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The article "Macropods in their Habitat" describes various biotopes and microhabitats of macropod species and clarifies some misunderstandings. The author, Jens Kühne, focused on studying the lifestyle of macropods during his travels in Vietnam and obtained valuable information from paradise fish enthusiasts in southern China. In particular, Johny Liao from Guangxi provided him with interesting information and macropod strains. The article also mentions the species Macropodus hongkongensis and the search for the species M. opercularis in northern Vietnam and M. spechti in central Vietnam. It emphasizes that the stereotype of labyrinth fish in rice fields is incorrect and that macropods mainly live in irrigation ditch systems created for field irrigation. The article addresses the question of the occurrence of Macropodus hongkongensis in northern Vietnam. It is noted that this species is not only found near Hong Kong but also in other areas such as Jiangxi, Fujian, and Guangxi. However, there are many variations in color and fin shape, making it unclear what truly constitutes M. hongkongensis. It is recommended that only the forms around Hong Kong and possibly the described population from Hong Kong should be considered as M. hongkongensis. It also points out other populations in the Guangdong province that may belong to the species M. hongkongensis. It emphasizes that further scientific work and field research are necessary to accurately determine the different species of paradise fish. It also highlights that providing more appropriate care for these fish can lead to increased well-being and beauty. [Extracted from the article]

Chronic kidney disease is becoming increasingly prevalent in rural farming and fishing regions of Sri Lanka. The exact cause of the disease is unknown, but potential factors include high levels of hard minerals in water, increased heat stress, overuse of agrochemicals, and limited access to food and medicine due to an economic crisis. The disease is especially prevalent among farmers and can lead to anemia, heart disease, and stroke. Solutions to the problem include better policies on pesticide usage, addressing heat-induced stress, and implementing safer water provision strategies. [Extracted from the article]

Stonehill Golf Club in Bangkok, Thailand, has been transformed by Kyle Phillips into one of the country's best golf courses. The course received positive reviews for its impeccable conditioning and fair test of golfing skills. The design combines modern principles with Golden Age architecture and incorporates traditional Thai elements. The landscape was carefully contoured to provide an exceptional golfing experience, and the course features generous fairway width, expansive bunkers, and water defenses. The course is considered one of the best layouts in Thailand and offers a fresh and modern golfing experience. [Extracted from the article]

Sikkim, a state in India, became the world's first fully organic state in 2016. The aim of this transition was to protect the environment, preserve biodiversity, and promote a healthier life for its people. All farmland in Sikkim, which covers 760 square kilometers, is certified organic, with a ban on chemical inputs. The organic revolution in Sikkim has resulted in benefits such as an increase in wildlife population, soil rejuvenation, and a boost in tourism. The photos included in the article showcase various aspects of Sikkim's organic practices, including organic gardens, rice fields, monasteries, orchid greenhouses, and tea plantations. [Extracted from the article]

The article discusses the return of Belmond's Eastern & Oriental Express train, which offers a luxurious and romantic travel experience through the wilds of Malaysia. The train travels along historic tracks, passing through forests, paddy fields, and townships, while providing passengers with opulent accommodations and amenities. The train's itinerary includes stops at Taman Negara, a protected rainforest, and George Town, a colonial port on the island of Penang. Passengers have the opportunity to explore diverse ecosystems and engage in various activities, such as wildlife spotting and Vespa rides. The article highlights the unique experiences and camaraderie among passengers during the journey. [Extracted from the article]

Bambu Indah, located in Ubud, Indonesia, is a unique and eco-friendly resort that showcases the beauty of bamboo. Owned by John and Cynthia Hardy, the resort offers whimsical accommodations designed by their children, including the New Moon House, Copper House, and Guadua House. Bambu Indah stands out from other resorts in the area by featuring edible gardens, an underground mushroom farm, and rice paddies. Guests can enjoy the resort's natural luxuries, such as bamboo bridges, spring-fed swimming pools, and a cliff-top bar with stunning sunset views. [Extracted from the article]

Ahsa Farm Stay in northern Thailand offers a range of activities that support the local community and provide employment for young people. The farm stay features architecturally designed cottages made from sustainable materials and has received recognition for its eco-conscious principles. Guests can participate in foraging tours, traditional beauty treatments, and cooking classes that showcase the region's cultural heritage. The farm stay also addresses the concerns of a shortage of agricultural workers and the loss of cultural knowledge in the farming communities of northern Thailand. [Extracted from the article]

The article focuses on the experience of cruising the Mekong River aboard the Toum Tiou II, offering insights into the river's significance and the cultural immersion provided by the journey. Topics include the diverse activities and sights along the Mekong, life on board the boutique cruise ship, and the unique experiences encountered in Cambodia and Vietnam from exploring rural villages to visiting bustling markets.

The article focuses on Avana Retreat, a luxurious hideaway nestled in Vietnam's Mai Chau region, offering nature enthusiasts, cultural explorers, and travelers seeking tranquility a serene sanctuary amidst paddy field terraces and tropical forests. With its 36 thatched suites, bungalows, and pool villas perched above sea level, guests can immerse themselves in the beauty of the Mai Chau valley, surrounded by lush hills, rice terraces, and the soothing sounds of nature.

The article provides a detailed look at the process of grain harvest and transportation in Western Australia. It begins with farmers preparing equipment such as headers, chaser bins, and trucks for harvesting. Chaser bins play a crucial role in loading trucks accurately, with modern technology ensuring compliance with legal weight limits. Trucks collect grain from farms and transport it to weighbridges for sampling and grading.

Bovines are important reservoir hosts of schistosomiasis, placing humans and animals in rice fields areas at risk of infection. This study reported the prevailing infection of zoonotic parasites from bovine feces in the rice fields adjacent to Lake Mainit, Philippines. Formalin Ethyl Acetate Sedimentation was performed on 124 bovine fecal samples from rice fields and documented eggs and cysts from seven parasites: Schistosoma japonicum, Fasciola gigantica, Ascaris sp., Strongyloides sp., Balantidium coli, coccidian oocyst and a hookworm species. Among these parasites, F. gigantica harboured the highest infection with a 100% prevalence rate, followed by hookworms (51.61%), B. coli (30.64%) and S. japonicum (12.09%), respectively. The intensity of infection of S. japonicum eggs per gram (MPEG = 4.19) among bovines is categorized as 'light.' Bovine contamination index (BCI) calculations revealed that, on average, infected bovines in rice fields excrete 104 750 S. japonicum eggs daily. However, across all ricefield stations, bovines were heavily infected with fascioliasis with BCI at 162 700 F. gigantica eggs per day. The study reports that apart from the persistent cases of schistosomiasis in the area, bovines in these rice fields are also heavily infected with fascioliasis. The study confirms the critical role of bovines as a reservoir host for continued infection of schistosomiasis, fascioliasis and other diseases in the rice fields of Lake Mainit. Immediate intervention to manage the spread of these diseases in bovines is recommended. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fengjing Ancient Town, located in Shanghai, China, is a well-preserved example of water towns in the region. The town features 39 ancient stone bridges dating back to the Yuan, Ming, and Qing dynasties, as well as an ancient architectural complex. The town successfully balances preservation and development, allowing residents to maintain traditional lifestyles while enjoying modern amenities. Tourists, Shanghai residents, and even egrets are drawn to Fengjing for its cultural heritage and natural beauty. [Extracted from the article]

THE RIGHT RICE You can't make risotto with long-grain rice (like basmati) or short-grain rice (like sushi or glutinous rice): not enough starch in the first, too much in the second. "For our risotto aglio olio e peperoncino, we use an olive oil that is first whipped, then frozen; for our red pepper risotto, we use a super-thick red pepper emulsion; for our pea risotto, we make a pea "mayonnaise" with sunflower oil", he says. A new generation of Italian chefs, from Piedmont to Puglia, is rethinking the classic rice dish. Many of this new guard of risotto makers print their favorite brands of rice on their menus - because there can't be exceptional risotto without exceptional riso. [Extracted from the article]

Gray Zone Warfare is a new open-world mil-sim extraction shooter game developed and published by Madfinger Games. The game offers a mix of hardcore military simulation and an extraction shooter, allowing players to explore a giant open-world map and complete tasks while avoiding PvP or engaging in intense battles with other players. Set on a fictional south-Asian-themed island, the game features a variety of locations, including military bases, towns, and dense jungle areas. The AI opponents in the game provide a real challenge, with varying levels of difficulty and behavior. Although the game is still in early access, it shows promise and has the potential to become a unique and special gaming experience. [Extracted from the article]

This article discusses the challenges facing Europe's rice producers, specifically in the Po Valley region of Italy, due to climate change. The region is known for its production of risotto rice, but the higher temperatures and lower rainfall have led to a decrease in water levels, causing difficulties for rice cultivation. Some farmers have turned to new varieties of rice that require less hydration, while others are adopting more efficient methods of production. These new alternatives offer hope for the industry, but it remains to be seen if they can sustain the production of risotto in the future. [Extracted from the article]

Como Shambhala Estate in Bali is a private retreat known for its holistic approach to wellness and stunning natural surroundings. The author describes their experience at the resort, which included enjoying healthy food, receiving various spa treatments, practicing yoga and Pilates, and exploring the jungle. The resort's philosophy emphasizes nourishing the body and soul, with a focus on using locally sourced, organic ingredients in their cuisine. The accommodations are designed to blend seamlessly with the jungle environment, offering breathtaking views and luxurious amenities. The author expresses a desire to make regular visits to this tranquil paradise. [Extracted from the article]

The article focuses on the increasing importance of biotech innovations in sustainable agriculture and food security. Topics include the development and impact of BioVaxys Technology Corp.'s antigen delivery platform for veterinary and wildlife contraceptive vaccines, Zoetis' growth and new vaccine innovations, and Corteva Agriscience's promotion of Direct Seeded Rice (DSR) techniques for more sustainable rice production.

The article "News: Aenigmachanna Updates" reports on the distribution of Aenigmachanna gollum in rice fields and wetlands in the Malappuram and Kozhikode districts in Kerala. Additional occurrences of Aenigmachanna in the Kozhikode, Malappuram, and Ernakulam districts have been reported between September 2018 and June 2021. Several specimens of A. gollum have been collected in various locations, including Avala, Narikunni, Pukayoor, Kannimangalam, and Tirur. Additionally, the article discusses the synonymization of Aenigmachanna mahabali with A. gollum. The intraspecific variation of meristic data suggests that A. mahabali should be considered a junior synonym of A. gollum. [Extracted from the article]

The article discusses the history and significance of rice in Charleston, particularly Carolina Gold rice, which was cultivated by enslaved West Africans. The author highlights the contributions of these individuals to Charleston's economy and cuisine, emphasizing the importance of acknowledging and learning from the past. The article also mentions upcoming events and provides resources for readers interested in experiencing Carolina Gold rice themselves. Additionally, the article includes an interview with Paul Draper, the former winemaker/CEO of Ridge, discussing California wine. [Extracted from the article]

The article shares the experiences of professor, translator and mediator Jenny Ko Gyi living in Monle Sayadaw, Myanmar. Topics discussed include Gyi's rural life experiences after following her military husband to a rural posting, the couple's friendship with the mostly Christian local community although Gyi came from a Buddhist family, and her experiences attending a meditation retreat.

The article reports that India's central government has provided rice for refugees and victims of natural disasters in the state of Mizoram. Topics discussed include the distribution of rice by the Zoram People's Movement party to refugees and victims of heavy rains and landslides, rice allocations for the volunteer group the Young Mizo Association which is involved in relief operations, and the migration of refugees from Myanmar, Manipur state and Bangladesh to Mizoram.

The Border Security Force (BSF) has seized four kilograms of gold and ten kilograms of silver granules in separate incidents along the Indo-Bangladesh Border (IBB). The gold was seized from a smuggler in West Bengal's Nadia district, while the silver was recovered from two women in North 24-Parganas. The gold, valued at nearly Rs 4.32 crore, was found in eight gold bricks, 22 gold biscuits, and a small piece of gold. The silver, valued at nearly Rs 8.37 lakh, was intended to be smuggled into Bangladesh. The seized items have been handed over to the Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) and the Customs Department for further legal action. [Extracted from the article]

The article discusses the declining interest of young Filipinos in rice farming in the Philippines. The hard work, high risk, and low earnings associated with rice farming are deterring young people from pursuing this occupation. As a result, the average age of Filipino rice farmers is increasing, which could lead to food shortages in the country. Some experts are concerned about this shift away from rice farming, while others believe that new machines and technology, as well as the development of resilient rice varieties, can help increase productivity. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted by researchers at the Ministry of Agriculture focused on the implementation of sustainable food and agricultural land protection regulations in Indonesia. The study found that the ineffective implementation of these regulations is a result of weak commitment from regional leaders and a lack of coordination across sectors. To address this issue, the study suggests encouraging regional leaders to prioritize the protection of agricultural land and providing stimulus funds to accelerate the issuance of regional regulations. This research provides valuable insights into the challenges and potential strategies for promoting sustainable food and agriculture in Indonesia. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted by the Heilongjiang Academy of Agricultural Sciences in China examined the effects of different tillage practices on greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and rice yields in the cold rice-growing region. The study found that rotational tillage, which alternates between plowing and rotary tillage, can reduce GHG emissions in paddy fields and potentially increase rice yields. The research suggests that this management practice could be a synergistic strategy for achieving low carbon and high yield in rice cultivation in Northeast China. The study provides valuable insights for maintaining soil quality and food production while addressing climate change concerns. [Extracted from the article]

Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann has requested a special economic package for the state from the 16th Finance Commission. He emphasized Punjab's significant contribution to the country's food production and the need for further economic growth. Mann hopes that the Finance Commission will consider the state's genuine demands and allocate funds accordingly. He has requested a total of Rs 132,247 crore for various development projects, including agriculture, industry revitalization, and tackling drug abuse. Mann also mentioned the state government's efforts to improve sustainability and self-sufficiency, as well as its plans to rationalize power subsidies and review expenditure items. He acknowledged that many of Punjab's problems are a result of previous political decisions and emphasized the need for support from the people in achieving financial consolidation and development. [Extracted from the article]

India, the world's largest exporter of rice, is considering easing restrictions on rice exports to prevent a surplus before the new crop arrives in October. The government is contemplating allowing white rice shipments with a fixed duty and may eliminate a 20% tax on parboiled rice exports. This move could help lower Asian rice prices, benefiting countries in West Africa and the Middle East that rely on India for their rice needs. Indian rice millers' shares surged in response to this news. [Extracted from the article]

India, the world's largest exporter of rice, is considering easing restrictions on rice exports to prevent a surplus in the country before the new crop arrives in October. The government is contemplating allowing white rice shipments with a fixed duty and may eliminate a 20% tax on parboiled rice exports. This potential move could help lower Asian rice prices, benefiting countries in West Africa and the Middle East that rely on India for their rice needs. India's total rice exports have decreased by 21% in the first two months of the fiscal year, and farmers are currently sowing their main rice crop for the next harvest. [Extracted from the article]

A personal narrative is presented which explores the author's experience on the Reunification Express train, and how it offers a unique and immersive way to experience Vietnam's rich history and culture.

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The agricultural sector will be an engine of the economy in 2024, driven by improvements in livestock and dairy prices, as well as access to affordable prices for corn, barley, and forage wheat. However, there are four risk factors that could affect the sector, such as the possibility of a La Niña bringing little rainfall in the upcoming spring, a strong currency affecting exports, an increase in oil prices due to the conflict in the Middle East, and Brazil's strong production in meat and soybeans. Despite these risks, it is expected that the agricultural sector will continue to grow and that Uruguay will focus on differentiation and environmental aspects to maintain its competitiveness. The climate will be a determining factor in the sector's growth. Additionally, growth is expected in the production of soybeans, corn, meat, dairy, and rice, which will contribute to the country's economic growth. [Extracted from the article]

This article provides a top 10 guide to holiday escapes in 2024. The destinations include Nuku Hiva in French Polynesia, known for its waterfalls and preserved Polynesian culture; Niseko in Japan, a popular ski area with onsens and delicious food; the Nile River in Egypt, where visitors can cruise past ancient sites; Sardinia in Italy, offering beautiful beaches, ancient ruins, and hiking opportunities; Comporta in Portugal, a seaside village with stunning beaches and rice fields; Adelaide Hills in Australia, known for its wineries, charming towns, and nature hikes; Jeju in South Korea, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with beaches and lava caves; Aotearoa in New Zealand, where fans of The Hobbit can visit the Hobbiton Movie Set; the Eastern & Oriental Express, a luxury train journey through Singapore, Malaysia, and Thailand; and San Sebastian in Spain, a resort town with renowned cuisine. [Extracted from the article]

This article provides a brief overview of various events happening around the world. In Miami Beach, a new artwork celebrating drag has been unveiled. Italy is experiencing a demographic shift, with older people outnumbering children. The scimitar-horned oryx, a type of antelope, is no longer extinct in the wild thanks to a breeding program in Chad. A new decorative copper rooster has been placed on top of the Notre-Dame Cathedral in Paris. Ethiopia and Somaliland have signed a deal allowing Ethiopia to use one of Somaliland's sea ports. The night train service between Berlin and Paris has resumed after a decade-long hiatus. India's space agency has successfully launched a new satellite mission to study black holes. Students in South Korea are taking legal action after an important exam finished 90 seconds early. Shanghai Disney Resort has opened a Zootropolis-themed attraction. In Thailand, a farmer has created artwork in rice fields using different types of rainbow rice seedlings. [Extracted from the article]

The article focuses on planned famine as an ultimate weapon used by tyrants to force compliance. Topics include the widespread famine by the Soviet Union as the first modern communist state led by Joseph Stalin, the comprehensive plan of Mao Tse-tung to implement throroughgoing communist collectivism in China which resulted to starvation of millions of Chinese, and the famine experienced by Ethiopia under the regime of communist dictator Mengistu Haile Mariam.

Prices start from US$2495 ($3615) for seven days and include airport transfers, all meals and unlimited spa treatments. Regulars Travel Lavish and leafy Escape Haven It is all in the touch. Blackboards show our various treatment times, as the retreat includes unlimited spa treatments, along with other treatments depending on which packages we chose. [Extracted from the article]

The article discusses the contrasting harvest experiences in Sublette, Kansas, between this year and last year. Last year, the fields were abandoned due to constant rains, but this year, the crop is beautiful with dry land fields averaging 55 to 65 bushels per acre. However, the weather quickly changed, and a heavy line of storms caused flooding in the area, with some fields receiving up to 8 inches of rain. The crew is now looking forward to some downtime before moving to their next job in Minneola. [Extracted from the article]

A recent report from Chittagong University of Engineering and Technology highlights the importance of sustainable rice harvesting in Bangladesh. The traditional manual harvesting process is laborious, time-consuming, and costly, leading researchers to explore alternative methods. The study proposes a novel design concept for a solar-powered rice harvester machine, which would reduce greenhouse gas emissions and reliance on diesel fuel. Field studies suggest that solar-driven rice harvesters are a promising solution that could reduce overall costs compared to traditional diesel-driven harvesters. The research aims to draw attention from business entrepreneurs and investors to manufacture solar-powered rice harvesters in practice. [Extracted from the article]

This article, titled "Let Us Descend," is a review of the book "Regulars" by Jesmyn Ward. The book is described as a reimagining of the American slavery era, focusing on the experiences of Assis and her mother who are owned by Assis' mother's sire. The review praises Ward's ability to transport readers into a world filled with spirits, and highlights her achievement as the only person of color to have won The National Book Award twice. [Extracted from the article]

China is facing the threat of heavy rain, which could damage early rice crops in the country. The southern region, the top growing area, has already been affected by rainfall, and precipitation is expected to double normal levels in the next 10 days. This poses a risk of floods in low-lying fields, potentially impacting the growth of spring crops. If significant damage occurs during the key growth period, it could raise global supply concerns, especially as India, the second-largest producer, is restricting rice exports. The price of Thai rice has already risen and may continue to do so due to China's crop woes. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted by researchers at Korea University in Seoul, South Korea, has found that the drainage practice of rice paddies can be a sustainable agronomic management technique for reducing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. The study compared the effects of intermittent drainage (ID) and continuous flooding (CF) on GHG emissions in three different Korean paddies. The results showed that ID treatment significantly reduced CH4 emissions while increasing CO2 emissions due to enhanced oxidation of labile carbon. The findings suggest that drainage practices can effectively mitigate GHG emissions in rice paddies and contribute to sustainable agriculture in response to climate change. [Extracted from the article]

Rice's attorney has said the Chiefs player drove one of the two speeding cars that created the crash in late March. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A report from Nanjing Agricultural University in Wuxi, China, discusses the impact of integrated rice-fish farming on antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs) in paddy soil. The study found that this sustainable agricultural production pattern reduced the diversity and abundance of ARGs and mobile genetic elements (MGEs). The research also revealed that the integrated rice-fish farming altered microbial community compositions and had significant correlations with bacteria, archaea, viruses, and MGEs. The findings contribute to the understanding of controlling and restoring ARGs pollution and support the development of clean and sustainable agricultural production. [Extracted from the article]

Irrigated rice cultivation is an important source of greenhouse gas emissions. Among the main greenhouse gases, there are carbon dioxide, methane, and nitrous oxide, with the emission of each gas varying according to the management of the crop, cultivar and irrigation management. In this context, the present study aimed to quantify the partial global warming potential (pGWP) measured by CH4 and N2O emissions in conventional and hybrid cultivars under two irrigation management, as well as the relation with grain yield (pGWP/Y). For this, a field experiment was conducted during the 2016/17 and 2017/18 crop seasons, with an experimental design of randomized blocks in a factorial arrangement (2x4), with four replications using water and rice cultivars. The water was managed through permanent and intermittent irrigation, with one conventional cultivar (IRGA 424 RI) and three hybrid cultivars (XP 113, Titan CL and Lexus CL). The pGWP can be reduced by up to 18% depending on the cultivar used and 11.8% through the adoption of intermittent irrigation management. More than 90% of the pGWP is due to methane emission, and the management actions of the rice crop should be directed towards the mitigation of this gas. In relation to the pGWP/Y index, the cultivar XP 113 had presented the best results. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article discusses water shortages facing rice farmers in the Punjab region of India due to the scarcity of water and adopted solutions as of November 2023. Topics covered include the fast depletion of Punjab groundwater, the expensive task of deep digging for it, and the importance of the integrated water management system. Also noted are the state and central governments' support when groundwater becomes scarce.

A recent study conducted by researchers at Mahasarakham University in Thailand explores the effectiveness of hot air-drying and ambient ventilation techniques in enhancing the storage quality of Khao Dok Mali 105 paddy rice in small-scale barns. The study found that an optimized main air pipe system significantly reduces moisture content, outperforming alternative systems. The research emphasizes the importance of uniform moisture distribution and temperature management to prevent quality degradation. These findings have practical implications for improving rice storage practices and offer a pathway towards sustainable post-harvest processing in resource-constrained environments. [Extracted from the article]

A new report discusses research findings on sustainability in food and agriculture, specifically focusing on the remediation of Cd-contaminated paddy soils using lime-derived materials. The study evaluates the effectiveness and environmental sustainability of two lime-derived materials, quicklime and calcium-silicon composite (Ca/Si), in reducing Cd bioavailability and enabling the safe use of rice grain. The research concludes that both materials can be effective, but the Ca/Si case has a lower negative impact on the environment and exhibits outward carbon emissions throughout its life cycle. The implementation of carbon capture technology with Ca/Si can achieve a positive carbon budget and contribute to a carbon neutrality plan. Overall, the study provides valuable insights into the environmental sustainability of different lime-derived materials for paddy soil remediation and carbon mitigation. [Extracted from the article]