Commercial farming of anuran species that are declining in the wild raises a need to discriminate wild from farmed frogs.We hypothesized wild frogs might have extended hindlimbs due to greater frequency or intensity o...Commercial farming of anuran species that are declining in the wild raises a need to discriminate wild from farmed frogs.We hypothesized wild frogs might have extended hindlimbs due to greater frequency or intensity of jumping relative to farmed frogs,highlighting a morphometric approach to discrimination of wild from farmed frogs using hindlimb length.In the present study,Dybowski's frog(Rana dybowskii) was used to test this hypothesis.We measured body mass(Mb) and hindlimb length(Lh) of 2-year old farmed frogs and wild frogs aged 2 to 5 years.Dybowski's frog demonstrated significant dimorphism in Mb and Lh.Mb was significantly greater among farmed 2-year old frogs in both sexes(p=0.000),while only among females was Lh significantly greater for wild frogs(p=0.000).Lh/Mb was used as an index for origin discrimination to eliminate the influence of Mb due to variation of husbandry conditions among farms.Mean Lh/Mb for farmed frogs was significantly lower than for wild frogs(p=0.000) in the 2-year old age class.Discrimination correctly classified 84.4% of farmed and 96.3% of wild male frogs.Among females,92.9% of farmed frogs and 90.1% wild frogs were correctly classified.The overall correctness of classification was 92.1% and 90.8% for males and females,respectively.However,Lh/Mb revealed variation with age,resulting in reduced discriminative power for frogs ≥3 years old.We introduced a coefficient Ce to adjust the Lh/Mb of frogs ≥3 years to the level equivalent to 2-year frogs.The adjustment achieved 89.5% for overall correctness of origin for wild males and 92.4% for wild females ≥3 years old.These results show that Lh/Mb is an effective index to discriminate wild from farmed Dybowski's frog.Since the physical demands of jumping are common among anurans,this index is also potentially applicable to other anuran species.展开更多
In this mini review, we systematized current knowledge about the number of Caligus elongatus on farmed Atlantic salmon in relation to the use of lumpfish as cleaner fish. The review was prompted by reports of an unusu...In this mini review, we systematized current knowledge about the number of Caligus elongatus on farmed Atlantic salmon in relation to the use of lumpfish as cleaner fish. The review was prompted by reports of an unusually large number of sea lice(C. elongatus) infestation of farmed salmon in northern Norway, Faroese Islands and Iceland and the urgent need to determine if common lumpfish can be used to reduce the number on farmed Atlantic salmon by actively grazing on sea lice. Available data from Norway clearly indicate that lumpfish grazes on C. elongatus, and it is possible to enhance this grazing with the assistances of livefeed conditioning prior to sea pen transfer and selective breeding. Observations from Iceland, Faroese Islands and Scotland also indicate that lumpfish can effectively lower infestations of C. elongatus on salmon. Overall, this mini review expresses that lumpfish can actively lower the number of C. elongatus on farmed Atlantic salmon.展开更多
Aquaculture,the most rapidly growing food production sector,has exhibited tremendous expansion over the past several decades and it currently accounts for more than half of the global fish production for human consump...Aquaculture,the most rapidly growing food production sector,has exhibited tremendous expansion over the past several decades and it currently accounts for more than half of the global fish production for human consumption.To ensure sustainable aquaculture,it is necessary to breed farmed fish species(strains)with valuable economic traits,such as high production,high quality,disease resistance,and stress tolerance.Modem fish genetic breeding techniques largely rely on key processes including understanding the genetic basis of economically important traits to the generation and selection of favorable genotypes.展开更多
Viral diseases cause serious economic loss in farmed animals industry.However,the efficacy of remedies for viral infection in farmed animals is limited,and treatment strategies are generally lacking for aquatic animal...Viral diseases cause serious economic loss in farmed animals industry.However,the efficacy of remedies for viral infection in farmed animals is limited,and treatment strategies are generally lacking for aquatic animals.Interactions of commensal microbiota and viral infection have been studied in recent years,demonstrating a third player in the interaction between hosts and viruses.Here,we discuss recent developments in the research of interactions between commensal bacteria and viral infection,including both promotion and inhibition effect of commensal bacteria on viral pathogenesis,as well as the impact of viral infection on commensal microbiota.The antiviral effect of commensal bacteria is mostly achieved through priming or regulation of the host immune responses,involving differential microbial components and host signaling pathways,and gives rise to various antiviral probiotics.Moreover,we summarize studies related to the interaction between commensal bacteria and viral infection in farmed animals,including pigs,chickens,fish and invertebrate species.Further studies in this area will deepen our understanding of antiviral immunity of farmed animals in the context of commensal microbiota,and promote the development of novel strategies for treatment of viral diseases in farmed animals.展开更多
This pilot study documented the occurrence and levels of brominated flame retardants in the tissues of farmed and wild salmon in southern Chile.Samples of Coho salmon and rainbow trout were obtained from fish farms,ri...This pilot study documented the occurrence and levels of brominated flame retardants in the tissues of farmed and wild salmon in southern Chile.Samples of Coho salmon and rainbow trout were obtained from fish farms,rivers and lakes in the Patagonia in Aysen Region,Chile.The samples were analyzed by Gas Chromatography Negative Chemical Ionization Mass Spectrometry for the different polybrominated diphenyl ether(PBDE) congeners.Contaminants were observed in all the samples,and the congeners BDE 17,28,47 and 66 were observed in all both farmed and wild samples.The concentrations were higher in the farmed Coho salmon,presenting significant differences with wild salmon.The levels reached 182 pg/g wet weight(ww) vs.120 ww.In the case of the rainbow trout,the concentrations were lower,although the congener profile was quite similar.The levels reached an average of 100 pg/g ww in the farmed fish versus 110 pg/g ww in wild fish,and no significant difference was observed between the species.In both species,the congener with the highest concentration was BDE 47.Based on this information,the BDE ?ow was estimated for commerce,which is a form of pollutant transport not usually considered in POP pollution studies.A preliminary estimation indicated that the quantity of PBDEs mobilized by commerce was in the order of kg,and in the case of Chile might reach almost 1 kg.展开更多
Aquaculture provides significant contributions to household food security,as the capture of wild fish from lakes,dams,and oceans do not meet the current demand for animal protein in Tanzania.Sustainable aquaculture re...Aquaculture provides significant contributions to household food security,as the capture of wild fish from lakes,dams,and oceans do not meet the current demand for animal protein in Tanzania.Sustainable aquaculture requires well-established regulatory systems and extension services for good pond management practices and maintaining fish health by fish farmers.Fish farming is practiced widely in Tanzania,from small-to large-scale ponds and these farming systems are moving from extensive normal operations(low input demand)to intensive farming(high input demand).However,the industry is largely still operating at a subsistence level with low production.Bacterial infections have been occurring in these fish farms and will continue to be an issue of concern into the future.This review highlights the current challenges,successes,and prospects towards a sustainable aquaculture industry in Tanzania,including:limited extension services mirroring the limited knowledge by farmers regarding pond management practices;the inadequacy of funds to carry out fish disease research or implement a surveillance system;little expertise in fish disease diagnosis and treatment;and poor management options.To minimize disease outbreaks and optimize production in the future,we suggest a strengthening of extension services,augmented with on-farm knowledge transfer.Emphasis should be on pond management practices and fish disease management;the creation of a well-functioning fish disease surveillance system;and strengthening collaborative research on aquaculture between the government research institutions and academia.Establishing small cooperative fish farmer groups within the Aquaculture Association of Tanzania(AAT)for easy access to information is also recommended.展开更多
Duo to fluctuations in atmospheric turbulence and yaw control strategies,wind turbines are often in a yaw state.To predict the far wake velocity field of wind turbines quickly and accurately,a wake velocity model was ...Duo to fluctuations in atmospheric turbulence and yaw control strategies,wind turbines are often in a yaw state.To predict the far wake velocity field of wind turbines quickly and accurately,a wake velocity model was derived based on the method of momentum conservation considering the wake steering of the wind turbine under yaw conditions.To consider the shear effect of the vertical incoming wind direction,a two-dimensional Gaussian distribution function was introduced to model the velocity loss at different axial positions in the far wake region based on the assumption of nonlinear wake expansion.This work also developed a“prediction-correction”method to solve the wake velocity field,and the accuracy of the model results was verified in wake experiments on the Garrad Hassan wind turbine.Moreover,a 33-kW two-blade horizontal axis wind turbine was simulated using this method,and the results were compared with the classical wake model under the same parameters and the computational fluid dynamics(CFD)simulation results.The results show that the nonlinear wake model well reflected the influence of incoming flow shear and yaw wake steering in the wake velocity field.Finally,computation of the wake flow for the Horns Rev offshore wind farm with 80 wind turbines showed an error within 8%compared to the experimental values.The established wake model is less computationally intensive than other methods,has a faster calculation speed,and can be used for engineering calculations of the wake velocity in the far wakefield of wind turbines.展开更多
Rice has a huge impact on socio-economic growth,and ensuring its sustainability and optimal utilization is vital.This review provides an insight into the role of smart farming in enhancing rice productivity.The applic...Rice has a huge impact on socio-economic growth,and ensuring its sustainability and optimal utilization is vital.This review provides an insight into the role of smart farming in enhancing rice productivity.The applications of smart farming in rice production including yield estimation,smart irrigation systems,monitoring disease and growth,and predicting rice quality and classifications are highlighted.The challenges of smart farming in sustainable rice production to enhance the understanding of researchers,policymakers,and stakeholders are discussed.Numerous efforts have been exerted to combat the issues in rice production in order to promote rice sector development.The effective implementation of smart farming in rice production has been facilitated by various technical advancements,particularly the integration of the Internet of Things and artificial intelligence.The future prospects of smart farming in transforming existing rice production practices are also elucidated.Through the utilization of smart farming,the rice industry can attain sustainable and resilient production systems that could mitigate environmental impact and safeguard food security.Thus,the rice industry holds a bright future in transforming current rice production practices into a new outlook in rice smart farming development.展开更多
Elevation is one of many components that influence agriculture, and this in turn affects the level of both inputs and outputs of farmers. This article focuses on the productivity and technical efficiency of 100 cocoa ...Elevation is one of many components that influence agriculture, and this in turn affects the level of both inputs and outputs of farmers. This article focuses on the productivity and technical efficiency of 100 cocoa farms using cross-sectional data from areas ranging from 190 to 1021 m above sea level which were classified as low, medium, and high elevation in Davao City, considered as the chocolate capital of the Philippines. Using stochastic frontier analysis, the results showed that the cost of inputs per ha and the number of cocoa trees per ha significantly increase yield. Farms at high elevations were less technically efficient, as this entails lower temperatures and increased rainfall, and cocoa farming in those areas and conditions can be more challenging, especially with changes in farming practices, terrain, and distance to markets. Other significant variables were age of cocoa farms, married farmers, and age of the farmers. Older farms may be more developed, farmers who are married benefit from their spouses being able to readily contribute as farm labor, and lastly, older farmers' inefficiency may likely stem from nonadaptation of newer farming practices. With an average technical efficiency of 0.61, 0.63, and 0.26 in low, medium, and high elevation areas, respectively, farmers therefore have an incentive to improve farm practices and consider topographical variations found in high elevation areas. Recommendations for the improvement of technical efficiency of cocoa farms are better connectivity to markets, enhancing farm practices, and continuation and improvement of government programs on cocoa with an added emphasis on research. For farmers in high elevation areas, mitigating solutions such as sustainable agriculture practices and ecolabelling are key to improving efficiency and minimizing the potential negative impact on upland farming systems. Moreover, such adaptation measures may also contribute to sustainability of cocoa farming in high elevation areas.展开更多
Multidrug-resistant(MDR)Enterobacteriaceae critically threaten duck farming and public health.The phenotypes,genotypes,and associated mobile genetic elements(MGEs)of MDR Enterobacteriaceae isolated from 6 duck farms i...Multidrug-resistant(MDR)Enterobacteriaceae critically threaten duck farming and public health.The phenotypes,genotypes,and associated mobile genetic elements(MGEs)of MDR Enterobacteriaceae isolated from 6 duck farms in Zhejiang Province,China,were investigated.A total of 215 isolates were identified as Escherichia coli(64.65%),Klebsiella pneumoniae(12.09%),Proteus mirabilis(10.23%),Salmonella(8.84%),and Enterobacter cloacae(4.19%).Meanwhile,all isolates were resistant to at least two antibiotics.Most isolates carried tet(A)(85.12%),blaTEM(78.60%)and sul1(67.44%)resistance genes.Gene co-occurrence analysis showed that the resistance genes were associated with IS26 and integrons.A conjugative IncFII plasmid pSDM004 containing all the above MGEs was detected in Proteus mirabilis isolate SDM004.This isolate was resistant to 18 antibiotics and carried the blaNDM-5 gene.MGEs,especially plasmids,are the primary antibiotic resistance gene transmission route in duck farms.These findings provide a theoretical basis for the rational use of antibiotics in farms which are substantial for evaluating public health and food safety.展开更多
The exponential growth of food demand due to the increasing global population has the potential to seriously threaten the quality and quantity of food supplies due to climate change.This study explores the utilisation...The exponential growth of food demand due to the increasing global population has the potential to seriously threaten the quality and quantity of food supplies due to climate change.This study explores the utilisation of green urban spaces for achieving food self-sufficiency by investigating the extent to which sustainable urban farms could be used to reduce the consumption of imported produce in the UK.It also examines urban farming stakeholders'perspective on how food self-sufficiency can help realise the SDGs especially SDG 2(Zero hunger)and SDG 13(Climate action).The study adopts a mixed method approach through a survey with 115 respondents and semi-structured interviews conducted with 12 respondents from 4 different urban farming stakeholder groups.The findings of this study presented a strong correlation between stakeholders who had concerns about where their food came from and the carbon footprint of imported produce.The research shows that,urban farms will no doubt play a vital role in the future of food security in our cities/communities and that the SDGs could be realised through sustainable urban farms implemented within the relevant planning regulations/policies.展开更多
This study's goal is to present a dynamic portrait of the farm-buildings environment in Occitania,in Southern France,in order to better identify the transitions underway in agri-food chains.To this end,we undertoo...This study's goal is to present a dynamic portrait of the farm-buildings environment in Occitania,in Southern France,in order to better identify the transitions underway in agri-food chains.To this end,we undertook a ter-ritorial diagnosis based on actor statements,using 28 semi-structured interviews across Occitania.This diagnosis was enriched by graphic modelling,which enabled the spatialization of the dynamics described.We show that the process of standardisation of farm buildings prevails in the majority of the territories studied.This phenomenon has intensified in recent years with the development of vast photovoltaic-roofed sheds,accentuating the farm-land conversion and soil sealing.At the same time,in areas with strong environmental,landscape and heritage contexts,a'new adventure in farm buildings'(2022 survey)is taking shape.It is primarily driven by local short food chains,which rely on self-construction,repurposing and refurbishment,the sharing of tools and equipment,and which favour the use and reuse of local resources.This study shows that farm-buildings dynamics crystallise many challenges confronting the reterritorialisation of agriculture and food production.展开更多
To address uncertainty as well as transient stability constraints simultaneously in the preventive control of windfarm systems, a novel three-stage optimization strategy is established in this paper. In the first stag...To address uncertainty as well as transient stability constraints simultaneously in the preventive control of windfarm systems, a novel three-stage optimization strategy is established in this paper. In the first stage, the probabilisticmulti-objective particle swarm optimization based on the point estimate method is employed to cope with thestochastic factors. The transient security region of the system is accurately ensured by the interior point methodin the second stage. Finally, the verification of the final optimal objectives and satisfied constraints are enforcedin the last stage. Furthermore, the proposed strategy is a general framework that can combine other optimizationalgorithms. The proposed methodology is tested on the modified WSCC 9-bus system and the New England 39-bussystem. The results verify the feasibility of the method.展开更多
With the increasing demand for electrical services,wind farm layout optimization has been one of the biggest challenges that we have to deal with.Despite the promising performance of the heuristic algorithm on the rou...With the increasing demand for electrical services,wind farm layout optimization has been one of the biggest challenges that we have to deal with.Despite the promising performance of the heuristic algorithm on the route network design problem,the expressive capability and search performance of the algorithm on multi-objective problems remain unexplored.In this paper,the wind farm layout optimization problem is defined.Then,a multi-objective algorithm based on Graph Neural Network(GNN)and Variable Neighborhood Search(VNS)algorithm is proposed.GNN provides the basis representations for the following search algorithm so that the expressiveness and search accuracy of the algorithm can be improved.The multi-objective VNS algorithm is put forward by combining it with the multi-objective optimization algorithm to solve the problem with multiple objectives.The proposed algorithm is applied to the 18-node simulation example to evaluate the feasibility and practicality of the developed optimization strategy.The experiment on the simulation example shows that the proposed algorithm yields a reduction of 6.1% in Point of Common Coupling(PCC)over the current state-of-the-art algorithm,which means that the proposed algorithm designs a layout that improves the quality of the power supply by 6.1%at the same cost.The ablation experiments show that the proposed algorithm improves the power quality by more than 8.6% and 7.8% compared to both the original VNS algorithm and the multi-objective VNS algorithm.展开更多
This report provides an overall assessment of land fragmentation problems in East Africa. Many parts of East Africa have become highly fragmented, putting development systems and activities in these areas at risk of c...This report provides an overall assessment of land fragmentation problems in East Africa. Many parts of East Africa have become highly fragmented, putting development systems and activities in these areas at risk of complete collapse. Land fragmentation occurs when land gets converted for agriculture, industrialization, or urbanization, invaded by non-local plants, or enclosed for individual use and by subdividing farmlands into subsequent smaller units called parcels with varying average farm sizes. Fragmentation results from inappropriate agricultural development processes and ineffective land use planning that fails to recognize how farmland is used, and the importance of its interconnected areas. Insecurity of tenure and resource rights are key factors in making this possible. Land fragmentation is one of the key reasons why the ability of most resources in East Africa becomes scarcer, and those remaining become “privatized” by more powerful community members—keen to maintain their access to them. Such individualistic attitudes are new and disadvantage the poorest even further by affecting the traditional customary safety nets and agricultural outputs. Neither the government nor customary governance systems effectively protect resource access for the poorest. This review summary report identifies the key causes, measures, and implications, government interventions, and the common remedies to land fragmentation problems in the East African Countries of Kenya, Uganda, Rwanda, and Tanzania including neighboring Ethiopia, and the Sudan. The findings indicated from 2005 to 2015, the population kept increasing for all the named countries in East Africa with Rwanda and Uganda having a substantial increase in population density. The study review further explores the trend in the performance of agriculture by average farm sizes within the intervals of five years by highlighting their strong linkages and found that the average farm size has declined drastically, especially for Kenya. This can only mean that small farms kept becoming smaller and smaller and that there were more small-scale farmers. The results further depicted that the major and commonly cultivated food crops among the East African countries include maize, sorghum, rice, cassava, sweet potatoes, bananas, Irish potatoes, beans, peas, etc., with maize yields (Mt/ha) in 2003 for Uganda being the highest (1.79 Mt/ha) and the lowest in Rwanda (0.77 Mt/ha) respectively. Therefore, from the review results, recommendations are being made as to how the negative impacts of land fragmentation on agricultural productivity can be reduced or mitigated. One way is by community sensitization and awareness about the importance of land consolidation and its proposition on farm productivity.展开更多
Savanna regions in Nigeria face environmental degradation and barren land, negatively impacting food and agricultural productivity. Inter-rill erosion occurs due to raindrop impact and transport, particularly on hill ...Savanna regions in Nigeria face environmental degradation and barren land, negatively impacting food and agricultural productivity. Inter-rill erosion occurs due to raindrop impact and transport, particularly on hill slopes. A study was conducted using a sprinkler rainfall simulator and plot experiment to study soil erosion processes. Soil samples were collected from four farms in Gidan Kwanu, with varying moisture content. Sand content ranged from 46.0% to 76.20%, silt from 11.30% to 23.50%, and clay from 11.0% to 30.0%. Uncultivated and bare land had a higher average porosity (15.47% and 14.99%), while cultivated land had lower porosity (14.4%). The study found that most people in Gidan-Kwanu primarily practice farming, which is season-dependent and rain-fed. Soil type and texture significantly contribute to inter-rill erosion, with cultivated and uncultivated soil being more resistant to erosion than bare land soil. The study concluded that farming practices in Gidan-Kwanu are primarily season-dependent and rain-fed. Soil type and texture significantly contribute to inter-rill erosion, with cultivated and uncultivated soil being more resistant to erosion than bare land soil.展开更多
As Climate Change Haven Communities are constructed across the Northern Hemisphere, it will be necessary to attract two types of migrants to populate them. The first group consists of professionals and companies in ec...As Climate Change Haven Communities are constructed across the Northern Hemisphere, it will be necessary to attract two types of migrants to populate them. The first group consists of professionals and companies in eco-sustainable businesses, such as law firms, insurance companies, investment firms, banking, technological innovation, mass media, medical research and pharmaceutical research. The second group will consist of persons engaged in organic/eco-sustainable agriculture whose crops and animal husbandry practices can be transferred successfully to Climate Change Haven regions. The present research focuses on the social and economic variables that must be taken into account to insure that each new Climate Change Haven Community becomes successfully integrated with the local population and forms a cohesive, harmonious social structure. Examples are given from the United States, France, Spain, Portugal and Italy.展开更多
BACKGROUND Infants'nutrition significantly influences their growth,development,and overall well-being.With the increasing demand for organic infant formula driven by the perception of health benefits and growing a...BACKGROUND Infants'nutrition significantly influences their growth,development,and overall well-being.With the increasing demand for organic infant formula driven by the perception of health benefits and growing awareness of natural feeding options,it is crucial to conduct a comparative analysis of the gastrointestinal tolerability between organic and traditional infant formulas.AIM To provide a concise and precise analysis of the gastrointestinal tolerability of organic infant formula compared to traditional infant formula.Due to limited direct comparisons,the review synthesizes available literature on each formula type,presenting insights into their potential effects on infants'digestive health.METHODS An extensive literature search was conducted,compiling studies on organic and traditional infant formulas,their compositions,and reported effects on gastrointestinal tolerability.We searched academic databases such as PubMed and Google Scholar and specialized nutrition,paediatrics,and infant health journals using relevant keywords till October 1,2023.RESULTS Although specific comparative studies are scarce and formula heterogeneity is a significant limitation,this systematic review provides an in-depth understanding of organic infant formulas'composition and potential benefits.While scientific evidence directly comparing gastrointestinal tolerability is limited,organic formulas strive to use carefully selected organic ingredients to imitate breast milk composition.Potential benefits include improved lipid profiles,higher methionine content,and decreased antibiotic-resistant bacteria levels.Understanding the gastrointestinal tolerability of organic and traditional infant formulas is crucial for parents and healthcare providers to make informed decisions.CONCLUSION Despite limitations in direct comparisons,this systematic review provides insights into the composition and potential benefits of organic infant formulas.It emphasizes the need for further research to elucidate their gastrointestinal effects comprehensively.展开更多
Inland fishing predominates in the Kedougou region, which has no coastline. This type of fishing does not yet meet the local population’s demand for fish products. In response to this concern, a Community Agricultura...Inland fishing predominates in the Kedougou region, which has no coastline. This type of fishing does not yet meet the local population’s demand for fish products. In response to this concern, a Community Agricultural Estate housing an integrated fish farm was set up in the commune of Bandafassi, in the village of Itato. Since its creation, this production unit has been faced with the problem of sourcing high-quality, low-cost, monosex male Oreochromis niloticus fry. In order to overcome this constraint, the present research focuses on the contribution of Garcinia kola to the productivity and economic profitability of the Itato farm. The aim of the research is to assess fish production in the experimental set-up and the production costs of tilapia in a controlled environment. The comparative study of the various production factors shows disparities only in the input factor, where scenarios 2 and 3 use additional products. These are 17-α-methytestosterone for scenario 2 and Garcinia kola for scenario 3. These products significantly interfere with fish production, with a fairly high mortality rate for scenario 2 (25% for two production cycles/ cohort2 (B5, B6, B7 and B8) treated with 17-α-methytestosterone). As for scenarios 1 and 3, mortalities are 5% with or without recourse to additional products (G. kola). In addition, average fish production for the three (03) scenarios is estimated at 28687.5 kg/2 cycles. It varies from one scenario to another, i.e. 30937.5 kg/2 cycles for scenarios 1 and 3 and 24187.5 kg/2 cycles for scenario 2. It is therefore higher in scenarios 1 and 3 than in scenario 2. This difference is due to the fairly large losses of individuals in scenario 2. Furthermore, the analysis of the profit and loss accounts for tilapia production varies from one scenario to another depending on the type of farm: 476 Franc CFA for scenario 1, 610 Franc CFA for scenario 2 and 472 Franc CFA for scenario 3 (F CFA = franc of the French Colonies of Africa). The Average operating income for all the fish farming units is 34,726,142 Franc CFA. The highest (41,638,075 Franc CFA) and lowest (29,281,075 Franc CFA) ERs were observed in scenarios 3 and 2 respectively. It was 33,259,275 Franc CFA for scenario 1. The difference between the NERs of the three scenarios is more or less significant in terms of results. The operating result (OR) is positive in all 3 scenarios in our study. However, the scenario 3 system generates a higher rate of return (the ratio between an income and the capital employed to obtain that income) (74%) than that generated by the scenario 1 system (69%). As for the scenario 2 system, it generates a lower financial return than the two previous systems (67%). Above all, this work made it possible to construct an approach that would make it possible to answer such a question by relying successively on various methods: a typology, according to the production factors involved in the operation of the Community Agricultural Estate fish farm.展开更多
基金supported by the Project of Tackling Key Problems of Science and Technology of Heilongjiang Province, China (GB06B205-3)Program of Wildlife Conservation and Breeding of State Forestry Administration of China (2008)Special Fund for Postgraduate Dissertation of Northeast Forestry University (2009)
文摘Commercial farming of anuran species that are declining in the wild raises a need to discriminate wild from farmed frogs.We hypothesized wild frogs might have extended hindlimbs due to greater frequency or intensity of jumping relative to farmed frogs,highlighting a morphometric approach to discrimination of wild from farmed frogs using hindlimb length.In the present study,Dybowski's frog(Rana dybowskii) was used to test this hypothesis.We measured body mass(Mb) and hindlimb length(Lh) of 2-year old farmed frogs and wild frogs aged 2 to 5 years.Dybowski's frog demonstrated significant dimorphism in Mb and Lh.Mb was significantly greater among farmed 2-year old frogs in both sexes(p=0.000),while only among females was Lh significantly greater for wild frogs(p=0.000).Lh/Mb was used as an index for origin discrimination to eliminate the influence of Mb due to variation of husbandry conditions among farms.Mean Lh/Mb for farmed frogs was significantly lower than for wild frogs(p=0.000) in the 2-year old age class.Discrimination correctly classified 84.4% of farmed and 96.3% of wild male frogs.Among females,92.9% of farmed frogs and 90.1% wild frogs were correctly classified.The overall correctness of classification was 92.1% and 90.8% for males and females,respectively.However,Lh/Mb revealed variation with age,resulting in reduced discriminative power for frogs ≥3 years old.We introduced a coefficient Ce to adjust the Lh/Mb of frogs ≥3 years to the level equivalent to 2-year frogs.The adjustment achieved 89.5% for overall correctness of origin for wild males and 92.4% for wild females ≥3 years old.These results show that Lh/Mb is an effective index to discriminate wild from farmed Dybowski's frog.Since the physical demands of jumping are common among anurans,this index is also potentially applicable to other anuran species.
基金Financial support was given by the Norwegian Seafood Research Found (Nos. KEKS901539 and 901652EFFEKTIV)。
文摘In this mini review, we systematized current knowledge about the number of Caligus elongatus on farmed Atlantic salmon in relation to the use of lumpfish as cleaner fish. The review was prompted by reports of an unusually large number of sea lice(C. elongatus) infestation of farmed salmon in northern Norway, Faroese Islands and Iceland and the urgent need to determine if common lumpfish can be used to reduce the number on farmed Atlantic salmon by actively grazing on sea lice. Available data from Norway clearly indicate that lumpfish grazes on C. elongatus, and it is possible to enhance this grazing with the assistances of livefeed conditioning prior to sea pen transfer and selective breeding. Observations from Iceland, Faroese Islands and Scotland also indicate that lumpfish can effectively lower infestations of C. elongatus on salmon. Overall, this mini review expresses that lumpfish can actively lower the number of C. elongatus on farmed Atlantic salmon.
文摘Aquaculture,the most rapidly growing food production sector,has exhibited tremendous expansion over the past several decades and it currently accounts for more than half of the global fish production for human consumption.To ensure sustainable aquaculture,it is necessary to breed farmed fish species(strains)with valuable economic traits,such as high production,high quality,disease resistance,and stress tolerance.Modem fish genetic breeding techniques largely rely on key processes including understanding the genetic basis of economically important traits to the generation and selection of favorable genotypes.
基金supported by the National Key R&D Program of China(2018YFD0900400)the National Natural Science Foundation of China(31925038,31872584,31972807)。
文摘Viral diseases cause serious economic loss in farmed animals industry.However,the efficacy of remedies for viral infection in farmed animals is limited,and treatment strategies are generally lacking for aquatic animals.Interactions of commensal microbiota and viral infection have been studied in recent years,demonstrating a third player in the interaction between hosts and viruses.Here,we discuss recent developments in the research of interactions between commensal bacteria and viral infection,including both promotion and inhibition effect of commensal bacteria on viral pathogenesis,as well as the impact of viral infection on commensal microbiota.The antiviral effect of commensal bacteria is mostly achieved through priming or regulation of the host immune responses,involving differential microbial components and host signaling pathways,and gives rise to various antiviral probiotics.Moreover,we summarize studies related to the interaction between commensal bacteria and viral infection in farmed animals,including pigs,chickens,fish and invertebrate species.Further studies in this area will deepen our understanding of antiviral immunity of farmed animals in the context of commensal microbiota,and promote the development of novel strategies for treatment of viral diseases in farmed animals.
基金supported by Fondecyt No. 1080294 and Fondecyt 1110719 (R Barra)
文摘This pilot study documented the occurrence and levels of brominated flame retardants in the tissues of farmed and wild salmon in southern Chile.Samples of Coho salmon and rainbow trout were obtained from fish farms,rivers and lakes in the Patagonia in Aysen Region,Chile.The samples were analyzed by Gas Chromatography Negative Chemical Ionization Mass Spectrometry for the different polybrominated diphenyl ether(PBDE) congeners.Contaminants were observed in all the samples,and the congeners BDE 17,28,47 and 66 were observed in all both farmed and wild samples.The concentrations were higher in the farmed Coho salmon,presenting significant differences with wild salmon.The levels reached 182 pg/g wet weight(ww) vs.120 ww.In the case of the rainbow trout,the concentrations were lower,although the congener profile was quite similar.The levels reached an average of 100 pg/g ww in the farmed fish versus 110 pg/g ww in wild fish,and no significant difference was observed between the species.In both species,the congener with the highest concentration was BDE 47.Based on this information,the BDE ?ow was estimated for commerce,which is a form of pollutant transport not usually considered in POP pollution studies.A preliminary estimation indicated that the quantity of PBDEs mobilized by commerce was in the order of kg,and in the case of Chile might reach almost 1 kg.
基金This work was supported by the African Development Bank(AFDB)capacity building initiatives through Nelson Mandela African Institution of Science and Technology.
文摘Aquaculture provides significant contributions to household food security,as the capture of wild fish from lakes,dams,and oceans do not meet the current demand for animal protein in Tanzania.Sustainable aquaculture requires well-established regulatory systems and extension services for good pond management practices and maintaining fish health by fish farmers.Fish farming is practiced widely in Tanzania,from small-to large-scale ponds and these farming systems are moving from extensive normal operations(low input demand)to intensive farming(high input demand).However,the industry is largely still operating at a subsistence level with low production.Bacterial infections have been occurring in these fish farms and will continue to be an issue of concern into the future.This review highlights the current challenges,successes,and prospects towards a sustainable aquaculture industry in Tanzania,including:limited extension services mirroring the limited knowledge by farmers regarding pond management practices;the inadequacy of funds to carry out fish disease research or implement a surveillance system;little expertise in fish disease diagnosis and treatment;and poor management options.To minimize disease outbreaks and optimize production in the future,we suggest a strengthening of extension services,augmented with on-farm knowledge transfer.Emphasis should be on pond management practices and fish disease management;the creation of a well-functioning fish disease surveillance system;and strengthening collaborative research on aquaculture between the government research institutions and academia.Establishing small cooperative fish farmer groups within the Aquaculture Association of Tanzania(AAT)for easy access to information is also recommended.
基金Supported by the Key R&D Program of Shandong Province,China(No.2023ZLYS01)the National Key R&D Program of China(No.2022YFC3104200)+2 种基金the National Natural Science Foundation of China(No.12302301)the China Postdoctoral Science Foundation(No.2023M742229)the Zhejiang Provincial Natural Science Foundation(ZJNSF)(No.LQ22F030002)。
文摘Duo to fluctuations in atmospheric turbulence and yaw control strategies,wind turbines are often in a yaw state.To predict the far wake velocity field of wind turbines quickly and accurately,a wake velocity model was derived based on the method of momentum conservation considering the wake steering of the wind turbine under yaw conditions.To consider the shear effect of the vertical incoming wind direction,a two-dimensional Gaussian distribution function was introduced to model the velocity loss at different axial positions in the far wake region based on the assumption of nonlinear wake expansion.This work also developed a“prediction-correction”method to solve the wake velocity field,and the accuracy of the model results was verified in wake experiments on the Garrad Hassan wind turbine.Moreover,a 33-kW two-blade horizontal axis wind turbine was simulated using this method,and the results were compared with the classical wake model under the same parameters and the computational fluid dynamics(CFD)simulation results.The results show that the nonlinear wake model well reflected the influence of incoming flow shear and yaw wake steering in the wake velocity field.Finally,computation of the wake flow for the Horns Rev offshore wind farm with 80 wind turbines showed an error within 8%compared to the experimental values.The established wake model is less computationally intensive than other methods,has a faster calculation speed,and can be used for engineering calculations of the wake velocity in the far wakefield of wind turbines.
基金The authors wish to acknowledge the Ministry of Higher Education,Malaysia for financial support via the Transdisciplinary Research Grant Scheme Project(Grant No.TRGS/1/2020/UPM/02/7).
文摘Rice has a huge impact on socio-economic growth,and ensuring its sustainability and optimal utilization is vital.This review provides an insight into the role of smart farming in enhancing rice productivity.The applications of smart farming in rice production including yield estimation,smart irrigation systems,monitoring disease and growth,and predicting rice quality and classifications are highlighted.The challenges of smart farming in sustainable rice production to enhance the understanding of researchers,policymakers,and stakeholders are discussed.Numerous efforts have been exerted to combat the issues in rice production in order to promote rice sector development.The effective implementation of smart farming in rice production has been facilitated by various technical advancements,particularly the integration of the Internet of Things and artificial intelligence.The future prospects of smart farming in transforming existing rice production practices are also elucidated.Through the utilization of smart farming,the rice industry can attain sustainable and resilient production systems that could mitigate environmental impact and safeguard food security.Thus,the rice industry holds a bright future in transforming current rice production practices into a new outlook in rice smart farming development.
文摘Elevation is one of many components that influence agriculture, and this in turn affects the level of both inputs and outputs of farmers. This article focuses on the productivity and technical efficiency of 100 cocoa farms using cross-sectional data from areas ranging from 190 to 1021 m above sea level which were classified as low, medium, and high elevation in Davao City, considered as the chocolate capital of the Philippines. Using stochastic frontier analysis, the results showed that the cost of inputs per ha and the number of cocoa trees per ha significantly increase yield. Farms at high elevations were less technically efficient, as this entails lower temperatures and increased rainfall, and cocoa farming in those areas and conditions can be more challenging, especially with changes in farming practices, terrain, and distance to markets. Other significant variables were age of cocoa farms, married farmers, and age of the farmers. Older farms may be more developed, farmers who are married benefit from their spouses being able to readily contribute as farm labor, and lastly, older farmers' inefficiency may likely stem from nonadaptation of newer farming practices. With an average technical efficiency of 0.61, 0.63, and 0.26 in low, medium, and high elevation areas, respectively, farmers therefore have an incentive to improve farm practices and consider topographical variations found in high elevation areas. Recommendations for the improvement of technical efficiency of cocoa farms are better connectivity to markets, enhancing farm practices, and continuation and improvement of government programs on cocoa with an added emphasis on research. For farmers in high elevation areas, mitigating solutions such as sustainable agriculture practices and ecolabelling are key to improving efficiency and minimizing the potential negative impact on upland farming systems. Moreover, such adaptation measures may also contribute to sustainability of cocoa farming in high elevation areas.
基金supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(32172188)Science and Technology Cooperation Project of ZheJiang Province(2023SNJF058-3)。
文摘Multidrug-resistant(MDR)Enterobacteriaceae critically threaten duck farming and public health.The phenotypes,genotypes,and associated mobile genetic elements(MGEs)of MDR Enterobacteriaceae isolated from 6 duck farms in Zhejiang Province,China,were investigated.A total of 215 isolates were identified as Escherichia coli(64.65%),Klebsiella pneumoniae(12.09%),Proteus mirabilis(10.23%),Salmonella(8.84%),and Enterobacter cloacae(4.19%).Meanwhile,all isolates were resistant to at least two antibiotics.Most isolates carried tet(A)(85.12%),blaTEM(78.60%)and sul1(67.44%)resistance genes.Gene co-occurrence analysis showed that the resistance genes were associated with IS26 and integrons.A conjugative IncFII plasmid pSDM004 containing all the above MGEs was detected in Proteus mirabilis isolate SDM004.This isolate was resistant to 18 antibiotics and carried the blaNDM-5 gene.MGEs,especially plasmids,are the primary antibiotic resistance gene transmission route in duck farms.These findings provide a theoretical basis for the rational use of antibiotics in farms which are substantial for evaluating public health and food safety.
文摘The exponential growth of food demand due to the increasing global population has the potential to seriously threaten the quality and quantity of food supplies due to climate change.This study explores the utilisation of green urban spaces for achieving food self-sufficiency by investigating the extent to which sustainable urban farms could be used to reduce the consumption of imported produce in the UK.It also examines urban farming stakeholders'perspective on how food self-sufficiency can help realise the SDGs especially SDG 2(Zero hunger)and SDG 13(Climate action).The study adopts a mixed method approach through a survey with 115 respondents and semi-structured interviews conducted with 12 respondents from 4 different urban farming stakeholder groups.The findings of this study presented a strong correlation between stakeholders who had concerns about where their food came from and the carbon footprint of imported produce.The research shows that,urban farms will no doubt play a vital role in the future of food security in our cities/communities and that the SDGs could be realised through sustainable urban farms implemented within the relevant planning regulations/policies.
文摘This study's goal is to present a dynamic portrait of the farm-buildings environment in Occitania,in Southern France,in order to better identify the transitions underway in agri-food chains.To this end,we undertook a ter-ritorial diagnosis based on actor statements,using 28 semi-structured interviews across Occitania.This diagnosis was enriched by graphic modelling,which enabled the spatialization of the dynamics described.We show that the process of standardisation of farm buildings prevails in the majority of the territories studied.This phenomenon has intensified in recent years with the development of vast photovoltaic-roofed sheds,accentuating the farm-land conversion and soil sealing.At the same time,in areas with strong environmental,landscape and heritage contexts,a'new adventure in farm buildings'(2022 survey)is taking shape.It is primarily driven by local short food chains,which rely on self-construction,repurposing and refurbishment,the sharing of tools and equipment,and which favour the use and reuse of local resources.This study shows that farm-buildings dynamics crystallise many challenges confronting the reterritorialisation of agriculture and food production.
文摘To address uncertainty as well as transient stability constraints simultaneously in the preventive control of windfarm systems, a novel three-stage optimization strategy is established in this paper. In the first stage, the probabilisticmulti-objective particle swarm optimization based on the point estimate method is employed to cope with thestochastic factors. The transient security region of the system is accurately ensured by the interior point methodin the second stage. Finally, the verification of the final optimal objectives and satisfied constraints are enforcedin the last stage. Furthermore, the proposed strategy is a general framework that can combine other optimizationalgorithms. The proposed methodology is tested on the modified WSCC 9-bus system and the New England 39-bussystem. The results verify the feasibility of the method.
基金supported by the Natural Science Foundation of Zhejiang Province(LY19A020001).
文摘With the increasing demand for electrical services,wind farm layout optimization has been one of the biggest challenges that we have to deal with.Despite the promising performance of the heuristic algorithm on the route network design problem,the expressive capability and search performance of the algorithm on multi-objective problems remain unexplored.In this paper,the wind farm layout optimization problem is defined.Then,a multi-objective algorithm based on Graph Neural Network(GNN)and Variable Neighborhood Search(VNS)algorithm is proposed.GNN provides the basis representations for the following search algorithm so that the expressiveness and search accuracy of the algorithm can be improved.The multi-objective VNS algorithm is put forward by combining it with the multi-objective optimization algorithm to solve the problem with multiple objectives.The proposed algorithm is applied to the 18-node simulation example to evaluate the feasibility and practicality of the developed optimization strategy.The experiment on the simulation example shows that the proposed algorithm yields a reduction of 6.1% in Point of Common Coupling(PCC)over the current state-of-the-art algorithm,which means that the proposed algorithm designs a layout that improves the quality of the power supply by 6.1%at the same cost.The ablation experiments show that the proposed algorithm improves the power quality by more than 8.6% and 7.8% compared to both the original VNS algorithm and the multi-objective VNS algorithm.
文摘This report provides an overall assessment of land fragmentation problems in East Africa. Many parts of East Africa have become highly fragmented, putting development systems and activities in these areas at risk of complete collapse. Land fragmentation occurs when land gets converted for agriculture, industrialization, or urbanization, invaded by non-local plants, or enclosed for individual use and by subdividing farmlands into subsequent smaller units called parcels with varying average farm sizes. Fragmentation results from inappropriate agricultural development processes and ineffective land use planning that fails to recognize how farmland is used, and the importance of its interconnected areas. Insecurity of tenure and resource rights are key factors in making this possible. Land fragmentation is one of the key reasons why the ability of most resources in East Africa becomes scarcer, and those remaining become “privatized” by more powerful community members—keen to maintain their access to them. Such individualistic attitudes are new and disadvantage the poorest even further by affecting the traditional customary safety nets and agricultural outputs. Neither the government nor customary governance systems effectively protect resource access for the poorest. This review summary report identifies the key causes, measures, and implications, government interventions, and the common remedies to land fragmentation problems in the East African Countries of Kenya, Uganda, Rwanda, and Tanzania including neighboring Ethiopia, and the Sudan. The findings indicated from 2005 to 2015, the population kept increasing for all the named countries in East Africa with Rwanda and Uganda having a substantial increase in population density. The study review further explores the trend in the performance of agriculture by average farm sizes within the intervals of five years by highlighting their strong linkages and found that the average farm size has declined drastically, especially for Kenya. This can only mean that small farms kept becoming smaller and smaller and that there were more small-scale farmers. The results further depicted that the major and commonly cultivated food crops among the East African countries include maize, sorghum, rice, cassava, sweet potatoes, bananas, Irish potatoes, beans, peas, etc., with maize yields (Mt/ha) in 2003 for Uganda being the highest (1.79 Mt/ha) and the lowest in Rwanda (0.77 Mt/ha) respectively. Therefore, from the review results, recommendations are being made as to how the negative impacts of land fragmentation on agricultural productivity can be reduced or mitigated. One way is by community sensitization and awareness about the importance of land consolidation and its proposition on farm productivity.
文摘Savanna regions in Nigeria face environmental degradation and barren land, negatively impacting food and agricultural productivity. Inter-rill erosion occurs due to raindrop impact and transport, particularly on hill slopes. A study was conducted using a sprinkler rainfall simulator and plot experiment to study soil erosion processes. Soil samples were collected from four farms in Gidan Kwanu, with varying moisture content. Sand content ranged from 46.0% to 76.20%, silt from 11.30% to 23.50%, and clay from 11.0% to 30.0%. Uncultivated and bare land had a higher average porosity (15.47% and 14.99%), while cultivated land had lower porosity (14.4%). The study found that most people in Gidan-Kwanu primarily practice farming, which is season-dependent and rain-fed. Soil type and texture significantly contribute to inter-rill erosion, with cultivated and uncultivated soil being more resistant to erosion than bare land soil. The study concluded that farming practices in Gidan-Kwanu are primarily season-dependent and rain-fed. Soil type and texture significantly contribute to inter-rill erosion, with cultivated and uncultivated soil being more resistant to erosion than bare land soil.
文摘As Climate Change Haven Communities are constructed across the Northern Hemisphere, it will be necessary to attract two types of migrants to populate them. The first group consists of professionals and companies in eco-sustainable businesses, such as law firms, insurance companies, investment firms, banking, technological innovation, mass media, medical research and pharmaceutical research. The second group will consist of persons engaged in organic/eco-sustainable agriculture whose crops and animal husbandry practices can be transferred successfully to Climate Change Haven regions. The present research focuses on the social and economic variables that must be taken into account to insure that each new Climate Change Haven Community becomes successfully integrated with the local population and forms a cohesive, harmonious social structure. Examples are given from the United States, France, Spain, Portugal and Italy.
文摘BACKGROUND Infants'nutrition significantly influences their growth,development,and overall well-being.With the increasing demand for organic infant formula driven by the perception of health benefits and growing awareness of natural feeding options,it is crucial to conduct a comparative analysis of the gastrointestinal tolerability between organic and traditional infant formulas.AIM To provide a concise and precise analysis of the gastrointestinal tolerability of organic infant formula compared to traditional infant formula.Due to limited direct comparisons,the review synthesizes available literature on each formula type,presenting insights into their potential effects on infants'digestive health.METHODS An extensive literature search was conducted,compiling studies on organic and traditional infant formulas,their compositions,and reported effects on gastrointestinal tolerability.We searched academic databases such as PubMed and Google Scholar and specialized nutrition,paediatrics,and infant health journals using relevant keywords till October 1,2023.RESULTS Although specific comparative studies are scarce and formula heterogeneity is a significant limitation,this systematic review provides an in-depth understanding of organic infant formulas'composition and potential benefits.While scientific evidence directly comparing gastrointestinal tolerability is limited,organic formulas strive to use carefully selected organic ingredients to imitate breast milk composition.Potential benefits include improved lipid profiles,higher methionine content,and decreased antibiotic-resistant bacteria levels.Understanding the gastrointestinal tolerability of organic and traditional infant formulas is crucial for parents and healthcare providers to make informed decisions.CONCLUSION Despite limitations in direct comparisons,this systematic review provides insights into the composition and potential benefits of organic infant formulas.It emphasizes the need for further research to elucidate their gastrointestinal effects comprehensively.
文摘Inland fishing predominates in the Kedougou region, which has no coastline. This type of fishing does not yet meet the local population’s demand for fish products. In response to this concern, a Community Agricultural Estate housing an integrated fish farm was set up in the commune of Bandafassi, in the village of Itato. Since its creation, this production unit has been faced with the problem of sourcing high-quality, low-cost, monosex male Oreochromis niloticus fry. In order to overcome this constraint, the present research focuses on the contribution of Garcinia kola to the productivity and economic profitability of the Itato farm. The aim of the research is to assess fish production in the experimental set-up and the production costs of tilapia in a controlled environment. The comparative study of the various production factors shows disparities only in the input factor, where scenarios 2 and 3 use additional products. These are 17-α-methytestosterone for scenario 2 and Garcinia kola for scenario 3. These products significantly interfere with fish production, with a fairly high mortality rate for scenario 2 (25% for two production cycles/ cohort2 (B5, B6, B7 and B8) treated with 17-α-methytestosterone). As for scenarios 1 and 3, mortalities are 5% with or without recourse to additional products (G. kola). In addition, average fish production for the three (03) scenarios is estimated at 28687.5 kg/2 cycles. It varies from one scenario to another, i.e. 30937.5 kg/2 cycles for scenarios 1 and 3 and 24187.5 kg/2 cycles for scenario 2. It is therefore higher in scenarios 1 and 3 than in scenario 2. This difference is due to the fairly large losses of individuals in scenario 2. Furthermore, the analysis of the profit and loss accounts for tilapia production varies from one scenario to another depending on the type of farm: 476 Franc CFA for scenario 1, 610 Franc CFA for scenario 2 and 472 Franc CFA for scenario 3 (F CFA = franc of the French Colonies of Africa). The Average operating income for all the fish farming units is 34,726,142 Franc CFA. The highest (41,638,075 Franc CFA) and lowest (29,281,075 Franc CFA) ERs were observed in scenarios 3 and 2 respectively. It was 33,259,275 Franc CFA for scenario 1. The difference between the NERs of the three scenarios is more or less significant in terms of results. The operating result (OR) is positive in all 3 scenarios in our study. However, the scenario 3 system generates a higher rate of return (the ratio between an income and the capital employed to obtain that income) (74%) than that generated by the scenario 1 system (69%). As for the scenario 2 system, it generates a lower financial return than the two previous systems (67%). Above all, this work made it possible to construct an approach that would make it possible to answer such a question by relying successively on various methods: a typology, according to the production factors involved in the operation of the Community Agricultural Estate fish farm.