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The Mangalitsa pig breed is considered one of the oldest pig breeds in Europe. By the end of the 19th century, Mangalitsa pigs were the main breed of pigs raised in Europe, being fattened to a weight of 250 - 300 kg, primarily for fat. Although it was not created in our country, Mangalitsa is considered a local breed because it has been raised on our territory since ancient times, during which it has perfectly adapted to our natural and breeding conditions. This paper presents results obtained from the analysis of the technological properties of pork meat from the Mangalitsa breed, originating from pigs of different ages, of both sexes. The study analyzed the rate of losses due to refrigeration, freezing and thawing, as well as the rate of losses due to frying and boiling the pork meat from the Mangalitsa breed. In most cases, the results showed a higher percentage of losses in younger specimens, which had a lower degree of fattening. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mangalilsa is one of the old-type breeds, formed several centuries ago by crossing primitive European and Asian pigs. This breed was introduced to Romania from Serbia in the 19th century, being specialized for fat production. In our country, the Mangalitsa pig breed was exploited until the 1950s, after which the number of pigs of this breed drastically decreased due to the growth of breeds and hybrids with high productive performance, as well as changes in the population's consumption habits. This study presents a series of data obtained from the analysis of the physico-chemical properties of pork meat from the Mangalitsa breed, originating from different varieties raised in the NE area of the country. The biological material used for this study consisted of pigs from the Mangalitsa breed, originating from 3 different varieties, namely the blonde variety, the red variety, and the swallow-belly variety. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of this study was to demonstrate the efficacy of the herbicide Resital Duo (SE) against the weed Polygonum aviculare, from a winter wheat crop. The observations were made in a wheat crop located in the western part of Romania, respectively in the Western Plain. Research has been conducted during the agricultural years 2022-2023, and included determinations on the effects of vegetation treatments with the herbicide product Resital Duo (SE) (452.42 g/l 2.4-D 2-Ethylhexyl Ester (EHE) + 6.25 g/l Florasulam.), applied in 4 variants and 3 different doses (untrated, 0.2 l / ha, 0.4 l / ha, 0.6 l / ha. Therefore, a monofactorial experience was set up in the field, placed according to the method of randomized blocks, in four repetitions. 15 days after application of Resital Duo (SE) (452.42 g / l 2.4- D 2-Ethylhexyl Ester EHE) + 6.25 g / l Florasulam), the most effective treatments in experience were variant 3 (0.4 l / ha) and variant 4 (0.6 l / ha), with an efficacy of 57.5%, respectively 77.5%. After 30 days of the application of the Resital Duo (SE) product, the most effective treatments in our experience were both variant 3 (0.4 l/ha) and variant 4 (0.6 l/ha), which accumulated an efficacy of 92.5%, respectively 99.5%. The applied product did not create any kind of phytotoxicity to our crop, at any of the 3 doses tested, and the vigor of the wheat was maintained at the level of 100%. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of the study was to analyze the Asclepias syriaca L. leaves, in order to describe the leaves geometry based on some leaf parameters, and ratios calculated. The leaf samples were taken from mature plants, from the area of Para locality, Timis County, Romania. 100 leaves from different size categories were randomly analyzed. The scanned leaf area (SLA) was considered as a reference, and the correction factor (CF) was determined for the measured leaf area (MLA). The CF = 0.74 value was confirmed by the mean error (ME) values calculated as the difference between MLA and SLA, and by the RMSEP parameter. The fit between MLA and SLA was described by a linear equation, in conditions of R2 = 0.992, p < 0.001. Different correlation levels were found between the foliar parameters and the calculated ratios, under statistical safety conditions (p < 0.001). High variability was recorded in the case of leaf area (CVMLA = 0.360, CVSLA = 0.350), and low variability was recorded in the case of leaf length (CVL = 0.150). The regression analysis conducted to obtain models which described the SLA variation in relation to foliar parameters (p < 0.001). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Due to the agricultural and economic importance of wheat, there is an ongoing concern to study the impact of weeds on wheat production (https://ro.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gr%C3%A2u, https://www.scribd.com/doc/77393966/graul,http://www.fao.org/statistics/en/,https://ec.europa.eu/eurosta t/statistics-explained/index.php?title=Agriculture). In this context, the researches that are the subject of this work aimed to establish the most effective current means of chemical control of weeds in autumn wheat crops, with direct effects on production results. The research was made within the company SC Prodagro Vest SRL from Arad, during two years: 2021 and 2022, being tested a number of 11 post-emergent herbicides to combat weeds in the wheat crop, in order to reduce the degree of weeding, the cost per the product unit and, by default, the increase in productivity. The placement of the experimental field for combating weeds in the wheat crop was done according to the randomized block method, being a monofactorial experiment, with 12 variants, in four repetitions. In the first year of research, 2021, in the non-herbicized control variant, 67.5 weeds/m² were recorded, and in the second year, 2022, were present 54.7 weeds/m². The most effective weed control, over 90%, was recorded in the variants: V6 - aminopyralid 30% + florasulam 15% - 33 g/ha, V² - 2,4-D acid 300 g/l + florasulam 6.25 g/l – 0.6 l/ha and V9 – tribenuron – methyl 600 g/kg + florasulam 200 g/kg – 25 g/ha., in 2021, respectively V9 in 2022. There were no obvious symptoms of toxicity in cultivated plants, as a result of the application of the herbicide products in the experiments. The level of wheat production was determined by the climatic conditions, but also by the effectiveness of herbicides in combating the present segetal species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this paper was the evaluation of the ecotoxic effects of three sulphonylurea compounds, commonly used as herbicides against weeds in agriculture by mathematical models. The tests were performed both in laboratory and field conditions to study the changes in soil urease, considered a key enzyme for regulating soil nitrogen transformation and a sensitive indicator to herbicides. Mathematical models accurately reproduced the behavior of urease from chemically treated soil samples, based on real, observable processes. Besides, they simplify the view regarding the activity of the selected enzyme, as there are many factors and complicated biogeochemical processes, which might interfere. Overall, we conclude that, for the cambic chernozem model analyzed here, the normal (label-recommended) chlorsulfuron and amidosulfuron doses do not perturb soil urease activity and the former compound is more urease-friendly than either amidosulfuron or tifensulfuron. In the context of the long-term use of these herbicides, our research underlines the importance of mathematical models and the prefiguration of a map for the differentiation of field /laboratory experiments, for the most accurate highlighting of the biochemical imbalances caused by the chemical substances, the risk of overdose and the toxicity risk for soil and environment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study investigated the leaf area of Solanum nigrum L. by non-destructive method. Determining the leaf area based on leaf parameters and a correction factor is accessible, sufficiently accurate, and with minimal costs. To find out the correction factor, and to make the working model, the leaves were taken at random from different plants, the species Solanum nigrum L. The leaves were scanned (1:1 ratio). Images of the leaves were analyzed imagistically and scanned leaf area (SLA) values were obtained. The foliar SLA index registered values between 11.481 -- 32.878 ± 0.967 cm². The length and width of the leaves were measured for each leaf (L and w). The parameter L had values between 5.40 - 9.90 ± 0.206 cm, and the parameter w had values between 3.25 - 6.45 ± 0.151 cm. To determine the leaf area based on foliar parameters (Measured Leaf Area - MLA), a relation of type MLA = L · w · CF was used, where CF represented the correction factor for the studied specie. To find the CF, the scanned leaf area (SLA) was compared to the measured leaf area (MLA). The CF value at which the average of the errors had the minimum value (MEM) was considered optimal in the case of the analyzed samples. In the case of the studied samples, MEM = -0.036 cm², corresponding to CF = 0.52. In the narrow range of calculations, the MEM values varied between -1.884 cm² and 1.813 cm², corresponding to the variable values of CF. The RMSEP parameter confirmed the optimal value found for CF (RMSEP = 3.86015, according to CF = 0.52). The MLA values obtained, at CF = 0.52, showed a normal distribution. The experimental data set presented statistical certainty, according to ANOVA test (F> Fcrit, p <0.001). The variation of MLA as a function of leaf length (L) was described by a polynomial equation of degree 2, in statistical safety conditions, according to R² = 0.875, p <0.001. The variation of MLA as a function of leaf width (w) was described by a linear equation, in statistical safety conditions, according to R² = 0.942, p <0.001. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper had as main objective the comparison of new technological solutions for degraded grassland using a grasslands regeneration machine and a trailed vindrover, with the conventional technologies. The grasslands regeneration machine performs several operations in one pass, as follows: soil tillage in narrow strips, direct seeding of an herb seed mixture into the vegetal cover and light compaction of the soil over the seeds for a proper contact, in order to obtain a good germination. The trailed vindrover is designed to the harvest and conditioning forage technology, running in a single pass operation of mowing, crushing and left on the ground to dry naturally. Experimental researches were carried out in two locations, namely National Institute of Research-Development for Machines and Installations designed for Agriculture and Food Industry- INMA Bucharest and Grasslands Research-Development Station- SCDP Vaslui, in the agricultural year 2014. For each technological link the following parameters were determined: fuel consumption per hour, fuel consumption per surface unit, hourly working capacity and labor consumption. Analyzing the comparative diagrams, it was observed that total average values of parameters obtained in the two locations in spring and late summer by applying the new technological variants were smaller than the ones obtained by applying conventional technologies. The new technological solutions for regeneration of degraded grasslands involve less fuel and labor consumption, being more environmentally friendly than conventional technologies used so far. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper is part of an extensive project aimed at promoting traditional and eco-friendly materials. One such material is reed, which, mixed with organic and inorganic binders, can form new thermally insulating materials with similar properties to the ones of the materials currently used in construction. This study falls in the "New materials and technologies in the building industry" category and is aimed at contributing new ideas to the field of natural, environmentally friendly building materials with reduced energy consumption and negative carbon dioxide emissions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Due to the constant evolution of the consumer market, new building materials appear continuously. One such product is the new developed composite plaster mortar. The main purpose of the current research is to evaluate the adherence to the support layer of plaster mortars reinforced with polypropylene synthetic fibers. In this experimental study, sets of 2 samples of each recipe were materialized on the substrate of solid bricks. It is intended an analysis of the mechanical characteristics of the material, in order to indicate a specific amount of fibers in the matrix and to recommend some proper application areas. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper presents the laboratory tests of the two types of mechanism for seed rate adjustment of grassland drills, in the same working conditions. Tests were conducted on an automated installation, which simulates the working speed of the drill, collects, measures and displays seed quantities. The main quality work indices as: the deviation in relation to the average of samples, the unevenness degree of seeds distribution on the grassland drill working width and seeding rate, were determined and compared. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this paper is to investigate the influence of the illumination conditions on the hyperspectral image quality, especially saturation, shadow and dark current noise effects. The study was performed on a salt sample using one and two light sources. The results emphasised that at high light intensity an increased image brightness was noticed leading to a loss of information. On the other hand at low light intensity the dark current noise introduces peaks on the entire spectral range that disturb the data. The shadow effect seen in each image can be avoided only by a uniform illumination. In conclusion, the hyperspectral image quality depends strongly on the lighting conditions, a good image quality being achieved only if the light intensity is perfectly balanced. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Because of weeding, crops diminish substantially and, with strong weeding, crops can be much compromised. Horse thistle is a problem-weed in straw cereals and one of the most widespread and damaging weed species in Romania. Research was carried out over two years (2012 and 2013) in the experimental field of the Weed Science Department of the Didactic Station in Timisoara, Romania, in which we tested the effect of 11 post-emergent herbicides on horse thistle in winter wheat. The winter wheat cultivar we used was Glosa. The setting of the experimental field was done after the randomised block method: it was a monofactorial experiment with 12 variants and 4 replicas. In the first experimental year, we identified, initially, 98.56 weeds/m², of which Cirsium arvense (L.) Scop. shared 7.91%, i.e. 7.8 plants/m². In the following year, we identified, initially, 79.20 weeds/m², of which Cirsium arvense (L.) Scop. shared 7.40%, i.e. 5.8 plants/m². Overall, in the two years, the most visible reduction of weeding was in the variants treated with Buctril Universal (92.52-94.18%), Arrat (86.73-92.42%), Ceredin Super (90.18-91.07%) and Dialen Super 464 SL (87.40-90.63%). As for the exclusive control of the weed species Cirsium arvense (L.) Scop., in 2012, the best results were in the variants treated with Lontrel 300 (95.20%), (Arrat (94.49%), Iudith (91.37%) and Dialen Super 464 SL (90.63%). In 2013, the herbicides with the best performances in the reduction of horse thistle sprouts were Lontrel 300 (97.05%), Buctril Universal (93.51%), (Arrat (91.28%), Iudith (91.37%) and Dialen Super 464 SL (88.73%). The herbicide Cerlit EC had no visible effect on horse thistle - this is why we do not recommend it in the fields invaded by this species. Thirty days after the treatment, and more visibly sixty days after the treatment, the plants of Cirsium arvense (L.) Scop. tended to regenerate in all the variants shooting new sprouts that could not really compete with winter wheat plants that had almost reached maturity. All the tested herbicides were very selective for the winter wheat cultivar Glosa, with no visible symptoms of phyto-toxicity. Winter wheat crops in the experimental field were influenced, on one hand, by the climate conditions of the two years and, on the other hand, they correlated positively with the performances of the herbicides in the total control of horse thistle. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of INMATEH - Agricultural Engineering is the property of INMATEH - Agricultural Engineering and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Copyright of INMATEH - Agricultural Engineering is the property of INMATEH - Agricultural Engineering and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

In the first part of the are presented aspects regarding the control of weeds in wheat crops, among which Convolvulus arvensis L. is more prominent, a problem species popularly called bindweed (CIOCÂRLAN et al., 2004; FRITEA T., 2001). In the second part are described the materials and methods used to control problem weeds by which were evaluated the degree of control of the species Convolvulus arvensis L. in % and the wheat crops in q/ha on non-herbicide - treated variants and on those herbicide - treated. In the chapter called results and discussions are presented the results of the research regarding the total number of weeds/m² in the non-herbicide - treated variant in wheat crops and the occurrence percentage. In wheat crops 12 species of weeds were recorded, with a total number of 58 on m² and a occurrence percentage of 100%. The bindweed was present in wheat crops in a number of 11.33 weeds/m² with an occurrence of 19.53%. The last part of the paper includes the conclusions, where one can notice that the most efficient bindweed sprouts reduction, in the year 2011, was obtained with the herbicide Dicamba 120 g/l + 344 g/l acid 2,4 D - 0,9 l/ha, with a control degree of 90,90%. A control of over 70% was registered also in the variants treated with Bomoxinil: 280 gr/l + acid 2,4 D - 1,0 l/ha and 300 g/l acid 2.4 - D + 100 g/l dicamba - 1 l/ha. All tested herbicides were highly selective for the variety of wheat cultivated (Lovrin 50), presenting no visible signs of phytotoxicity. The wheat crops obtained in the experimental field were influenced, on one hand by the climatic conditions, on the other hand, were positively correlated with the performances of herbicides in controlling total weed-growth and that with bindweed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The goal of the research was to test the weed control efficiency of the product Roundup Ready (480 g/l glyphosate) in rates of 2.25 l/ha (1080 g/ha active substance) applied in the 3-leaf and 8-leaf phases of the cultivated hybrid (13 BBCH, and 18 BBCH, respectively). We monitored the effect of tank mixing the herbicide Roundup Ready in the 3-leaf phase in maize (BBCH 13) with products traditionally applied pre-emergently, such as acetochlor, acetochlor + terbuthylazine (CLICK PLUS), dimethenamid (SPECTRUM), pendimethalin + dimethenamid-p (WING), compared to the usual product acetochlor (GUARDIAN) applied pre-emergently or to the post-emergent herbicides nicosulphuron (MISTRAL) + dicamba (BANVEL). Researches were carried out in the experimental field area of the Banat University of Agricultural Science and Veterinary Medicine in Timisoara, College of Agriculture, Timis County, Romania, from May to October 2010. The cultivated hybrid tolerated very well all the tested herbicides with no phytotoxicity whatsoever (note 1 EWRS grades). The most frequent weed species in the control variant (not treated) (V 1 ), in the stage 13 BBCH in maize were the monocots Setaria sp. and Sorghum halepense from rhizomes and seeds, and Echinochloa crus-galli. All the herbicides applied pre-emergently (V2 -V6) ensured a very good control of annual monocot weeds but they had no visible effect whatsoever on Sorghum halepense plants from rhizomes or on the perennial dicot species Cirsium arvense and Convolvulus arvensis After the first post-emergent herbicide treatment, we could see a very good control of all weed species in the variants treated with glyphosate (V3 -V6 and V8) and variants treated with glyphosate tank-mixed with different herbicides applied usually post- emergently (V9 -V12). In the variant V7 , where we used tank-mixed classical herbicides Banvel + Mistral, weed control was less efficient, even slow, with a trend to regeneration. The highest production of grain maize -- over 90.0 q/ha -- was in the variants V10 -- Acetochlor + Terbuthylazine (CLICK PLUS) + Glyphosate + Glyphosate, V 12 -- Dimethenamid -- P + Pendimethalin (WING) + Glyphosate + Glyphosate and V11 -- Dimethenamid (SPECTRUM) + Glyphosate + Glyphosate. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper we show the efficacy of controlling the weed species Convolvulus arvensis L., popularly called field bindweed, in grain maize and winter wheat, using a diversified range of post- emergent herbicides. The scientific research starts with a description of the general aspects of weed control in grain maize and winter wheat in general, and of Convolvulus arvensis L., in particular, a species considered a weed problem for crops. In our research, we have tested 7 herbicides controlling weeds in grain maize and winter wheat in general, and Convolvulus arvensis L., in particular. As a result of our research, w have obtained results concerning the total number of weeds/m² in the control variant in grain maize and winter wheat and the share percentage, as well as results concerning grain maize yield in q/ha in both control and treated variants. We have noted 15 weed species in grain maize and winter wheat, i.e. 238 weeds/m² in grain maize and 62 weeds/m² in winter wheat, while field bindweed was represented by 23.3 plants/m² and 13.11 plants/m², respectively. We can see that, as far as exclusive control of the species Convolvulus arvensis L. is concerned, the best results were in the variants treated with Buctril Universal (0.8-1 l/ha), with a control percentage of 85.97%, while the highest yields in grain maize were recorded in the variants treated with Buctril Universal (0.8-1 l/ha), with yields of de 81.48 q/ha. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, we present a few aspects concerning the control of weeds in winter wheat and grain maize, among which Rubus caesius L., a problem species popularly called dewberry. We describe materials and methods used in the control of problem weeds, that helped us monitor the control degree in percentage of dicot weeds, in general, and of the species Rubus caesius L., in particular, as well as winter wheat and grain maize yields in q/ha in both treated and not treated variants in the years 2008-2009 and 2009-2010. We present research results concerning the total number of weeds/m² in the control variant in winter wheat and in grain maize as well as the participation share. In winter wheat, we observed in the years 2008-2009 and 2009-2010 a number of 11 weed species, the total number of weeds per m² being 77, with a participation share of 100%, and in grain maize in the years 2009 and 2010, 11 weed species, the total number of weeds per m being 282, with a participation share of 100%. Dewberry was present in winter wheat with a number of 4.65 weeds/m with a participation share of 5.5%, while in grain maize there were 24.2 weeds/m² with a participation share of 8.58%. The most efficient diminution of dewberry shoots in winter wheat was ensured by the herbicide Dialen Super 464 SL (0.9 l/ha), with a control degree of 93.70%. A weed control above 90% was also in the variants treated with Premiant (1 l/ha) 93.46% and Ceredin Super (1 l/ha) 93.31%, Lancelot 450 WG (30 g/ha) and Buctril Universal (1 l/ha) 90.84%. The most efficient diminution of dewberry shoots in grain maize was ensured by the herbicide Dialen Super 464 SL (0.9 l/ha), with a control degree of 85.97%. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The sunflower (Helianthus annus) is a plant native to North America spread all over the globe especially for obtaining oil. The oil extracted from the seeds is significant and is characterized by a pleasant color, taste and smell, they have a high content of vitamins (A, D, E, K) and the oil preserves very well for a long period. The sunflower is a plant with high water requirements during certain periods of vegetation with a transpiration coefficient of 480-580. At the same time, it is also a plant with a high resistance to drought. As for the plant's high water requirements, that starts from the second half of June to the first part of August. During these two months the requirements are very high, water consumption represents approximately 65% of the total. During this period the sunflower goes through three critical stages for moisture. In the analyzed period 2019-2021, we can see that the warmest year of the three years was 2019, with an annual average of 12°C. All three years under study exceeded the multiannual average of the normal temperature, they were warmer years. The driest year was the year 2021. It is recommended to use irrigation systems to obtain a fairly balanced and high-quality harvest for years with a deficit in precipitation during the growing season, for example 2021, when the amount of precipitation during the growing season it was very small. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An abstract of the study "A DNA Variant of ACE Gene (DD Genotype) Associates With an Increased Risk of Development of Coronary Artery Disease in Younger Individuals in Moldavian Population," by D. Manea and colleagues is presented.

In this study were characterized various aspects of the plants lodging and weeds of wheat and barley as compared with the normal state, through image analysis. Observations were made in stages BBCH 73 Development of fruit and BBCH 93 - Senescence at wheat crops, respectively BBCH 87 (Ripening) and BBCH 93 (Senescence) at barley crops. From the analysis of the terrestrial and aerial images (drone DJI Phantom series) spectral data were obtained in the RGB system, based on which were calculated normalized values (rgb). The data obtained were analyzed in two ways in relation to the studied aspects: plants lodging (6 variants - V1 to V6) and weeds (8 variants - V7 to V14). With respect to the lodging of wheat and barley plants, the cluster analysis method facilitated the grouping of the data into two clusters, CIL and CIIL, statistical safe, Cophenetic coefficient having the value of 0.774. The analysis has made the classification, both in relation to the two categories of crops (wheat and barley), as well as compared with the normal plants and lodging plants identified. In the situation of the second category of cases studied, was analyzed the presence of weeds in wheat and barley crops, compared to the normal status of the crops, in advanced stages of the growing season. The analysis grouped the 8 variants studied in two in clusters (CIW - V12, V13 and V14; CIIW- V7, V8, V9, V10) and a independent position (V11), in the average conditions of statistical certainty, the Cophenetic coefficient being 0.689. Regarding to the level of statistical certainty of results, it would have been higher if the analysis should have been done on each individual crop, but in the case of complex approach, the interaction of the phenomenon (plant lodging or weed, and crops), made that the safety level have lower values. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Herbal teas are a popular beverage and are used as therapeutic vehicles in many forms of traditional medicine. As tea is a popular drink and its preparation is remarkably simple (pour hot water on various dry herbs), it is very important to monitor and develop a screening methodology for detecting metals content in herbal tea. The number of articles exploring the efficacy and clinical safety of teas and herbal teas is small, even though herbal materials are the basis of the discovery of medicines and teas are some of the most popular drinks. This research was aimed to estimate the distribution of some bioelements in different types of herbal teas used in diet therapy. We used atomic absorption spectrometry in order to determine the concentration of Ca, Mg (macroelements), Mn, Fe, Zn and Cu (trance elements) in various indigenous herbal teas. In our work we collected herbal teas from county Gorj. These herbals are chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla), peppermint (Mentha piperita), marigold (Calendula officinalis), yarrow (Achillea millefolium), and Plantain (Plantago lanceolata). Preliminary results of this study reveal an uneven distribution of the concentrations of these bioelements. Bioelements distribution in analysed herbal teas presents generally, the following trend: Ca > Mg > Fe > Mn > Zn > Cu. The study aimed at the determination of the mineral composition of medicinal herbs for evaluation of the coverage of the recommended daily intake of mineral elements by tea. The concentration of these bioelements in herbal teas shows significant variations determined by the nature and type of herbal tea and bio-elements investigated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The research took place during 2021 in Ciclova Română in Caraş - Severin County. The experimental field presented 4 treatments that had various combination of herbicides. Two herbicides were applied in each variant, because in the experimental group were present both monocotyledonous and dicotyledonous weeds (Nicogan, Dicopur, Nicogan, Ceredin, Nicogan, Cliophar). The degree of weeding was high, the quantitative numerical counting showed a number of 92.95 plants/m2. In the experimental variants were present problem weed species (Sorghum halepense, Cirsium arvense, Rubus caesius, etc.). 14 days after the application the highest efficacy of the phytosanitary products was registered. Their efficacy decreased four months after application, as some species either regenerated or re-weeded due to the staggered germination of target weeds. The weeds, present in the corn crop, were very well controlled by the associated application of the herbicide Nicogan and Cliophar, ensuring protection of the crop until harvest. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Small cereals such us wheat, barley, oat, and other grasses are very much influenced when talking about crop production and various pathogens which can infect them during growth stages. Among these pathogens like downy mildew, tan spot, Septoria disease and other fungi also the viruses contribute to the yield decreasing and loses. Barley Yellows Dwarf Virus is well known as a pathogen strong related to its carrier (vector) being distributed and transmitted by a whole range of aphid species. The aim of this paper is to compare the relationship between aphids and the pathosystem BYDV- barley under certain treatments with different active ingredients used to control the virus vector. To achieve that we assessed the symptoms like leaf discoloration (lose of green colour) turning in bright yellow and trough influence on tillering, linked to the treatments applied and dosage used. The trial setup consists in 7 treatment including untreated laid in four replicates using randomised blocks. Three assessments were performed, to establish the aphid population, followed by assessment of leaves presenting symptoms of viral infection. We observe that, in the variants where a high density of Rhopalosiphum padi was present, the symptom like yellowing was better exerted compared to the plots where other aphid species were observed and build the aphid population. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of the present study is to establish the biochemical content of white and black mulberry fruits grown in the South West and West Region of Romania (Gorj County and Timis County). The mulberry belongs to the Morus genus of the Moraceae family. Knowing the composition of mulberry fruits is an useful task, especially to find new sources of natural antioxidants. Berry fruits are rich source in bioactive compounds with health human body benefits. Mulberries have recently gained an important position in the food industry due to the presence of many bioactive componentsThis study investigated fruit weight, total soluble solids content, total antioxidant capacity (TAC), and total polyphenols content (TPC). In black mulberry fruits (Morus nigra) were observed the highest value of the total antioxidant capacity and total phenolic content. Antioxidant capacity can be an effect of the interaction between the colour and the location (place of origin) of fruits. The total antioxidant capacity (TAC) and the total polyphenols content (TPC) were analysed by using the spectrophotometric method. Total antioxidant capacity was determinated used CUPRAC method. Folin Ciocalteu method was used for determination total polyphenols content.From our study, total soluble solids (TSS) values were of 15 % (Morus nigra) to 21 % (Morus alba), mulberries are a rich source of phenolics, with high levels in Morus nigra (0.78 mM GAE/100 g) and low content in Morus alba (0.165 mM GAE/100 g). Differences from content of phenolic content in the fruits depend on many factors, such as genetic differences, the maturity degree at harvest, and environmental conditions during fruit development.Our results indicate that the studied mulberry fruits are valuable products due to their rich content in different compounds with antioxidant activity. Therefore, these fruits can be useful in a balanced diet. This study also brings many arguments for the use of these fruits as potentially healthy foods and their use in the food and pharmaceutical industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Since ancient times, agriculture has been a vital area of human activity. It is the only source of food, but also a major supplier of raw materials, both for industry and market. Human evolution leads to the creation of optimal conditions for the development of the agricultural sector and it becomes a fundamental activity that will increase the local economy. The man begins to get his own food, while modernizing agriculture. (ARDELEAN V., ZĂVOIANU I., 1979, BORCEAN I, 1996) Agricultural development is the result of the changes stimulated by demographic pressure aimed at increasing agricultural production to ensure the basic food needs for a much larger population than the one currently existing. Dorobanţi is located in the Western Romanian Plain, namely in its central part. The structure of the plain was formed over the crystalline foundation of the Pannonia Depression. The perimeter presented, although located in a plain, has various morphological differences, which has led to the fragmentation of the territory into three geomorphological subunits. These subunits are represented by the Comlăuș Plain, the Macea Plain and the Turnul Iratoş Plain. (COSTE I, 1986) The Comlăuș Plain is a small area located east from and at about 1.5 km from the territory of Curtici and south from the Curtici-Sântana county road. The Macea Plain: from under the loessoid materials with low thicknesses come out the sands that cover a wide strip about 2.5 km wide oriented towards NW -- SE. The Turnul Iratoş Plain: over the sands existing at the end of the Quaternary, the beginning of the Halocene, there were loessoid deposits of relatively small thicknesses of 2.0 m similar to those of Banat at Biled Bulgaruş Lovrin. From a geological point of view, nature is of particular importance, showing the physical and chemical properties of the parental materials of the soils. In the Comlăuș Plain to date appear loessoid deposits of fine medium texture, reshaped, rich in carbonates. In the Macea-Curtici Plain, Zimand, the soils formed on sands. The texture of soils formed in some interdunes is medium (medium clay), or medium and fine sandy clay. (IANOŞ G, 199, IOAN OANCEA, 2005) On dune ridges, coarse fractions show higher values. To the west of the area occupied by the sands, namely the Macea-Curtici Plain, Zimand- Cicir, in the studied perimeter, over the sands, at the end of the Quaternary, the beginning of the Halocene, the loessoid materials were deposited. Their thickness is small and does not exceed 1.5 to 3.0 m< much of them have been reshaped. The territory under investigation is characterized by a moderate continental temperate climate with shorter and milder winters with a certain circulation of air masses of various types, circulation marked either by centres of action of dynamic origin (Azores and subtropical anticyclone), or seasonal thermal action centres (Siberian anticyclone, Asian or Mediterranean depression). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Agriculture has been ensured human food, being practiced differently, depending on the climate, environment, soil, and the requirements of crops or the need of animals for feed. In this work, we encourage the involvement of as many people as possible in this field, both for profit and a healthy life. The only way to improve our life and live healthier is agriculture, both for the producer and for the consumer. Implementation of the system is to take place in the municipality of Belinţ, a city representative for the cultivation of vegetables (potato, cabbage, seedlings, etc.). The agricultural system is a complex of economic and social elements interconnected, designed and made by man in order to obtain vegetable and/or animal products to meet the human needs. Specialized agricultural systems are characterized by the fact that their activity aims to obtain a single produc, or the making of certain agricultural services. (ARDELEAN V., 1979, BORCEAN I., 1996). The region has always been agriculturally rich (especially for gardening), due to the wind from the NW, which brings to the earth a loess rich in salts. Deep down, the soil is limestone and sandy. This work includes the implementation of a specialized agricultural system. This system deals with the cultivation of vegetables with all technological links and economic aspect. The total area cultivated is 3 ha and it is a familiar business. (COSTE I., 1986., IANOŞ G., 1997). On the 3 ha, there grow salad, radishes, spinach, onions, garlic, cucumber, dill, parsley, carrot, parsnips, peas, beans, beets, cauliflower, cabbage, potatoes, maize, strawberries, pumpkin, and melon. In addition to growing in the open field, the farmer also has 4 solaria. The land area is divided into two plots. One of the plots has a surface of 1 ha, where the 4 solariums are found, which have a lenght of 20m and a width of 6m. In this plot are cultivated plants that require more manual labor for both their care and planting. In the second plot of 2 ha are cultivated plants that are cared for tehnologically, these being sweet corn, potato, beets, strawberries, melons, pumpkin and cabbage. Most of the work and sowing will be done with a tractor and the rest of the equipment depending on the requirements of the platns we want to grow. Both sowing and care work, will be mechanized, partially mechanized or manul. The treatments will be done with special machines. In addition to this, there will future plans for small businesses. (IOAN OANCEA 2005) [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Water consumption in plants is the amount of water used by the plants in the process of transpiration and the amount of water evaporated at soil level. This is a both productive water consumption represented by the volume of water absorbed by the roots and a non-productive water consumption resulted from the amount of water lost through evaporation at soil level. To evaluate water demands in agricultural crops, they are represented as potential evapotranspiration that represents field perennial grass-covered soil water consumption. Optimal real evapotranspiration is the water consumed by cultivated plants allowing crops economically effective. Grain maize has a specific moderate water consumption but, given the long vegetation period, it is rather high. Maximum water demands in grain maize are during blooming and grain filling. We calculated monthly and yearly potential evapotranspiration and established hydro-climate and curve balance for the studied years; we also characterised them climatically by comparing monthly and yearly temperatures and precipitation with zonal ones. We also determined water consumption in grain maize at Sânnicolau-Mare (Timiş County, Romania) in the years 2013 and 2014 through indirect methods - the Thornthwaite method (the most common in the conditions of our country); the Lawry Jonson (an extremely quick method) and the Blaney-Cridle method. We could see, after analysing water consumption in grain maize, that, in the year 2013, total water consumption was the highest, ranging between 7990 m³/ha and 5130 m³/ha. In the year 2014, total water consumption was lower, ranging between 7820 m³/ha and 4935 m³/ha. The highest monthly water consumptions were in June, July and August in both studied years. In the same months, the necessary water supplied through irrigations ranged between 1790 m³/ha and 200 m³/ha in July and May, respectively. In the year 2014, water demand was lower than in the year 2013: 2580 m³/ha during vegetation and higher in August, 1170 m³/ha. The highest water consumption in grain maize was determined using the Balney-Cridle method, and the lowest one was determined using the Lawry-Jonson method. Therefore, we can draw the conclusion that we need to supplement through irrigations the necessary water in grain maize because it is not supplied by precipitations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

One of the most important hydro-climatic hazards is that of hydric deficits, i.e. drought or flood. Droughts can occur in any region on the Globe but the strongest effects are in arid, semi-arid and sub-humid areas where ecosystems are characterised by high fragility. Drought can also occur in areas where annual or periodical precipitations are "normal" or close to multi-annual means, but the water comes from rare precipitations (mm/min) with high intensities that do not allow accumulation of water in the soil. This type of drought is increasingly frequent in southern and eastern Romania and it tends to extend to central and western Romania. World Meteorological Organisation proposed to define drought as an atmospheric sequence characterised by amounts of precipitations 60% lower than those considered normal. The goal of this paper is to study drought hazard in the conditions of Oravita, Romania, during 2-11-2013. The three years were analysed through the prism of several indicators of drought characterisation in literature and compared to multi-annual mean values. We analysed the following hydro-climatic hazard monitoring parameters in the area of Oravita: the sum of monthly and annual precipitations, the monthly and annual mean of evapotranspiration, the monthly and annual hydric deficits and their graphic representation, monthly and annual mean temperatures and their evolution; we also calculated and analysed climate indicators of characterisation (Thornthwaite, Lang, characterisation depending on deficit of precipitations, etc.). From the point of view of the rainfall regime, an important indicator in defining drought and excess of humidity, the sum of monthly precipitations during summer or spring and their annual amount help draw a conclusion regarding the existence of hydro-climatic hazards during the studied period. Depending on the deficit of precipitations, compared to monthly, seasonal and annual multi-annual means, June, August and September are excessively droughty or droughty in all analysed years. The year 2013 was a very droughty year if we take into account the vegetation period; overall, 2013 was a little droughty year. Results show that there were droughty periods in the three years in Oravita, particularly during the hot season (April- September); 2013 proved the droughtiest year and it is labelled as semi-arid depending on all analysed indicators. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Research and field studies were conducted to determine the efficacy of substances quizalofop-p-ethyl and quisalofop-p-tefuril, applied post emergent in order to control the problem weed Sorghum halepense in watermelon culture. Watermelon variety used in the experiment was Crimson Sweet. The Field studies on reducing the population of the species Sorghum halepense L. were conducted in 2010 and 2011 on Didactical and Experimental Station at University of Agricultural Sciences and Veterinary Medicine of Banat Timişoara. The experimental plot was placed on cambic chernozem with 6 variants in three repetitions. Systemic postem herbicides used in experience were: Leopard 5 EC and Pantera 40 EC, applied in two doses. The herbicides were applied post emergent when Johnson grass plants had 10-15 cm height. After establishing the level of weed infestation through numerical quantitative method revealed that in the experimental variants were present Johnson grass plants, the number ranging from 48-152 plants/sqm. Unfavorable climatic conditions (2010) influenced the efficacy of herbicides applied postemergent. Obtained results regarding the efficacy of Substances quizalofop-p-ethyl and p-tefuril quisalofop against Johnson grass showed differences. After applying chemical treatments occurrence of phytotoxicity were not recorded. The administration of herbicide Leopard 5 EC using the recommended dose has led to the best effectiveness in reducing the number of individuals of Sorghum halepense in agroecosystems of watermelon. The results obtained in the four variants treated with herbicides showed very significant positive differences compared to untreated control, situation changed when these results were compared with the hoed control, which are very significant negative. Studies have shown that translocation of herbicides in plants of Johnson grass realized better when there is an excess of precipitation to the multiannual average. The results obtained in the variant treated with Leopard 5 EC 1.0 l/ha and 1.5 l/ha are very significantly positive compared the mean of experience. The most infested variant with Sorghum halepense was that treated with herbicide Panther 40 EC at 1.0 l/ha. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sapropelic muds have been used for centuries to treat various illnesses, but their effects and mechanisms are still under research. In this study the effects of Techirghiol sapropelic mud on tissue oxygenation in elderly patients diagnosed with neuromuscular disorders were investigated using spatial and spectral information provided by hyperspectral imaging technique. A group of 38 elderly patients with neuromuscular disorders for which they received mud therapy was studied. Sapropelic mud was applied to the lumbar region of each patient for 30 min, directly on the skin in a thick layer, while a symmetrical area of ​​15 × 10 cm in the same region was covered with a medical patch to serve as the control area. The mud is typically heated to a temperature of 40-45 °C before application. Hyperspectral images were taken before, after the first day of therapy, and at day seven. Oxyhemoglobin and deoxyhemoglobin concentrations and oxygen saturation values were calculated from the hyperspectral images and compared to control areas. The results revealed that, in the treated area, the mean oxyhemoglobin concentration increased with + 0.2127 ± 0.1096 mol cm∕L, while deoxyhemoglobin concentration decreased by -0.0509 ± 0.0558 mol cm∕L. Local tissue oxygen saturation raised to over 98% in all patients. Lesser improvements were recorded for the control areas: oxyhemoglobin increased with + 0.1673 ± 0.1059 mol cm∕L, and deoxyhemoglobin decreased with - 0.0525 ± 0.0578 mol cm∕L. A good level of agreement was found between values of oxygen saturation measured with hyperspectral imaging method and the classical pulse oximetry method. Thus, improvement in local circulation was demonstrated after mud therapy. In conclusion, therapy with Techirghiol sapropelic mud improved local tissue oxygenation, hyperspectral imaging being a reliable and non-invasive tool for monitoring these changes., Competing Interests: Declarations. Ethical approval: This study was performed in line with the principles of the Declaration of Helsinki. Approval was granted by the Techirghiol Balneary and Rehabilitation Sanatorium Ethics Committee (Date 20.01.2024/No.5232). Competing interests: The authors have no relevant financial or non-financial interests to disclose., (© 2024. The Author(s).)

Surgical excision is the most effective treatment of skin carcinomas (basal cell carcinoma or squamous cell carcinoma). Preoperative assessment of tumoral margins plays a decisive role for a successful result. The aim of this work was to evaluate the possibility that hyperspectral imaging could become a valuable tool in solving this problem. Hyperspectral images of 11 histologically diagnosed carcinomas (six basal cell carcinomas and five squamous cell carcinomas) were acquired prior clinical evaluation and surgical excision. The hyperspectral data were then analyzed using a newly developed method for delineating skin cancer tumor margins. This proposed method is based on a segmentation process of the hyperspectral images into regions with similar spectral and spatial features, followed by a machine learning-based data classification process resulting in the generation of classification maps illustrating tumor margins. The Spectral Angle Mapper classifier was used in the data classification process using approximately 37% of the segments as the training sample, the rest being used for testing. The receiver operating characteristic was used as the method for evaluating the performance of the proposed method and the area under the curve as a metric. The results revealed that the performance of the method was very good, with median AUC values of 0.8014 for SCCs, 0.8924 for BCCs, and 0.8930 for normal skin. With AUC values above 0.89 for all types of tissue, the method was considered to have performed very well. In conclusion, hyperspectral imaging can become an objective aid in the preoperative evaluation of carcinoma margins., (© 2024. The Author(s).)

Background: Existing evidence suggests a close link among high levels of serum urate (SU), obesity and carotid atherosclerosis. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the interrelations between SU levels and carotid atherosclerosis in subjects with different obesity phenotypes., Methods: In this study, a total of 2076 subjects (mean age 48.1 ± 13.1 years; 1307 women) were recruited: 59 with general obesity, 616 with central obesity, 715 with mixed (general-central) obesity and 686 non-obese. Anthropometric measurements, vascular risk factors, blood biochemistry analysis (including SU levels), and carotid ultrasound were performed. Ultrasound assessment included evaluation of intima-media thickness (IMT) and plaque characteristics, including number, total area and type (vulnerable vs. stable) of plaques., Results: After adjustment for potential confounders, the highest levels of SU were observed in subjects with mixed obesity, followed by subjects with central obesity, general obesity and the non-obese (309.4 ± 82.2 vs. 301.2 ± 73.1 vs. 272.9 ± 61.8 vs. 234.2 ± 59.8 μmol/L, respectively; F = 149.2, post hoc p < 0.001). Similarly, subjects with mixed and central obesity presented higher values of IMT compared to subjects with general obesity and the non-obese (0.68 ± 0.16 vs. 0.67 ± 0.16 vs. 0.62 ± 0.14 vs. 0.57 ± 0.13 mm, respectively; F = 54.2, post hoc p < 0.001). No difference in number, total area and type of plaques among obesity groups were attested (all p > 0.05). Significantly higher IMT values were observed in subjects with increased SU levels compared to subjects with normal SU levels (0.70 ± 0.10 vs. 0.62 ± 0.14 mm, p = 0.02) only within the central obesity group. Increasing levels of SU were associated with a higher frequency of increased IMT only in subjects with central obesity (OR 1.033, 95% CI 1.025-1.041). Similarly, SU levels yielded a satisfactory performance in detecting subjects with increased IMT (AUC 0.65, 95% CI 0.50-0.73, subjects with carotid plaques (0.62, 95% CI 0.55-0.68) and subjects with vulnerable plaque types (0.68, 0.59-0.76) only within the central obesity group., Conclusions: Among the studied obesity types, the association between SU levels and markers of carotid atherosclerosis was of particular significance in subjects with central obesity.