Sign in to use this feature.

Years

Between: -

Subjects

remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline

Journals

remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline

Article Types

Countries / Regions

remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline

Search Results (2,003)

Search Parameters:
Keywords = protected cultivation

Order results
Result details
Results per page
Select all
Export citation of selected articles as:
24 pages, 29903 KB  
Article
Analyzing Spatiotemporal Patterns of Cultivated Land by Integrating Aggregation Degree and Omnidirectional Connectivity: A Case Study of Daqing City, China
by Yanhong Hang, Zhuocheng Zhang and Xiaoming Li
Land 2025, 14(10), 2000; https://doi.org/10.3390/land14102000 - 6 Oct 2025
Viewed by 79
Abstract
The spatial configuration of cultivated land is crucial for modern agricultural production; therefore, research on cultivated land aggregation and spatial connectivity holds significant importance for enhancing agricultural production efficiency and ensuring food security. This study selected Daqing City, China, as the research area [...] Read more.
The spatial configuration of cultivated land is crucial for modern agricultural production; therefore, research on cultivated land aggregation and spatial connectivity holds significant importance for enhancing agricultural production efficiency and ensuring food security. This study selected Daqing City, China, as the research area and constructed a three-level nested framework of “patch–local–regional” scales. The aggregation degree was calculated through landscape pattern indices and the MSPA model, and connectivity was evaluated using the Omniscape algorithm based on circuit theory to explore the spatiotemporal evolution patterns of cultivated land configuration and analyze their spatial correlations, proposing classified optimization strategies. The results indicate the following: (1) the spatiotemporal distribution characteristics of cultivated land aggregation in Daqing City exhibit a spatial pattern of “high in the north and south, low in the middle,” with an overall declining trend from 2000 to 2020; (2) high-connectivity areas are primarily distributed in Lindian County in the north and Zhaozhou and Zhaoyuan Counties in the south, while low-connectivity areas are concentrated in the central urban area and surrounding regions; (3) the aggregation degree and connectivity demonstrate positive spatial correlation, with the Global Moran’s index increasing from 0.358 in 2000 to 0.413 in 2020; and (4) based on the aggregation degree and connectivity characteristics, the study area can be classified into four types: scattered imbalance–isolated dysfunction, regular imbalance–connected dysfunction, scattered improvement–connected optimization, and regular improvement–connected optimization. This study provides new research perspectives for cultivated land protection. The proposed multi-scale aggregation–connectivity research method and classification system offer important reference value for the efficient utilization and management optimization of cultivated land. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Spatiotemporal Dynamics and Utilization Trend of Farmland)
Show Figures

Figure 1

20 pages, 3411 KB  
Article
Assessing the Impacts of Greenhouse Lifespan on the Evolution of Soil Quality in Highland Mountain Vegetable Farmland
by Keyu Yan, Xiaohan Mei, Jing Li, Xinmei Zhao, Qingsong Duan, Zhengfa Chen and Yanmei Hu
Agronomy 2025, 15(10), 2343; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy15102343 - 5 Oct 2025
Viewed by 222
Abstract
Long-term greenhouse operations face a critical challenge in the form of soil quality degradation, yet the key intervention periods and underlying mechanisms of this process remain unclear. This study aims to quantify the effects of greenhouse lifespan on the evolution of soil quality [...] Read more.
Long-term greenhouse operations face a critical challenge in the form of soil quality degradation, yet the key intervention periods and underlying mechanisms of this process remain unclear. This study aims to quantify the effects of greenhouse lifespan on the evolution of soil quality and to identify critical periods for intervention. We conducted a systematic survey of greenhouse operations in a representative area of Yunnan Province, Southwest China, and adopted a space-for-time substitution design. Using open-field cultivation (OF) as the control, we sampled and analyzed soils from vegetable greenhouses with greenhouse lifespans of 2 years (G2), 5 years (G5), and 10 years (G10). The results showed that early-stage greenhouse operation (G2) significantly increased soil temperature (ST) by 8.38–19.93% and soil porosity (SP) by 16.21–56.26%, promoted nutrient accumulation and enhanced aggregate stability compared to OF. However, as the greenhouse lifespan increased, the soil aggregates gradually disintegrated, particle-size distribution shifted toward finer clay fractions, and pH changed from neutral to slightly alkaline, exacerbating nutrient imbalances. Compared with G2, G10 exhibited reductions in mean weight diameter (MWD) and soil organic matter (SOM) of 2.41–5.93% and 24.78–30.93%, respectively. Among greenhouses with different lifespans, G2 had the highest soil quality index (SQI), which declined significantly with extended operation; at depths of 0–20 cm and 20–40 cm, the SQI of G10 was 32.59% and 38.97% lower than that of G2, respectively (p < 0.05). Structural equation modeling (SEM) and random forest analysis indicated that the improvement in SQI during the early stage of greenhouse use was primarily attributed to the optimization of soil hydrothermal characteristics and pore structure. Notably, the 2–5 years was the critical stage of rapid decline in SQI, during which intensive water and fertilizer inputs reduced the explanatory power of soil nutrients for SQI. Under long-term continuous cropping, the reduction in MWD and SOM was the main reason for the decline in SQI. This study contributes to targeted soil management during the critical period for sustainable production of protected vegetables in southern China. Full article
Show Figures

Graphical abstract

15 pages, 1244 KB  
Article
Effects of Biodegradable Mulch Films with Different Thicknesses on the Quality of Watermelon Under Protected Cultivation
by Haikang Zhao, Xidong Wang, Penghui Jin, Jihua Zhou, Yan Wang, Wentao Dong, Huiqing Ren, Bingru Li and Wenwen Gong
Agronomy 2025, 15(10), 2336; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy15102336 - 4 Oct 2025
Viewed by 116
Abstract
Biodegradable mulch films (BDMs) have emerged as a promising alternative to conventional polyethylene (PE) films in modern horticulture, yet the effect of film thickness on crop performance remains inadequately understood. In this study, a two-year field experiment (2023–2024) under protected cultivation was conducted [...] Read more.
Biodegradable mulch films (BDMs) have emerged as a promising alternative to conventional polyethylene (PE) films in modern horticulture, yet the effect of film thickness on crop performance remains inadequately understood. In this study, a two-year field experiment (2023–2024) under protected cultivation was conducted to evaluate BDMs with thicknesses (0.006, 0.008, and 0.010 mm) for watermelon production in Beijing, China. The results showed that all BDMs enhanced soil temperature and moisture compared to bare soil (main effect of mulching, p < 0.05) and significantly influenced soil available nitrogen (p < 0.05), while other soil properties were less affected. Year effects were generally not significant, reflecting the stable microclimatic conditions under hoop-house cultivation. Mechanical property assessments indicated substantial declines in tensile load, tensile strength, and elongation at break after field use, especially for thinner films. Notably, Bio-0.006 and Bio-0.008 significantly improved fruit weight and soluble sugar content relative to PE (p < 0.05), leading to higher yields and better commercial quality. These results suggested that appropriately thin BDMs can satisfy agronomic requirements for watermelon under protected cultivation while minimizing plastic residues, offering a practical basis for optimizing biodegradable film thickness to balance mulching performance, productivity, and environmental sustainability. Full article
16 pages, 7612 KB  
Article
Remote Sensing Evaluation of Cultivated Land Soil Quality in Soda–Saline Soil Areas
by Lulu Gao, Chao Zhang and Cheng Li
Land 2025, 14(10), 1986; https://doi.org/10.3390/land14101986 - 2 Oct 2025
Viewed by 234
Abstract
Rapid evaluations of farmland soil quality can provide data support for farmland protection and utilization. This study focuses on the soda–saline soil region of Da’an City, Jilin Province, covering an area of 4879 km2; it proposes a framework for evaluating farmland [...] Read more.
Rapid evaluations of farmland soil quality can provide data support for farmland protection and utilization. This study focuses on the soda–saline soil region of Da’an City, Jilin Province, covering an area of 4879 km2; it proposes a framework for evaluating farmland soil quality based on multi-source remote sensing data (Sentinel-2 MSI, GF-5 AHSI hyperspectral and field hyperspectral data). Soil organic matter content, salt content, and pH were selected as indicators of cultivated land soil quality in soda–saline soil areas. A threshold of 20% crop residue cover was set to mask high-cover areas, extracting bare soil information. The spectral indices SI1 and SI2 were utilized to predict the comprehensive grade of soil organic matter + salinity based on the cloud model (MEc = 0.74 and MEv = 0.68). The pH grade was predicted using the red-edge ratio vegetation index (RVIre) (MEc = 0.95 and MEv = 0.98). The short-board method was used to construct a soil quality evaluation system. The results indicate that 13.73% of the cultivated land in Da’an City is of high quality (grade 1), 80.63% is of medium quality (grades 2–3), and 5.65% is of poor quality (grade 4). This study provides a rapid assessment tool for the sustainable management of cultivated land in saline–alkali areas at the county level. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Advance in Intensive Agriculture and Soil Quality)
Show Figures

Figure 1

17 pages, 3770 KB  
Article
Spatiotemporal Evolution and Driving Factors Analysis of Karst Cultivated Land Based on Geodetector in Guilin (Guangxi, China)
by Shaobin Zeng, Feili Wei, Hong Jiang, Tengfang Li and Yongqiang Ren
Appl. Sci. 2025, 15(19), 10635; https://doi.org/10.3390/app151910635 - 1 Oct 2025
Viewed by 204
Abstract
In karst regions (KRs), unique surface morphology and irrational human exploitation have led to increasingly prominent issues such as land fragmentation and rocky desertification. Understanding the spatiotemporal evolution of cultivated land (CL) in these areas is of great significance for supporting regional socioeconomic [...] Read more.
In karst regions (KRs), unique surface morphology and irrational human exploitation have led to increasingly prominent issues such as land fragmentation and rocky desertification. Understanding the spatiotemporal evolution of cultivated land (CL) in these areas is of great significance for supporting regional socioeconomic development, food security, and ecological sustainability. This study focuses on Guilin, combining GIS spatial analysis with methods including kernel density analysis, dynamic degree, spatial transfer matrix, and a Geodetector to examine the spatiotemporal distribution characteristics, evolution trends, and driving factors of land use based on five-phase of land use data from 2000 to 2020. The results show that: (1) over the past two decades, land use in Guilin has been dominated by CL and forest land, with CL exhibiting a spatial pattern of more in the east and south, and less in the west and north; (2) the CL transfer-out rate exceeded the transfer-in rate, mainly shifting to construction land and forest land; (3) the overall density of CL showed a declining trend, with a relatively stable spatial pattern; and (4) driving factor analysis indicates that the spatiotemporal changes in CL are jointly influenced by multiple factors, with natural factors exerting a stronger influence than socio-economic factors. Among them, the interaction between elevation and temperature had the greatest impact and served as the dominant factor. Although GDP and population were not dominant individually, their explanatory power and sensitivity increased significantly when interacting with other factors, making them key sensitive factors. The results can provide a scientific reference for the protection and rational utilization of CL resources in KR. Full article
Show Figures

Figure 1

22 pages, 1374 KB  
Article
Assessing the Economic Vulnerability of Romanian Tomato Growers to Extreme Weather Events
by Diana Maria Ilie, Steliana Rodino, Vili Dragomir and Rozi Liliana Berevoianu
Sustainability 2025, 17(19), 8754; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17198754 - 29 Sep 2025
Viewed by 310
Abstract
Vegetable cultivation plays an essential role in the agricultural economy. However, amid increasingly pressing economic and climatic factors that significantly influence the sustainability of this sector, vegetable production in Romania has a downward trend. Similarly to other field crops, open-field tomato production is [...] Read more.
Vegetable cultivation plays an essential role in the agricultural economy. However, amid increasingly pressing economic and climatic factors that significantly influence the sustainability of this sector, vegetable production in Romania has a downward trend. Similarly to other field crops, open-field tomato production is exposed to climate risks, such as extreme temperatures and drought, factors that have significantly impacted Romanian agriculture during the 2024–2025 period. This study aims to analyze the risk exposure of tomato cultivation under unfavorable climatic conditions and to emphasize the importance of financial support in protecting farmers’ incomes. By using a detailed income and expenditure budget, the study evaluates the financial vulnerability of the production process and analyzes the effects of crop losses on farm profitability. The results indicate substantial income losses for farmers in the event of crop damage, with estimated losses of 5280 EUR/ha for a 30% damage level and 10,912 EUR/ha for 50% damage. These findings highlight the importance of financial support provided through national public policies (SP PAC 2023–2027), along with the proposal of crop insurance as an effective tool for risk management and financial protection of farmers. This measure could contribute to mitigating the economic impact on farmers affected by climatic factors. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainability and Resilience in Agricultural Systems)
Show Figures

Figure 1

19 pages, 5916 KB  
Article
Construction of Composite Biocontrol Agent (BCA): Developing Effective Strategies for Controlling Postharvest Blue Mold and Patulin in Apples
by Longmei Cong, Limei Li, Qian Zhang, Junyue Hu, Jingting Du and Junfeng Shi
Foods 2025, 14(19), 3378; https://doi.org/10.3390/foods14193378 - 29 Sep 2025
Viewed by 197
Abstract
Postharvest blue mold in apples, caused by Penicillium expansum, leads to fruit decay and patulin (PAT) contamination, incurring major economic and health risks. This study developed a composite biocontrol agent (BCA) by co-cultivating three antagonistic yeasts (Meyerozyma caribbica, Metschnikowia zizyphicola [...] Read more.
Postharvest blue mold in apples, caused by Penicillium expansum, leads to fruit decay and patulin (PAT) contamination, incurring major economic and health risks. This study developed a composite biocontrol agent (BCA) by co-cultivating three antagonistic yeasts (Meyerozyma caribbica, Metschnikowia zizyphicola, and Pichia rarassimilans). Mixed-culture conditions and protective additives formulation were optimized via response surface methodology. Optimal biomass production was achieved with a 1:2:3 (v/v/v) yeast ratio in medium containing sucrose (12.49 g/L), yeast extract powder (13.3 g/L), K2HPO4 (0.88 g/L), and NaCl (0.95 g/L) under pH 7.0, 1% total inoculum concentration, 24 °C, and a 60 h incubation. The liquid BCA formulation, stabilized with 0.27% gum arabic, 0.49% Tween-80, and 0.079% ascorbic acid, maintained high viability (9.15 log10 CFU/mL after 7 days). In vivo/in vitro trials all demonstrated that the composite BCA rapidly colonized, suppressed P. expansum infection, and significantly delayed pathogen spore germination and hyphal growth. Furthermore, the BCA effectively degraded 10 μg/mL PAT within 24–42 h in various fruit juices with minimal adverse effects on juice quality parameters. Storage at −20 °C preserved the highest bioactivity (7.93 × 108 CFU/mL after 5 months). This optimized composite yeast formulation provides an efficient, eco-friendly strategy for integrated apple postharvest blue mold and PAT detoxification. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Food Packaging and Preservation)
Show Figures

Figure 1

28 pages, 4334 KB  
Article
Analysis of Carbon Emissions and Ecosystem Service Value Caused by Land Use Change, and Its Coupling Characteristics in the Wensu Oasis, Northwest China
by Yiqi Zhao, Songrui Ning, An Yan, Pingan Jiang, Huipeng Ren, Ning Li, Tingting Huo and Jiandong Sheng
Agronomy 2025, 15(10), 2307; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy15102307 - 29 Sep 2025
Viewed by 218
Abstract
Oases in arid regions are crucial for sustaining agricultural production and ecological stability, yet few studies have simultaneously examined the coupled dynamics of land use/cover change (LUCC), carbon emissions, and ecosystem service value (ESV) at the oasis–agricultural scale. This gap limits our understanding [...] Read more.
Oases in arid regions are crucial for sustaining agricultural production and ecological stability, yet few studies have simultaneously examined the coupled dynamics of land use/cover change (LUCC), carbon emissions, and ecosystem service value (ESV) at the oasis–agricultural scale. This gap limits our understanding of how different land use trajectories shape trade-offs between carbon processes and ecosystem services in fragile arid ecosystems. This study examines the spatiotemporal interactions between land use carbon emissions and ESV from 1990 to 2020 in the Wensu Oasis, Northwest China, and predicts their future trajectories under four development scenarios. Multi-period remote sensing data, combined with the carbon emission coefficient method, modified equivalent factor method, spatial autocorrelation analysis, the coupling coordination degree model, and the PLUS model, were employed to quantify LUCC patterns, carbon emission intensity, ESV, and its coupling relationships. The results indicated that (1) cultivated land, construction land, and unused land expanded continuously (by 974.56, 66.77, and 1899.36 km2), while grassland, forests, and water bodies declined (by 1363.93, 77.92, and 1498.83 km2), with the most pronounced changes occurring between 2000 and 2010; (2) carbon emission intensity increased steadily—from 23.90 × 104 t in 1990 to 169.17 × 104 t in 2020—primarily driven by construction land expansion—whereas total ESV declined by 46.37%, with water and grassland losses contributing substantially; (3) carbon emission intensity and ESV exhibited a significant negative spatial correlation, and the coupling coordination degree remained low, following a “high in the north, low in the south” distribution; and (4) scenario simulations for 2030–2050 suggested that this negative correlation and low coordination will persist, with only the ecological protection scenario (EPS) showing potential to enhance both carbon sequestration and ESV. Based on spatial clustering patterns and scenario outcomes, we recommend spatially differentiated land use regulation and prioritizing EPS measures, including glacier and wetland conservation, adoption of water-saving irrigation technologies, development of agroforestry systems, and renewable energy utilization on unused land. By explicitly linking LUCC-driven carbon–ESV interactions with scenario-based prediction and evaluation, this study provides new insights into oasis sustainability, offers a scientific basis for balancing agricultural production with ecological protection in the oasis of the arid region, and informs China’s dual-carbon strategy, as well as the Sustainable Development Goals. Full article
Show Figures

Figure 1

44 pages, 4335 KB  
Article
Nanoencapsulated Dunaliella tertiolecta Extract and β-Carotene in Liposomal Carriers: Antioxidant and Erythroprotective Potential Through Sustained-Release Systems
by Jonathan García-Morales, Ricardo Iván González-Vega, Diana Fimbres-Olivarría, Ariadna Thalía Bernal-Mercado, Santiago Pedro Auobourg-Martínez, Karla Alejandra López-Gastélum, Silvia Elena Burruel-Ibarra, María Irene Silvas-García, Andrea Grijalva-Molina, José de Jesús Ornelas-Paz and Carmen Lizette Del-Toro-Sánchez
Molecules 2025, 30(19), 3924; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules30193924 - 29 Sep 2025
Viewed by 193
Abstract
The nanoencapsulation of bioactive compounds such as β-carotene and microalgal extracts has emerged as an effective strategy to enhance their stability, bioavailability, and biological efficacy, particularly against oxidative stress. Dunaliella tertiolecta, a microalga rich in carotenoids and chlorophylls, presents notable antioxidant and [...] Read more.
The nanoencapsulation of bioactive compounds such as β-carotene and microalgal extracts has emerged as an effective strategy to enhance their stability, bioavailability, and biological efficacy, particularly against oxidative stress. Dunaliella tertiolecta, a microalga rich in carotenoids and chlorophylls, presents notable antioxidant and erythroprotective properties; however, its bioactive potential is limited by low bioaccessibility and degradation during processing and digestion. This study aimed to develop and evaluate nanoliposomes loaded with D. tertiolecta extract and β-carotene as sustained-release systems to improve antioxidant performance and erythroprotective effects. The methodology involved optimizing microalgal cultivation under nitrogen and salinity stress to enhance pigment accumulation, followed by extraction, nanoencapsulation via the particle dispersion method, and physicochemical characterization of the nanoliposomes. Antioxidant capacity and release kinetics were assessed through ABTS and FRAP assays, while erythroprotective activity was evaluated by monitoring oxidative hemolysis in human erythrocytes. The release kinetics revealed an anomalous transport mechanism for both systems, with β-carotene showing faster and more efficient release due to its greater lipophilic compatibility with the nanoliposomal matrix. The nanoliposomal systems demonstrated nanoscale size, high encapsulation efficiency, sustained antioxidant release, and effective erythrocyte protection, with the extract-loaded formulation exhibiting synergistic effects superior to isolated β-carotene. These findings support the potential application of this nanotechnology-based delivery system in functional foods, nutraceuticals, and biomedical formulations aimed at preventing oxidative stress-related cellular damage. Full article
Show Figures

Figure 1

15 pages, 1939 KB  
Article
Field and Molecular Evidence for Tolprocarb-Induced Phytoalexin Production and Weed Suppression in Rice
by Keisuke Tomita, Kakeru Toribe, Hiroyuki Hagiwara, Takuya Ando, Kosuke Yoshino, Mikio Tsuda, Hideaki Nojiri and Kazunori Okada
Agriculture 2025, 15(19), 2042; https://doi.org/10.3390/agriculture15192042 - 29 Sep 2025
Viewed by 185
Abstract
Tolprocarb (TPC), a fungicide primarily used for controlling rice blast, was recently shown to stimulate disease resistance in rice. To elucidate the molecular basis of this immunostimulatory effect, we conducted transcriptomic, metabolic, and field-based analyses focusing on diterpenoid phytoalexins, key antimicrobial and allelopathic [...] Read more.
Tolprocarb (TPC), a fungicide primarily used for controlling rice blast, was recently shown to stimulate disease resistance in rice. To elucidate the molecular basis of this immunostimulatory effect, we conducted transcriptomic, metabolic, and field-based analyses focusing on diterpenoid phytoalexins, key antimicrobial and allelopathic compounds in rice. Microarray analysis revealed that TPC treatment induced a broad transcriptional activation of genes involved in phytoalexin biosynthesis, including DPF, a master regulator of diterpenoid metabolism. Consistent with this, LC-MS/MS analyses confirmed the accumulation of momilactones A and B, as well as phytocassanes B, C, and E, in rice leaves after TPC application, a response not observed with conventional resistance inducers such as probenazole or carpropamid. In root tissues under controlled conditions, phytoalexin accumulation was limited, and exudation into the rhizosphere was minimal. However, field experiments showed that TPC treatment led to a transient increase in leaf momilactones around 14 days post-transplanting, followed by increased exudation into the rhizosphere at 21 days. Notably, this increase in root exudation coincided with a reduction in total weed biomass, although weed species composition remained unchanged. These findings suggest that TPC not only enhances rice immunity through phytoalexin induction but may also contribute to weed suppression via allelopathic root exudates in field settings. Our study highlights a dual role for TPC in rice cultivation, boosting disease resistance and suppressing weed growth, and underscores the potential of phytoalexin-focused strategies for integrated crop protection. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Crop Protection, Diseases, Pests and Weeds)
Show Figures

Figure 1

25 pages, 8509 KB  
Article
Dynamic Evolution and Driving Mechanisms of Cultivated Land Non-Agriculturalization in Sichuan Province
by Yaowen Xu, Qian Li, Youhan Wang, Na Zhang, Julin Li, Kun Zeng and Liangsong Wang
Sustainability 2025, 17(19), 8643; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17198643 - 25 Sep 2025
Viewed by 366
Abstract
Given that the increasing non-agricultural conversion of cultivated land (NACCL) endangers food security, studying the spatial and temporal variation characteristics and driving mechanisms of NACCL in Sichuan Province can offer a scientific foundation for developing local farmland preservation measures and controlling further conversion. [...] Read more.
Given that the increasing non-agricultural conversion of cultivated land (NACCL) endangers food security, studying the spatial and temporal variation characteristics and driving mechanisms of NACCL in Sichuan Province can offer a scientific foundation for developing local farmland preservation measures and controlling further conversion. Guided by the theoretical framework of land use transition, this study utilizes land use datasets spanning multiple periods between 2000 and 2023. Comprehensively considering population scale factors, natural geographical factors, and socioeconomic factors, the county-level annual NACCL rate is calculated. Following this, the dynamic evolution and underlying driving forces of NACCL across 183 counties in Sichuan Province are examined through temporal and spatial dimensions, utilizing analytical tools including Nonparametric Kernel Density Estimation (KDE) and the Geographical Detector model with Optimal Parameters (OPGD). The study finds that: (1) Overall, NACCL in Sichuan Province exhibits phased temporal fluctuations characterized by “expansion—contraction—re-expansion—strict control,” with cultivated land mainly being converted into urban land, and the differences among counties gradually narrowing. (2) In Sichuan Province, the spatial configuration of NACCL is characterized by the expansion of high-value agglomerations alongside the dispersed and stable distribution of low-value areas. (3) Analysis through the OPGD model indicates that urban construction land dominates the NACCL process in Sichuan Province, and the driving dimension evolves from single to synergistic. The findings of this study offer a systematic examination of the spatiotemporal evolution and underlying drivers of NACCL in Sichuan Province. This analysis provides a scientific basis for formulating region-specific farmland protection policies and supports the optimization of territorial spatial planning systems. The results hold significant practical relevance for promoting the sustainable use of cultivated land resources. Full article
Show Figures

Figure 1

20 pages, 854 KB  
Article
Sustainable Utilization of CO2 from Exhaust Gases for the Autotrophic Cultivation of the Biohydrogen-Producing Microalga Tetraselmis subcordiformis
by Marcin Dębowski, Joanna Kazimierowicz, Izabela Świca and Marcin Zieliński
Sustainability 2025, 17(19), 8612; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17198612 - 25 Sep 2025
Viewed by 253
Abstract
The aim of the study was to evaluate the feasibility of using exhaust gases as a CO2 source in the cultivation of Tetraselmis subcordiformis microalgae for biomass and hydrogen production. It was shown that the growth rate of T. subcordiformis biomass and [...] Read more.
The aim of the study was to evaluate the feasibility of using exhaust gases as a CO2 source in the cultivation of Tetraselmis subcordiformis microalgae for biomass and hydrogen production. It was shown that the growth rate of T. subcordiformis biomass and its biochemical composition depended on the CO2 source. The highest growth rate of 286 ± 15 mgVS/L-d and a final biomass concentration of 2710 ± 180 mgVS/L were achieved in the variant where exhaust gases from a coal and biomass supplementary combustion plant were the CO2 source (V2). The highest CO2 reduction efficiency of 90.3 ± 3.2% was achieved in the case where waste gases from biogas combustion were the CO2 source (V1). In V2, the highest CO2 utilization efficiency was achieved (CO2UE = 46.7 ± 2.4%). Analyzing the biomass composition confirmed differences in total carbon content (TC) and polysaccharide fraction. The highest H2 production efficiency and rate, which were 70.9 ± 2.7 mL/gVS and 2.27 ± 0.08 mL/gVS·h, respectively, were obtained in V2. The results obtained indicate the possibility of integrating fuel combustion processes with the cultivation of T. subcordiformis and photobiological H2 production, which is a promising solution in the context of climate neutrality and the implementation of circular economy postulates. This approach demonstrates a sustainable strategy for linking industrial CO2 emissions with the production of renewable biohydrogen and thus contributes to climate protection and the promotion of circular economy concepts. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Carbon Capture, Utilization, and Storage (CCUS) for Clean Energy)
Show Figures

Figure 1

15 pages, 5156 KB  
Article
The Aspergillus fumigatus Extracellular Polysaccharide Galactosaminogalactan Displays Context-Dependent Cooperative and Competitive Social Traits in Mixed Biofilms
by Longyun Cong, Yufei Zhang, Hua Chen, Ruiyang Lu and Shizhu Zhang
J. Fungi 2025, 11(10), 695; https://doi.org/10.3390/jof11100695 - 25 Sep 2025
Viewed by 396
Abstract
Biofilm-dwelling cells construct communities by secreting extracellular polysaccharide (EPS). In bacteria, EPS can act as cooperative public goods or competitive traits, yet the social nature of EPS in fungi remains poorly understood. Galactosaminogalactan (GAG) is an EPS produced by the human-pathogenic fungus Aspergillus [...] Read more.
Biofilm-dwelling cells construct communities by secreting extracellular polysaccharide (EPS). In bacteria, EPS can act as cooperative public goods or competitive traits, yet the social nature of EPS in fungi remains poorly understood. Galactosaminogalactan (GAG) is an EPS produced by the human-pathogenic fungus Aspergillus fumigatus. The study of social characteristics of GAG revealed that under basal conditions, GAG can be shared between GAG production strain (GAG+) and non-production strain (GAG) in mixed biofilms. This led to significant competitive advantages for GAG, with fitness outcomes dependent on initial inoculum ratios, cultivation duration, and nutrient availability. Conversely, under cell wall stress induced by antifungal drug caspofungin, GAG confers a competitive advantage for GAG+ in the mixed biofilms. Further investigation revealed that GAG+ cells are able to retain higher levels of GAG on the hyphal surface compared to GAG in the mixed biofilms. This hyphal surface-associated GAG layer might protect GAG+ from caspofungin-mediated damage, creating a lineage-specific competitive advantage. Overall, GAG has a dual-trait social nature in biofilms, functioning as a public good at the population level and as a competitive trait for the producing lineage, switching according to environmental conditions. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Fungal Cell Biology, Metabolism and Physiology)
Show Figures

Figure 1

11 pages, 644 KB  
Article
Unravelling the Association Between Trait Mindfulness and Problematic Social Media Use in Youth
by Elisa Galli, Marta Sannino, Zidane Dridi and Marco Giancola
Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2025, 22(10), 1479; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph22101479 - 25 Sep 2025
Viewed by 340
Abstract
The compulsive and unregulated use of social media, also known as problematic social media use (PSMU), has raised increasing concerns about its detrimental impact on psychological well-being and daily functioning among young individuals. Understanding the psychological mechanisms underlying this behavioural pattern is essential, [...] Read more.
The compulsive and unregulated use of social media, also known as problematic social media use (PSMU), has raised increasing concerns about its detrimental impact on psychological well-being and daily functioning among young individuals. Understanding the psychological mechanisms underlying this behavioural pattern is essential, with personality traits emerging as a particularly relevant area of investigation. While some personality traits, such as narcissism, have received substantial attention, others remain overlooked. Through a cross-sectional design, this study examined how trait mindfulness, as captured in terms of awareness and acceptance, predicts PSMU while accounting for sociodemographics (age, sex, and education) and both grandiose and vulnerable narcissism. A total of 180 participants (meanage = 22.16 years; SDage = 2.47 years; 95 females) completed the Narcissistic Personality Inventory-13, the Hypersensitive Narcissism Scale, the Philadelphia Mindfulness Scale, and the Bergen Social Media Addiction Scale. Regression analyses indicated that only the acceptance of trait mindfulness significantly predicted PSMU. These findings suggest that cultivating a non-judgmental and open stance towards internal experiences may protect against PSMU through affect regulation and emotional acceptance. Full article
Show Figures

Figure 1

24 pages, 6451 KB  
Article
Spatio-Temporal Evolution and Driving Forces of Habitat Quality in China’s Arid and Semi-Arid Regions: An Interpretable Machine Learning Perspective for Ecological Management
by Shihao Liu and Jinchuan Huang
Land 2025, 14(10), 1937; https://doi.org/10.3390/land14101937 - 25 Sep 2025
Viewed by 378
Abstract
Against the global biodiversity crisis, arid and semi-arid regions are sensitive indicators of terrestrial ecosystems. However, research on their habitat quality (HQ) evolution mechanism faces dual challenges: insufficient multi-scale dynamic simulation and fragmented driving mechanism analysis. To address these gaps, this study takes [...] Read more.
Against the global biodiversity crisis, arid and semi-arid regions are sensitive indicators of terrestrial ecosystems. However, research on their habitat quality (HQ) evolution mechanism faces dual challenges: insufficient multi-scale dynamic simulation and fragmented driving mechanism analysis. To address these gaps, this study takes northern China’s arid and semi-arid regions as the object, innovatively constructing a “pat-tern-process-mechanism” multi-dimensional integration framework. Breaking through single-model/discrete-method limitations in existing studies, it realizes full-process integrated research on regional HQ spatiotemporal dynamics. Based on 1990–2020 Land Use and Land Cover Change (LUCC) data, the framework integrates the InVEST and PLUS models, solving poor continuity between historical assessment and future projection in traditional research. It also pioneers combining the XGBoost-SHAP model and Geographically and Temporally Weighted Regression (GTWR): XGBoost-SHAP quantifies nonlinear interactive effects of natural, socioeconomic, and landscape drivers, while GTWR explores spatiotemporal heterogeneous mechanisms of landscape pattern evolution on HQ, effectively addressing the dual challenges. Results show the following: (1) In 1990–2020, cultivated and construction land expanded, with grassland declining most notably; (2) Overall HQ decreased by 0.82%, with high-value areas stable in the west and northeast, low-value areas concentrated in the central region, and 2030 HQ optimal under the Ecological Protection (EP) scenario; (3) Natural factors contribute most to HQ change, followed by socioeconomic factors, with landscape indices being least impactful; (4) Under future scenarios, landscape Patch Density (PD) has the most prominent negative effect—its increase intensifies fragmentation and reduces connectivity. This study’s method integration breakthrough provides a quantitative basis for landscape pattern optimization and ecosystem management in arid and semi-arid regions, with important scientific value for promoting integration of landscape ecology theory and sustainable development practice. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Land Use, Impact Assessment and Sustainability)
Show Figures

Figure 1

Back to TopTop