Research Topic: Agricultural

Effects and formula optimization of Rosa roxbunghii pomace substrate on the yield and volatile flavor compounds of Lentinula edodes

Researchers discovered that using Rosa roxbunghii fruit waste as 30% of the growing medium for shiitake mushrooms produces better yields and more flavorful mushrooms compared to traditional sawdust-based methods. This sustainable approach solves a waste disposal problem while making mushrooms taste better, with higher levels of umami-contributing compounds. The findings could help local farmers reduce costs and improve mushroom quality while managing agricultural waste responsibly.

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A Comprehensive Review of the Diversity of Fungal Secondary Metabolites and Their Emerging Applications in Healthcare and Environment

Fungi naturally produce complex chemical compounds called secondary metabolites that have powerful effects against diseases and pests. These include well-known medicines like penicillin and compounds that can fight cancer, reduce inflammation, and lower cholesterol. Scientists are now using advanced genetic and biotechnology techniques to increase production of these fungal compounds, making them more available and affordable for medical, agricultural, and environmental applications. This research shows how fungi could be important sources of new medicines and sustainable alternatives to synthetic chemicals.

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First Record of the Edible Mushroom Lepista sordida in Western Algerian Forest: Nutritional Value and Physicochemical Parameters of Mycelial Culture

Researchers in Algeria discovered Lepista sordida, an edible purple mushroom, for the first time in western Algerian forests. They identified the species using DNA analysis and studied how to grow it in laboratories by testing different temperature, humidity, and pH levels. The mushroom is highly nutritious, containing significant amounts of protein and carbohydrates, making it valuable for improving local diets and addressing nutritional deficiencies.

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Multilayer perceptron-genetic algorithm as a promising tool for modeling cultivation substrate of Auricularia cornea Native to Iran

Black ear mushrooms (Auricularia cornea) are nutritious and medicinal fungi that can be grown on waste materials from wood industries. Researchers tested different combinations of sawdust and bran to find the best growing mixture. They used artificial intelligence to predict which combinations would give the best yields, finding that a mix of 70% beech sawdust with 30% wheat bran worked best and could be produced efficiently.

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Luobuma Leaf Spot Disease Caused by Alternaria tenuissima in China

Researchers in China identified a serious fungal disease affecting Luobuma plants (used for tea, medicine, and textiles) caused by the fungus Alternaria tenuissima. The disease caused leaf spots that spread rapidly, with infection rates reaching 95% in some plants. Testing showed that a fungicide called hymexazol was effective at controlling the disease, offering farmers a practical solution for protecting their crops.

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Effect of Cordyceps militaris Residue and Lactiplantibacillus plantarum on Fermentation Quality and Bacterial Community of Alfalfa Silage

This research shows that waste leftover from growing medicinal mushrooms (Cordyceps militaris) can be effectively reused as an additive to improve the quality of stored animal feed (alfalfa silage). When the mushroom residue was added, it boosted beneficial bacteria that produce lactic acid, which preserved the feed better and reduced ammonia content. This finding offers an environmentally friendly way to reduce waste while simultaneously improving livestock feed quality.

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The Hidden Microbial World in the Gut of the Terrestrial Snail Cornu aspersum maxima and the Unexpected Negative Effects of Synbiotics

This study tested whether adding beneficial bacteria (probiotics) and dietary fibers (prebiotics) to snail farm feed could improve snail health and growth. While individual probiotic and prebiotic treatments helped reduce harmful bacteria in snails’ digestive systems, combining them together as a synbiotic surprisingly caused extremely high death rates in the snails. The results show that more research is needed before combining these supplements in snail farming.

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Slime molds (Myxomycetes) causing a “disease” in crop plants and cultivated mushrooms

Slime molds are not true plant diseases but can harm crops by covering leaves and blocking sunlight and water loss. These organisms prefer wet, organic-rich environments and are particularly problematic in mushroom farming. Farmers can prevent problems by managing moisture, improving ventilation, and removing affected materials, with chemical sprays available as backup options when needed.

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Recent advances and role of melatonin in post-harvest quality preservation of shiitake (Lentinula edodes)

Shiitake mushrooms are nutritious but spoil quickly after harvest due to their high water content and lack of protective skin. This review explores how melatonin and various preservation methods like proper cooling, special packaging, and drying can extend shelf life and maintain quality. Different techniques work by controlling moisture, slowing respiration, preventing browning, and controlling microbial growth. Combining multiple methods, such as vacuum cooling with special packaging, provides the best results for preserving the mushrooms’ taste, nutrition, and appearance.

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Growth of Pleurotus Ostreatus on Different Textile Materials for Vertical Farming

Scientists grew oyster mushrooms on different types of knitted fabrics to develop a new vertical farming method for growing food in small spaces. They found that coating the fabric with nutrient agar (a gel-like substance) was essential for mushroom growth, and surprisingly, the mushrooms grew equally well on both natural fabrics like cotton and synthetic fabrics like acrylic. The dried mushroom-fabric combinations became stiff and rigid, suggesting potential use in creating sustainable, bio-based materials for various applications.

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