EJPAU, 2003, Volume 6, Issue 2

Species composition and the quantitative structure of Lepidoptera species inhibiting the shrubs of hazel were studied in three localities: on pesticide protected and unprotected plantations and on wild hazel growing in the forest. In order to classify collected species of Lepidoptera, five domination classes, indexes of species composition similarity and species variety were used. In the sampled material, 786 individuals were identified to 38 species, 29 genera and 5 orders. Archips rosanus, Pandemis heparana, A. xylosteanus, Operophtera brumata, Scotopterys luridata, Orthosia cerasi, O. cruda and Cosmia trapezina were dominating species on hazel. In all the examined sites, A. rosanus clearly dominated and its caterpillars damaged not only the leaf buds and leaves but also the female inflorescence and young nut sets. The damages caused by Lepidoptera caterpillars on hazel growing in Poland have no economic s

The species composition of parasitoids and the level of parasitization of Lepidoptera species feeding on hazel shrubs in different habitat conditions was studied during the three years period. Twenty-two species of parasitic hymenoptera (Hymenoptera, Parasitica) and 2 species of diptera (Diptera, Tachinidae) were collected. Even infrequent treatments of insecticides on hazel plantations have limited the population of parasitoids and reduced their species richness. Ichneumonidae (Hymenoptera, Parasitica) played the greatest role in parasitization of leaf rollers, while Lyphia dubia (Diptera, Tachinidae) and Macrocentrus marginator (Hymenoptera, Parasitica) of Operophtera brumata.

It was observed during field investigations that Phleum phleoides show expansive character at some stations. Three populations were selected from 31 stations of the species known from the central-eastern Poland. At each of these stations 10 tufts were chosen randomly in two repetitions: the first in typical grassland, the second in grassland with visible disturbed upper layer of soil (in Bohukały, Mołożew, Popowo Koœcielne). The following parameters were measured: quantity of inflorescences in one tuft, length of each inflorescence shoot and length of each inflorescence ear in investigated tuft. Average values for each tuft and investigated stations were calculated. Obtained results were compared with parameters of typical grasslands in Gnojno and Kisielany and three populations from xerothermic grasslands in southern Poland.

Monitoring the pollution status of the environment by using plants is one of the main topics of environmental biogeochemistry. The bioavailability and mobility of heavy metals (Zn, Cu, Pb, Cd and Ni) in urban soil of Poznań (Poland) were assessed on the basis of upper parts of dandelion (Taraxacum officinale WEB) and soil samples collected in May and July 1998. Sampling points were located along 2 roads crossing the town along West-East and North-South directions. All soils were characterized by a negligible share of clay particles, high content of organic carbon (about 1.5 g kg^-1) and pH above 7.0.

Polyphenoloxidase (PPO) plays an important role in plant resistance to insects, and in the detoxication of phenolic compounds taken in the nutrient components. Activity of PPO was examined in the ears of spring wheat and triticale. Extraction of enzymatic protein was carried out from acetone powder with the use of 0.05M phosphoric buffer of pH 7.4. The cultivars of spring wheat have possessed higher activity of PPO than cultivars of triticale. Feeding of the grain aphid has reduced this enzyme activity in the all analysed species and cultivars.

The aim of the work is to present of the main theoretical aspects of rural household adaptation to the transformed economic system in Poland in the light of needs for multifunctional development of rural areas, mainly in the regions of former state farms domination. The concept of multifunctional development and theories of rural households are discussed. The author presents the socio-economic and social characteristics of rural households, including forms of adaptation. The three forms of socio-economic adaptation: passive, active and structural, are distinguished. The preliminary results of an empirical survey of 161 rural households in eight villages located in three communes of Gołdap district are presented.

Evaluation of adherence of Y. enterocolitica strains isolated from humans and pigs to cheek epithelium cells obtained from humans and pigs was the aim of present study. 51 strains of Yersinia enterocolitica including 34 isolated from the faeces of people who showed typical symptoms of intestinal yersiniosis and 17 isolated from pigs were used in the study. The all Y. enterocolitica strains which were used in the investigation showed the ability of adherence to the cells of cheek epithelium from humans. The cells of Y. enterocolitica strains which had yadA gene more numerously adhered to the cells of cheek epithelium from humans than the cells of strains which did not have yadA gene.

In a 3-year pot experiment changes in selected properties of acid light loamy sand induced by lime-treated sewage sludge (LS) admixture were studied. Single LS admixtures were applied in the following doses: 2% and 5% that corresponds to 56 and 140 Mg·ha^-1, respectively; the same amounts were mixed with sugar-beet flume washing earth from a sugar plant sediment tanks (for a 10% dose it corresponds to 280 Mg·ha^-1) and ash from a straw-fired boiler (corresponding to 0.9 Mg·ha^-1). The results were compared to a control sample (0 – soil only) and to a standard mineral NPK fertilisation for maize.

The study aimed at determining which part of magnesium permanently bound with baker’s yeasts S. cerevisiae No. 102 during batch culture in control (YPD) and experimental medium (YPD with the addition of magnesium) remains in the cell wall and which undergoes intracellular bio-accumulation. The experimental media were supplemented with the amount of MgCl₂*6H₂O providing 1.25 g/dm³ content of Mg²⁺ ions. The cultures were run for 24 h at 28°C in a reciprocating shaker which provided aerobic conditions of the process. The application of enzymatic protoplastisation and mechanical disintegration of the yeast cells (at a temperature of liquid nitrogen) enabled determination of the contents of magnesium and total protein in both cell walls and protoplasts. The yeasts from a 24 h batch culture in the control YPD medium (without magnesium) demonstrated diversified contents of magnesium in the cell walls (1.84 mg Mg²⁺/g d.m. of

Long-term studies on catches from 757 lakes in northeastern Poland served to analyse fishery exploitation parameters available from the records in lakes books. Yield (kg^.ha^-1), annual frequency of exploitation and relative catch (kg^.ha^-1.month^-1) were analysed in five size classes of lakes, together with the relations occurring between these parameters. Linear correlation was determined between yield versus the number of months of exploitation when the catches were made and relative catch. The latter parameter was characterised by a slightly smaller variability of real values and consequently by a higher concentration along the adjusted trend line compared to the catch per lake area unit.

The effectiveness of antibacterial action of lysozyme modified by the membrane technique (ultrafiltration and reverse osmosis) against selected strains of bacteria was determined. Its bacteriostatic activity was dependent on modification conditions. Among lysozyme preparations modified by ultrafiltration the highest bacteriostatic activity against selected strains of Proteus mirabilis, Pseudomonas fluorescens and Staphylococcus epidermidis bacteria was noted in the preparation containing 53.3% polymeric forms. The modification procedure facilitates the extension of antibacterial spectrum of lysozyme, particularly against Pseudomonas fluorescens and Proteus mirabilis Gram (-) bacteria.

Standard DJ feed mixture for laying hens (ISA Brown) was supplemented with organic or inorganic forms of selenium and zinc. The organic forms consisted Saccharomyces cerevisiae yeast enriched with Se (Y-Se) and Zn (Y-Zn). The inorganic forms were sodium selenite (Na-Se) and zinc oxide (ZnO). The concentrations of elements in the experimental feed were (mg·kg^-1): selenium 1.414 (Y-Se) and 1.393 (Na-Se); zinc 79.3 (Y-Zn) and 78.9 (ZnO). After 6 days of feeding treatment, for the next 5 days there were collected droppings and eggs to determine Se and Zn concentrations with the use of ICP method. It was stated that in hens availability of elements (as apparent absorption) was respectively (%): Y-Se 63.65, Y-Zn 38.5, Na-Se 61.12 and ZnO 35.41. In eggs content of Y-Se hens the increase of Se was proved if compared to Na-Se eggs (p<0.05).

The bread, which is consumed in small or large quantities in all countries, is the most essential food for people, and it is the most consumed floury products. Being one of the largest cities of Turkey, Adana province is used to determine the major socio-economic characteristics of households, bread consumption, and amount of bread waste and their reasons in urban areas. According to the survey results, the number of the daily purchased bread loaves is 4.65 per household, whereas the consumed amount is 4.45 loaves on average. As income level of household increases, the amount of bread consumption decreases as it is expected. This proves that bread consumption is higher in households with low-income level compared to in those with high-income level. The rate of daily bread waste in the analyzed households is averagely 9.63%. It is determined that this rate is maximum in the highest group of income and minimum in the lowest group of income. It is also determined that the most important way to

The research was carried out on farms of the Bory Tucholskie Landscape Park near Tuchola. The aim of the research was to define the quantitative content of bacteria of Pseudomonas (the fluorescent subgroup), Arthrobacter, Azotobacter and the coryneform group in the rhizosphere of potato in different stages of its development. The “Aster” potato was grown in two farming systems: ecological and conventional. Microbiological analysis indicated that the bacteria of the coryneform group were the most numerous, and the next was Arthrobacter spp. More of investigated bacteria were isolated from the rhizosphere of potatoes grown in ecological farming system than in the conventional one. From the results obtained during three year’s study it is evident that the number of potentially antagonistic bacteria increased with the development of vegetation and was the highest in root zone area of the plants in harvest-mature tubers.

The share of zinc in fractions is not constant and changes under the influence of different factors. Taking it into consideration relevant studies were conducted. Their aim was to explain the influence of time factor and addition of calcium oxide into the sewage sludge on the quantitative changes of zinc in particular chemical fractions of sludge. The experiment was carried out in incubation conditions in time of six months.

The effects of nickel on changes of roots physiological indices of zucchini cv. ‘Soraya’ and maize cv. ‘Złota Karłowa’ grown in the medium with various Ca contents were investigated using pot experiment. An attempt was made to explain this problem based on the following parameters: root volume, root adsorptive surface (total and active) and active surface of 1 cm³. Additionally, Ni and Ca contents were determined in roots. Three levels of nickel: 10, 40 or 60 mg Niˇkg^-1 (NiSO₄ˇ7H₂O) and two levels of calcium: 250 or 400 mg Caˇkg^-1 (CaCO₃) in the substrate were used in the study. Plants grown without nickel at lower and higher calcium level in the nutrient medium were used as control. It was found that the value of root physiological indices of the studied plant species grown in the medium containing 250 mg Caˇkg^-1 diminished with the increase of Ni the substrate. Increasing amount of nickel in the su

Kinetics of amylolytic hydrolysis of autoclaved and extruded potato starch using alpha-amylase and pullulanase mixtures were described. Maltodextrins with dextrose equivalent of 3, 5, 8 and 12 were obtained and their sugar compositions with HPLC method were analyzed. The low molecular sugar (PD 1-2) and oligosaccharide (PD 3-8) contents as well as relationship between dextrose equivalent of maltodextrins and oligosaccharide contents were determined.

Stands of European beech cover around 4.1% of the total forest area in Poland. In the Carpathians the share of European beech amounts to 25.9%. Long intervals between mast seed years in beech force foresters to optimize the seed management. The separation of seeds into various quality classes is usually done with devices working on the basis of physical properties of seeds. The goal of this work was to analyze the critical velocity of beechnuts in order to determine, if the aerodynamic properties of beechnuts can be used as a basis for their separation. The other goal of this work was development of an algorithm of computer-aided image analysis.

Production of enzymatic starch hydrolyzates is made by two-steps action of amylolytic enzymes on gelatinized starch granules – at the beginning by liquefying enzymes and next by saccharifying enzymes. Differences of optimal parameters of the enzyme action require the change of reaction conditions: temperature and pH. The aim of the study was simultaneous action of some enzymes, a

The paper presents the results of an introductory historical analysis in occurrence of mid-field ponds on the situated in the area (9039 km²) of younger plaistocene landscapes of Pomerania. The analysis was based on the comparison of topographical maps from 1888 and 1980. Loss of the ponds was presented in relation to respective mesoregions and the character of surface features, taking into consideration the water surface size and melioration works conducted in the drainage basin area. For the analysis purposes mid-field ponds located in the areas which usage in compared periods has not changed were chosen.

The research defined the effect of parent components of rye, ‘Donar’ cultivar, and wheat cultivars, ‘Aurora’ and ‘Liwilla’, on the content of total protein and protein amino acid composition of grain of primary forms of octoploid triticale (♀Aurora x ♂Donar, ♀Liwilla x ♂Donar). There was also determined the effect of crossing of the octoploid triticale forms obtained with hexaploid triticale CZR142/79 on the chemical characteristics (qualitative). The results obtained showed that primary forms of octoploid triticale contained more protein in grain than the parent plants. It can give a potential in further breeding work of giving high-protein high-starch cultivars. Both forms of octoploid triticale showed a higher level of lysine. Also the marked amino acids show that the biological value protein of triticale ‘Liwilla’ x ‘Donar’ was more similar to wheat protein, which points to a considerable effect of components derived from the basic form on the nutritional value o

The purpose of the experiment was the estimation of L. monocytogenes survival in the raw beef samples stored under the refrigeration. We also tried to verify the potential inhibitory effect against the test bacteria of the separately added organic acids (10% lactic acid or 10% ascorbic acid) or their mixture in equal proportions, applied on the meat with the surface spraying technique. The treatment with the organic acids did not affected the pH of the meat, which was similar as in the control samples. The water activity of the chilled beef was not significantly altered and amounted about 0,98 in course of the entire experiment. The acid application significantly decreased the survival of L. monocytogenes (by 1.2 and 3.7 log on total for lactic acid and the mixture of the acids, respectively). The reduction was the most efficient after the application of the organic acid mixture, when it was more than twice faster than in case of the addition of ascorbic or lactic acid alone.

Non-homogeneity of soils is the reason for considerable variability of their properties and the problems related with interpretation of geotechnical parameters at the same time. The paper presents and discusses results of examination of physical properties of Pliocene clays as well as their variability in the profile of an experimental plot in Stegny district, Warsaw. Alogn the thickness, there appear changes in the amount of clay fraction, water content, liqudity index and density of soil within layers of soils. These properties can constitute leading features for the analysis of strength, deformation, filtration, consolidation and other parameters. The determination of the character of changes in these properties gives an opportunity for separating soils behaving in a similar way in the section of the subsoil.

Single plant supplements were added to the ration fed to Ross 308 broiler cockerels. The chickens were held in four feeding groups until their 42 days of age. The birds of all the groups were fed on the same standard mixes. Group I represented the control group which received mixes without the supplement. The birds of group II received a feed supplement of 1% dried fine echinacea herb (Echinacea purpurea), group III received 0.3% of crushed raw garlic (Allium sativum). The chickens in group IV were twice a week provided with raw ginger (Zingiber officinale) water extract (5.5 g·cm^-3) to drink. Chemical composition and physicochemical properties of breast muscle were analysed while fresh as well as on 4-month storage at –18°C

The studies were carried out on 98 carcasses obtained from pure-bred Polish Landrace (PL) hogs, from crosses of (PL x Polish Large White) sows with Pietrain boars, as well as from crossbreds of Dutch breeds (Landrace x Large White) x Large White. The pigs were slaughtered as soon as they reached 103 kg of body weight, and during the slaughter blood samples were collected for DNA analysis in order to identify individuals carrying the stress-sensitivity gene (RYR1). The carcasses were dissected immediately after cooling. Samples of LD muscle from the right carcass, at the area of the 1st to 4th lumbar vertebra, were collected for pork quality evaluation, i.e. sensory analysis of raw meat, as well as pH₁, pH_k, and electric conductivity measurements. Moreover, drip loss, water-binding and meat plasticity were determined, and drip index as well as colour parameters were obtained. Basic chemical composition was also assayed and the content of water-soluble protein was determ

The objective of this study was to determine the effect of soil contamination with copper (0 – 1200 mg kg^-1 of soil) on its enzymatic activity and physicochemical properties. An attempt was undertaken to establish a possibility of the application of actinomycetes spores Streptomyces odorifer and Streptomyces viridis in detoxication of such soils. A pot experiment was conducted in two types of soil: leached brown soil formed from light loamy sand and leached brown soil formed from light loam. The experimental plant was spring barley.

The aim of the present research was to define the effect of sulphur nutrition on the seed yield of ‘Star’ spring oilseed rape and the content of glucosinolates. Sulphur was applied in different forms (elemental or ionic), in different ways (through soil or leaves) and doses (0, 20, 60 kgˇha^-1). The laboratory research material involved seeds from a three-year field experiment set up on degraded black earth containing 1.93 mg SO₄ˇkg^-1 of soil. The content of glucosinolates in seeds was determined with the HPLC according EN ISO 9167-1. The application method and sulphur forms and doses increased the oilseed rape seed yield. The highest mean seed yield was obtained from plants exposed to foliar fertilisation with elemental sulphur at the dose of 60 kgˇha^-1. In this case the content of glucosinolates amounted to 10.78 µMˇg^-1 of dry matter and was lower as compared to objects non-fertilised with sulphur. A total content of glucosinolat

The aim of the present work was effect of temperature and storage period on the preservation of vitamin C, thiamine and riboflavin in leaves and whole plants (leaves with petioles and stems) of dill, harvested with a plant height of 25 cm. Changes in the level of these compounds in the process of freezing and refrigerated storage were also determined. The investigation concerned two kinds of the raw material (leaves and whole plants), various methods of preparation before freezing (non-blanched or blanched), different storage temperatures (-20°C and -30°C), and the 12-month storage period. Fresh dill leaves contained 116 mg vitamin C, 0.196 mg thiamine, and 0.638 mg riboflavin in 100 g fresh matter and whole plants 77 mg, 0.115 mg, and 0.433 mg, respectively. The treatment of blanching affected a decrease in the level of vitamin C by 35-48%, thiamine by 43-45%, and riboflavin by 27-33%. After blanching smaller losses were recorded in whole plants than in leaves. F

In the experiment involved 186 milk samples obtained from cow udder quarters at different state of mastitis. Milk derived from infected udder quarters was characterised by a statistically significant higher total protein percentage share and a higher pH value (p£ 0.05) by a lower lactose (p£ 0.01) and casein content (p£ 0.05) than milk of healthy quarters. The content of solids not fat indicated the upward tendency and the content of total solids and vitamin C was reduced. The clinical mastitis caused reduction of milk yield by 33.63% and its components – by 24.11 to 52.20%. Mastitis was most often induced by the strains of Staphylococcus aureus. Different cows reaction to mastitis was observed.

In this study the effects of fat level (5%, 10% and 20%) and soy protein (SP), whey powder (WP) or wheat gluten (WG) on binding properties, color, textural and sensory characteristics of cooked beef sausages were evaluated. Fat reduction decreased emulsion stability and water holding capacity (WHC) and resulted in higher cooking losses. Addition of SP, WP and WG increased WHC and emulsion stability (ES). The most effective additive on WHC and ES was SP. Reduced fat products were darker compared with 20% fat controls, adding fat replacers increased inside yellowness value. Fat level had no effect on shear force values, WP and WG reduced shear force values regardless of the fat level. Fat replaces resulted in no detrimental effects on sensory characteristics in low fat sausages.

Chitosan is the simplest form of chitin, found in carapaces of crabs, prawns, and krill. Due to its chemical and physical properties and biological activity, chitosan is widely applied in, i.a., medicine, animal care, and agriculture. Chitosan effects on poultry health and production have been studied to a limited degree only. The present study was thus aimed at elucidating chitosan effects on the utility and reproduction-related characteristics of quail. The experiment involved the quail aged 5 weeks which were divided into two groups, each consisting of 36 females and 12 males. The birds belonging to Group I (control) were fed a standard feed mix for laying quail, while the feed offered to Group II (experimental) was enriched with 5.2 ml chitosan added to 1.2 kg feed. Compared to the control, the experimental quail showed a lower daily feed consumption, lower number of eggs laid, and a higher feed consumption per egg. However, the experimental quail demonstrated a higher survival rate and

Modified fish meal (MFM) produced from liquid wastes obtained during commercial fish processing (with the addition of wheat bran) contains 25% of total protein and 24.5% of crude fat. The fattening pigs were fed MFM (10% of the content of mixture) from 30 kg to ca. 80 kg body weight, and next in the fattening phase from 80 to 100 kg, MFM was substituted for meat meal (group II) or extracted soybean meal (group III). The control group (I) was fed a mixture containing 5% of meat meal. The pigs when they reached about 100 kg were slaughtered and dissected (8 fatteners from each group). The samples of loin ( muscle longissimus) were taken for sensory and physicochemical assessment, including the analysis of dry matter, protein, fat and cholesterol content and also of fatty acids profile. The results show that MFM in groups II and III did neither reduce physicochemical properties nor sensory characteristics of loin pork as compared with group I. However, the MFM groups exhibite

Investigations have been done on selected beef muscles: m. biceps femoris and m. semimembranosus including their injecting with curing brine and massaging. It was found that BF is characterized by fibres of a larger mean cross-sectional area as well as a thicker peri- and endomysium and it is also harder and more difficult to chew than SM. Massaging resulted in an increase of mean fibre cross-sectional area, peri- and endomysium changes and in a reduction of hardness and chewiness, however the drum speed and time-dependent changes differed between the muscles. To achieve a significant reduction of hardness and chewiness BF required longer massaging time, compared to SM. At the massaging regime applied in this study, to arrive at comparable textural parameters in the two muscles, BF should be effective massaged for 12 h at 20 rpm drum speed and SM – 8 h at 5 rpm drum speed or 4 h at 20 rpm drum speed.

The goal of the conducted examination was the application and evaluation of usefulness of endoscopy executed with stiff and flexible endoscopes for diagnosis of larynx, trachea and bronchi diseases in cats. The research included 12 cats of European race, of different sex, and age of 3 –10 years. Basing on the conducted qualification procedures, 2 patients were eliminated from endoscopy. The remaining 10 cats were subject to endoscopic examination of the larynx, trachea and bronchi. The following endoscopes were used for the examination: stiff – Olympus A5290A, Olympus A4672A and flexible – bronchoscope manufactured by Super Vision. During the endoscopic examination 5 cats were diagnosed with chronic bronchitis, 4 with inflammatory lesions of the larynx and trachea and 1 with laryngeal adenoma. Basing on the conducted examination it was demonstrated that endoscopy of the larynx, trachea and bronchi is a useful diagnostic procedure while diagnosing diseases of these organs in cats. Laryngotra

The paper presents results of studies on energy efficiency of production of some Brassica oilseed crops: winter and spring oilseed rape (Brassica napus L.), white mustard (Sinabis alba L.), Indian mustard (Brassica juncea L.), spring false flax (Camelina sativa L.) and crambe (Crambe abyssinica Hochst.), which in the international commercial trade are referred to as oilseed rape. In the agronomic and ecological conditions of Poland, 1 ha of winter oilseed rape can generate over 166 GJ energy, including about 45 GJ of energy utilisable for production of methyl (ethyl) esters. Having subtracted the crop production input (about 21 GJˇha^-1), the cumulated energy gain from 1 ha winter oilseed rape is energy equivalent to nearly 3.5 t of diesel oil or 8.5 t of firewood. The energy potential of spring oilseed crops seeds and straw is relatively lower: 31-39% less for spring oilseed rape and white mustard, 51-53% less for false flax and Indian mu

The aim of this elaboration has been to present the range of rabies threat in Warmian-Mazurian province in the years of 1999-2000 with regard to humans and animals. In comparison to the whole country, the highest number of infected animals was observed in the discussed area during both of these years. In Warmian-Mazurian province 3.19 of infected animals for each 100 km² were counted in the years of 1999-2000 while the country mean was 1.07. The majority of the sick wild animals were foxes and raccoons, while among farm and domestic animals the highest places were taken by cattle and cats. One human died of rabies in the year 2000 in this province. This has been the only case in Poland for 15 years. In the years of 1999-2000, 577 individuals suspecting the possibility of being infected with the rabies virus reported to Epizootic Diseases’ Clinic in Olsztyn. 348 of them were qualified for vaccination. Vaccination of wild animals bears considerable importance in the limitation of r

Over 1999-2001 three two-factorial strict field experiments were carried out to evaluate the applicability of soil boron test (1 mole HClˇdm^-3) to determine boron fertilisation requirements of oat. Three boron application methods (pre-sowing, top-dressing and foliar fertilisation) were the variants of the first factor while four doses of boron constituted the second factor. The optimal oat boron supply in B-deficient soil is noted in the study. Despite an over-optimal boron concentration in plants, fertilisation with the microelement brings statistically significant increases in oat grain yield and a continuous increase in B content in plant tissues. The results call for a verification of the tests of boron concentration in soil (1 mole HClˇdm^-3) and oat plants and reveal the advantage of boron top-dressing and foliar methods in yield-enhancement. Considering the impact of boron application on yield and its chemical composition as well as the level of nutrie

Feed components were produced by expander cooking of a mixture of 50% dehulled faba beans and 50% whole rapeseed, using an expander Contivar AL 150. The maximum barrel temperature was 140°C, and the initial water content 15-25%. Lipids changed only a little during the expansion. Polar lipids were bound more intensively into nonextractable lipids than low polar triacylglycerols. Oxidation of lipids, carotenoids, and the destruction of chlorophylls were only moderate because of short time and relatively low temperature (compared to baking). Volatile lipid oxidation products could not be detected by sensory analysis. Nonenzymic browning reactions were only slight, especially at low initial water content, and the sugar content changed only a little. The destruction of available lysine was negligible. Roasted flavour notes were hardly perceptible, and colour changes were on the limit of detectability. Losses of alfa-galactosides were insignificant, on the contrary, slight, insignificant incr

The aim of study was to estimate survival, the rate and range of migration of fecal bacteria in soils fertilized with bovine slurry. The research showed that a great majority of fecal bacteria was retained in higher parts of soil profiles. The precipitation, physical and chemical properties of soil, the bacterial population density used in experiment were most important factors that influenced infiltration of fecal microorganisms.

The paper presents the results of a pot experiment on phosphatase activity and ATP level in plant and in soil induced by diversified doses of copper (II) nitrate (V). Five combinations of copper (II) salt were applied; each combination was conducted in 4 identical series. Water solutions of copper (II) nitrate (V) were introduced into 5 soil samples in the following doses: no salt introduced (control), 0.05 mmol^. kg^-1, 0.50 mmol·kg^-1, 5.00 mmol·kg^-1, 50.00 mmol^.kg^-1 of soil for the samples from 1 to 5, respectively. Size grading of the soil experimented was typical for light silty clay. Sown Pea /Pisum sativum L./ of Amethyst variety served as a test plant. Enzymes activities and ATP contents in both soil and plant samples were analysed in various developmental stages of Sown Pea, namely at the two-leaves, blooming and green legume stages. Copper (II) nitrate (V) introduced into soil (apart from 0.0

Egg yolk and white proteins from hens kept in eight conservation flocks in Poland were separated with horizontal polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis. The analyses were done on 100-120-egg samples from each of the following breeds: Green-Legged Partridge, ZKF and ZK11, Yellow-Legged Partridge, Z33, Polbar, PB, Leghorn, H22 and G99, Rhode Island Red, RD2, and Sussex, S66. After estimating phenotype frequency based on 30-35 bands on the electrophoregrams, the following were identified: gene frequencies of fast-migrating prealbumins, Pa-F, and transferrins, TF, in egg yolk, as well as ovalbumins Ov-A, ovoglobulins, G3, G4, G2, and conalbumins, Co, in the white of egg. Similarity and Nei's genetic distances were calcula-ted according to gene frequency (GF) and procedures used in analysing DNA polymorphism, based on frequencies of particular protein bands (BF) and band sharing (BS). Application of GF and BF in the evaluation of genetic distances gave similar results. The shortest distances were n

Grapefruit biologically active substances are found not only in its pulp, but also in its seed vessel (flavedo) and seeds. These complex substances exert a strong antioxidant and impeding influence on free radicals processes. We observed the stabilization effect of grapefruit extract on the microorganisms isolated from faecal samples of chicken. In this study we used of grapefruit extract dilutions - 0.1 per cent, 0.2 per cent, and 0.4 per cent. The grapefruit extract dilutions were added to water given to chickens. The reduction of the number of bacterial cells was observed as early as 30 min of incubation for Staphylococcus aureus 209 P. and Escherichia coli with the 0.4 per cent grapefruit extract. The reduction of the colonies of Pseudomonas aeruginosa with the 0.1 per cent, 0.2 per cent and 0.4 per cent grapefruit extract was observed after the second hour of incubation. In chicken we observed the decresing tendency in the number of bacterial colonies in al

The aim of the study was to assess an effect of incubation temperature (36.4, 36.7, and 37.1°C) on hatching performance of emu. The fewest dead embryos (13.7%) were found in group I with the lowest incubation temperature. Raising the temperature by 0.3°C and 0.7°C in, respectively, group II and III reduced the hatchability indices, primarily due to an increased rate (by approx. 12%) of dead embryos in both groups. Temperature significantly influenced the duration of incubation period, as well as duration of hatching. Incubation at the highest temperature took the shortest time (49.9 days), whereas that at the lowest temperature lasted longest (51.5 days). A reversed pattern was found in the case of hatching duration, which at the higher temperature expanded by 282 minutes in group II and by 406 minutes in group III, as compared with group I.

One year old nursery trees of Malus domestica Borkh. ‘Boskoop’, ‘Elise’ and ‘Rubin’ on M9 rootstock were headed in nursery or treated with foliar sprays of: Arbolin 36SL, Arbolin Extra and Promalin at 900 ppm or 1800 ppm a.i. The branching effect was correlated with an increase of rate of active ingredients (a.i.). BA+GA₃ based mixtures (Arbolin 36SL and Arbolin Extra) were better than BA+GA₄₊₇ mixture (Promalin). No tree injuries after using chemical branching agent were observed. The environmental condition plays a great role in induction of sylleptic shoots formation.

Virgin queens were introduced into mating nuclei containing workers of different ages. The study verified whether workers younger than 8 days, comprising the younger group, are more suitable for mating nuclei than workers older than 10 days, comprising the older group. In both groups, 7 (35%) queens were lost during mating flights. The time from introduction of queens into mating nuclei to the start of egg laying in mating nuclei with younger and older workers was 13.69 and 13.73 days, respectively. Two queens in mating nuclei with older workers did not start egg laying before the 20th day when the experiment was terminated. No influence of age of workers in mating nuclei on the performance of honeybee queens was found.

The rearing of carp K_2-3 in polyculture with a grass- carp, silver carp and European catfish was carried out within 1995- 1997, in six (1995-1996) or in seven (in 1997) variants of ponds differed in stocking densities as well as in kind of feed fed. The objective of the present paper was to verify if the change of harvest date from September into November can affect the quality of discharged waters. Estimation of discharged water quality was made on the basis of following chemical factors: dissolved oxygen, water pH, total suspended matter, chemical oxygen demand COD_Mn, ammonia nitrogen, nitrate nitrogen, nitrite nitrogen and phosphates. The change of harvest date for 40 days improved markedly the quality of discharged water. In November 1997 values of the hydrochemical parameters of water decreased twice on average, e.g. suspended matter from 600 to 200 mg dm ^–3, ammonium from 10.0 to 5.0 mg dm ^–3, while in November 1995 third or even five times

Process of seed extraction from the cones is long-lasting and energy-consuming. The state of spruce cone opening can be achieved in the kilns used at present after several hours of drying. Undertaking of an attempt towards improvement of the process calls for learning of the factors influencing its realization. The paper contains the results of investigations on convectional drying of spruce cones of various size, and the proposed mathematical description of the changes in their moisture content in time. It was proved that they could be well represented by a trinomial square of coefficients significantly influenced by the cone volume. However, the time essential for opening the cone dried at temperature 58°C amounted to 6–8 hours, independently of the cone size. The moisture content of open cone amounted to 3–8%.

The studies were carried out on 40 female Pharaoh quails. In the fifth week of age, the quails were weighed and randomly assigned to 5 feeding groups. In the group I, control, the females were fed on standard feed formed for adult quail feeding. The experimental groups II and III received the standard mixture with oligosaccharides added, which had been extracted from pea seed, in the quantities and duration, respectively: 0.4 g · kg^-1 of mixture for 3 weeks, 0.4 g · kg^-1 for the entire period of the experiment, i.e. 4 months. In the groups IV and V, the addition of oligosaccharides was 3 g per kg of feed, with the group IV fed this way for 3 weeks and the group V for 4 months.

The research was conducted on 117 pig fetuses from 12 uteri. The pigs came from 5-7th, 10-11th and 12-13th week of pregnancy. Morphological analysis of the depressive nerve and biomechanics of the nerve were described. The initial form of depressive nerve, characteristic for the first weeks of prenatal stage is usually a built from single elements. The origin of fetus from the same horns of uteri and their sex have no important influence on the morphology and the development of the nerve in their prenatal stage.

The subject of the research was caeca of 52 individuals of the Black Scoter Melanitta nigra – 32 males (5 young and 27 adult ones) and 20 females (11 young and 9 adult ones). The analysis comprised the relations among the values of four measurements of caeca (length – CLL and weight – CLW of left caecum, length – CRL and weight – CRW of right caecum) and the values of three body parameters (body length BL and weight BW – and sternum length) taking into consideration the birds’ ages and sexes. Ontogenetic differences in caeca sizes were revealed – young individuals of both sexes had longer caeca than adult individuals. Moreover, young females had heavier caeca than adult individuals of this sex. However, no significant dimorphic differences in the analysed parameters of caeca were noticed. Definite majority of black scoters had longer (47 individuals) and heavier (29 individuals) left caeca than the right caeca. The fluctuating asymmetry coefficient of caeca for the studied group of b

The aim of study was to determine the effect of grain aphid (Sitobion avenae /F./) on nutritive value of soluble protein isolated from ears of spring triticale cultivars. Nutritive value of protein was estimated by the limiting amino acid index (CS) calculated in according with to Mitchel and Block (1946), and by the integrated index of essential amino acids (EAA) calculated in with according to Oser (1951). Obtained results showed that feeding of the grain aphid on the ears of tested spring triticale cultivars caused the decrease in the content of essential amino acids. This resulted in the decrease of CS and EAA values and in the reduction of nutritive value of soluble protein.

Studies on the occurrence of Choreutis pariana (Clerck), the qualitative structure of the parasitoid complex of this phytophagous species, as well as the level of its parasitization, were conducted in Lublin during the 1996-1998 period. As a result of the study 1,167 larvae and pupae of apple leaf skeletonizer were collected and counted; their numbers varied according to the study sites. At the site where pesticides were regularly applied only one pupa of this species was collected. Numbers of Ch. pariana population were reduced by 11 species of parasitic hymenopterans of the Ichneumonidae and Braconidae families and the Chalcidoidea hyperfamily. The dominant species was Triclistus congener Holmgr., its contribution to the whole complex of parasitoids was over 45%. Total parasitization of apple leaf skeletonizer larvae and pupae was nearly 25%.

The study described was aimed at evaluating the extent of gastro-intestinal helminth infestation in the roe deer, fallow deer, and red deer in Western Pomerania; infestation prevalence and intensity as well as the species composition of the helminth fauna were determined. Within March 1999 – July 2000, a total of 199 animals (86 roe deer, 68 red deer, and 25 fallow deer) were examined. The animals were obtained from 9 north-western Poland’s forest districts. The following nematode species were found to be present in the alimentary tracts examined: Spiculopteragia boehmi, S. mathevossiani, Spiculopteragia asymmetrica, Ostertagia kolchida, O. leptospicularis, Haemonchus contortus, Chabertia ovina, Oesophagostomum venulosum, Nematodirus sp., Trichocephalus ovis, Capillaria bovis, Trichostrongylus axei, and Trichostrongylus sp. As shown by biopsies, the infestation prevalence amounted to 73.53; 96.51; and 92.0% in red deer, roe deer, and fallow deer, respectively. The paras

The studies were aimed to establish a connection between polymorphism of egg-yolk and egg-white proteins and selected performance traits of laying hens. Data on performance of the studied breeds of hens were collected from breeding records. The following traits were measured in the analysed hens: body weight at 8, 18, and 20 days of age, age of sexual maturity, initial egg-laying rate, mean egg weight at 33 weeks of age, number of eggs with a complete eggshell, number of eggs with a broken eggshell, number of eggs without an eggshell or with a soft one, and a mean eggshell strength at 33 weeks of age.

This paper presents some results of a 8 year (1995-2002) observation of Liparis loeselii population in the nature reserve ‘Mielno’. The total population numbers as well as generative and vegetative ones differ from year to year. The population grew from 73 in 1995 to 106 in 1997, falling to 29 in 2002. At the same time unfavourable changes in population environment (progressive drainage of the area and expansion of woody plants) have been observed.

The use of pullulanase preparation was checked as a method to obtain long unbranched glucans from native starch. Different starch sources as well as various solubilisation procedures were tried in order to choose the optimal one. Dissolving in NaOH proved to be suitable for all starch sources, while autoclave should be avoided in case of cereal starches. Potato starch gave clear solutions irrespective of solubilisation method, which were highly susceptible to enzymatic attack. Basing on the results obtained by size exclusion chromatography it was concluded that the time of incubation with the enzyme needed to completely degrade amylopectin molecules is short in comparison to the time needed to hydrolyse all available glycosidic bonds.

An overall number of sixty samples of treated and untreated sewage was tested in our studies. The samples represented both municipal and industrial sewage (30 samples each type) and were collected respectively at the point of sewage discharge to a river, and at a poultry processing plant, namely from a secondary settler and an aeration chamber, as well as at the discharge of the treated sewage to the environment. Industrial sewage was tested with both chemically treated and untreated samples. The samples were analysed microbiologically for the presence of Listeria sp with a modified MPN method using membrane filtration, fecal coliforms by means of MPN method based on the PN-77 C-04615 standard, including the ISO 7251:1993 standard, and tested for the total microbial count on agar plates at 20°C. Results revealed lack of correlation between an indicator of fecal contamination and the presence of Listeria sp. Species analysis of isolated Listeria spp. proved Lis

Serum samples collected from 105 adult farmed silver foxes and wildlife red foxes were tested for IgG antibodies to T. gondii and N. caninum by indirect fluorescent antibody test. The farmed foxes derived from 4 farms localized in south-west province of Poland. Red foxes were caught from forest area in the same province. Antibody titres to T. gondii equal or greater than 1:20 were found in 36.7% of 60 farm foxes and in 33.3% of 45 red foxes. Seroprevalence in farm foxes was related to the diet containing raw, non-frozen meat and was significantly higher in two farms (53.3% and 86.6%) than in the others using cooked feed (0.0% and 1.7%). Antibodies to N. caninum were detected in low titres in 2 (4.4%) of 45 red foxes and in 1 (1.7%) of 60 farmed silver foxes. It was the first report on N. caninum in canids from Poland.

The values of kinetic parameters E_a (activation energy) and A (preexponential factor) were evaluated for different kinetic models using data from thermogravimetric (TGA) curves obtained in isothermal and polythermal conditions. It was found that diffuse kinetic models D3 and D4 aproximated the experimental data better than first order reaction model F1. The values of kinetic parameters for D3 and D4 models evaluated from both types of TG curves were comparable.

The paper presents results of research into the effect of magnesium and zinc ions, Miedzian 50 WP and Topsin M 70 WP fungicides and Dispersive Afalon 450 SC and Racer 250 WP herbicides on the development and bioactivity of the following isolates of antagonistic fungi: Trichoderma harzianum Rifai, Trichoderma pseudokoningii Rifai and Trichoderma viride Pers. ex Gray. There was defined an effect of the said factors in different concentrations on mycelium growth and germination of Trichoderma genus fungi spores and on their antagonistic activity towards fungi pathogenic for plants. It was observed that the factors studied affected the Trichoderma genus fungi tested, with reactions of fungi depending on the kind of factor, its concentration and on the fungus isolate. There were recorded some powerful fungistatic properties of zinc ions in concentrations of 1000 and 3000 ppm and Topsin M 70 WP, Dispersive Afalon 450 SC and Racer 250 WP in the dose of 100 ppm. M

The objective of the study was to determine relationships between the fattening traits and the slaughter traits and chemical composition of meat in fatteners, hybrids after boars of high-meat breeds. The study was carried out on 80 fatteners (40 gilts and 40 barrows) fed with rationed mixture.

The aim of the present research work was to obtain RD mutants of yeast Pichia stipitis, Yamadazyma stipitis, Candida shehatae and Pachysolen tannophilus and to estimate fermentative activity of mutants. Ethidium bromide and acriflavine were used as mutagens.

The abundance of the spawning population of roach females from the coastal lakes Gardno (2 468 ha) and Łebsko (7 140 ha) located in the Słowiński National Park was estimated for the 1987-1992 period. Following bream, roach is the second most common cyprinid species in regulated fisheries catches. The size of the spawning population was estimated using Virtual Population Analysis and long-term fisheries statistics. Female roach dominated the exploited population at 62.4% in Lake Gardno and 64.3% in Lake Łebsko. During the analyzed period, more roach females were caught in Lake Gardno, which is more than twice as small as Lake Łebsko. Of the generations analyzed (1985, 1986, 1987, 1988, 1989 and 1990), more abundant years occurred in Lake Gardno. The most abundant generation in the two lakes was that of 1985, and following it, each subsequent generation was “weaker” than the preceding had been. The size of the spawning stock was shaped the youngest age groups (2+, 3+, 4+), with the 4+ and 3+

Results of experimental studies of simulation of the aerobic stabilisation of municipal landfills in lysimeters are discussed in the paper. It was found that due to the aeration, intensive leachate circulation and enhancement of organic substance degradation by advanced oxidation processes (ozonation), waste bed stabilisation was reached in a very short time. After 20 days since the beginning of lysimeter aeration, a reduction of both nitrogen compounds (N-NH₄⁺ by around 70%), and easily biodegradable organic substances (ca. 90%) was achieved.

The study covers juvenile, transient and mature wood of Norway spruce. It was acknowledged that there is a close relation between stages of growth and wood properties. It appears that wood as of material, biological origin has diversified properties from the butt log to the crown. The weakest part of the log is the middle part composed of the juvenile wood. For the purpose of this study differentiation of growth stages was based on the wood density.

The Ascosphaera genus (Plectomycetes: Ascosphaeraceae) is found in the environment solely in populations of social and solitary bees. A typical feature of the genus Ascosphaera is production of spherical spore cysts abundant in ascospores forming spore balls. The species vary in the size of spore cysts, as well as in the shape and size of ascospores. The aim of this study was to determine morphological properties of strains A. apis isolated from field cases of chalkbrood diseased honeybees. The study material was inoculated onto Sabouarda’s medium, underwent macroscopical and microscopical identification and was examined for morphological details by cryo-electron microscopy with a scanning electron microscope. The examination results and measurements obtained with the scanning microscope enable us to confirm the results received by means of commonly applied diagnostic techniques to determine whether the strains under study belong to the genus Ascosphaera a

The study based on use of VIA for estimation of beef quality from four beef breeds: Limousine, Charolaise, Angus, Hereford and cross-breed Black-and–White x Piemontese were performed. The average values of colour components R and G estimated with a VIA method differed statistically between the investigated breeds. The marbling of the MLD cross-section was for each beef breed significantly diversified. Many significant correlation between physical and chemical properties of meat were obtained, especially between colour components R, G, B, and marbling percentage. In our opinion VIA could be used as a fast and objective method for estimation of chemical composition, texture and technological quality of meat.

The aim of the study was to investigate the acetoacetylation of particles on the formaldehyde content and the physical and mechanical properties of particleboards, glued with the UF resin. The produced particleboards were subjected to the following tests: internal bond, modulus of rupture, modulus of elasticity, swelling in thickness after 24 hours of soaking in water, the content and the emission of formaldehyde. Results of the study make it possible to state that spreading ethyl acetoacetate on the particles before gluing, results in the decrease in the content as well as the emission of formaldehyde from particleboards, without causing essential changes in their physical and mechanical properties.

The isolates of fungi Beauveria bassiana (Bb), Metarhizium anisopliae (Ma) and Paecilomyces fumosoroseus (Pf) from the arable land (Bb I, Ma I, Pf I) as well as from the herbicide fallow (Bb II, Ma II, Pf II) of an apple orchard were inoculated on Sabouraud’s medium with an addition of 2 herbicides (Chwastox Extra 300 SL and Roundup) and 3 insecticides (Zolone 35 EC, Basudin 205 EC and Sanmite 20 WG) in the dose 10 times higher than the recommended one (A), the recommended dose (B) and 10 times lower than the recommended one (C). It was shown that the isolates of fungi that in the natural conditions had a contact with herbicides were mostly more resistant to the toxic properties of pesticides as compared with the isolates from the arable land. Herbicides inhibited the growth of fungi more strongly than insecticides. Generally, the fungus P. fumosoroseus was more sensitive to herbicides than B. bassiana. Amon

The aim of the present investigation was the evaluation of mercury distribution in the chicken tissues in the course of chronic mercury poisoning and the changes of mercury concentrations in the tissues after the administration of antidotum in the form of MESNA preparation.

Ewe’s milk was inoculated with 2%, 3% and 4% yogurt starter culture Y180 DVS (Ch. Hansen). The yogurts were stored at 4°C for 14 days. The raw milk and pasteurized milk were analyzed, also yogurt after 1, 7, 14 days of storage were estimated. Organoleptic evaluation and texture analyses were done in yogurts. It was observed that yogurts made with higher starter’s addition contained more free fatty acids, the vitamin C and the ascorbic acid, but less nitrogen compounds. Amount of starter influenced the texture parameters.

Different factors affecting syneresis of rennet curd, made from ewe’s milk, were examined. The experimental factors were: pasteurisation, temperature and pH of milk, curd firmness, curd temperature and rate of curd temperature rise, time (after renneting). Also the effect of above mentioned factors on dry matter content, yield and texture of fresh cheeses was established. It was concluded that syneresis of pasteurised milk curd was lower in comparison to syneresis of raw milk curd. Temperature and milk pH, curd temperature and rate of curd temperature rise, time of measurement influenced significantly syneresis from rennet curd. The pasteurisation and pH of milk influenced the yield, texture and dry matter content of fresh cheeses.

This study was conducted to determine the influence of high-voltage electrical stimulation on quality of cooked beef hams produced from semitendinosus muscle of heifers and young bulls. Texture evaluation of hams was conducted with the universal testing machine Instron type 4301. Additionally, puncture and shear tests were performed. Six trained panelists conducted sensory analysis. The attributes evaluated were as follow: appearance, structure and consistency, taste and flavour as well as tenderness. The results of sensory examination and instrumental measurement revealed that the influence of high-voltage electrical stimulation on cooked hams depends on animals’ sex. The most significant difference in quality of hams was observed between stimulated and non-stimulated hams produced from semitendinosus muscle of heifers. The results obtained demonstrated the effectiveness of application of own construction high-voltage device for electrical stimulation of beef carcasses in imp

The experiment on cultivation of the Rocky Mountain juniper ‘Blue Arrow’ variety in containers was conducted in years 2000-2002 in an unheated glasshouse. The plants were cultivated in a substrate composed of a mixture of high moor peat and frittered, composted pine bark in volume ratio 1:1, with a different substrate pH in H₂O: 4.5; 5.0; 5.5; 6.0; 6.5. In order to obtain substrate pH in H₂O 7.2; 20% mineral soil was added to pine bark (40%) and high moor peat (40%). During vegetation season biometric measurements were performed i.e. the height of plants and length of lateral shoots [cm] were measured and the number of lateral shoots was counted. Also the pH of cultivation substrate was measured. When the experiment was completed, fresh root weight and the weight of fresh above-ground part of plants were measured. Before and after completion of the experiment, chemical analysis of the cultivation substrate was performed for each combination to estimate the content of m

The experiments on the influence of the two different fertilisers and their four different doses on the growth of Rocky Mountain juniper 'Blue Arrow' cultivar were conducted in an unheated glasshouse in the years 2001-2003. Rooted cuttings of Rocky Mountain juniper 'Blue Arrow' cultivar were set for cultivation on 15 May 2001 into a growing substrate composed of high moor peat and frittered and composted pine bark (v:v 1:1) with pH in H₂O 4.5. Two types fertilisers were used, namely Osmocote Exact Lo-Start and Osmocote Exact Standard, in four doses: 2.0, 2.5, 3.0 and 3.5 gˇdm^-3 of substrate. During vegetation season the measurements of plants height and length of lateral shoots [cm] were taken, and the number of lateral shoots was counted. When vegetation of Rocky Mountain juniper ‘Blue Arrow’ cultivar in 2001 ceased, the fresh weight of roots and above-ground part was measured.

Whey protein isolate (WPI) – xanthan gum heat-induced gels were obtained at pH range 5-10. The rheological properties of WPI (3%) – xanthan gum ( 0.1 and 0.5%) were examinated. The highest apparent viscosity had mixtures obtained at pH 7 and 0.1% polysaccharide concentration. At higher xanthan gum concentration mixtures obtained at pH 5 and 7 had similar apparent viscosity. The shear stress at fracture of WPI (10%) – xanthan gum mixed gels reached a maximum (17.9 kPa) at pH 7 and 0.3% addition of polysaccharide. TEM and SAXS methods, used to examine microstructure of mixed gels showed phase separation in WPI – xanthan gum mixed systems.

The blue dun colour shade is not a selection criterion in Polish Konik horse breeding, hence it has been possible to undertake the analysis of its inheritance on the example of this population. The material consisted of Polish Konik horses registered in the Studbook.

Industrialization of sauerkraut production in Poland will need to solve the problem associated with disposing of highly acidic waste effluents. Late sauerkraut brine present the greatest problem with respect to treatment because of their high BOD and low pH. Degradation rate of sauerkraut brine by Kluyveromyces marxianus yeast - depends on concentration of the brine in the medium. The removal of lactic acid in shake flask experiments varied from 98.95 to 56.75 % after 48 h at 30°C. The immobilization of yeast in sodium alginate improved the lactic acid degradation rate and allow to treat the very acid brine directly. Lactic acid was fully used in diluted brine in 24 h and the content in undiluted brine was reduced by 90.17 to 81.2 to % in the following runs after 48 h.

The object of the studies conducted in the years 1998-2000 was the rhizosphere soil of soybean, Mazovia cultivar, and the non-rhizosphere soil. The experimental plot was set in Czesławice near Nałęczów on grey-brown podzolic soil formed from loesses, which was the second complex of soil suitability (good wheat complex). The microbiological analysis showed a much greater number of microorganisms in the rhizosphere soil than in the non-rhizosphere soil. The proportion of pathogenic fungi in the non-rhizosphere soil was almost twice as high in comparison to the rhizosphere, and it was 48.4% and 25.6%, respectively. The dominating pathogenic fungi were Fusarium spp., Rhizoctonia solani and Sclerotinia sclerotiorum. On the other hand, bacteria Bacillus spp. (81 isolates) and Pseudomonas spp. (231 isolates) as well as fungi Trichoderma spp. (64 isolates) were obtained among the microorganisms distinguished by their antagonistic effect towards phytopathoge

The purpose of the studies conducted in Lublin in the years 1999-2001 was to establish the species composition and number of aphids on the shrubs of dwarf mountain pine (Pinus mugo Turra) and park rose (Rosa sp.). Observations were carried out in the green areas of the city in the street site (A) and the park site (B). Four species of aphids were found on the dwarf mountain pine and eight on the park rose. The shrubs of dwarf mountain pine were inhabited by a greater number of aphids in site A, an exception being two species (C. pini and E. rileyi), which occurred in greater numbers in site B. In site A all species of aphids were observed on the shrubs of park rose and their populations were more numerous, while in site B only six aphid species occurred and their number was smaller. The greatest number of all aphids was noticed in 2000, while the smallest in 1999.

The paper presents the principles of planning and designing selected elements of agricultural roads to be built on uplands located within protected areas. Special attention is paid the problem of localization of a road and choice of size of geometric elements. Various surface technologies, both presently applied and suggested to be used on local and internal roads are also discussed.

Slurry often contains many pathogenic microorganisms, which are dangerous to human and animal health. The aim of study was to estimate the elimination rate of indicators and pathogenic bacteria – Escherichia coli, fecal streptococci D-group and Salmonella senftenberg W₇₇₅ in peat soil according to soil storage temperature and slurry addition. The elimination rate of fecal bacteria was more effective in 20°C than in 4°C. The slowest reduction of the fecal bacteria was observed in soil with slurry. The salmonellas were eliminated more slowly in comparison to another group of investigated microorganisms. The fastest reduction of streptococci was estimated in 20^oC, however E.coli in 4°C. To minimize the hazard for environment, slurry should be subjected to monitoring investigation before use on arable land.

The research investigated the possibility of substituting, in the process of producing particleboards, a part of wood particles with recycled boards such as raw and laminated particleboards glued with urea resin, water-resistant particleboard glued with phenolic resin and MDF. Reduced waste was added to the centre layer of experimental particleboards in the amount from 0 to 60%; the boards were then glued with urea resin, and the waste from water-resistant boards was also glued with phenolic resin. The obtained results lead to the conclusion that a great part of waste wood-based materials can be used in the process of producing particleboards.

The aim of the research was to establish the reasons for the deep, long-term depression in tree ring formation, which took place in the period from 1950-1980 in Douglas firs (Pseudotsuga menziesii Franco) growing in southern Poland. 340 tree rings from 17 trees from the Sudety Mts., the Western Beskidy Mts., Eastern Beskidy Mts. and Roztocze underwent dendrochronological analyses. Results indicate Douglas fir’s high sensitivity to air pollution. Long-term drop in tree-ring widths in the years 1950-1980 was probably caused by industrial emissions. Climatic conditions influenced mainly short-term changes in tree-ring sizes and could not have been the cause of long-term depression. The long-term drop in tree-ring widths varied in terms of intensity depending on particular region. It occurred first and with greatest intensity in western Poland, in the Sudety. In the Bieszczady and Roztocze, it took place later and was less intense. Apart from being smaller, the tree-rings were also chara

The paper presents the results of the study on seasonal changes in the number of bacterioplankton, its vertical distribution and morphological composition in the waters of the deepest Polish lake, Lake Hańcza (108.5 m deep). The research was performed from 1997 till 2000. Water samples were collected at a research station placed at a location where the lake depth was maximum, at monthly intervals from May to October. Water was sampled along the following depth profile: from 0-1 cm layer, at 0.3 m and at the depth of 1m, 2m, 5m, 10m, deeper down at 10m intervals towards the bottom. Bacteriological analyses were completed with measurements of selected physico-chemical parameters such as temperature, pH, oxygen, nitrogen and phosphorus contents. Obtained results with regards both to the number of bacterioplankton and its morphological structure, namely 68% for cylindrical rods forms, and physico-chemical assays confirmed the purity of Lake Hańcza. The vertical distribution of bacterioplankton

The rheological behaviour of concentrated strawberry juice has been studied over a wide range of temperatures (10-60°C) and concentrations (50-67.1°Bx), using rotational rheometer with coaxial cylinders as a measuring system. On the base of the obtained results it was shown, that concentrated strawberry juice has a Newtonian behaviour. The values of viscosity strongly depend on temperature and soluble solids content and were in the range from 8.6 to 541.2 mPaˇs. The effect of the temperature on the viscosity of that juice was described by an Arrhenius equation. To study effect of concentration on the viscosity, the power-law and exponential equations were used. Finally, two equations described combined effect of temperature and soluble solids content on the viscosity of concentrated strawberry juice were obtained.