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Background: Sulfur (S) is a vital element for the normal growth and development of plants, performing crucial biological functions in various life processes. Methods: This study investigated thirteen S utilization efficiency (SUE)-related traits at the seedling stage of wheat using a recombinant inbred line (RIL) population. The quantitative trait loci (QTLs) were mapped by genetic mapping. Thirteen S utilization efficiency-related traits were investigated under two hydroponic culture trials with low S (0.1S, T1), moderate S (0.5S, T2), and high S (1.5S, T3) levels, using the wheat RILs. Results: A total of 170 QTLs for the thirteen traits in different treatment environments were identified. Among them, 89, 103, and 101 QTLs were found in T1, T2, and T3, respectively. A total of 63 QTLs were found in the multiple treatment environments, the other 107 QTLs only being detected in a single treatment environment. Among them, thirteen relatively high-frequency QTLs (RHF-QTLs) and eleven QTL clusters were found. Five (QSh-1D, QRn-1D, QSdw-1D, QTdw-1D, and QTsc-1D) and six (QRdw-6A, QSdw-6A, QTdw-6A, QRsc-6A, QSsc-6A, and QTsc-6A) RHF-QTLs were identified in QTL clusters C3 and C10, respectively. Conclusion: These thirteen RHF-QTLs and eleven QTL clusters are expected to apply to the molecular marker-assisted selection (MAS) of wheat. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of South Architecture / Nanfang Jianzhu is the property of South Architecture Editorial Office 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.)

Phragmites australis (Reed) is an excellent lignocellulosic crop for bioethanol production, but its recalcitrant structure affects utilization efficiency. Therefore, the effective pretreated method to destroy the complex and tight structure was necessary. In this study, Irradiation (0,400,800 kGy) combined with sodium hydroxide (NaOH) (0,1%,2%,4%) pretreatment was used for the deconstruct lignocellulose structure of reed stalk, and the residue after pretreatment were subjected to enzymatic hydrolysis and synchronous saccharification and fermentation (SSF). Scanning electron microscope (SEM), Fourier transformed infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and X-ray diffraction (XRD) were used to determine the structural changes of reed stalk after different pretreatment. Gas Chromatography and Mass Spectrometry (GC/MS) was used to analysis the main lignocellulose-derived inhibitor produced by pretreatment. The results demonstrated that irradiation combined with NaOH pretreatment could destroy the lignocellulose structure, remove the lignin and hemicellulose partially, increase the content of cellulose, and promote fermentable sugar content for ethanol fermentation. The maximum enzymatic hydrolysis conversion rate of cellulose was 85.02% when the reed stalk was treated by 800 kGy irradiation combined with 4% NaOH solution. The maximum ethanol conversion rate was 73.35% when the reed stalk was pretreated by 800 kGy irradiation combined with 2% NaOH solution. Irradiation pretreatment destroyed the tightly packed structure, induced the fracture of hydrogen bond or covalent bond of reed stalk lignocellulose, broken the crystal structure of cellulose. Irradiation combined with NaOH treatment, the characteristic peak intensity of hemicellulose and lignin decreased or even disappeared in FT-IR spectroscopy. Interestingly, the cellulose crystal form transformed from I to II, when the reed stalk was treated by 800 kGy irradiation combined with NaOH solution. Overall, irradiation combined with NaOH pretreatment was effective for improving the utilization efficiency of reed stalk. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study was to use milk urea to evaluate production parameters, efficiency of nitrogen utilization, and urinary nitrogen excretion during lactation in Holstein dairy cows. Cows in the 1st lactation phase compared to the 2nd and 3rd lactation phases showed: increase (P < 0.05) in daily milk yield; decrease (P < 0.05) in fat and protein content in milk; decrease in milk urea content (P < 0.05); with a lower individual number of animals (31% of dairy cows in the 1st stage of lactation, 39 % of dairy cows in the 2nd stage of lactation, and 44 % of dairy cows in the 3rd phase of lactation) with an above-limit milk urea content (35.0 ± 4.7; 34.9 ± 4.1, 34.8 ± 4.1 mg.dl-1); decreased urinary nitrogen excretion (P < 0.05); and efficiency of nitrogen utilization from feed to milk (P < 0.05). According to the phase of lactation, the efficiency of nitrogen utilization decreased and urinary nitrogen excretion increased with increasing milk urea content. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Journal of Resources & Ecology is the property of Journal of Resources & Ecology 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.)

Abstract [Objective] This study aims to investigate the effects of drought stress on the distribution of carbon (C), nitrogen (N), and phosphorus (P) elements and stoichiometry in organs of Pinus yunnanensis seedlings, and to provide a theoretical basis for water management in the cultivation of P . yunnanensis. [Methods] The contents of C, N, and P in organs of 1-year-old P . yunnanensis seedlings under drought stress were determined by potted water control method and four drought treatments. [Results] (1) Compared with the appropriate water treatment, the C content in leaves, stems, and fine roots of P . yunnanensis seedlings was decreased under drought stress, but was increased in coarse roots. N content was decreased in coarse roots and increased in fine roots. P content was increased in leaves and decreased in stems. (2) The variation coefficient of element content was P>N>C. The contents of C and N showed the greatest variability in fine roots. The variability of P content was the highest in leaves and the lowest in coarse roots. (3) There was a significant negative correlation between N content and coarse roots, a significant positive correlation between stems and fine roots, and a significant positive correlation between N and P contents in stems and coarse roots. [Conclusion] Under drought stress, growth of P . yunnanensis seedlings is restricted by N elements, and the utilization efficiency of N and P is increased. The overall variability of C, N, and P content in coarse and fine roots is higher than leaves and stems. The root system is more sensitive to changes in soil water status.

The low efficiency of light and nitrogen resources, poor yield and profit, and environmental pollution of maize production are main problems in many areas of China. We hypothesized that optimizing nitrogen fertilizer density management strategies could alleviate the above issues. To address this, a 3-year on-site experiment with three planting densities and four nitrogen rates was conducted in the Sichuan Hilly Region. The results indicated that increasing the planting density could increase the extinction coefficient and solar radiation interception of maize populations as well as enhance the utilization efficiency of light and nitrogen resources and yield. For every 100 kg ha−1 increase in nitrogen fertilizer, RUE increased by 0.16%, NUE decreased by 25.0%, and soil apparent nitrogen loss quantity increased by 67.8 kg ha−1. There was a certain interaction between planting density and nitrogen rate. The appropriate planting density and nitrogen rate combination was 67,500 plants ha−1 with 180 kg N ha−1 under the experimental condition. Excessive close planting in weak-light areas and excessive nitrogen reduction after densification are not advisable. This study indicated that nitrogen–density strategies should be matched with the local natural resources such as sunlight. The results provide a theoretical for high-yield and high-quality maize production in these areas. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

(1) Background: Excessive nitrogen (N) fertilizer application in tea plantations leads to challenges such as soil acidification and nitrogen loss, impending the sustainable development of the plantation system. Yet, there is a lack of research on blended fertilization strategies, and limited data regarding N loss when substituting with organic fertilizer. (2) Methods: A year-long field monitoring experiment was conducted to evaluate the effects of substituting compound fertilizer with organic fertilizer, specifically with respect to runoff N loss and uptake of chemical fertilizer N by tea trees. (3) Results: The annual runoff N loss ranged from 0.16 to 0.57 kg·hm−2 and accounted for a mere 0.22–0.48% of N from fertilizer applications. Substitution with organic fertilizer reduced runoff N loss by 21–53% and improved the tea tree utilization efficiency of chemical fertilizer N from 16% to 27%. A 50% organic fertilizer substitution (based on the amount of N) promoted a net soil N mineralization rate, creating an ammonium-rich environment favored by tea trees. (4) Conclusions: The positive effects of partially substituting N fertilizer with organic fertilizer in tea plantation systems on both N utilization efficiency and N loss were confirmed. If conditions permit, the study team would aim to expand the temporal scope of the study, and to investigate the impact of organic fertilizer substitution on N loss under various precipitation intensities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Based on the DEA-Malmquist method, this study analyzes water resource utilization efficiency in six cities of the northern Anhui region. The input indicators covered per capita water resources, industrial water consumption, agricultural water consumption, domestic water consumption, fixed assets investment, and number of employees. The output indicator was per capita GDP of each city. The findings of the study revealed that only Huaibei achieved efficiency according to the DEA model, while the other cities in the northern Anhui region did not exhibit the same level of efficiency. The overall water resource utilization efficiency in the region was low, with significant variations among the cities (p ≤ 0.05; ANOVA test). The order of water resource utilization efficiency from high to low was Huaibei, Huainan, Bengbu, Bozhou, Suzhou, and Fuyang. An analysis of investment redundancy revealed that a large number of employees and an unreasonable water use structure were key factors that restricted the efficiency of water resource utilization in the region. The overall TFP index of water resource utilization efficiency in the region showed an upward trend, with a value of 1.02. By addressing them, decision-makers can work toward promoting sustainable economic development and effective water resource management in the region. HIGHLIGHTS When establishing evaluation indicators, water resource conditions, socio-economic conditions, and water use structure factors can reflect the actual situation.; There are significant regional differences in the utilization of water resources in the northern Anhui region.; Technological progress is driving factor for water resource utilization efficiency in the northern Anhui region as references for decision-makers.;

Copyright of Chinese Journal of Applied Entomology is the property of Chinese Journal of Applied Entomology, Editorial Department 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.)

The low efficiency of light and nitrogen resources, poor yield and profit, and environmental pollution of maize production are main problems in many areas of China. We hypothesized that optimizing nitrogen fertilizer density management strategies could alleviate the above issues. To address this, a 3-year on-site experiment with three planting densities and four nitrogen rates was conducted in the Sichuan Hilly Region. The results indicated that increasing the planting density could increase the extinction coefficient and solar radiation interception of maize populations as well as enhance the utilization efficiency of light and nitrogen resources and yield. For every 100 kg ha−1 increase in nitrogen fertilizer, RUE increased by 0.16%, NUE decreased by 25.0%, and soil apparent nitrogen loss quantity increased by 67.8 kg ha−1. There was a certain interaction between planting density and nitrogen rate. The appropriate planting density and nitrogen rate combination was 67,500 plants ha−1 with 180 kg N ha−1 under the experimental condition. Excessive close planting in weak-light areas and excessive nitrogen reduction after densification are not advisable. This study indicated that nitrogen–density strategies should be matched with the local natural resources such as sunlight. The results provide a theoretical for high-yield and high-quality maize production in these areas.

With the acceleration of power marketization, there is a growing demand for optimization of power demand management and energy dispatch by industrial and commercial users, especially in achieving energy consumption efficiency and cost reduction. We adopt a two-layer optimization model combined with a time-sharing tariff system to efficiently allocate electricity resources by constructing an electricity demand response model for industrial and commercial users. The study results show that after implementing time-of-day tariffs, the cost of electricity for industrial and commercial users has been reduced by 15% on average. At the same time, the grid company’s revenue from electricity sales has been enhanced by 10%. In addition, a customer satisfaction survey found that customer satisfaction with the optimized power dispatch scheme increased by 20%. The study’s conclusion confirms that through scientific demand management and scheduling strategies, we can effectively improve the utilization efficiency of power resources and reduce costs, while ensuring customer satisfaction and achieving a win-win situation for supply and demand.

Soil fertility problem is a major constraint to faba bean production in Wolaita Zone in Ethiopia. Hence, a field experiment was conducted in Kokate Marachare sub-district during 2019 and 2020 cropping seasons to determine the optimum N, P, and K fertilizers for enhanced uptake and use efficiency of faba bean. Three rates of N (0, 23, and 46 kg N ha–1), P (0, 46, and 92 kg P2O5 ha–1), and K fertilizer (0, 30, and 60 kg K2O ha–1) were tested using RCBD with three replications. Data on agronomic efficiency (AE), agro-physiological efficiency (APE), apparent recovery efficiency (ARE), and utilization efficiency of N, P, and K nutrients were analyzed. The results revealed N, P, and K uptake efficiency (UE) indices of faba bean were significantly influenced by the main effects of the rate of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium fertilizers. Thus, applying 23 kg N ha–1, 46 kg P2O5 ha–1, and 30 kg K2O ha–1 resulted higher N, P, and K AE, respectively (33.70 kg kg-1, 13.43 kg kg-1, and 27.32 kg kg-1); PE (76.87 kg kg-1, 104.51 kg kg-1, and 118.83 kg kg-1); APE (40.49 kg kg-1, 104.51 kg kg-1, and 68.07 kg kg-1); ARE (84.48%, 2.00%, and 40.30%); and UE (63.47 kg kg-1, 2.52 kg kg-1, and 56.08 kg kg-1). Therefore, 23 kg N ha–1, 46 kg P2O 5ha–1, and 30 kg K2O ha–1 are recommended for the higher N, P, and K uptake and use efficiency of faba bean.

Soil fertility problem is a major constraint to faba bean production in Wolaita Zone in Ethiopia. Hence, a field experiment was conducted in Kokate Marachare sub-district during 2019 and 2020 cropping seasons to determine the optimum N, P, and K fertilizers for enhanced uptake and use efficiency of faba bean. Three rates of N (0, 23, and 46 kg N ha-1), P (0, 46, and 92 kg P2O5 ha-1), and K fertilizer (0, 30, and 60 kg K2O ha-1) were tested using RCBD with three replications. Data on agronomic efficiency (AE), agrophysiological efficiency (APE), apparent recovery efficiency (ARE), and utilization efficiency of N, P, and K nutrients were analyzed. The results revealed N, P, and K uptake efficiency (UE) indices of faba bean were significantly influenced by the main effects of the rate of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium fertilizers. Thus, applying 23 kg N ha-1, 46 kg P2O5 ha-1, and 30 kg K2O ha-1 resulted higher N, P, and K AE, respectively (33.70 kg kg-1, 13.43 kg kg-1, and 27.32 kg kg-1); PE (76.87 kg kg-1, 104.51 kg kg-1, and 118.83 kg kg-1); APE (40.49 kg kg-1, 104.51 kg kg-1, and 68.07 kg kg-1); ARE (84.48%, 2.00%, and 40.30%); and UE (63.47 kg kg-1, 2.52 kg kg-1, and 56.08 kg kg-1). Therefore, 23 kg N ha-1, 46 kg P2O 5ha-1, and 30 kg K2O ha-1 are recommended for the higher N, P, and K uptake and use efficiency of faba bean. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Field experiments were conducted to investigate the effects of K application on the nitrogen and potassium utilization efficiency and yield of foxtail millet (Setaria italica L.). The experiment was performed with a completely randomized design with two millet cultivars (Jingu 21 and Zhangza 10) and five K2O rates (0, 60, 120, 180, and 240 kg/hm2) in 2020 and 2021. We found that K promoted K and N absorption; significantly increased dry matter (DM), N, and K accumulation in millet organs; caused dry matter accumulation to peak earlier; and increased the DM accumulation rate. In addition, K accumulation preceded that of DM or N. Relative to the crop cycle, most K (61.07%) accumulated at booting, whereas N accumulated mostly (33.86%) during grain filling. N absorption efficiency increased by 31.87%, and the apparent and agronomic utilization rate of K fertilizer remained high, increasing millet yield, which peaked at a K rate of 180 kg/hm2 for both cultivars, by 29.91% and 31.51% in Jingu 21 and Zhangza 10, respectively, relative to untreated controls. Stepwise regression and path analysis showed that the leaf and spike K accumulation, stem N accumulation, and stem DM were the main factors affecting yield, with DM having the greatest direct effect, followed by leaf K accumulation. The K concentration (0.77–3.04%) in Zhangza 10 was higher than that in Jingu 21 (0.69–2.91%) in untreated plants. Under the same K application rate, N and K accumulation and the harvest index were higher for Zhangza 10 than those for Jingu 21, and the nutrient utilization ability was greater for Zhangza 10. The results demonstrated that rational K fertilizer application can increase K concentration and accumulation in leaves, promote N metabolism and accumulation, increase N and K utilization efficiency, and improve DM accumulation and millet yield. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Cobalt in end-of-life cobalt-containing end products reached 387 kt during 2000–2021. • Recycling rate of cobalt from obsolete cobalt-containing end products reached 20.0%. • Theoretical cumulative recycling potential of cobalt from urban mines was 204–356 kt. • A 73.8% utilization efficiency was gained by cobalt throughout its whole life cycle. • China's in-use cobalt stocks reached 131 kt, with 83.8% coming from battery products. Several countries regard cobalt as a critical material due to its extensive use in clean energy technology and high-tech industries. To comprehensively examine how China's cobalt industry developed and evolved from 2000 to 2021, our study quantified cobalt flows, stocks and the recycling potential of cobalt from China's urban cobalt mines using dynamic material flow analysis. In 2021, China's in-use cobalt stocks for cobalt-containing end products reached 131 kt, of which battery products and superalloys accounted for 83.8% and 8.1%, respectively. The theoretical cumulative recycling potential of cobalt from China's urban cobalt mines reached 204–356 kt between 2000 and 2021 under different scenarios. However, the actual cumulative exploitation of cobalt from urban cobalt mines was 46–80 kt, of which consumer electronics, cemented carbides, and superalloys were the main recycled products. The cumulative exports and imports of cobalt in all commodities reached 558 and 1117 kt, respectively. China exported a large quantity of cobalt chemicals, chemical derivatives and cobalt-containing end products produced from imported cobalt raw materials. China imported 84.7% of the cobalt raw materials consumed domestically, and 32.6% of the domestically produced cobalt-containing end products were exported. Over the entire life cycle of cobalt, cobalt losses totaled 288 kt, with 51.0% of losses coming from refining, and a 73.8% cobalt utilization efficiency was achieved. China recovered 76.7 kt of cobalt, and the recycling rate of cobalt from end-of-life cobalt-containing end products reached 20.0%. The findings can serve as a scientific basis for China's cobalt industry to develop efficiently and economically. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In order to investigate the effects of different application methods of zinc fertilizer on the zinc content of wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) grains in China, published literature was reviewed and relevant data was collected for analysis. The results show that the main application methods for zinc fertilizer in China were soil, foliar, and soil+foliar application, and the average zinc input of soil application (12.6 kg·hm-2 ) was higher than that of foliar application (1.57 kg·hm-2 ) . The distribution of zinc content in wheat grains without zinc fertilizer ranged from 14.6 mg·kg-1 to 50.0 mg·kg-1, and 95.3% of wheat grains had zinc content <40 mg·kg-1 . The distribution of zinc content in grains after soil+foliar application ranged from 24.0 mg·kg-1 to 70.9 mg·kg-1, and 76.2% of wheat grains had zinc content >40 mg·kg-1 . The average increase rate of zinc content in grains under different application approaches was as follows：soil+foliar application (62.6%) > foliar application (47.2%) > soil application (24.6%) . There was a significant positive correlation between the increase rate of wheat grain zinc content and the amount of exogenous zinc input in soil and foliar application, i.e., when the zinc input increased by 1 kg per hectare, the zinc content in grains increased by 0.74% and 16.39%, respectively. The average utilization efficiency of zinc fertilizer after foliar application (7.27%) was higher than that of soil application (0.59%) and soil+foliar application (0.94%) . Therefore, the zinc content of wheat grains could be increased using different application methods; soil + foliar application was most effective, while foliar application possessed the highest zinc utilization efficiency. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Phosphorus (P) is an essential nutrient which can increase crop production, plant biomass, economic yield and profitability. The objectives of this research were to investigate the impact of peach sources (PS), beneficial-microbes and phosphorus levels on P use-efficiency (PUE), agronomic-efficiency (AE) and partial-factor productivity (PFP) in soybean and maize crops under soybean-wheat and maize-wheat cropping-systems. Peach remnants (leaves, twigs, stones and barks non-decomposed, compost and biochar) along with three P-levels (50, 75, 100 kg-ha−1) and two beneficial-microbes (PSB and Trichoderma) were used in the experiment. The results revealed that PS had significant effect on soybean and maize PUE, AE and PFP. PUE in soybean and maize were noted differ (25.6 and 28.4%) with integration of peach biochar as compared to compost and residues application. In case of P application highest PUE in soybean was recorded with 75 kg-P-ha−1(22.2%), while in maize PUE was noted with 50 kg P ha−1(33.5%). Trichoderma was promising and observed deviation in PUE for soybean (21.7%) and maize (27.8%) as compared to PSB. PAE and PFPp in soybean and maize altered with PS and highest values for AE and PFP were noted with biochar. Among the P levels, the highest PAE was recorded with 75 kg P-ha−1 in both crops, whereas PFPp in soybean was maximum with 75 kg P-ha,−1 and interestingly in maize it was noted with 50 kg-ha−1. Conclusively, PAE, PFPp and PUE were higher with biochar + Trichoderma + 75 kg P-ha−1 and can improve soybean and maize yield and productivity on sustainable basis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The microstructures and electrochemical corrosion behavior of Mg-6Al-1Sn-La (Ce) anode materials for magnesium-air batteries were investigated systematically. The results show that the introduction of La and Ce elements into Mg–Al-Sn alloy can form the needle-like or granular Al11La3 (Ce3) phases and some tiny refined Mg17Al12 phases, and the amount of Mg17Al12 phases gradually reduces with the increasing content of La and Ce due to the competitive consumption of Al elements. The comparison of electrochemical behavior indicates that La and Ce alloying can inhibit the hydrogen-induced self-corrosion reaction and promote the utilization efficiencies at the expense of electrical discharge activity. According to the result of utilization efficiencies, the Ce-containing anodes present higher utilization efficiencies than the La-containing anodes and Mg-6Al-1Sn. The surface morphologies after discharging indicate that La and Ce can promote the uniform dissolution and detachment of the anodes, and the corrosion pores remained relatively dense and smooth. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

(1) Background: Excessive nitrogen (N) fertilizer application in tea plantations leads to challenges such as soil acidification and nitrogen loss, impending the sustainable development of the plantation system. Yet, there is a lack of research on blended fertilization strategies, and limited data regarding N loss when substituting with organic fertilizer. (2) Methods: A year-long field monitoring experiment was conducted to evaluate the effects of substituting compound fertilizer with organic fertilizer, specifically with respect to runoff N loss and uptake of chemical fertilizer N by tea trees. (3) Results: The annual runoff N loss ranged from 0.16 to 0.57 kg·hm−2 and accounted for a mere 0.22–0.48% of N from fertilizer applications. Substitution with organic fertilizer reduced runoff N loss by 21–53% and improved the tea tree utilization efficiency of chemical fertilizer N from 16% to 27%. A 50% organic fertilizer substitution (based on the amount of N) promoted a net soil N mineralization rate, creating an ammonium-rich environment favored by tea trees. (4) Conclusions: The positive effects of partially substituting N fertilizer with organic fertilizer in tea plantation systems on both N utilization efficiency and N loss were confirmed. If conditions permit, the study team would aim to expand the temporal scope of the study, and to investigate the impact of organic fertilizer substitution on N loss under various precipitation intensities.

Copyright of Food Science & Technology & Economy is the property of Grain Science & Technology & Economy Editorial Office 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.)

Land spaces function in capacities of urban development, agricultural production, and ecological conservation, among many others. Research of land space utilization efficiency (LSUE) and coupling coordination relationships among its subsystems are significant for sustainable land space development. In this study, taking the Urban Agglomeration in the Middle Reaches of the Yangtze River (UAMRYR) as the study area, we establish a measurement index system to evaluate the LSUE (2000–2018) and analyze its coupling coordination degree by utilizing an improved coupling coordination model. The main results include the following. (1) The average efficiency levels of urban space and agricultural space in the UAMRYR increased 2000–2018, while the average efficiency of ecological space declined. (2) The spatial pattern of the LSUE values varied greatly, with the distributions of high-efficiency and low-efficiency levels significantly different. (3) The coupling degree of LSUE includes three types, i.e., high-level coupling, break-in, and antagonism. Each coupling degree type was characterized by change over time. (4) The proportion of areas with high coupling coordination and moderate coupling coordination increased from 2000 to 2018, while the proportion of areas with basic coupling coordination, moderate imbalance, and serious imbalance declined during this period. Given that the spatial differentiation of the LSUE and its coupling coordination, it is necessary to implement a differential land space development strategy in the UAMRYR. This study is helpful to promote the efficient utilization and coordinated development of land space utilization systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A new strategy of utilizing mixtures of ethanol and complexing agents on Mg-air battery is investigated systematically. The presence of ethanol promotes formation of a dense inner layer with a high portion of oxide in the discharge film, leading to significantly enhanced utilization efficiency. The highest utilization efficiency of Mg anode has been increased from 53.6 % to 85.7 % and the discharge potential is decreased 300 mV, when discharges in mixed electrolyte. The adsorption/deposition of S-like species on metal surface is evidenced in ethanol and 5-sulfosalicylate acid containing solution, resulting in inhibition of the hydroxide-rich outer layer growth. • Mixtures of complexing agents and ethanol are adopted as electrolytes for Mg-air battery. • 85.7 % of utilization efficiency is achieved in 3,4-DHB and ethanol containing solution. • Ethanol facilitates the formation of oxide-rich inner surface layer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Changbai Mountain area is an important water source in Jilin Province, China. In recent years, due to the accelerated development, over-exploitation and ecological environment destruction of the region, the water resource problem of the region is becoming more and more prominent. Effectively solving water resources problems and achieving sustainable utilization of water resources have become important issues for regional development. Using Changbai Mountain area as the study area, the water utilization efficiency of Changbai Mountain area from 2009 to 2018 was measured and analyzed using data envelopment analysis (DEA-Malmquist) index model. The results show that in 2009-2018, the overall water utilization efficiency of 19 cities and counties in this area is at a moderate to low level, where the overall efficiency is 0.772, the pure technical efficiency is 0.853, and the scale efficiency is 0.891. The percentage of cities and counties that reached DEA effective in each year from 2009-2018 was 32%, 36%, 53%, 63%, 58%, 58%, 58%, 63%, 47%, and 32%, respectively. From 2009 to 2018, the total factor index of water resources utilization efficiency in Changbai Mountain area overall showing a downward trend in volatility, with an overall decreasing trend of 13.4%. There are uneven and unbalanced problems in water resources utilization efficiency in Changbai Mountain area. And improving the pure technical efficiency is the key to solving the problem of water resource utilization efficiency. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Field experiments were conducted to investigate the effects of K application on the nitrogen and potassium utilization efficiency and yield of foxtail millet (Setaria italica L.). The experiment was performed with a completely randomized design with two millet cultivars (Jingu 21 and Zhangza 10) and five K2O rates (0, 60, 120, 180, and 240 kg/hm2) in 2020 and 2021. We found that K promoted K and N absorption; significantly increased dry matter (DM), N, and K accumulation in millet organs; caused dry matter accumulation to peak earlier; and increased the DM accumulation rate. In addition, K accumulation preceded that of DM or N. Relative to the crop cycle, most K (61.07%) accumulated at booting, whereas N accumulated mostly (33.86%) during grain filling. N absorption efficiency increased by 31.87%, and the apparent and agronomic utilization rate of K fertilizer remained high, increasing millet yield, which peaked at a K rate of 180 kg/hm2 for both cultivars, by 29.91% and 31.51% in Jingu 21 and Zhangza 10, respectively, relative to untreated controls. Stepwise regression and path analysis showed that the leaf and spike K accumulation, stem N accumulation, and stem DM were the main factors affecting yield, with DM having the greatest direct effect, followed by leaf K accumulation. The K concentration (0.77–3.04%) in Zhangza 10 was higher than that in Jingu 21 (0.69–2.91%) in untreated plants. Under the same K application rate, N and K accumulation and the harvest index were higher for Zhangza 10 than those for Jingu 21, and the nutrient utilization ability was greater for Zhangza 10. The results demonstrated that rational K fertilizer application can increase K concentration and accumulation in leaves, promote N metabolism and accumulation, increase N and K utilization efficiency, and improve DM accumulation and millet yield.

Background: Phosphorus is the crucial element to enhance yields as well bio-chemical properties namely protein and oil content in groundnut. Buildup of insoluble phosphates and chemical fixation in soil reduces phosphorus consumption ability in plants. Phosphorus use efficiency (PUE) can be increased with higher levels of phosphorus rate. The study was framed to investigate the effect of phosphorus fertilization on yield, nutrient acquisition, use efficiency and bio-chemical compositions of groundnut. Methods: The experiment was conducted in summer seasons of 2016 and 2017, using split plot design with three varieties ('JL-24', 'Gangapuri', 'TAG-24') in main plot and four fertilization levels (0, 40, 60, 80 kg P2O5 ha-1) in sub plots. Result: The study revealed that pod yield enhanced significantly by 15.4%, 27.3% and 39.9% with increase in fertilization rates from 40 kg to 80 kg ha-1 compare to unfertilized plots. Protein and oil content showed a positive response with phosphorus application. Agronomic efficiency, recovery efficiency and utilization efficiency were also increased with phosphorus rates, whereas, partial factor productivity, agro-physiological efficiency and physiological efficiency had decreasing trends. 'Gangapuri' gave higher pod yield (1.80 t ha-1), protein (24.27%) and oil (45.41%) content than other selected varieties. Enhanced phosphorus rate also increases nutrient uptake in groundnut. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Biochar as an amendment has been widely applied to enhance crop productivity and improve soil quality. However, the effect of biochar-based fertilizer (BF) on the production capacity and economic benefits of open-field eggplant in the karst region remains unclear. A field experiment was carried out in the karst region of Southwest China from 2020 to 2021 to study the ameliorative roles of different application rates (1875, 2250, 2625, and 3000 kg ha−1) of BF on the fresh yield, quality, fertilizer utilization, and economic benefits of fresh eggplant. The results show that BF increased the yield of fresh eggplant by 3.65–13.76% (2020) and 23.40–49.04% (2021) compared to the traditional fertilization practice (TFP). The application of BF reduced the nitrate content and increased the vitamin C (VC) and soluble sugar content of the fruits, which is beneficial for improving the quality of eggplant fruits. Meanwhile, the application of BF not only increased the nutrient uptake of the eggplant but also significantly improved the fertilizer utilization rates, especially the agronomic efficiency (AE) and recovery efficiency (RE). Moreover, BF could also significantly increase the output value and net income of fresh eggplant, which can help farmers increase their income. In conclusion, a BF application rate of 2544–2625 kg ha−1 could be used to improve the yield, fertilizer efficiency, and economic benefits of open-field eggplant and is recommended for managing agricultural production in the karst region of Southwest China. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, a Data Envelopment Analysis-Tobit (DEA-Tobit) two-stage model was used to evaluate the efficiency of water-resource utilization, and the regional differences and influencing factors on water-resource utilization were analyzed. The results of the analysis of regional differences show that China's water-use efficiency is relatively low. Only Beijing, Shanghai, and Fujian have water-use efficiency higher than 0.8, whereas most other provinces and cities have an efficiency of 0.3–0.8. The eastern region demonstrates a higher water-resource utilization efficiency than the central and western regions. The analysis of the influencing factors of regional differences in water-use efficiency found that per capita water resources, per capita domestic water use, and the proportion of primary and secondary industries all have a negative impact on the efficiency of water use, and per capita GDP has a positive impact on the efficiency of water use. Agricultural water consumption, industrial water consumption, domestic water consumption, and total ecological water consumption all have a negative impact on water-resource utilization efficiency, of which domestic water consumption and industrial water consumption have a greater impact. Technological level and water-resource utilization efficiency show a significant positive correlation. HIGHLIGHTS Selects a DEA-Tobit two-stage model to evaluate water-resource utilization efficiency.; Analyzed the differences in water use efficiency in various regions of China.; Analyzed the influencing factors of water-resource utilization efficiency.; Proposes countermeasures to improve water-resource utilization efficiency.;

Knowledge of the amino acid (AA) requirements for striped catfish (Pangasianodon hypophthalmus) is very limited. The main objective of the study was to determine maintenance requirements and utilization of digestible methonine (Met) and other essential amino acids (EAA) for growth in juvenile striped catfish. To evaluate the objective, a series of three different trials were carried out. Initially, a 28-d feed deprivation study showed an allometric relationship between energy, protein, or AA losses (y) and geometric body weight (BW), where the relationship was expressed as a power function (y = a BW b ) with the exponent values (b) being 0.84 for energy, 0.83 for protein, and 0.81–0.90 for various EAAs. Next, a digestibility trial was carried out to determine apparent digestibility coefficients of energy, protein and AA from the ingredients, including: fish meal, soybean meal, wheat bran, regular and defatted rice bran. These values were then used in the final trial to formulate two diets on a digestible AA basis with similar crude protein (31%), energy (17.1 kJ g−1) and AA composition - except for digestible Met and Met+Cys, which were 0.47% and 0.90% for Diet A, and 0.61% and 1.05% for Diet B. The diets were fed to quadruplicate groups of fish (∼10 g initial weight; 20 fish per tank) at increasing ration levels (∼ 35%, 55%, 77%, 93% and 100% apparent satiation) for 64 days. One group was deprived of feed for 28 days. The results showed that feeding catfish at increasing ration levels significantly improves the growth performance in both dietary treatments. Additionally, the group fed Diet B showed significantly better weight gain than the corresponding group fed Diet A at 93% and 100% satiation. The maintenance requirement was determined to be 21.77 mg digestible (dig) Met kg−0.83 d−1 and 35.3 mg dig Met+Cys kg−0.83 d−1 based on a linear model and to be 18.8 mg digestible (dig) Met kg−0.83 d−1 and 30.7 mg dig Met+Cys kg−0.83 d−1 based on an exponential fit to the data. The efficiency of digestible Met utilization (k DMet assessed based on Diet B) for growth above maintenance was found to be 63% (including data of all ration levels) or 71% (excluding data of 100% satiation), while that for the Met+Cys (k DM+C) was found to be 46% (including data of all ration levels) or 51% (excluding data of 100% satiation). The efficiency of digestible protein utilization for weight gain with Diet B was found to be higher (66%) than that with Diet A (57%), indicating the importance of balancing striped catfish diets for dietary Met. The study also determined maintenance requirements and utilization efficiency of other EAAs which need to be further improved. These data can be used to derive AA requirements for striped catfish based on a factorial modelling approach which relies on maintenance requirements, growth utilization of AA, and targeted growth or protein deposition. • An allometric relationship (y = a BW b ) was established between energy, protein, or amino acid losses (y) and geometric body weight (BW), with the exponent values (b) being 0.84 for energy, 0.83 for protein, and 0.81–0.90 for various EAAs for striped catfish. • Maintenance requirements (mg kg−0.83 d−1) of digestible Met was determined to be 21.77 mg and 18.8 mg and that of digestible Met + Cys was determined 35.3 mg and 30.7 mg, based on linear and exponential models, respectively. • Growth utilization efficiency of digestible Met was estimated to be 63% (or 71% when excluding data of 100% apparent satiation), while that of digestible Met+Cys was found to be 46% (or 51% when excluding data of 100% apparent satiation). • The study also provided maintenance requirements and utilization efficiency of protein and other essential amino acids. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Susceptors are vital components in microwave heating systems, ensuring efficient, selective, and uniform heating while improving both energy utilization and time effectiveness in various microwave processing applications. The present investigation underlines the microwave absorption performance of various silicon carbide (SiC) susceptors during microwave hybrid heating. The current study also explores methods, including theoretical analysis, simulations, and experiments, to identify most suitable SiC susceptor materials for efficient microwave heating (high microwave absorbing and energy utilization efficiency). Among all susceptor materials, porous nitride-bonded SiC exhibited combination of high properties including permittivity (9.64), loss tangent (0.268), reflection loss (−13.32 dB) and attenuation constant (21.12 N p /m) when microwave heating carried at 1.2 kW, 900 s. Porous nitride-bonded SiC susceptor emerged as optimal choice for most appropriate susceptor material on the basis of theoretical analysis (reflection loss, impedance, microwave attenuation constant, dielectric properties) as compared to other susceptors. The microwave absorption mechanism of various SiC susceptor materials have been established and summarized. The microwave heating behaviour of various SiC susceptors with different compositions were analysed using COMSOL simulations. A higher microwave utilization efficiency was observed by COMSOL simulation for the porous nitride-bonded SiC (95 %) susceptor than dense nitride-bonded SiC (78 %), dense SiC (69 %) and dense oxide-bonded SiC (58 %). The excellent microwave absorption capability of porous nitride-bonded SiC susceptor can be ascribed to synergistic efforts of various polarization mechanisms: dipole polarization, interfacial polarization, multiple reflections and scatterings, defect-induced dipole polarization and conductive loss. [Display omitted] • Experimental & simulation used to estimate potential of various susceptors for effective microwave heating. • Polarization mechanisms for effective microwave heating of various susceptors discussed. • Microwave absorption properties & utilization efficiency quantitatively shown by COMSOL. • Among all susceptors, porous nitride-bonded SiC exhibited the maximum heating rate (97.73 °C/min). • Highest energy utilization efficiency (95 %) obtained with porous nitride-bonded SiC susceptor. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To provide targeted suggestions for China’s internet medical infrastructure construction，this paper uses the global Super⁃SBM model to calculate the medical resource service efficiency based on the panel data of medical and health industries in 31 provinces（cities，autonomous regions）from 2011 to 2018，and then builds PVAR model to empirically analyze the impact of internet construction on China’s medical resource service efficiency，and examines the impact of internet construction on China’s medical resource utilization efficiency and scale efficiency through efficiency decomposition. It is found that internet construction has overall improved the service efficiency of medical resources in China. This is because the promotion effect of internet construction on the utilization efficiency of medical resources in China as a whole exceeds its inhibition effect on scale efficiency，while the specific indicators of internet construction will have different effects. Accordingly，it is proposed that while accelerating the overall construction of the internet，the government should examine the specific impact of each construction indicators and adjust the investment and construction of each indicators in time. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nitrogen (N) is a crucial nutrient for plant growth and development. To optimize agricultural environments, N fertilizers represent a critical tool to regulate crop productivity. The improvement of nitrogen use efficiency (NUE) represents a promising tool that may enable cereal production to meet future food demand. Wheat reported contrasting behaviors in N utilization showing specific abilities depending on genotype. This study selected two landraces and two improved genotypes from Northern Africa to investigate grain yield (GY), grain protein content (GPC) and NUE. Plants were grown under three levels of N supply: 0, 75, 150 kg N ha−1 and for two consecutive years. Results reported a better NUE (0.40 kg kg N−1) obtained under 150 kg N ha−1, while N utilization efficiency (NUtE) showed a 13% increase using 75 kg N ha−1 compared with 150 kg N ha−1. Under low nitrogen rate (0 N), crop N supply (CNS) and N uptake efficiency (NUpE) were shown as determinant factors for improved genotypes GY (R2 = 0.72), while NUtE represented the most determinant component for GPC in landraces (R2 = 0.92). Multivariate regression models explained the dependence in GPC on NUE, NUpE, and NUtE. In conclusion, our results recognize GPC and NUtE as suitable selection traits to identify durum wheat with higher NUE. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mining cities in China have long faced pressures such as the occupation of urban land by waste discharge from mining areas, the harsh ecological environment, and the surge in unemployment. After years of exploration, the development of urban underground space is the best way to solve the above problems. Based on the geological condition and urban planning condition of Tangshan City, this paper put forward the concept of underground space development, and chose underground space waste storage and utilization methods according to local conditions. It analyzed the distribution of underground space in Tangshan City and its corresponding surface conditions, and calculated the volume of underground space as 9.1 × 107m3; proposed the concept of utilization efficiency of underground space, established the deformation model of underground space surrounding rock, and calculated the reasonable width of waste storage space. The width is about 60 m, and the space utilization efficiency should reach 82%; based on the field practice of the waste storage project, the measured space utilization efficiency is 73%, which is slightly less than the theoretical calculation value; Through the urban surface deformation and air monitoring, the underground waste storage project in Tangshan City is successful. The negative effect of urban ground is relatively small, and it is the best method suitable for the utilization of underground space in China's mining cities, and provides a theoretical basis for the development of urban underground space in China. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To elucidate the utilization efficiency of microwave energy (UEME) of granular food, germinated brown rice (GBR) as a representational material, in a continuous microwave dryer, the propagation of microwave energy inside drying cavity and the effects of technology parameters on the energy consumption of GBR material layer were investigated by using numerical simulation and bench experiments. Results indicate that the transmission loss of microwave scatter from the waveguide ports decline with the increase of thickness of grain layer in drying cavity. The total absorption of microwave energy is achieved in the thickness of material processed exceeding critical depth of microwave penetration to reduce the scatter loss of microwave transmission. In microwave cavity, the dissipation of microwave energy inside material processed alters the modes and frequency of microwave propagation and resonance, and continuous movement and ventilation process may promote UEME due to the improvement of drying uniformity of GBR. High UEME may be achieved at the temperature of GBR material layer in range of 100 ± 5 °C till final moisture content of 14.5% (w.b.). The optimal technology parameters of microwave drying for GBR is obtained as microwave intensity of 2 W/g, ventilation velocity of 1.0–1.5 m/s, drying duration for per drying pass of 6 min, and the thickness of GBR layer of 8 mm to achieve high UEME. The research results provide significant insights to evaluate the electric field distribution and design industrial microwave dryer with high utilization efficiency of microwave energy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The geofluid temperatures of the most promising geothermal areas of Ukraine are estimated to be less than approximately 130°C. This paper presents the results of a theoretical design study on the thermodynamic cycle parameters of a geothermal power station that would utilize these geothermal resources, and these results are similar to ones given elsewhere. Various configurations of the organic Rankine cycle (ORC) are considered. Thermal schemes of 3-stage geothermal power installations are studied. The effectiveness of geothermal power stations with various working fluids at each stage is investigated. The results of a numerical study of the thermal 3-stage geothermal installation schemes show that at a geothermal liquid temperature of 130°C the possible total specific power output of a turbine is 20.7–20.8 kW per kg/s of a geofluid flow. The combined 3-stage cascaded system with a bottoming cycle can generate about 15% more power than a simple single-stage binary plant at the same brine inlet conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Screening Chinese fir (Cunninghamia lanceolata) clones with efficient calcium utilization is an effective strategy to maintain soil fertility and improve their productivity and adaptability to nutrient stress habitats. The calcium content of 17-year-old Chinese fir progenies was measured, and calcium accumulation, distribution, and utilization efficiency were compared to select clones that had high calcium utilization efficiency (CaUE). Significant differences in calcium content and accumulation were observed in different vegetative organs and clones. The highest average calcium content and accumulation were in needles, and the lowest averages were in stems and dead branches. Clone M43 had the highest total calcium accumulation, whereas clone M37 had the lowest. Among the tested clones, the CaUE of the whole tree for M23, M37, and M25 was significantly high, whereas that for M43 was the lowest. The CaUE of stems was the highest in M23 and lowest in M17. Thus, calcium content and accumulation in the vegetative organs are important factors affecting the CaUE of whole trees and stems of different Chinese fir clones. Considering the comprehensive CaUE and bioaccumulation in whole trees and stems, M23, M25, and M10 were clones with high CaUE that should be used in future studies on high-yield plantations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The use of pearl millet (Pennisetum glaucum) for biomass production has increased significantly across much of the Brazilian Midwest. This region is characterized by weathered soils with low pH and low in fertility. Phosphorus and micronutrients are particularly low in these soils. Therefore, studies evaluating the management of micronutrients, especially manganese (Mn), are essential to improve the productivity of pear millet. This study aimed to assess the effect of Mn fertilization on the physiology traits and biomass production of pearl millet. The study was conducted in a greenhouse using a completely randomized design with four replications. Five Mn rates were applied (0 (control), 3, 6, 9, and 12 kg ha−1, as MnO) at planting. Biometric (plant height, stem diameter, and leaf area index) and physiological quality (cholorpyll index, transpiration, photosynthesis, leaf CO2 concentration, and stomatal conductance) were evaluated 30 and 65 days after emergence (DAE). Millet biomass, at harvest, was also evaluated. Pearl millet response to Mn fertilization was significant on measurements taken 65 DAE, with exception of leaf area index. Regardless of time of measurements, applying 6 kg Mn ha−1 provided the best results at the end of the experiments. Increased Mn rates, above 6 kg ha−1, caused a decrease in the physiological traits of millet but did not affect the biomass production. Moreover, greater Mn utilization efficiency by plants was found at the 6 kg ha−1 Mn rate, suggesting that this is the recommended rate for improving biomass production of pear millet grown under similar soil and weather conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Phosphorus (P) is essential for life and for efficient crop production, but global P use with limited recycling is inefficient in several sectors, including agronomy. Unfortunately, plant physiologists, agronomists, farmers and end users employ different measures for P use efficiency (PUE), which often masks their values at different scales. The term P use effectiveness, which also considers energetic and sustainability measures in addition to P balances, is also a valuable concept. Major physiological and genetic factors for plant P uptake and utilization have been identified, but there has been limited success in genetically improving PUE of modern crop cultivars. In maize, studies on root architectural and morphological traits appear promising. Rhizosphere processes assist in mobilizing and capturing sparingly soluble phosphate from rock phosphate. Combinations of phosphate-solubilizing microorganisms with ammonium-based nitrogen fertilizer, as well as strategies of fertilizer placement near the roots of target crops, can moderately enhance PUE. The desired concentration of P in the products differs, depending on the final use of the crop products as feed, food or for energy conversion, which should be considered during crop production.

Biochar as an amendment has been widely applied to enhance crop productivity and improve soil quality. However, the effect of biochar-based fertilizer (BF) on the production capacity and economic benefits of open-field eggplant in the karst region remains unclear. A field experiment was carried out in the karst region of Southwest China from 2020 to 2021 to study the ameliorative roles of different application rates (1875, 2250, 2625, and 3000 kg ha−1) of BF on the fresh yield, quality, fertilizer utilization, and economic benefits of fresh eggplant. The results show that BF increased the yield of fresh eggplant by 3.65–13.76% (2020) and 23.40–49.04% (2021) compared to the traditional fertilization practice (TFP). The application of BF reduced the nitrate content and increased the vitamin C (VC) and soluble sugar content of the fruits, which is beneficial for improving the quality of eggplant fruits. Meanwhile, the application of BF not only increased the nutrient uptake of the eggplant but also significantly improved the fertilizer utilization rates, especially the agronomic efficiency (AE) and recovery efficiency (RE). Moreover, BF could also significantly increase the output value and net income of fresh eggplant, which can help farmers increase their income. In conclusion, a BF application rate of 2544–2625 kg ha−1 could be used to improve the yield, fertilizer efficiency, and economic benefits of open-field eggplant and is recommended for managing agricultural production in the karst region of Southwest China.

Nitrogen (N) is a crucial nutrient for plant growth and development. To optimize agricultural environments, N fertilizers represent a critical tool to regulate crop productivity. The improvement of nitrogen use efficiency (NUE) represents a promising tool that may enable cereal production to meet future food demand. Wheat reported contrasting behaviors in N utilization showing specific abilities depending on genotype. This study selected two landraces and two improved genotypes from Northern Africa to investigate grain yield (GY), grain protein content (GPC) and NUE. Plants were grown under three levels of N supply: 0, 75, 150 kg N ha−1 and for two consecutive years. Results reported a better NUE (0.40 kg kg N−1) obtained under 150 kg N ha−1, while N utilization efficiency (NUtE) showed a 13% increase using 75 kg N ha−1 compared with 150 kg N ha−1. Under low nitrogen rate (0 N), crop N supply (CNS) and N uptake efficiency (NUpE) were shown as determinant factors for improved genotypes GY (R2 = 0.72), while NUtE represented the most determinant component for GPC in landraces (R2 = 0.92). Multivariate regression models explained the dependence in GPC on NUE, NUpE, and NUtE. In conclusion, our results recognize GPC and NUtE as suitable selection traits to identify durum wheat with higher NUE.

Unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) based remote sensing is a promising approach for non-destructive and high-throughput assessment of crop water and nitrogen (N) efficiencies. In this study, UAV was used to evaluate two field trials using four water (T0 = 0 mm, T1 = 80 mm, T2 = 120 mm, and T3 = 160 mm), and four N (T0 = 0, T1 = 120 kg ha–1, T2 = 180 kg ha–1, and T3 = 240 kg ha–1) treatments, respectively, conducted on three wheat genotypes at two locations. Ground-based destructive data of water and N indictors such as biomass and N contents were also measured to validate the aerial surveillance results. Multispectral traits including red normalized difference vegetation index (RNDVI), green normalized difference vegetation index (GNDVI), normalized difference red-edge index (NDRE), red-edge chlorophyll index (RECI) and normalized green red difference index (NGRDI) were recorded using UAV as reliable replacement of destructive measurements by showing high r values up to 0.90. NGRDI was identified as the most efficient non-destructive indicator through strong prediction values ranged from R2 = 0.69 to 0.89 for water use efficiencies (WUE) calculated from biomass (WUE.BM), and R2 = 0.80 to 0.86 from grain yield (WUE.GY). RNDVI was better in predicting the phenotypic variations for N use efficiency calculated from nitrogen contents of plant samples (NUE.NC) with high R2 values ranging from 0.72 to 0.94, while NDRE was consistent in predicting both NUE.NC and NUE.GY by 0.73 to 0.84 with low root mean square errors. UAV-based remote sensing demonstrates that treatment T2 in both water 120 mm and N 180 kg ha–1 supply trials was most appropriate dosages for optimum uptake of water and N with high GY. Among three cultivars, Zhongmai 895 was highly efficient in WUE and NUE across the water and N treatments. Conclusively, UAV can be used to predict time-series WUE and NUE across the season for selection of elite genotypes, and to monitor crop efficiency under varying N and water dosages.

In order to validate whether optimizing irrigation and fertilization can improve degraded saline soil and increase wheat production, a 4‐year wheat field experiment on saline soil in the Yellow River Delta of China was conducted from October 2013 to June 2017. Eight optimizing treatments including two irrigation applcations of 90 (I90) and 135 (I135) mm/time, four irrigation times: at pre‐sowing, wintering, jointing, filling stages, and two fertilizer rates 225 kg N hm−2‐75 P2O5 hm−2‐150 K2O hm−2 (F312), 225 kg N hm−2‐150 P2O5 hm−2‐75 K2O hm−2 (F321) with two basal/topdressing ratios 1:1 (A11) and 1:2 (A12) were designed compared with no‐irrigation and fertilization (CK) and farmer mode (CM). The optimizing treatment combined I135 with F321 and A12 was the optimal practice for wheat production on degraded saline soil in this region. This treatment significantly decreased topsoil salinity on average by 21.97%, increased wheat grain yield, topsoil total N, available P and K, respectively, by an average of 0.74‐, 0.75‐, 1.13‐ and 0.78‐times, improved water utilization efficiency, water productive efficiency, nitrogen utilization efficiency, phosphorus utilization efficiency, respectively, by average of 1.26‐, 8.13‐, 0.32‐, 0.43‐times compared with the CM. These results demonstrate that the optimization of irrigation and fertilization can be extensively applied as a feasible and effective strategy to improve degraded saline soil, maintain soil nutrients, maximize crop yield, and enhance efficiency in other similar degraded saline soil areas of the world. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Opening and sharing of large-scale instruments and equipment are an important measure to promote the cultivation of innovative talents, support high-level scientific research and serve the national strategic needs. Based on the management practice of the opening and sharing of large-scale instruments and equipment in Shandong University, this paper analyzes the basic status of the large-scale instruments and equipment, summarizes and analyzes the theory and practice, puts forward the "Four-persistence" opening and sharing ideas and the "One unity, four parts and three constructions" opening and sharing path, in order to promote the level and efficiency of the opening and sharing of large-scale instruments and equipment and provide some reference for further exploring new ideas, new concepts and new measures of opening and sharing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Al is one of the principal alloying elements for Mg anodes. In this study, a series of Mg–Al alloys has been evaluated as anode materials for optimizing the Al addition amount in Mg anodes with the intention of improving the discharge performance in aqueous batteries. The effect of Al content on the discharge potential and corrosion resistance of the Mg anode has been investigated through microstructure characterization, electrochemical measurements in a half‐cell, discharge morphology analysis, and Mg–water battery tests. The results show that the Mg–1Al alloy possesses a larger corrosion resistance during discharge, with significant increase of the anode utilization efficiency at 1 and 5 mA/cm2 compared with pure Mg. However, a further increase of Al content does not continuously improve the discharge performance of the Mg anode with the decline of utilization efficiency due to the influence of the precipitated phase. This study contributes to a better understanding about the effect of Al on anodic dissolution and corrosion kinetics of the Mg anode. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aiming at the current situation of water resource scarcity and inefficient utilization in China, this paper comprehensively analyzed the utilization efficiency of water resources in the main representative urban areas of upper, middle and lower reaches of Ganjiang River Basin by DEA model in three stages. The results show that: without considering the influence of environmental factors, there are obvious regional differences in the comprehensive utilization efficiency of water resources in Ganjiang River Basin, and environmental variables directly affect the utilization efficiency of water resources. There is a positive correlation between regional economy and water resources per capita and input slack variables, while in industrial structure, the proportion of agricultural GDP has a negative correlation with input slack variables. On the premise of reducing environmental variables, the regional difference of water resources utilization narrowed, and the water efficiency of cities increased. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]