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Encapsulation technology offers an effective strategy to enhance the bioavailability and stability of vitamin C by addressing its sensitivity to environmental factors. This study investigates the impact of formulation parameters, particularly lecithin concentration and high-pressure processing conditions, on the physicochemical properties, gastrointestinal stability, cytotoxicity, and shelf life of liposomal vitamin C formulations. Among the tested samples, Sample 1, prepared with 20% soybean lecithin and 20% ascorbic acid and processed at 400 bar with a single cycle, demonstrated superior performance. It exhibited a high zeta potential (−23.17 mV), uniform size distribution (317.5 ± 8.863 nm) and encapsulation efficiency of 77.6%, along with 85% vitamin C retention under simulated gastrointestinal conditions. Cellular uptake in Caco-2 cells reached 30%, and structural integrity was preserved for 240 days at 40 °C, indicating strong thermal stability. The results underscore that lecithin concentration had the most significant influence on encapsulation efficiency and liposome stability, compared to pressure intensity or the number of processing cycles. Furthermore, modulating the zeta potential through lipid composition and the energy applied to phospholipid solutions was found to be critical for improving bioavailability and ensuring long-term dispersion stability. In conclusion, the optimised liposomal formulation offers a promising vehicle for advanced vitamin C delivery with enhanced protection, bioaccessibility, and storage potential.

Ground heat flux (G) is often an overlooked component of the surface energy balance, and its accurate determination remains challenging. In the present study, the accuracy of various G estimation methods is examined using long-term measurements from the Central European mountain meadow. The impact of different G approximation on calculated evapotranspiration by the Penman-Monteith method (ET) is analysed. Soil heat flux measurements and surface temperature data were used to determine G, while net radiation was used to approximate G. Neglecting G led to an overestimation of ET in the daily timestep. On the contrary, the FAO-recommended hourly approximation overestimated G, underestimating ET. Site-specific calibrations of G prediction models improved their accuracy. For daily average G, as well as for hourly average G, simple constant parameter models (i.e., models including a single parameter specifying the fraction of net radiation directly) provide satisfactory accuracy of ET evaluation. However, in an hourly timestep, net radiation fails as a predictor of G shortly after sunrise and before sunset. The findings emphasise the importance of considering G in ET calculations and the need for site-specific calibrations of G estimation models.

Although the effects of fertiliser addition and liming on semi-natural grassland productivity and biomass quality are well documented, less is known about how fertilisers change plant functional groups and mean ecological values. We researched the effects of liming (no lime and lime with 1 t/ha) and mineral fertilisers (control – no fertilisers, PK-P60K60, N20PK-N20P60K60, N80PK-N80P60K60, and N140PK-N140P60K60) for nine years on the Danthonia alpina Vest. grassland community. Based on Brown-Blanquet cover abundance, we calculated Shannon-Wiener evenness and abundance of plant functional groups (based on height, canopy structure, storage organs presence and flowering duration). We also researched Landolt’s ecological indicator values for nutrients, moisture, reaction, light, and temperature. Results revealed that fertilisers stimulated tall species with longer flowering duration. Shannon-Wiener evenness in control was 0.45, and N20PK increased to 0.71 but significantly decreased in treatment N140PK (0.25). Mean Landolt ecological value for nutrients and moisture increased while temperature dropped. The coverage of legumes and Landolt indicator value for nutrients increased because of the lime application, while the lime had no effect on Shannon-Wiener evenness and abundance of functional groups. Greater Shannon-Wiener evenness in treatments of PK and N20PK is a prerequisite for resistance to the effects of extreme climate events.

The present study aimed to evaluate the biochemical and antioxidant responses of common carp after exposure to the antiepileptic and analgesic drug gabapentin at concentrations of 0.1, 1, 10, and 100 μg/l for 4 weeks. The exposure to the highest two concentrations resulted in significant changes in plasma indices such as glucose (only group 100 μg/l), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), lipase, creatine kinase (CK), amylase as well as butyrylcholinesterase (BChE). Similar trends were found in both groups exposed to the environmentally relevant concentrations (i.e., 0.1 and 1 μg/l). In addition, a significant increase in the ferric-reducing power of the plasma was noted in all treated groups. Numerous changes in antioxidant enzymes, superoxide dismutase, catalase, glutathione-S-transferase, as well as lipid peroxidation, were observed especially in the caudal kidney in the group exposed to 100 μg/l. Significant findings were also confirmed in the group exposed to an environmentally relevant concentration (1 μg/l), with a decrease in superoxide dismutase in the gill and an increased lipoperoxidation in the caudal kidney. Our research shows that subchronic exposure to gabapentin may pose a significant risk to non-target aquatic organisms, such as disruption of metabolic pathways or induction of oxidative stress, even at environmentally relevant concentrations.

The investigation was aimed to evaluate the physical (total solids, melting rate, viscosity, and overrun) and sensory properties of vanilla gelato (VG) made by substituting soya curd (SC) for milk. Samples were VG without SC (F₀) and with SC, i.e. 25% (F₁), 50% (F₂), and 75% (F₃). Each sample criterion consisted of 5 repetitions (n = 20). Results showed that F₃ possessed the lowest total solids, viscosity, and overrun while its melting rate was the highest among other SC substitution levels (P < 0.05). The sensory test delineated that F₃ had a less soft texture, although its aroma and flavour were not different from others (P < 0.05). Thus, the greater portion of SC substitution for milk in the VGmaking process would substantially affect the physical properties of its final product in which the total solids, viscosity, and overrun were lower while the melting rate was higher. Substituting SC for milk in VG did not affect the sensory properties, except the texture. The higher SC amount used for milk substitution would result in VG with a less soft texture. SC at a certain level of substitution was potentially expected as an innovation of the phyto-gelato product, namely soy gelato.

Conservation grassland significantly reduces soil erosion risk in agricultural landscapes, as shown by a nationwide analysis of over 1.9 million Farmer’s blocks (DPBs) records from the Czech Republic (2016–2022). A logit regression model revealed that grassland establishment lowers the likelihood of erosion events by about 64%, with erosion risk strongly influenced by altitude, land use, and management practices. Spatial mapping and soil suitability classification identified nearly 240 00 hectares – mainly along 33 000 concentrated runoff pathways – as suitable for targeted grassland conversion. Despite its soil-protective function, high opportunity costs hinder uptake in economically productive regions. Cluster analysis across EU Member States confirmed a strong link between low permanent grassland share and high erosion exposure. The findings underscore the need for regionally tailored policies, long-term financial support, and flexible land management options to enhance soil resilience and promote sustainable agriculture.

This study investigated the effects of dry cow feeding on colostrum quality. A survey was conducted, and samples of colostrum and feed ingredients were collected from 25 dairy farms in Northern Italy. Colostrum was analysed for quality in terms of Brix value and gamma globulins, while diets and feed ingredients were analysed for their chemical constituents. The mean colostrum quality (n = 163) was 24.3 ± 4.41% Brix and 54.2 ± 20.8 g/l gamma globulin. The refractometer method effectively assessed colostrum quality, correlating accurately with laboratory gamma globulin measurements (R = 0.729). Factor analysis indicated that key nutrients, such as protein and fat daily intakes in dry cow diets, influenced colostrum immunoglobulin G. Furthermore, supplementation of selenium, vitamin A, vitamin B12, and vitamin E also improved colostrum quality. Colostrum feeding occurred, on average, 5.44 ± 2.63 h post-calving, with a quantity of 2.74 ± 0.71 l per meal, which is below the recommended 10% of the calf body weight. However, the maximum feeding time was 12 h, and the minimum colostrum quantity was 1.25 l, highlighting considerable room for improvement.

Selenium is an essential trace element in the human body, mainly obtained from the daily diet. Producing selenium-rich agricultural products through selenium-rich cultivation is an important cultivation method. Selenium-rich agricultural products can effectively supplement the selenium element needed by the human body in daily life. In this study, we conducted research on selenium-rich cultivation techniques for garlic, and different concentrations of sodium selenite solutions were used for garlic field treatment. We tested the related agronomic traits, nutritional indicators, and selenium content of garlic sprouts and garlic bulbs. The yield of garlic sprouts (37.08 t/ha) and garlic bulbs (25.31 t/ha) and total selenium content of garlic sprouts (61.00 μg/kg) and garlic bulbs (2 930.00 μg/kg) of T3 treatment (120 mg/L Na2SeO3) were significantly increased, compared with the yield of garlic sprouts (30.66 t/ha) and garlic bulbs (20.90 t/ha) and total selenium content of garlic sprouts (6.33 μg/kg) and garlic bulbs (75.00 μg/kg) of the control (CK). Furthermore, selenium treatment improved the activity of antioxidant enzymes and reduced the accumulation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in garlic sprouts during winter, and promoted the absorption of soil nutrients by garlic. Taken together, our research indicates that garlic, especially garlic bulbs, has strong selenium-rich ability, and selenium-rich cultivation techniques could significantly improve the yield and quality of garlic products.

Sufficient available water in the soil is critical for plant growth, especially soon after planting. Water absorbed by organic hydrosorbents has the potential to reduce drought stress after planting and improve seedling survival. This research evaluates the effectiveness of granular organic hydrosorbents (GOH) in increasing soil-water retention in a pot experiment with boxwood (Buxus sempervirens L.) seedlings. The leaf chlorophyll content was also evaluated to determine plant growth. The following fertilisers were used: GOH 1 comprised 50% biogas products and 50% wheat straw, and GOH 2 combined post-harvest grain, legume and oilseed residues. The fertilisers were applied to the bottom of the pot or mixed with the soil. Both types doubled the initial water retention compared to the control. While the control water retention dropped below zero after 18 days without watering, retention in the fertilised treatments ranged from 0.5 to 0.76 L. Re-watering part of the trial after the 18 days then induced increased retention to the initial levels in all treatments and the control. However, the fertilised plant’s water retention was up to half a litre greater than in the control when the 62-day experiment ended. The effect of GOH application was also manifested in the chlorophyll content. In the no watering mode, the chlorophyll content was, on average, 20% and 13% higher in the treatments with GOH 1 and GOH 2 than in the control. In the watering regime, the application of GOH 1 and GOH 2 increased the chlorophyll content by an average of 31% and 26%, respectively. Finally, these trials established that the GOH applications significantly delayed boxwood-seedling drying and increased their water retention and chlorophyll content in unwatered and re-watered plants.

The positive influence of surface compost application without incorporation on soil physical properties is known but remains underexplored. This study evaluated the effects of surface-applied stable and mature compost on basic soil physical and chemical properties, including saturated hydraulic conductivity, aggregate stability, and penetration resistance. Conducted as a semi-operational field experiment in two Czech agricultural sites (A: Blatnice at Jaroměřice and B: Jevíčko; Cambisols with loam and silty clay loam textures, respectively), the plots were treated with compost (SCA) at rates of 4 × 30 t/ha (A) and 1 × 200 t/ha (B) or left untreated as controls (CON). The crops were wheat (A), maize (A, B) and intercrops. Surface compost application began in 2022, and soil sampling and field measurements were conducted during the 2023 and 2024 growing seasons. Results showed significant positive changes (P < 0.05 or lower) in SCA plots compared to CON. Soil organic matter content increased by 27.8% at locality A and by 58.1% at locality B, while saturated water content increased by 5.3% (A) and 11.0% (B) in the latter season. Similarly, pH and electrical conductivity showed increases. Water-stable aggregate ratios increased by 6% to 30% at both localities. Dry bulk density decreased by 10.5% (A) and 15.7% (B). Improvements in saturated hydraulic conductivity (by 28.6%) and penetration resistance were observed only at locality B. These findings show the potential of surface-applied stable and mature compost to enhance soil properties effectively.

Measuring the reference evapotranspiration (ET₀) is difficult and costly. Some regions can have variable microclimates and these can often be quite far from climate stations. Therefore, it is optimal to use local measurements rather than a regionally calculated ET₀. In this respect, one piece of equipment that provides cheap and reliable measurement results is ET_Gauge equipment. In this study, ET₀ values measured with ET_Gauge equipment were compared with daily and monthly ET₀ values calculated by five different commonly used empirical methods (Thornthwaite_Adj, Blaney-Criddle, Penman-Monteith = PM, Jensen-Haise and ASCE standardised Penman-Monteith = ASCE SZ PM). During the measurement period, daily ET₀ values measured with ET_Gauge varied between 0–10 mm/day and the average was determined as 4.5 ± 2.7 mm/day in the study area. In the calculations made with the empirical models, the change in Thornthwaite_Adj is 1.3–6.6 mm/day with an average of 3.8 ± 1.6 mm/day, the change in Blaney-Criddle is 1.8–7.2 mm per day with an average of 5.1 ± 1.4, the change in PM is 1.2–10.5 mm/day with an average of 5.8 ± 2.7 mm/day, the change in Jensen-Haise was 5.8 ± 2.7 mm/day with an average of 5.5 ± 2.7 mm/day, and the change in ASCE SZ PM was calculated as 1.0–10.1 mm/day with an average of 5.4 ± 2.5 mm/day. Considering the obtained results, the ET_Gauge equipment can be used safely in creating irrigation programmes.

The nutritional quality of meat from pigs of the indigenous Prestice Black-Pied pig (PB) and the three-breed commercial hybrid of Large White × Landrace × Large White_sireline (CH) was compared using these indicators: content of intramuscular fat, protein, saturated fatty acids (SFA) and essential amino acids (EAAs). The protein content and energy value of PB and CH meat were 20.12% and 22.56%, and 426.77 kJ·(100 g)^–1 and 443.01 kJ·(100 g)^–1, respectively. The lowest fat content (1.33%) and SFA content (0.33%) were found in the meat of commercial hybrid pigs. Leucine and lysine were the most predominant EAAs detected. Valine and leucine are the limiting AAs in studied meat as a protein source for children at 0.5–2 years of age. The compositions of AAs in PB and CH pork fully meet the protein needs of children over 2 years of age and adults. The calculated amount of pork meat provides the required daily intake of AAs and ensures 5–8% energy for children and 8–11% energy for adults at moderate physical activity. In general, the meat of Prestice Black-Pied pig and of the commercial hybrid showed the high nutritional value and quality and it can be recommended for consumption in the diet by children and adults.

Medetomidine, an alpha-2 adrenoreceptor agonist, is used for sedation. This study aimed to determine the influence of the alpha-2 adrenoreceptor antagonist vatinoxan, co-administered with medetomidine, on healthy dogs’ intraocular pressure (IOP) and pupil diameter (PD). A prospective, randomised, masked clinical study was performed. A total of 40 conscious dogs were allocated to one of two groups: medetomidine 0.01 mg/kg with vatinoxan 0.2 mg/kg intravenously (MV-group, n = 20) or medetomidine 0.01 mg/kg intravenously (M-group, n = 20). The IOP, PD, heart rate, and mean arterial pressure were measured prior to baseline and 5, 10, and 20 min after drug administration. Data were analysed using one- and two-way repeated measures ANOVA or their non-parametric equivalents (P < 0.05). No significant differences in IOP within or between groups were recorded. In the MV-group, PD remained unchanged compared to baseline. In the M-group, PD significantly (P = 0.007, P < 0.001, P < 0.001) decreased compared to baseline at all observation times. PD was significantly (P = 0.010, P < 0.001, P < 0.001) smaller in the M-group at all observation times compared to the MV-group. Vatinoxan co-administered with medetomidine, as well as medetomidine alone, did not significantly influence IOP. Vatinoxan with medetomidine did not affect PD, while medetomidine alone significantly reduced it.

Among the various disposal strategies for sewage sludge (SS), soil application is the most suitable. This study was conducted to evaluate soil amendment with SS (0, 10, 20, 30 and 40 g/kg) and its impact on soil fertility and tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.) growth. The SS significantly improved the agromorphological attributes, the number of produced fruits, and the fruit biomass of tomato plants. The 30 g/kg application of SS led to the highest growth rate and fruit yield. Considering the fruits, the best safe enrichment of metal nutrients was recorded at 30 g/kg, with a significant increase in the micronutrient metals Mn, Zn, Ni, Cu, and Fe with 624, 193, 125, 70, and 32%, respectively, compared to the control. The SS amendment enhanced soil fertility, and heavy metals were within the permissible ranges for agricultural soils. Bioaccumulation factors (BFs) indicated that SS application induced the accumulation of most of the studied metals in the roots, and the BF values of Zn, Cu, Ni, and Pb were > 1. The current study concluded that recirculating SS nutrient components to agricultural soils could offer a valid solution for the sustainable management of this organic waste and enhance plant-crop productivity.

Forest logging activities negatively affect various soil properties. In this study, we focus on the logging effects on soil water retention and associated pore size distribution. We measured the soil-water characteristic curves (SWCCs) on 21 undisturbed samples from three research plots: a reference area, a clear-cut area and a forest track. A total of 12 SWCC points between saturation and wilting point were determined for each sample with a sand box and pressure plate apparatus. The trimodal behaviour is highlighted by the dependence between soil moisture and suction. Therefore, we proposed a revised model by combining two exponential expressions with the van Genuchten model. The exponential terms describe the influence of macro-and-structural porosities, and the latter is used to calculate textural porosity. This new model with eight independent parameters was suitable to fit trimodal SWCCs in all samples. Results revealed that logging had the most destructive effect on large pores, and the soil on the forest track was the most affected. Both soil-air and available water capacity were reduced and the permanent wilting point increased as a result of damage to the soil structure and pore system. Observed increased organic carbon content in compacted soils can be attributed to slowed decomposition due to reduced air capacity and increased waterlogging susceptibility of damaged soils.

High-pressure processing (HPP) represents a promising alternative to conventional Holder pasteurisation (HoP) used by human milk banks worldwide. The objective of this study was to identify whether the HPP would achieve the same or better retention of the content of selected analytes than the HoP. Samples collected from 15 breast milk donors were processed in four ways: i) no treatment; ii) HoP; iii) HPP in cycles (350 MPa, 4 cycles); iv) continuous HPP (350 MPa, 20 min). The content of secretory immunoglobulin A (sIgA), lactoferrin and lysozyme was determined using commercially available ELISA kits, and the lipase activity was assessed using an A-lipase activity assay kit. Data were compared statistically using paired t-tests. HoP significantly reduced the content of lysozyme and lactoferrin as well as lipase activity (P < 0.001). Cycled HPP significantly decreased lipase activity (P = 0.002), while continuous HPP led to a significant decrease in lysozyme content (P = 0.001) and lipase activity (P = 0.014). Cycled HPP showed high retention of pretreatment levels of lysozyme – median 99 (88; 99%), lactoferrin – 84 (66; 105%), and sIgA content – 83 (28; 117%). Among the studied treatment regimens, the best preservation of initial levels of bioactive components was achieved using HPP at 350 MPa in cycles.

The aim of this research was to quantify the bioactive compounds; antioxidant, antibacterial, and antihypertensive capability of different cahuiche (Vaccinium leucanthum Schltdl.) extracts in vitro. Aqueous, ethanolic, and methanolic extracts were obtained from cahuiche berries (Vaccinium leucanthum Schltdl.). Total phenols, flavonoids (quercetin and catechin), and anthocyanins contents were determined, and antioxidant activity was also determined using ABTS [2,2'-azinobis-(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic) acid] and DPPH (2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl), antibacterial activity, and antihypertensive potential, using angiotensin I-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitor activity (%) in vitro. Methanolic extract showed the highest total phenols (1187.88 ± 87.48 mg gallic acid equivalents), catechin (372.17 ± 35.23 mg catechin equivalents), anthocyanins (578.89 ± 38.5 mg cyanidin-3-glucoside equivalents), ABTS (98.26 ± 0.00%) and DPPH (44.06 ± 3.95%) antioxidant activity, and ACE inhibitor activity of 80.20 ± 2.46%. All extracts presented antibacterial activity against Staphylococcus aureus (ATCC 25923) and Listeria monocytogenes (ATCC 19115) with inhibitor zones of > 11 and 13 mm, respectively. Cahuiche berries are potentially an ideal food or functional ingredient due to their biological activities as natural antihypertensive and antibacterial agent, and high bioactive compound contents.

Nanotechnology plays a vital role in enhancing plant tolerance to salt stress; however, comparative studies on zinc oxide bulk particles (ZnO bulk) and zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO NPs) in this context remain unexplored. Since zinc (Zn) is an essential micronutrient involved in enzyme activation, photosynthesis, and antioxidant responses, it is important to understand how ZnO bulk and ZnO NPs influence chickpea growth under salt stress. This study investigated the morphological and physiological responses of chickpea seedlings treated with ZnO bulk (50 mg/L) and ZnO NPs (50 mg/L) under varying salt concentrations (20, 40, 80, and 120 mmol/L). Salt stress significantly inhibited chickpea growth, reducing the relative growth rate, net assimilation rate, total chlorophyll content, and potassium (K) and zinc ion levels while increasing sodium (Na), chlorine (Cl), malondialdehyde (MDA), and proline content. However, the application of ZnO bulk and ZnO NPs improved these parameters, mitigating the negative effects of salt stress. Furthermore, exogenous ZnO bulk and ZnO NPs to salt-stressed (20, 40, 80, and 120 mmol/L) chickpea resulted in decreased malondialdehyde content by 30, 32, 47, 34%, and 58, 31, 48, 47%, proline content by 4, 6, 1.6, 4% and 22, 21, 22, 28%, respectively, in comparison to the control. Notably, ZnO bulk and ZnO NPs enhanced antioxidant enzyme activities, including superoxide dismutase, catalase, ascorbate peroxidase, glutathione peroxidase, and glutathione reductase. These findings suggest that foliar application of ZnO bulk and ZnO NPs helps alleviate salt stress in chickpeas, promoting better growth and physiological performance under saline conditions.

A 12-year-old castrated male domestic shorthair cat was referred for respiratory distress. Physical examination revealed a systolic heart murmur at the left apex and crackles in all lung fields. Thoracic radiography showed Valentine-shaped cardiomegaly, pulmonary oedema, and pleural effusion. Echocardiography revealed focal thickening of the interventricular septum [11.01 mm; reference interval (RI) = 3.00–5.20 mm] and left ventricular posterior wall (7.41 mm; RI = 3.00–5.10 mm) during diastole. In the apex region, the free wall was focally thinned to approximately 1.6 mm with hypokinetic myocardial movement, indicating thin and hypokinetic myocardial segments. Additionally, decreased left atrial fractional shortening (12.5%; RI = 23.9–34.9%) and an increased left atrial-to-aortic ratio (2.87; RI = 0.88–1.43) were observed, along with spontaneous echocardiographic contrast in the left atrium, indicating increased thrombotic risk. The electrocardiogram showed a left axis deviation with small R waves and deep S waves in lead II, which is consistent with a left anterior fascicular block caused by delayed conduction in the left anterior fascicle. This case report describes the coexistence of a left anterior fascicular block and thin, hypokinetic myocardial segments in feline hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, suggesting a possible pathophysiological link.

Strip tillage is a very popular form of conservation tillage that is used in places with a higher risk of soil erosion. It is commonly accepted that strip tillage reduces the effects of water erosion; however, the exact way this effect is produced is very hard to quantify. This study focuses on the way strip tillage influences soil moisture and the way it changes with different intensities of rainfall, in comparison with conventional tillage. This study was conducted near Petrovice, Středočeský kraj, Czechia, over the course of four years (2021–2024). The conditions of all four test sites were comparable, both in terms of slope and soil type present. The soil moisture of strip tillage in a depth of 15 cm was changing differently in comparison with conventional tillage. During lower intensity rainfall events, the soil moisture of the strip tilled plot changed significantly less in comparison with conventional tillage. On the contrary, when more intense precipitation occurred, the soil moisture in the strip-tilled plot responded with significantly higher changes in comparison with conventional tillage. Soil drying after precipitation was also studied, with the speed of drying of strip tillage being higher than that of conventional tillage. These findings help better understand the changes strip tillage introduces into the soil and to the crops it is used with.

The creation of the database system represents a complex task which is difficult to coordinate. In this work, a method of the logic framework was used for the coordination of each particular step to one integral part. In the Czech Republic, most of the information about soil was gathered within a systematic soil survey (KPP) in the period 1961–1970. Information about genetic and agronomic characteristics of agricultural soils was gathered for the whole Czech Republic. The other part of the data is coming from the databases of forest soils. This contribution is a continuation of the previous research. We are aware of the fact that in the Czech Republic exist also other soil information systems. In this work we also tried to show the practical exploitation of the large soil database. We applied many approaches to assess bulk density of the soil. It was calculated for the main soil groups and it could be applied on every soil profile in PUGIS system. We also showed different possibilities of mapping soil organic concentration or amount in soils.

The experiment was established in the Pomological Orchard of The National Institute of Horticultural Research in Skierniewice in a system of randomized blocks. The aim of the experiment was to investigate the impact of innovative organic fertilizers: BioIlsa, BioFeed Ecomix, biostimulator Ausma and mycorrhizal inoculum Mykoflor on the fine roots growth characteristics of 'Vanda' sweet cherry trees in comparison with NPK mineral fertilization. The experiment involved five combinations, in three repetitions of three trees each, treated with tested preparations. The study assessed the influence of fertilization on the lifespan of the roots, the depth of their formation, their diameter and survivorship using minirhizotron camera. The highest numbers of roots were found in the treatment where the plants were fertilized with NPK and the lowest following the use of the biofertilizer BioFeed Ecomix. The longest lifespan was shown by the roots of the trees treated with BioFeed Ecomix - 347 days, and the shortest - by those fertilized with the Ausma - 225 days. The lifespan of the roots increased with their diameter. The roots that lived the longest had a diameter in the range from 0.9 to 1.0 mm - 568 days, and the shortest-living were the roots with a diameter smaller than 0.3 mm - 238 days. The roots that formed in late autumn and winter had the shortest median lifespan of 159 days, while the roots formed in the spring where characterized by the longest lifespan of 300 days. The lifespan of the roots formed close to the soil surface was the shortest - 225 days, while that of the roots formed at a depth of 10 to 20 cm was the longest - 326 days. Biological origin, organic nitrogen rich fertilizers positively influence on fine roots lifespan and longevity. Mineral fertilization increases number of new formed roots.

The resilience of lactic acid bacteria (LAB) in commercial probiotic products remains a critical area of investigation, particularly regarding their capacity to survive the harsh gastric environment. Scientific guidelines indicate that at least 6 log CFU·g–1 of viable probiotics must reach the intestines to achieve therapeutic benefits, which often requires an initial concentration of 8–9 log CFU·g–1 in the product. However, national regulations may specify lower thresholds; for example, Turkish Food Legislation requires 6 log CFU·g–1 for probiotic products and 7 log CFU·g–1 for kefir products. This study evaluates the in vitro gastric survival of LAB in 20 probiotic-labelled foods and 5 supplements available in the Turkish market using a simulated gastric model. Results reveal that 75% of the marketed probiotic-labelled foods comply with their label claims. Additionally, 55% of the samples demonstrate LAB strains fully resistant to gastric acidity. Dairy-based products exhibit significantly better survival rates under simulated gastric conditions compared to supplements, highlighting their potential for enhanced therapeutic efficacy.

Sunflower serves as a valuable rotational crop, suitable for snack processing or sunflower seed oil extraction, proving to be a lucrative cash crop. To address sunflower yield uncertainties, this study employs meta-analysis to examine the impact of fertilisation. Utilising 41 studies and 392 pairs of observations based on four criteria, we found an overall 27% increase in sunflower yield with fertiliser application. Nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), and potassium (K) individually applied raised yield by 23.37, 20.92, and 11.63%, respectively. Combined fertilisers (NP, NK, NP, and NPK) enhanced yield by 29.69, 28.40, 17.35, and 41.91%, respectively. Sunflower type minimally affects yield, while planting density significantly influences it. Combining local soil conditions and environmental factors with appropriate planting densities ensures maximum sunflower yield, fostering economic benefits for farmers. This study holds constructive implications for sunflower cultivation in China, contributing to increased yield.

The 2021 Cyclone Seroja was a category 3 storm that made landfall on Lembata Island, causing extensive damage. This study aims to identify key interpretations of sediment transport related to tropical cyclones (TC) Seroja and past floods using a geopedological approach, estimate the return period through frequency analysis, and determine the rainfall threshold for flooding using HEC-RAS software. Extreme rainfall data from global precipitation model (GPM) (2000–2023) in Wei Laing watershed were analysed alongside LiDAR terrain data, physical and chemical properties of soil, and land cover data. Based on geopedological analysis, the result shows that the erosional-transfer zone of Wei Laing Watershed has thin, loamy, and slightly sandy soils due to erosion and limited pedogenesis. The depositional zone contains flood deposits with abrupt vertical texture changes, reflecting transported coarse grains and finer in-situ sediments. The modern flood deposit (TC Seroja flood deposit) was identified by texture, CaCO₃ content, organic matter, and coarse organic material. The fine-grained flood deposits (≤ 4 cm) are classified as slackwater deposits, consist of silty clay loam and silt loam textures, reflecting deposition under slow-flowing conditions. TC Seroja corresponds to a 50-year return period. Hydrological modelling indicates a 60 mm/day rainfall threshold for flooding, with 77 flood events recorded between 2000–2023. The model is confirmed by thick past flood deposits enriched with coarse organic materials. These findings provide insight into flood dynamics and sedimentary responses, supporting future flood risk mitigation efforts.

Northern red oak (Quercus rubra L.) is an important introduced tree species in Hungary, particularly in the Nyírség region. This study investigates its diameter growth (DBH) in six forest subcompartments, with stand ages ranging from 20 to 71 years. 5- and 25-year diameter increments were calculated. The distribution of diameter and diameter increment values was also determined. The results show significant growth across all sites. For example, quadratic mean diameter (QMD) increased from 16.4 cm to 30.4 cm over 25 years in the forest subcompartment Encsencs 12A, and from 20.3 cm to 38.4 cm in Ófehértó 2A. Five-year DBH increments ranged from 1.8 cm (± 0.8) in older stands to 4.2 cm (± 0.5) in younger or middle-aged stands. The findings confirm Q. rubra's capacity for steady diameter growth in northeastern Hungary and contribute valuable growth data for future yield modelling and forest management strategies.

Forest headwater streams serve as critical interfaces between terrestrial forests and downstream aquatic ecosystems, playing essential roles in the storage and movement of carbon (C) and nutrients. However, despite their importance, our understanding of the dynamics of plant litter calcium (Ca) and magnesium (Mg) stocks within these streams remains limited. In this study, we conducted a quantitative analysis of the spatiotemporal dynamics of plant litter Ca and Mg concentrations and stocks in a subtropical forest headwater stream from March 2021 to February 2022. We found that: (1) the average concentrations of litter Ca and Mg were 9.9 and 0.7 mg/g, respectively, with mean stocks of 8 792.3 and 620.8 mg/m², respectively; (2) significant variations in litter Ca and Mg concentrations were observed among non-woody debris (13.1 and 0.9 mg/g), fine woody debris (9.0 and 0.5 mg/g), and coarse woody debris (6.1 and 0.4 mg/g), though plant litter type did not significantly affect the stocks of Ca and Mg; and (3) the stocks of Ca and Mg were positively correlated with factors such as rainfall amount, rainfall frequency, water temperature, flow velocity, water depth, electrical conductivity, and discharge, while negatively correlated with stream water alkalinity and dissolved oxygen levels. These findings highlight the critical role of plant litter in headwater streams as a component of forest nutrient stocks and provide empirical support for incorporating headwater streams into the assessment of nutrient stocks and fluxes in forest ecosystems.

The research article's primary aim was to provide a comprehensive and systematic view of a new dimension of logistics in the form of logistics innovations in agricultural enterprises in Slovakia. The intention thereof was to define and then analyse selected logistics innovations in agricultural enterprises. The research object was formed by 95 agricultural enterprises in Slovakia. A questionnaire was used as the research instrument. MS Excel and IBM SPSS Statistics 20 were used to process the data in the questionnaire. The univariate descriptive statistics and multivariate descriptive statistics were used to interpret the data. The research results were tested and evaluated by means of Spearman's rank correlation coefficient. Medium-sized agricultural enterprises in Slovakia represented the largest segment (68%) of the study. The agricultural enterprises mostly understand the use of smart technologies as an innovation in logistics (mean = 4.43). The results of the research showed that the analysed agricultural enterprises intend to innovate mainly the production logistics (mean = 3.20). Out of the logistics processes, the agricultural enterprises want to innovate mostly the inventory management (mean = 4.55). Lean logistics is the most frequently implemented logistics innovation in agricultural enterprises (mean = 3.64). The hypothesis testing has proven that there is a statistically significant relationship between the utilisation of lean logistics and production logistics innovation. In addition, it was proven that there is a statistically significant relationship between the utilisation of radio frequency identification (RFID) and the logistics process innovation - inventory management.

This study investigated, for the first time, the efficacy of citric acid (CA) and ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA) as electrolytes in electrokinetic remediation (EKR) for removing lead (Pb) and cadmium (Cd) from three distinct soils (Anthrosols soil, AT; Acrisols soil, AC; and Chernozems soil, CH). Under a voltage gradient of 2 V/cm and a remediation duration of 4 days, EDTA proved most effective for Anthrosols, achieving removal rates of 17.8% for Cd and 12.8% for Pb-lower than those observed for Acrisols and Chernozems, likely due to AT’s high pH background. These results suggest that combining EKR with other remediation techniques could enhance efficiency for such soils. For Acrisols soil, extending the remediation time to 10 days significantly improved metal removal: Cd removal reached 91.1% with CA, while Pb removal attained 62.7% with EDTA. Chernozems soil exhibited higher sensitivity to EKR, with pronounced focusing phenomena. In CH1, Cd removal in anode-proximal (S1) zone reached 99%, but accumulation in the cathode-adjacent (S4 and S5) reduced the average removal rate to 22%, indicating the potential for improvement through cathodic control. Similarly, in CH2, Pb removal in S5 achieved 84.8%, while focusing in S1 suggested the need for anodic optimisation. These findings highlight the influence of soil properties and operational parameters on EKR efficiency, providing insights for tailored remediation strategies.

Sorbus domestica L. is a deciduous shrub-like tree in the Rosaceae family that reaches different heights (3–25 m). The service tree commonly grows in the Marmara region, Central and Western Black Sea regions, and Central Anatolia in Türkiye. The fruit of the service tree called Sorbus domestica, has an essential place in regards to human health in terms of its antioxidant values. The aroma components and phenolic compounds it contains display a variety of physiological traits. This study was carried out to determine the changes in the pomological characteristics and volatile compounds of Sorbus domestica L. fruits in the Tokat region at harvest and the consuming maturities in 2019 and 2020. The aroma extraction from the Sorbus fruits identified esters, alcohols, ketones, aldehydes, terpenes, and other volatile aroma compounds. As a result of the study, differences in aldehydes, esters, and terpene compounds were notable within the scope of the volatile aroma compounds. According to the obtained information, our results identified total aldehydes of 70.64%, esters of 7.49%, and terpenes of 21.35% in Sorbus domestica during the harvest maturity. When Sorbus fruits were left at room temperature until consuming for consumption was reached, the volatile compound rates varied which were 60.59% for the aldehydes, 22.49% for the esters, and 13.20% for the terpenes.