Silymarin, a bioactive compound derived primarily from the seeds and fruit of the milk thistle (Silybum marianum) plant, has garnered increasing attention in recent years due to its potential applications in agriculture. This comprehensive review explores the multifaceted role of silymarin in agricultural practices, shedding light on its chemistry, biological activities, and diverse applications. The chemical structure and properties of silymarin are elucidated, emphasizing its unique solubility, stability, and bioavailability, which render it suitable for agricultural use. A significant portion of the review is dedicated to examining the biological activities of silymarin, which encompasses its antioxidant properties. The underlying mechanisms responsible for these activities are explored, highlighting their potential as a natural solution for mitigating environmental stressors that adversely affect crop health and productivity. Illustrative examples from research studies and practical applications underscore its effectiveness in safeguarding agricultural yields and ensuring food security. Furthermore, the review delves into the potential of silymarin to enhance crop growth, yield, and quality. Mechanisms through which silymarin influences plant physiology and metabolism are examined, providing valuable insights into its role as a growth-promoting agent in agriculture. The review concludes with a forward-looking examination of the prospects of silymarin in agriculture, highlighting emerging trends and areas of innovation that hold promise for sustainable and resilient farming systems. In summary, this review consolidates the current body of knowledge surrounding silymarin’s potential in agriculture. It underscores the versatility of silymarin as a natural tool for crop protection, growth enhancement, and environmental sustainability, offering valuable insights for researchers, practitioners, and policymakers seeking innovative approaches to address the challenges of modern agriculture.

The agronomic and oenological behavior of the Pinot noir grape variety was studied in relation to different rootstocks on the Agroscope estate in Leytron (VS): 3309 C, 5 BB, Fercal, 41 BMGt, Riparia Gloire, 420 AMGt, 101-14 MGt and 161-49 C. Rootstock primarily influenced vigor, speed of vine establishment, and mineral nutrition of the graft. Riparia Gloire, 41 BMGt, 420 AMGt and 161-49 C rootstocks were less vigorous and, for the last three, induced a lower nitrogen and potassium supply leading to the production of slightly more acidic wines. The less vigorous rootstocks and 101-14 MGt were slightly more sensitive to water stress.

The effects of Zn2+ stress on seed germination, seedling growth and chlorophyll content were studied in order to better understand the effect of heavy metal Zn on the growth and development of green plants. The concentration gradient of Zn2+ was 20, 50,100,150,200,300,500,700mg / L, and deionized water was used as control. The results showed that under the Zn2+ stress condition, the germination index of the rhubarb seeds increased with the increase of Zn2+ concentration. Germination potential, germination rate and germination index were the highest when Zn2+concentration was 100mg / L, the conductivity was the lowest at zinc concentration of 100mg / L, the root length, stem length and chlorophyll content of Zn2+ gradually reduced. The results showed that the amount of Zn2+ could promote seed germination, but the root length, bud length and chlorophyll content of seedlings could be affected by different degrees. The zinc fertilizer should be used in the production.

Purpose: This research aims to investigate the impact of technological challenges, including techno-overload, techno-complexity, and techno-insecurity, on employee job satisfaction within the banking sector of Saudi Arabia. Additionally, the study examines the mediating roles of supervisor support and job clarity in buffering the effects of technological challenges on job satisfaction. Method: The study employs a quantitative research design, utilizing an online questionnaire to collect data from banking employees in Saudi Arabia. The sample size of 135 participants was determined using the rule of thumb technique. Random sampling was utilized to ensure representativeness. Data analysis was conducted using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) to explore the relationships between technological challenges, supervisor support, job clarity, and employee job satisfaction. Findings: The findings of the study reveal a significant negative impact of techno-overload, techno-complexity, and techno-insecurity on employee job satisfaction within the banking sector of Saudi Arabia. Moreover, supervisor support and job clarity were found to mediate these relationships, highlighting their importance in mitigating the adverse effects of technological challenges on job satisfaction. Originality/Significance: This research contributes to the existing body of knowledge by providing empirical evidence on the relationships between technological challenges, supervisor support, job clarity, and employee job satisfaction within the specific context of Saudi Arabian banks. The findings have significant implications for organizational leaders and managers in developing evidence-based strategies to manage technological challenges and promote employee well-being in the banking sector of Saudi Arabia.

Objective: This study assessed the prevalence of psychological disorders and their correlation with health-promoting lifestyles among Chinese college students. Method: We used the Chinese version of the Depression Anxiety Stress Scales-21 (DASS-21) and the Health Promoting Lifestyle Profile II (HPLP-II) questionnaires. Gender and major differences were analyzed with the chi-square test, and multiple logistic regression explored the relationship between HPLP and psychological disorders. Results: Among 17,636 students, low prevalence rates were observed for stress (4.0%), depression (7.2%), and anxiety (15.4%). Females and students in humanities and social sciences reported higher rates of multiple psychological disorders. Higher HPLP scores were inversely correlated with depression (OR = 0.479, 95% CI: 0.376–0.609), anxiety (OR = 0.480, 95% CI: 0.408–0.565), and stress (OR = 0.821, 95% CI: 0.636–1.060) after adjusting for confounders. Conclusions: The study found low overall prevalence of psychological disorders, with higher rates among females and humanities/social sciences majors. Higher HPLP scores, particularly in interpersonal relationships and nutrition, are associated with a lower risk of mental disorders.