Nano/Micro-Structural Supramolecular Biopolymers: Innovative Networks with the Boundless Potential in Sustainable Agriculture

Sustainable agriculture plays a crucial role in meeting the growing global demand for food while minimizing adverse environmental impacts from the overuse of synthetic pesticides and conventional fertilizers.In this context,renewable biopolymers being more sustainable offer a viable solution to improve agricultural sustainability and production.Nano/micro-structural supramolecular biopolymers are among these innovative biopolymers that are much sought after for their unique features.These biomaterials have complex hierarchical structures,great stability,adjustable mechanical strength,stimuli-responsiveness,and self-healing attributes.Functional molecules may be added to their flexible structure,for enabling novel agricultural uses.This overview scrutinizes how nano/micro-structural supramolecular biopolymers may radically alter farming practices and solve lingering problems in agricultural sector namely improve agricultural production,soil health,and resource efficiency.Controlled bioactive ingredient released from biopolymers allows the tailored administration of agrochemicals,bioactive agents,and biostimulators as they enhance nutrient absorption,moisture retention,and root growth.Nano/micro-structural supramolecular biopolymers may protect crops by appending antimicrobials and biosensing entities while their eco-friendliness supports sustainable agriculture.Despite their potential,further studies are warranted to understand and optimize their usage in agricultural domain.This effort seeks to bridge the knowledge gap by investigating their applications,challenges,and future prospects in the agricultural sector.Through experimental investigations and theoretical modeling,this overview aims to provide valuable insights into the practical implementation and optimization of supramolecular biopolymers in sustainable agriculture,ultimately contributing to the development of innovative and eco-friendly solutions to enhance agricultural productivity while minimizing environmental impact.

Spatiotemporal characteristics of cultivated land use eco-efficiency and its influencing factors in China from 2000 to 2020

Improving cultivated land use eco-efficiency(CLUE)can effectively promote agricultural sustainability,particularly in developing countries where CLUE is generally low.This study used provincial-level data from China to evaluate the spatiotemporal evolution of CLUE from 2000 to 2020 and identified the influencing factors of CLUE by using a panel Tobit model.In addition,given the undesirable outputs of agricultural production,we incorporated carbon emissions and nonpoint source pollution into the global benchmark-undesirable output-super efficiency-slacks-based measure(GB-US-SBM)model,which combines global benchmark technology,undesirable output,super efficiency,and slacks-based measure.The results indicated that there was an upward trend in CLUE in China from 2000 to 2020,with an increase rate of 2.62%.The temporal evolution of CLUE in China could be classified into three distinct stages:a period of fluctuating decrease(2000-2007),a phase of gradual increase(2008-2014),and a period of rapid growth(2015-2020).The major grain-producing areas(MPAs)had a lower CLUE than their counterparts,namely,non-major grain-production areas(non-MPAs).The spatial agglomeration effect followed a northeast-southwest strip distribution;and the movement path of barycentre revealed a"P"shape,with Luoyang City,Henan Province,as the centre.In terms of influencing factors of CLUE,investment in science and technology played the most vital role in improving CLUE,while irrigation index had the most negative effect.It should be noted that these two influencing factors had different impacts on MPAs and non-MPAs.Therefore,relevant departments should formulate policies to enhance the level of science and technology,improve irrigation condition,and promote sustainable utilization of cultivated land.

Journal of Integrative Agriculture(JIA)Instruction to Authors

Aims and Scope Journal of IntegrativeAgriculture(JIA),formerly Agricuiltural Sciences in China(ASC),founded in 2002,is sponsored by Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences(CAAS),co-sponsored by Chinsese Association of Agricultural Science Societies(CAAsS).The latest IF is 4.8.JIA seeks to publish those papers that are influential and will significantly advance scientific understanding in agriculture fields worldwide.JIA publishes manuscripts in the categories of Commentary,Review,Research Article,Letter and Short Communication,focusing on the core subjects:Crop Science Horticulture·Plant ProtectionAnimal Science·Veterinary Medicine·Agro-ecosystem&Environment·Food Science·Agricultural Economics and Management·Agricultural Information Science.

Journal of Integrative Agriculture(JIA)Instruction to Authors

Description Journal of Integrative Agriculture(JIA),formerly Agricultural Sciences in China(ASC),founded in 2002,is sponsored by Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences(CAAS),co-sponsored by Chinese Association of Agricultural Science Societies(CAASS).

Journal of Integrative Agriculture Instruction to Authors

Description Journal of Integrative Agriculture(JIA),formerly Agricultural Sciences in China(ASC),founded in 2002,is sponsored by Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences(CAAS),co-sponsored by Chinese Association of Agricultural Science Societies(CAASS).JIA is a peer-reviewed and multi-disciplinary international journal and published monthly in English.JIA Editorial Board consists of 289 well-respected scholars of agricultural scientific fields.

Spatio-Temporal Agricultural Drought Quantification in a Rainfed Agriculture, Athi-Galana-Sabaki River Basin

This study employs a quantitative approach to comprehensively investigate the full propagation process of agricultural drought, focusing on pigeon peas (the most grown crop in the AGS Basin) planting seasonal variations. The study modelled seasonal variabilities in the seasonal Standardized Precipitation Index (SPI) and Standardized Agricultural Drought Index (SADI). To necessitate comparison, SADI and SPI were Normalized (from −1 to 1) as they had different ranges and hence could not be compared. From the seasonal indices, the pigeon peas planting season (July to September) was singled out as the most important season to study agricultural droughts. The planting season analysis selected all years with severe conditions (2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2017 and 2022) for spatial analysis. Spatial analysis revealed that most areas in the upstream part of the Basin and Coastal region in the lowlands experienced severe to extreme agricultural droughts in highlighted drought years. The modelled agricultural drought results were validated using yield data from two stations in the Basin. The results show that the model performed well with a Pearson Coefficient of 0.87 and a Root Mean Square Error of 0.29. This proactive approach aims to ensure food security, especially in scenarios where the Basin anticipates significantly reduced precipitation affecting water available for agriculture, enabling policymakers, water resource managers and agricultural sector stakeholders to equitably allocate resources and mitigate the effects of droughts in the most affected areas to significantly reduce the socioeconomic drought that is amplified by agricultural drought in rainfed agriculture river basins.

Journal of Integrative Agriculture(JIA)Instruction to Authors

Description Journal of Integrative Agriculture(JIA),formerly Agricultural Sciences in China(AsC),founded in 2002,is sponsored by Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences(CAAS),co-sponsored by Chinese Association of Agricultural Science Societies(CAASS).JIAis a peer-reviewed and multi-disciplinary international journal and published monthly in English.JIA Editorial Board consists of 289 well-respected scholars of agricultural scientific fields.

Journal of Integrative Agriculture(JIA)

Instruction to Authors Aims and Scope Journal of Integrative Agriculture(JIA),formerlyAgricultural Sciences in China(ASC),founded in 2002,is sponsored by Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences(CAAS),co-sponsored by Chinsese Association of Agricultural Science Societies(CAAsS).

Insights from i-Tree Eco-efficiency Assessment Management of Urban Trees in Oxford,UK

In the era of stock development following the acceleration of urbanization,the revitalization of urban green space has assumed an increasingly significant role.Consequently,the management of urban trees has emerged as a critical focus of urban governance,contributing to the enhancement of livability in human settlements.This study offers a comprehensive analysis of the urban tree management system in Oxford,UK,identifying that its primary objective is to optimize and maintain a harmonious balance between human activities and the natural environment through the implementation of high-quality planting practices.The system emphasizes enhanced management practices and establishes a robust framework for the development of targeted policies and management regulations,utilizing i-Tree eco-efficiency assessment and real-time feedback mechanisms.China’s urban tree management is in its nascent stages,and there is an urgent need for the development of urban green space.By adopting the refined management assessment methodologies employed for urban trees in Oxford,UK,it is possible to enhance the ecological value of urban trees,which represent a significant green resource within cities,and contribute to the creation of more livable urban spaces.

Security Analysis in Smart Agriculture: Insights from a Cyber-Physical System Application

Smart agriculture modifies traditional farming practices,and offers innovative approaches to boost production and sustainability by leveraging contemporary technologies.In today’s world where technology is everything,these technologies are utilized to streamline regular tasks and procedures in agriculture,one of the largest and most significant industries in every nation.This research paper stands out from existing literature on smart agriculture security by providing a comprehensive analysis and examination of security issues within smart agriculture systems.Divided into three main sections-security analysis,system architecture and design and risk assessment of Cyber-Physical Systems(CPS)applications-the study delves into various elements crucial for smart farming,such as data sources,infrastructure components,communication protocols,and the roles of different stakeholders such as farmers,agricultural scientists and researchers,technology providers,government agencies,consumers and many others.In contrast to earlier research,this work analyzes the resilience of smart agriculture systems using approaches such as threat modeling,penetration testing,and vulnerability assessments.Important discoveries highlight the concerns connected to unsecured communication protocols,possible threats from malevolent actors,and vulnerabilities in IoT devices.Furthermore,the study suggests enhancements for CPS applications,such as strong access controls,intrusion detection systems,and encryption protocols.In addition,risk assessment techniques are applied to prioritize mitigation tactics and detect potential hazards,addressing issues like data breaches,system outages,and automated farming process sabotage.The research sets itself apart even more by presenting a prototype CPS application that makes use of a digital temperature sensor.This application was first created using a Tinkercad simulator and then using actual hardware with Arduino boards.The CPS application’s defenses against potential threats and vulnerabilities are strengthened by this integrated approach,which distinguishes this research for its depth and usefulness in the field of smart agriculture security.

Irrigated Agriculture Facing the Challenge of Climate Change: Adaptation Strategies for Farmers in the Irrigated Perimeters of Môle Saint-Nicolas, Haiti

Môle Saint-Nicolas, like all other communes in the Republic of Haiti, faces increasing climate variability, impacting agricultural production and water resources. Consequently, there is a pressing need for adaptation to these climatic changes. This research aims to showcase the adaptation strategies deployed by farmers to cope with the increasing climate variability. Surveys were conducted through group and individual discussions with a randomly selected cohort of 150 farmers. Two types of analysis were performed: quantitative and qualitative. The quantitative data analysis was conducted using Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) software. The findings reveal that farmers have perceived changes in rainfall patterns, temperature, wind, and their environment. These changes manifest as irregular rainfall, higher temperatures, prolonged drought periods, violent winds accompanied by rain, premature cessation of rains, and reduced flow from water sources. In response, the most common adaptation strategies adopted include selecting new cultivars, early-maturing varieties, crop rotation and diversification, canal dredging, new soil preparation methods, upstream water source protection, and micro-watershed management. The significance of this research lies in its contribution to enhancing farmers’ adaptive capacities by alerting stakeholders in the irrigated perimeters about the consequences of climate change, thereby incorporating the real needs of farmers in future projects.

Sorghum Productivity and Its Farming Feasibility in Dryland Agriculture:Genotypic and Planting Distance Insights

Sorghum(Sorghum bicolor L.Moench)is an essential food crop for more than 750 million people in tropical and sub-tropical dry climates of Africa,India,and Latin America.The domestic sorghum market in Indonesia is still limited to the eastern region(East Nusa Tenggara,West Nusa Tenggara,Java,and South Sulawesi).Therefore,it is crucial to carry out sorghum research on drylands.This research aimed to investigate the effect of sorghum genotype and planting distance and their interaction toward growth and sorghum’s productivity in the Gunungkidul dryland,Yogyakarta,Indonesia.In addition,the farm business analysis,including the feasibility of sorghum farming,was also examined.The research used a randomized complete block design(RCBD),arranged in a 5×4 factorial with 3 replicates.The first treatment consisted of 5 varieties(2 high-yielding varieties(Bioguma 1 and Kawali)and 3 local sorghum varieties(Plonco,Ketan Merah,and Hitam Wareng)).The second treatment consisted of 4 levels of planting distance,namely 50×20 cm,60×20 cm,70×15 cm,and 70×20×20 cm.Analysis of variance was used to analyze the data,where Duncan’s multiple range test(DMRT)was used post hoc.Plant height,panicle height,panicle width,panicle weight,stover weight,grains weight/plot,and productivity were significantly affected by sorghum varieties(p<0.05).However,there was no significant effect from the planting distance treatment and no interaction between planting distance and varietal treatments.Ketan Merah had the highest height,panicle length,and panicle width,while Bioguma 1 had the highest stover weight,panicle weight,grain weight/plot,and productivity.There was a significant linear regression equation,i.e.,productivity=0.0054–0.0003 panicle height+0.4163 grains weight/plot.Our findings on farm business analysis suggested that four out of five tested sorghum varieties were feasible to grow,except for the Ketan Merah variety.The most economically profitable sorghum variety to grow in Gunungkidul dryland was Bioguma 1.

Application of the Electrical Resistivity Method in Precision Agriculture of Coffee Cultivation, in the Kabiri Area, Ícolo e Bengo Township, Luanda, Angola

The electrical resistivity method is a geophysical tool used to characterize the subsoil and can provide an important information for precision agriculture. The lack of knowledge about agronomic properties of the soil tends to affect the agricultural coffee production system. Therefore, research related to geoelectrical properties of soil such as resistivity for characterization the region of the study for coffee cultivation purposes can improve and optimize the production. This resistivity method allows to investigate the subsurface through different techniques: 1D vertical electrical sounding and electrical imaging. The acquisition of data using these techniques permitted the creation of 2D resistivity cross section from the study area. The geoelectrical data was acquired by using a resistivity meter equipment and was processed in different softwares. The results of the geoelectrical characterization from 1D resistivity model and 2D resistivity electrical sections show that in the study area of Kabiri, there are 8 varieties of geoelectrical layers with different resistivity or conductivity. Near survey in the study area, the lowest resistivity is around 0.322 Ω·m, while the highest is about 92.1 Ω·m. These values illustrated where is possible to plant coffee for suggestion of specific fertilization plan for some area to improve the cultivation.

Understanding factors affecting non-participants’interest in community-supported agriculture

Community-supported agriculture(CSA)has emerged as a viable solution for addressing the agricultural challenges faced by countries like Indonesia.This study uses the wellestablished unified theory of acceptance and use of technology(UTAUT2)model to examine the interest in CSA of potential customers in Indonesia.A standardized questionnaire was distributed to 1200 respondents,and the data were analyzed using structural equation model-partial least square(SEM-PLS)in SmartPLS 4.0 software.The results capture potential CSA consumer interest and will help to improve CSA development strategies in Indonesia.The model explains 44.4%of customers’intentions,and identifies performance expectancy as the decisive factor in customers’willingness to participate in CSA.Performance expectancy(0.292),hedonic motivation(0.262),social influence(0.259),and facilitating conditions(0.086)positively influence customers’interest in participating in a CSA program.The adoption of CSA programs by both farmers and customers could be increased by implementing regulations that provide tax incentives and subsidies,offering training on sustainable farming practices,facilitating the establishment of distribution channels,and establishing guidelines for fair price and quality standards.This study shows the high potential for the implementation of CSA in Indonesia.It could also be used as a foundation for the development of new policies regarding sustainable agriculture markets in Indonesia.

Planetary health risks in urban agriculture

Urban agriculture is gaining recognition for its potential contributions to environmental resilience and climate change adaptation,providing advantages such as urban greening,reduced heat island effects,and decreased air pollution.Moreover,it indirectly supports communities during weather events and natural disasters,ensuring food security and fostering community cohesion.However,concerns about planetary health risks persist in highly urbanized and climate-affected areas.Employing electronic databases such as Web of Science and PubMed and adhering to Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines,we identified 55 relevant papers to comprehend the planetary health risks associated with urban agriculture,The literature review identified five distinct health risks related to urban agriculture:(1)trace metal risks in urban farms;(2)health risks associated with wastewater irrigation;(3)zoonotic risks;(4)other health risks;and(5)social and economic risks.The study highlights that urban agriculture,while emphasizing environmental benefits,particularly raises concerns about trace metal bioaccumulation in soil and vegetables,posing health risks for populations.Other well studied risks included wastewater irrigation and backyard livestock farming.The main limitations in the available literature were in studying infectious diseases and antibiotic resistance associated with urban agriculture.

Fertilization and Soil Ploughing Practices under Changing Physical Environment Lead to Soil Organic Carbon Dynamics under Conservation Agriculture in Rice-Wheat Cropping System: A Scoping Review

Ploughing and fertilization practices in rice-wheat system have deteriorated the soil carbon (C) pools. Conservation agriculture (CA) based management approaches have proven to enhance C sequestration and reverse the loss of soil-organic-carbon (SOC), which further enhances soil fertility. Different fractions of SOC pools react to the alterations in management practices and indicate changes in SOC dynamics as compared to total C in the soil. Higher SOC levels in soil have been observed in case of reduced/no-till (NT) practices than conventional tillage (CT). However, between CT and zero tillage/NT, total SOC stocks diminished with an increase in soil depth, which demonstrated that the benefits of SOC are more pronounced in the topsoil under NT. Soil aggregation provides physical protection to C associated with different-sized particles, thus, the improvement in soil aggregation through CA is an effective way to mitigate soil C loss. Along with less soil disturbance, residual management, suitable crop rotation, rational application of manures and fertilizers, and integrated nutrient management have been found to be effective in not only improving soil C stock but also enhancing the soil health and productivity. Thus, CA can be considered as a potential method in the build-up of SOC of soil in rice-wheat system.

Coping with the Impact of Climate Change: A Dive into Precision Agriculture in the United States

With the continued increase in the number of people that are food insecure globally, which could be increasing because of the ongoing Ukraine-Russia war, leading to reduction in international agribusinesses, coupled with drastic climate change exacerbating the problem of food insecurity, there is a constant need to come up with innovative approaches to solve this global issue. In this article, we articulated how precision agriculture can be a tool for ensuring food security in the United States. This study aims to reiterate the significance of precision agriculture in solving global food insecurity.

Assessing agricultural eco-efficiency in Chongqing,2004-2019

Agricultural eco-efficiency is an important indicator to measure the sustainable development and high-quality development of agriculture.Based on the agricultural input-output data of 37 districts(counties)in Chongqing from 2004 to 2019,this paper uses the static SBM model and the DDF-BML index method to calculate the agricultural eco-efficiency of each district and county in Chongqing and conduct a comparative analysis.The comprehensive analysis of static and dynamic calculation results shows that the agricultural eco-efficiency of Chongqing is low,the agricultural input-output efficiency of various districts and counties is insufficient,and slack variables are common,so the ability of agricultural sustainable development still needs to be improved.The main sources of agricultural eco-efficiency are the progress of agricultural green technology and the efficiency of agricultural green technology.However,as far as the actual situation of Chongqing is concerned,the efficiency of agricultural green technology shows a downward trend,which has an inhibitory effect on the improvement of agricultural eco-efficiency.Therefore,in the process of agricultural ecological development in the future,Chongqing will focus on improving the efficiency of agricultural green technology as a starting point,implement agricultural technology innovation and promotion,improve the level of farmers’science and technology and culture,and achieve"technology to the countryside,demonstration to households,and application to the country."At the same time,it is necessary to further improve the construction of agricultural and rural infrastructure,and promote the"outward migration"of frontier technologies in agricultural production to radiate agricultural development in surrounding districts and counties.

Promoting sustainable agriculture in Devdaha Municipality,Nepal:leveraging agroforestry to address challenges and enhance food security

Ensuring food security through sustainable agriculture is critical for achieving the Sustainable Development Goals(SDGs).This study aimed to examine farming practices,assess the marketability of agricultural products,and propose interventions to promote sustainable agriculture in Devdaha Municipality,Nepal,with a focus on overcoming gender disparities.Utilizing purposive sampling,interviews,focus group discussions,expert consultations,and direct observations followed by mixed methods analysis,farming practices were examined,the marketability of agricultural products were assessed,and interventions for improvement were proposed.Analysis revealed a diverse range of farm products,identified key challenges limiting profitability(e.g.,seasonal variations,market access),and highlighted the need for targeted interventions.Diversifying production towards high-profit crops like mango,banana,papaya,ginger,and turmeric integrated into agroforestry systems was identified as a potential strategy to increase farmer incomes and livelihoods.Findings revealed that cheaper imports contributed to a decline in local production,making efficient marketing systems and gender-sensitive interventions crucial to reverse this trend and empower women's participation in commercial agriculture.The study recommends establishing well-managed local farmers'markets,implementing agricultural subsidies,and launching campaigns to promote indigenous crops to reduce import dependency and boost incomes.Additionally,promoting suitable agroforestry combinations like mango-Moringa-vegetables intercropping can enhance sustainability.By informing on localized strategies aligned with SDG 2,this study offers policymakers potential pathways to strengthen sustainable agriculture,food security,and gender equity in Nepal's rural municipalities.

Agriculture neutralization:perspective from intelligent agricultural machinery

Against the background of climate change,exploring avoidable greenhouse gas emission from agriculture practices has gained public attention in the context of global energy transition.Intelligent agricultural machinery plays a crucial role in reducing carbon emissions in agriculture systems,and through the use of new energy,smart plant protection,and IoT technologies,carbon emissions can be significantly reduced.The focus of our debate is on the key role those intelligent technologies play,and what are the principles and shortcomings behind their effectiveness.What are the potential impacts of unmanned farms on agricultural carbon reduction and human survival issues in the future?