, oat bran and cashew nut emulsion through an experimental study carried out between March and May of 2017. Subsequently, the histological factors of salt tolerance in arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi inoculated strawberry plants are evaluated. The authors provide an overview of the functionality of milk components in chocolate as well as the applications of milk powders in the manufacture of chocolate.

This compilation opens with a review of the past and present literature related to conservation tillage practices in durum wheat production and analyses the problems that arise from conservation tillage practices. Additionally, drought and salt tolerance are evaluated at an early stage of plant development in a collection of nine cultivated durum wheat cultivars (Triticum durum Desf.), using plants grown under hydroponic conditions. The role of linear discriminant analysis and related chemometric methods in combination with liquid chromatography for the characterization, classification and authentication of foodstuffs and beverages is addressed. The authors investigate the prevalence of Campylobacter jejuni and its toxin genes, namely the cytolethal distending toxin gene, in selected vegetables that are commonly consumed raw in Kuala Terengganu, Malaysia. The Campylobacter jejuni isolated from selected vegetables is characterized against 10 types of antibiotics from six classes commonly used in clinical and agricultural settings, namely aminoglycosides, fluoroquinolones, glycopeptides, macrolides, beta-lactams, and tetracyclines. The closing paper discusses the case of the kwebo, a low-cost, multi-purpose farm structure designed to be typhoon-resistant yet easy to construct, making use of prefabricated structural elements and construction aids.

Chapter one discusses the current information about the changes in chickpea’s nutritional value and health benefits given by its components after applying different kinds of food processes. In the second chapter, the authors suggest a holistic framework for defining, evaluating and improving the governance of agroecosystem services in Bulgaria. The interdisciplinary Theory of Ecosystem Services and the New Institutional Economy are adapted, and an attempt is made to define the governance of agroecosystem services, to identify its agents, forms and mechanisms, to formulate an adequate criterion for evaluating its efficiency, and to characterize the stages for its analysis and improvement. The aim of the third chapter was to develop a new “ready-to-eat” semi-solid CF product by using HHP at 600 MPa and 50°C for 15 or 25 min combined with final microwave heating prior to consumption. Eight combinations with a formulation that includes raw or toasted CF, with or without lemon juice, were evaluated using physicochemical (color and protein content, mechanical and rheological behavior), microbiological and sensory analyses. Subtropical Scientific Centre scientists (Sochi, Russia) have a task to select the most promising peach varieties of early, average and late maturation that are grown in the region. The timing of fruit maturation depends on the climatic conditions of the area, so in chapter four authors gave a brief description of the varieties, based on their maturation time in the humid subtropics of Russia. Chapter five, the authors discuss how they came to the conclusion that using the plant growth regulators in okra may be an effective strategy for improving growth, yield, and quality production. In the last chapter, authors perform a study using anadenanthera colubrina var. cebil (leguminosae) to determine that the dynamic integration of the species biology, spatial ecology, and historical demographic events will provide valuable tools for a multi-scale understanding of gene dispersal processes and their consequences on genetic variability distribution.

This compilation begins by analyzing seed development in sunflowers, exploring in detail the molecular activity of sunflower seeds throughout their three phases of development. Chapter Two describes the nutraceutical values of Fenugreek, an annual herb native to southern Europe and Asia which is used in medicinal and nutritional contexts. Chapter Three discusses the necessity of pest management in agriculture and the negative consequences of pesticides, including health and environmental effects as well as the emergence of resistance in pests, and how innovations in the development of bio-pesticides can address these problems. Chapter Four presents the use of nanomaterials for production, protection, and quality improvement in Cucumis melo, a species of melon that has been developed into many cultivated varieties. Chapter Five also deals with Cucumis melo and discusses how breeding based on advanced molecular sequencing techniques can improve fruit quality. Finally, Chapter Six reviews the physiological and biochemical effects of Zinc stress on radish (Raphanus sativus L.), an economically important vegetable crop worldwide.

This monograph contains six chapters, each of which provides an update in agricultural research. Chapter One describes the potential health benefits of Morus alba, known colloquially as mulberry, which include its qualities as an antioxidant and antidepressant. Chapter Two deals with the impact of droughts, which are increasing in severity due to climate change, on sugarcane production as well as potential drought response measures. Chapter Three also concerns sugarcane, specifically in connection with the narrow genetic base of current sugarcane varieties and possible solutions for improving genetic diversity. Chapter Four provides an overview of the use of chamomile as a natural food additive for livestock as an alternative to the use of antibiotics in animal diets. Chapter Five discusses the issue of fraudulent practices in food production, such as dilution, tampering, and misrepresentation, and discusses strategies for reducing this problem globally. Finally, Chapter Six details the major diseases of brinjal, also called eggplant, and how to manage them.

This four-chapter monograph provides updates in the field of agricultural research. Chapter One assesses the risks to human health and the environment posed by potentially toxic elements in the soil-grapevine-air systems of vineyards. Chapter Two describes the optimal techniques for proper crop rotation based on factors such as the local economy, soil, weather, and logistics, particularly in the northwestern region of the cold temperate Canadian prairies. Chapter Three describes three research products that were developed to study sustainable agriculture production systems. Chapter Four focuses on the role of PM H+-ATPases in plant growth and development, addressing their participation in cell expansion, axillary bud outgrowth, pollen tube growth and potato tuberization.

This monograph consists of seven chapters that provide unique perspectives concerning issues related to agricultural research. Chapter One reviews techniques for the conversion of liquid digestate into solid products through pelletization, granulation, and other emerging technologies. Chapter Two compiles information on the benefits and potential risks of livestock waste treatment by composting and anaerobic digestion and discusses the effects of livestock compost and digested slurry on yield and quality of fresh-market tomatoes and rice grown in northern Japan. Chapter Three focuses on different systems of cyanobacteria that aid in sustainable agricultural practices. Chapter Four assesses the peer-reviewed literature concerning the effects of agricultural intensification on the conservation status of reptiles in Mediterranean woody crops. Chapter Five describes the preparation and mode of action of edible vaccines, as well as their application in areas such as cancer therapy, birth control, inhibiting autoimmune diseases, recombinant drug therapy, and more. Chapter Six reviews the value of essential oils as natural antimicrobial agents for increasing the shelf life and safety of minimally processed food. Finally, Chapter Seven discusses the methods and scope of plant genetic engineering as well as the applications, advantages and effects of genetically engineered plants on human health and the environment.

This edited volume presents five chapters, each detailing recent updates in agricultural research. Chapter One studies acaricidal neuronal activity from the perspective of molecular level interactions with receptor-proteins. Chapter Two deals with the use of omics technologies for developing soybean cultivars with improved seed longevity and permeability. Chapter Three summarizes the results of two investigations of various nutritional properties of the aerial parts of soybean cultivar Eiko at seven stages classified as vegetative stages and reproductive stages during the 2014 growing season. Chapter Four describes the production of crocin and its potential as a biocolorant in polymer products. Lastly, Chapter Five discusses the relationships between aphids and plants as well as strategies for following and controlling aphid behavior.

This volume includes some of the latest advancements in agricultural research. Chapter One deals with some of the antioxidant and antimicrobial activity of Rosmarinus officinalis L. Chapter Two presents an overview of the different genetic resources available for breeders of rosemary. Chapter Three explores different methods of controlling root rot in avocados. Chapter Four describes the main sources of histamine in food and the analytical methods for its detection. Chapter Five evaluates the influence of inoculating native Colombian arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi spores isolated from an avocado crop on the growth, physical and anatomical characteristics of corn seedlings. Chapter Six aims to determine in vitro the antifungal potential of the essential oils (EO) of Lippia alba and Lippia origanoides on the mycelial growth of Fusarium sp., Pythium sp., and Phytophthora sp. Chapter Seven isolates and evaluates the growth-promoting capacity of rhizospheric bacteria associated with avocado plantations. Chapter Eight explains the development of solid-liquid extraction, flocculation and adsorption for obtaining steviol glycosides from the leaves of Stevia rebaudiana. Chapter Nine focuses on flocculation for the clarification of Stevia rebaudiana aqueous extract.

This volume includes seven chapters that present recent updates in the field of agricultural research. Chapter One discusses the role of stress-responsive genes and protein kinases in Arabidopsis thaliana to overcome abiotic stress. Chapter Two provides an overview of the cultivation and production of almonds, as well as the characteristics and composition of the seed. Chapter Three describes the botanical and chemical properties as well as usage areas and health effects of the Stevia rebaudiana plant. Chapter Four argues that GMO-free RNAi crops can contribute immensely towards sustainable agriculture and global food security in the near future. Chapter Five analyzes the agricultural conditions of Kalapara Upazila's five unions and eight mouzas. Chapter Six discusses eco-friendly management strategies of diseases and insect pests of mushrooms. Lastly, Chapter Seven studies fungi of the genus Fusarium and their impact as a pathogen on cereals in Russia.

This volume includes eight chapters that provide updates in agricultural research. Chapter One elucidates utilization of refined soybean oil and the by-products from the refinery process relating to food production. Chapter Two deals with the use of single 6-benzylaminopurine spray to increase biomass accumulation in cacti. Chapter Three examines the governance efficiency of agricultural farms in Bulgaria. Chapter Four highlights the contribution of organic matter in traditional soil fertility management practices. Chapter Five addresses the potential of saponins in mycorrhizal plants for enhancing biosynthesis. Chapter Six examines the influence of arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi on growth and secondary metabolites on herbs including oregano, sage, basil, and others. Chapter Seven explicates the different aspects of soil fertility and its importance in agriculture. Lastly, Chapter Eight evaluates the extraction of polyphenols of some agro-industrial co-products with soybean oil as solvent to enhance antioxidant properties.

This volume includes eight chapters that provide updates in agricultural research. Chapter One focuses on elaborating the rice straw characteristics and its sustenance as a valuable material for commercial, industrial and environmental applications. Chapter Two aims to provide a literature review that assesses the role of ruminants, particularly cattle, for smallholder farmers in an integrated farming system and its economic impacts. Chapter Three aims to analyze the effect of fermented silage diets using agroindustrial by-products on milk production and cheese characteristics. Chapter Four describes the application of different machine learning algorithms in banana production systems in Venezuela. Chapter 5 shows an overview of published research studies about the features of nettle source, the extraction methodologies employed to obtain vegetable extracts, their bioactive chemical composition as well as some of their viable exploitation targets in order to summarize updated information for future development investigations on this plant. Chapter 6 investigates the competency factors influencing agricultural programmes. Chapter 7 examines the repercussions of climate change on production systems in small ruminants. Finally, in Chapter 8, the potential applications of drones for livestock management is discussed.

This book contains seven selected articles on the topic of agricultural research.. Chapter One is a resource and assessment and technological review of the production of biodiesel from spent coffee ground lipids. Chapter Two is a state of the art review of mango fruit aroma compounds. Chapter Three is a review of the Indian scenario and perspectives on non-edible oilseeds storage for biodiesel. Chapter Four examines new research on bioethanol production through agro-industrial wastewaters as feedstocks. Chapter Five explores Mentha piperita essential oil as an effective biopesticide against mosquitoes. Chapter Six reviews a simulation for controlling and predicting grain aeration effects. Finally, Chapter Seven is a comparison of genome-wide association studies in multi environmental trials.

This book provides the latest developments in agricultural research.

This volume contains nine chapters that detail updates in agricultural research. Chapter One summarizes the effects of climate change on agriculture, livestock production, the post-harvest management of fresh produce, food quality, and food security. Chapter Two adapts the interdisciplinary methodology of the New Institutional Economics and makes an analysis and assessment of the institutional structure of WTP sludge utilization in Bulgarian agriculture. Chapter Three discusses the availability of the generated transcriptome data for abiotic stress response in pigeon peas. Chapter Four describes the characterization of extra cellular enzymes from nematophagous fungi, the expression and regulation of some enzymes, and the genome and proteomic analyses of the nematode-trapping fungi. Chapter Five discusses plant growth regulators. Chapter Six presents the advantages and disadvantages of calcareous soils. Chapter Seven explains some of the important issues related to fungicides. Chapter Eight discusses the issue of diffuse pollution in Turkey’s livestock production. Lastly, Chapter Nine studies the distribution of nucleosomes in the basic topology of chromosomes, as well as the states of mitDNA and the effect of shock low temperatures on genes.

This volume contains nine chapters that detail advances in agricultural research. Chapter One presents studies on the impact of the ecologically friendly polycomponent microbial biostimulants on physiological and molecular-genetic characteristics of growth and development of crops like wheat and potato. Chapter Two brings together a collection of information on nitrogen management in forage crops. Chapter Three attempts to underscore the recent advances in biostimulants’ effects on date palm and durum wheat under favorable and drought stress conditions. Chapter Four focuses on the role of natural biostimulants in improving agricultural productivity in the Mediterranean region. Chapter Five addresses questions related to biotic and abiotic stress, and their role in plants. Chapter Six reflects on the relevance of rural identity as a potential development factor in areas with low economic dynamism and strong social and economic imbalances. Chapter Seven suggests a holistic framework for assessing farms’ competitiveness, taking into account economic, financial, and governance efficiency, and evaluates absolute and comparative competitiveness of governing structures of Bulgarian farming. Chapter Eight addresses the use, dosage and application of tocopherol in agricultural crops. Lastly, Chapter Nine discusses rethinking farm structure designs for climate change adaptation.