EJPAU, 2005, Volume 8, Issue 4

Equality between women and men and between different social groups correlates directly with the economic growth of a nation or a region. This is a mutual effect; while economic growth is seen to improve equality between women and men in general, gender equality also entails economic growth. The gender dimension becomes relevant to rural and regional policy if effectiveness and efficiency of public subsidies are called into question. In case of the European Union structural funds policy, the optimum use of human potential is seen as a key concern [13]. Integrating gender equality in rural development also means recognizing the diversity amongst rural women when planning and implementing interventions. They are not a homogenous group and they have different needs and interests because they have different backgrounds with regard to occupation, income, education, age, social class, culture or ethnicity. It should be a strategic objective of rural development policy to create a positive climate for this wide variety of life models of men and women in rural areas.

The paper presents results of studies on some mechanical and tractive properties of the soil on the basis on which an analysis was made of the range of their changeability. The plants on which the studies based were peas, winter triticale, sugar beet and winter wheat cultivated by means of traditional methods and a simplified method, which is without ploughing. Comparable values of the yields were found out. Higher values of soil compaction and the maximum contact stress occur in the soil cultivated in a simplified method. Fluctuations of these parameters were observed during the period of vegetation and these were gradually leveled during the harvest. However, it was related to the course of the weather, and especially the soil humidity. The studies showed a relation between the examined technologies of soil tillage and the values of the obtained tractive forces.

Shiga-like toxin-producing E. coli (STEC) are a worldwide cause of human infections. Food-borne outbreaks caused by STEC can affect large numbers of people, making the E. coli strains one of the most important emerging pathogens. The majority of outbreaks of STEC etiology have been the results of transmission via fecal samples of healthy cattle. The main sources and routes of transmission of STEC are presented in the article.

The purpose of the performed experiments was to determine the time consumption of the removal of single Scots pine branches in relation to their thickness, vitality and height of pruning. Branches were cut with the assistance of special handsaws of the ARS and Buchman type. These saws are characterised by the highest efficiency from all the applied saws which have been subjected to investigations so far. Trees were pruned to the height of 5 meters along consecutive 1 meter-long segments. The test comprised 50 branches for each 1 m long section of the trunk. Measurements comprised the thickness of branches as well as the time needed to remove them.

In the years 2001-2003 the advertising policy of the 7 most important horticultural seed companies in Poland was investigated. The companies used both advertising spots in newspaper, horticultural magazines, catalogues, leaflets, brochures and posters and commercials (in radio and TV) as well as the Internet and other forms of advertising. The individual forms of advertising became a part of the company’s promotion campaign in different time. At the beginning it was based solely on the advertising printed spots, then included the commercials and the Internet. The advertising in printed spots (except daily newspapers) was more effective than the commercials emitted in radio and TV. The most important (effective) in the companies’ advertising policy were spots in horticultural magazines, then followed by catalogues, leaflets, brochures and posters. The least effective in terms of advertising were spots in daily newspapers, the Internet and other forms of advertising.

The European Union member states are main trading partners of Poland. They accounted for over half (51.6%) of the turnover in farm and food trade in 2003. The main partners on the export side are: Germany, Netherlands, Great Britain and Italy; and on the import side are Germany, Netherlands, Spain and Italy. Trade in farm and food goods with the European Union was favourable for Poland for the first time since 1993. The trade balance in 2003 closed with a surplus of 218 mln USD. A positive trade balance also occurred in 2004. Poland has gained trade advantages in the food sector after integration with the EU.

The influence of the source of non-starch polysaccharides on microbial flora composition was examined (general number of aerobic bacteria, lactic acid bacteria, Escherichia coli, Enterobacteriaceae as well as yeast and mould) of hindgut of chickens, ducks and geese. When administering ground barley and rye in the concentrate mixtures for poultry, in place of maize their dietary fibre concentration was increased as well as the concentration of xylose and β-glucan. In the mixture whose main component was ground barley, a higher content of structural components was found, including hemicelluloses, in comparison to mixtures containing maize or rye.

Substituting ground maize with ground barley and rye in the mixtures for poultry, an increase of a general number of aerobic bacteria, lactic acid bacteria, Escherichia coli and Enterobacteriaceae was achieved in the content of ileum, colon and caecum. When feeding birds with ground barley, a decrease of yeast and mould amount was observed in the content of ileum and colon in comparison to a mixture with a high share of maize and rye grain. Independently of the diets applied, a larger general number of aerobic and lactic acid bacteria were observed in the content of the alimentary tract segments examined of ducks and geese in comparison to chickens. A smaller number of Escherichia coli, Enterobacteriaceae as well as yeast and mould were found in the intestinal content of ducks than in chickens and geese. SCFA correlation was negatively correlated, while pH reaction – positively, with structural carbohydrates share in the intestinal contents. A negative relation was found between the number of aerobic bacteria, lactic acid bacteria, Escherichia coli and Enterobacteriaceae and the concentration of hemicellulose in the birds’ intestinal content. The correlation between the number of bacteria in the intestinal content and SCFA [ ] concentration was positive, while it was negative in comparison to pH.

The purpose of a growth chamber experiment was to determine the effect of bipreparations (Biochikol 020 PC, Biosept 33 SL and Polyversum) and the chemical preparation (Zaprawa Oxafun T) applied for seed dressing on the number and healthiness of plants Glycine max (L.) Merrill. The seeds that were not dressed constituted the control. Soybean plants grew on the medium overgrown with the following pathogenic fungi: A. alternate 18, B. cinerea 31, F. culmorum 33, F. oxysporum f. sp. glycines 14, F. solani 6, P. sojae 51, P. irregulare 93, R. solani 14 and S. sclerotiorum 83.

The best emergencies were achieved after applying Zaprawa Oxafun T or Biosept 33 SL. The smallest number of plants grew in the control combination, i.e. without seed dressing. The greatest proportion of the infected plants was observed in the combinations with F. culmorum 33, F. oxysporum f. sp. glycines 14, F. solani 6 and P. sojae 51. Besides, the worst healthiness was characteristic of the plants growing in the control, while the best was characteristic of the plants grown from the seeds dressed with Polyversum or Biosept 33 SL. The plants grown from the seeds dressed with Polyversum or Zaprawa Oxafun T had the lowest mean value of the infection index, while the highest was found for the plants in the control.

The purpose of the study was an attempt to characterize the process of seeding the popping corn cobs at lowered temperature, with particular regard to the relations between the losses of grain weight and the temperature values. Corn cobs were picked up at the moment when the corn reached the moisture of about 15%. The seeding of corn cobs was performed in a device of the authors’ own design, after the temperature was lowered. The studies were conducted at six temperature levels, namely 17, 0, -5, -10, -15 and -38°C. After establishing the weight of the obtained grain, the weight of the grains left on the cobs and the weight of damaged corn, the possible dependence was determined between the grain losses accompanying the seeding of corn cobs and their temperature. It was found out that lowering corn temperature of cobs from 17°C to -15°C led to a statistically significant decrease of the losses of grain weight. The border values of grain weight losses in this range of temperature of corn cobs were, respectively, 16.4% and 1.0%.

Further lowering of the temperature of the cobs to the lowest value of -38°C led to further reduction of the losses but it proved to be statistically insignificant.

The productivity of grand fir (Abies grandis Lindl.) was estimated under mountain conditions of Poland. Investigations concerned 7 provenances of this species from the regions of its natural range (Salmon River, Indian Creek, Buck Creek, Bear Mountain, Eagle Creek, Crescent Creek, Santiam Summit). It was found that provenance (origin) has a decisive effect on the productivity of grand fir. The results of a 27-year study on its genetic and silvicultural values unmistakably indicate that under site conditions of the Beskid Sšdecki Mts. the provenances from the Salmon River, Indian Creek, Buck Creek and Bear Mountain are characterized by a better growth. The provenance Salmon River from the Vancouver Island in British Columbia in Canada turned out to be especially valuable in respect of productivity. Its stand volume reached 143 (m³ ha). While the provenances Crescent Creek and Santiam Summit reached the smallest volume, 41.5 and 77.0 (m³ ha) respectively.

In a three-factor experiment set up as a ‘split-plot’, at the RZD Pawłowice, in the vicinity of Wrocław, the following were investigated: the effect of: I – pea cultivar: Agra – semi-leafless and ‘Rola’, traditional – bipinnate leaves; II – nitrogen fertilization: 0, 30, 60 kg·ha^-1; III – harvest date: green, yellow and full maturity, on the development of the seed sowing value. The cultivars researched did not differ in their germinative energy and germinability, while 1000 seed weight and leachate electroconductivity were higher in ‘Rola’ than in ‘Agra’. There was shown a positive effect of nitrogen fertilization at the dose of 30 kg·ha^-1 on 1000 seed weight, while the other parameters of the sowing value did not depend on the sowing value of this factor. As ripening progressed, until full maturity, there was recorded a significant increase in 1000 seed weight, germinative energy and germinability and in vigor measured with the leachate electroconductivity. A positive correlation between 1000 seed weight and germinative energy and germinability of seeds and a negative correlation between the germinative energy, germinability, 1000 seed weight and the leachate electroconductivity after 12 and after 24 hours.

The aim of the study was to compare fertility data obtained from bitches after vaginal vs. transcervical intrauterine endoscopic insemination with frozen-thawed semen. The experiment was carried out on 34 bitches divided into two groups. Vaginal insemination using bovine infusion pipette was performed in the group 1 of bitches. Transcervical insemination of semen direct into uterine lumen after visualisation of cervical portion was performed in the group 2 of bitches. Semen of 14 stud dogs was used in the study. Whelping rates in group 1 and 2 were 27.8% and 68.7%, respectively (p<0.05). Mean litter sizes at birth/mean litter sizes at weaning were significantly higher (p<0.05) in group 2 of bitches (4.9 ±1.7/4.6 ±1.7) than in group 1 of bitches (3.0 ±1.2/2.6 ±0.9). The present study showed successful results of trancervival endoscopic technique of insemination of bitches with frozen-thawed semen. Fertility and fecundity indices obtained in this study are encouraging and make opportunity for widen use of frozen-thawed dog semen for insemination of bitches in routine veterinary practice.

In this paper the author discusses the level of use of retail banking services in Poland, conditions of its development and reasons for not using banking services. Other factors evaluated were survey respondents’ level of knowledge of financial institutions, and reasons for their fears and satisfaction with bank services offered to individual consumers. In addition, the need for reduction of incidence of the financial exclusion phenomenon and not providing services to the poorer social stratum was investigated.

A possibility to use lactose-negative Lactobacillus fermentum strains, isolated from GI-tract of infants, as protective cultures in soft cheese was studied. The aim of the study was to evaluate if these lactic bacteria strains are capable to inhibit growth of Escherichia coli NCTC 12900 and Listeria monocytogenes LM82 in the environment of soft Spanish cheese. The study demonstrated that all strains of LAB used in the study were able to survive and grow in the environment of the cheese, achieving a population of 10⁵-10⁷ cfu/g. Strains of Lbc. fermentum exhibited some inhibition of Listeria monocytogenes and Escherichia coli growth in a model system of the cheese. After 15 days of incubation at 7°C number of E. coli and L. monocytogenes in cheese samples containing lactic acid bacteria strains were statistically lower (p<0.05) than in control samples with pathogen strains alone. The highest number of cfu for L. monocytogenes (7.94 log₁₀ cfu/g) was observed in a cheese sample without any addition of LAB culture, whereas in cheese samples with Lbc. fermentum 11b, Lbc. fermentum 18b, Lbc. fermentum 22c the population of L. monocytogenes was lower (7.57 log₁₀ cfu/g, 7.37 log₁₀ cfu/g and 7.44 log₁₀ cfu/g respectively). Also the highest number of E. coli was detected in a control sample (7.99 log₁₀ cfu/g). In experimental samples number of E. coli was 7.33 log₁₀ cfu/g in cheese with Lbc. fermentum 11b, 7.36 log₁₀ cfu/g in cheese with Lbc. fermentum 18b and 7.17 log₁₀ cfu/g in cheese with Lbc. fermentum 22c. The low degree of inhibition might be caused by a few factors such as: high inocula of pathogens, lack of acid production by Lbc. fermentum strains, low different from optimal for the LAB temperature of incubation or slower growth rate of lactobacilli in comparison to growth rates of pathogen strains.

In years 1999-2001 a scientific experiment with two cultivars of celery, ‘Zefir’ and ‘Helios’ was carried out. We traced the changes of the content and composition of essential oil comprised in leaves, taking into account the length of vegetation period of the above plants. It appeared that the biggest amount of essential oil was contained in the youngest leaves: 0.34% (‘Zefir’ cv.) and 0.30% (‘Helios’ cv.). It was also observed that he older plants in the moment of their collection, the lower content of essential oil. With help of chromatographic analysis the experiment allowed to indicate three fractions: monoterpene, sesquiterpene and phtalid fraction. Limonene appeared to be a dominant component of essential oil obtained from celery leaves independently of the collection date.

The article analyzes applicability of Takagi-Sugeno fuzzy models for forecasting monthly demand for electric energy among recipients in rural areas. In particular, quality of forecasts was evaluated, made on the basis of two prepared linear fuzzy models differing with the number of fuzzy rules. It was concluded that forecasts calculated on the basis of both these models can be considered permissible, and the models can be used for prediction of monthly demand for electricity, whereas greater accuracy was achieved by forecasts made on the basis of the model described with four fuzzy rules.

Investigations were conducted on 74 tongues, collected from rabbits being in the 15^th, 18^th, 20^th, 22^nd and 26^th day of prenatal life. On the basis of observations under a light microscope the development of the mucous membrane on the dorsum of the apex and body of the tongue was examined, with special emphasis on the development of fungiform papillae.

The first symptoms of the formation of the primordia of fungiform papillae in the form of thickenings in the epithelium were found on the dorsum of the apex and on the dorsum of the body of the tongue at day 18 and next at day 20 of prenatal life. At day 22 of prenatal life primordia of fungiform papillae already have a connective tissue core and are covered with a two-layer epithelium. In that period primordia of fungiform papillae are well-marked on the surface of the dorsum of the apex and body of the tongue. Next at day 26 of intrauterine life primordia of fungiform papillae are bigger and more distinctly visible. They are covered by the epithelium consisting of 3-4 layers of cells. In the same period, in the epithelium of the primordia of fungiform papillae taste buds were found.

At day 15, 18 and 20 of intrauterine life the mesenchymal tissue was observed under the epithelium, found on the well-marked basement membrane.

At day 22 of prenatal life in the rabbit in the connective tissue forming the lamina propria of the mucosa of the tongue delicate collagen fibers and elastic fibers were observed. At day 26 of prenatal life in the rabbit collagen fibers are seen as more marked, while elastic fibers are still very delicate. The lamina propria of the lingual mucosa starting from day 22 of intrauterine life forms protrusions, which are the connective tissue core of the primordia of fungiform papillae.

Results of histochemical studies showed at day 15, 18 and 20 of prenatal life the presence of glycogen in the cytoplasm of cells in the epithelium and the mesenchymal tissue. At day 22 of prenatal life glycogen was already identified in the light-coloured stained superficial cells of the epithelium, whereas at day 26 of prenatal life no glycogen was detected in the examined structures of the lingual mucosa in the rabbit.

The usefulness of grass mixtures for biological reclamation of municipal dumping ground was investigated. Five mixtures and inter-genus hybrid Festulolium were sown on plots treated with 20, 40 and 60 t of sewage sludge per hectare. The highest biomass production was achieved on plots with Festulolium, and the best sodding was formed by Lolium perenne and Festuca rubra species. Dose of 40 t·ha^-1 was the most favorable referring to sodding effect and biomass production under experimental conditions. Investigations point out to the usefulness of further study upon Festulolium.

The aim of this contribution is to propose a new non-asymptotic 2D-model of non-homogeneous Reissner type elastic plates with one-directional periodic (uniperiodic) structure. This model was obtained by tolerance averaging technique (TAA) describing effect of repetitive cell size l (and at the same time the period-length of in-homogeneity) on the overall plate behaviour. The new feature of the proposed model is the possibility to apply the analysis of plates having thickness of an order of the period-length. So far, the non-asymptotic 2Dmodel of Reissner-type uniperiodic plates was formulated under assumption that the plate thickness is very small compared to the period-length.

This article presents the impact of the globalisation on the environment elements. It indicates the kinds of activities which devastate the environment mostly. It shows the proper way to decrease of the environment pollution. It also presents the activities that have been already undertaken on global scale by the international community to stop the environment degradation.

Research on the growth of the introduced giant fir (Abies grandis Lindl.) on a forest farm in the mountains (Myslenice Forest District, the Beskid Sredni Mts, The Western Carpathian Mts) has indicated the productive, protective and utility capabilities of this fast-growing species.

Experiment was conducted with 36 dairy cows (in II-VI lactation), divided as analogues to three groups per 12 weeks (3 weeks before calving to 0 day – day of calving and second period first 70 days of lactation): group I – without glycerin supplement, group II – 300 ml·head^-1·day^-1 and III – 500 ml·head^-1·day^-1 supplemented to daily feed ration. All cows were fed two kinds of TMR, according to DLG requirements for each physiological phases: for dry period and for the first 100 days of lactation. The body condition, feed intake, milk production, milk chemical composition and main blood metabolites as glucose, BHB, NEFA were analyzed in experimental period. Total milk production or mean daily milk yield in group II and III was higher in 10 weeks of lactation in comparison to control group about 14.6 and 12.5% respectively. With increase dose of glycerin the protein level in milk was increased (P<0.05). In group III in 3rd week of lactation the concentration of BHB in blood serum was higher but glucose lower in comparison to other groups. The concentration of NEFA in blood serum in group III in 1st and 3rd weeks of lactation and in group II in 3rd week after calving was lower in comparison to control (I) group. The feed intake (in DM) of TMR was better in both groups with supplemented glycerin in comparison to control, especially between 4. and 9. week of lactation (P<0.05). At 70 days in cows fed TMR with glycerin better body score condition index was observed in comparison to control (P<0.05).

Fungal communities from the rhizosphere of tomato grown conventionally and in rye mulch were analyzed in 1998-2000. Their compositions depended on the type of cultivation and development phase of plant. The frequency of Fusarium equiseti, Aureobasidium pullulans, Talaromyces flavus and Penicillium spp. was higher in the soil amended with rye. Trichoderma spp. populations were similar in both environments but more numerous in August than in June. Rye mulch significantly affected the number of Fusarium oxysporum f.sp. lycopersici. The number of its isolates observed in the soil with cover crop was significantly lower than in control field.

The influence of the type of non-starch polysaccharides on the microflora composition of the contents of small intestine and caecum of poultry was investigated in the conducted experiment. Four cereal grain types (maize, wheat, barley and oat), being a basic source of polysaccharide differentiation in the diets of chickens and geese, constituted the subject of the study. A total number of aerobic bacteria, lactic acid bacteria as well as yeasts and moulds were determined in the contents of ileum and caecum of the birds. Besides, an interdependence between the contents of structural carbohydrates, SCFA concentration, pH value and microflora composition of the analysed alimentary tract segments was investigated.

The using of ground wheat instead of maize as the main diet components resulted in the increase of xylose contents in them, and in case of ground barley and oat it also caused the increase of crude fibre, NDF, hemicelluloses and cellulose. These change caused the increase of the general number of aerobic bacteria and lactic acid bacteria in the contents of ileum and caecum of the birds. A higher number of bacteria was found in ducks in ileum contents in the groups receiving concentrates with the increased share of structural carbohydrates in comparison with chickens, where a similar tendency was not observed. A higher general number of aerobic bacteria and lactic acid bacteria were found in chickens when compared with ducks. The contents of structural carbohydrates, microflora composition, SCFA concentration as well as pH reaction in the contents of ileum and caecum were mutually correlated (p≤0.01).

Three microplot trials with spring wheat were run on soil varying for pH level. Increasing Zn doses from 5 to 200 mg·kg ^-1 were tested. Zn applications resulted in a substantial rise of Zn content of wheat shoots. In addition, an interaction of zinc and phosphorus in the plants was found. Contrary to most reports in literature, the interaction was not solely an antagonism. It is only the excessive doses of zinc that restricted phosphorus uptake and lowered the concentration of that element in wheat shoots. Instead, with poor phosphorus supply to the plants moderate zinc doses stimulated phosphorus uptake and raised phosphorus content of plants. Zinc application rate and phosphorus status of plants had a greater impact on Zn-P interaction than did soil pH.

The article compares applicability of stochastic models of ARIMA type and Takagi-Sugeno fuzzy models for forecasting the monthly demand for electric energy among recipients in rural areas. It was concluded that although accuracy of forecasts set on the basis of ARIMA model is greater than in the case of Takagi-Sugeno models, fuzzy models are better in reflecting the demand for electric energy, and achievement of good quality forecasts requires much less data from the history of the process forecasted than in the case of ARIMA models.

The abundance and species composition of ciliates were analysed in pelagic zone of two depression reservoirs: Nadrybie and Szczecin (Polesie Lubelskie, eastern Poland) from May to November 2002. Totally 21 ciliates species were found in Szczecin reservoir and 24 in Nadrybie reservoir. The mean abudance of ciliates was 31 ind. ml^-1 in Szczecin reservoir and 26 ind. ml^-1 in Nadrybie reservoir. Ciliates communities in both reservoirs were dominated by Scuticociliatida (Cinetochilum margaritaceum) and Peritrichida (Vorticella sp.). Densities and species composition of ciliates showed clearly changes. In both reservoirs the correlation between ciliates density and conductivity, pH, TP and TOC was found.

The survey of 5 Kujawsko-Pomorskie villages carried out in 2001 in Poland shows that in rural communities there are hierarchical formal and informal structures and the inhabitants are able to separate and indicate their leaders. Most of the informal opinion leaders also perform some formal duties. Farmers who are considered to be leaders of the local community own farms with more potential than other persons, they are better educated than others, they do not differ in respect of age from their imitators although the position of a leader is most frequently occupied by people aged more than 50 than 30-40. The examined leaders have successors which may motivate them even more to maintain their farms at a good level. Leaders compared with other farmers value more outside sources of information, and they feel more need to introduce changes, they are also more interested in getting familiar with novelties. Leaders of the examined populations more often than the other farmers declared a need to intensify cooperation with advisors. The research proved that TV is a very important source of information for all the people regardless their social status. The lower the education level is the more valued television is as a source of information. Advisors are more appreciated by better educated respondents. The higher education of the farmers the more they appreciate advisors as information sources and the more willing they are to introduce innovations to they farms.

In plant breeding field trials plant competition effects can seriously distort the treatment contrasts. To detect the effects, the special designs, known as competition designs, should be applied. In the study the so-called competition diallel with 5 genotypes was used to estimate the competition effects in pea, faba bean and yellow lupin. For each species the two trials with 1- and 3-row plots were established. Soil samples were taken to assess spatial soil variation. The semivariances of soil properties (pH, P, K, Mg) were calculated and semivariogram models were fitted. Finally, kriging was applied to predict the values of the soil properties for each plot. The general linear models were applied to estimate the magnitude of neighbor effects and the spatial effects of soil variation. The competition effects were calculated according to the competition diallel model using original data and residuals after elimination of soil spatial effects. The competition effects in yield of grain legumes depended on the plot size as well as on the species and its growth habit. The competition effects in 1-row plot experiment ranged from 10 to 40% in pea, 10 to 30% in faba bean and 10 to 100% in yellow lupin. For the 3-row plot experiment the effects ranged from 0 to 10% in pea and faba bean and 5 to 50% in yellow lupin. The competition analysis with additional information on soil variation in comparison with the analysis using the original plot data may extend the interpretation of specific competition relations between the genotypes of a given crop.

Tea leaves (Camelia sinensis L.) were extracted with two different solvents, namely water and ethanol. The absorptive atomic spectrometry technique – ASA was used to analyze the quantities of Fe and Cu in the tea extracts. Highest Cu level was marked in green tea ethanol extract. Fe content however was highest in black tea ethanol extract. Dependence of extracted Cu and Fe quantity from the solvent and tea leaf's genus was affirmed. Tea leaves can be the source of mineral components and trace elements, as well as the undesirable substances. Because both the iron and the copper can catalyze the oxidation processes, its presence is essential for the lipid stability. Metals content in lipids with addition of tea extracts shaped on level, which did not act prooxidatively. Cu content in lipid with green tea ethanol extract addition was five times higher; however Fe content in lipid with black tea ethanol extract addition was twice higher than in remaining samples. The result of tea extracts influence on oxidative stability of sunflower oil in Rancimat test showed best antioxidant activity in sample with green tea ethanol extract added.

The performed investigations aimed at determining the proportion of juvenile, maturing (transitory) and mature wood in the radial cross section of pine stems derived from the maturing stands of the II, III and IV age classes. The experiments comprised spruce trees from the areas of the southern distribution range of this tree species in Poland. The division into juvenile, maturing and mature wood was based on the proportion of late wood in annual rings.

Regularity was found to occur in the examined experimental material which consisted in the inversed proportionality of the width of annual rings and the proportion of late wood. In the case of older trees, the plotted curves describing the width of annual rings constituted nearly a mirror reflection of the curve characterising the proportion of late wood in the annual increments of trees for thickness. Results obtained for the radial cross sections of the youngest tree trunks (II age class) deviated quite distinctly from the above-mentioned principle.

In the individual two-stage system, being ended with the slaughter and slaughter evaluation of 32 crossbred pigs, the complete mixtures with the addition of antibiotic flavomycin or probiotic (strain of Pedicoccus acidilactici bacteria MA18/5M) (during the first fattening stage) were employed. Post-mortem quantitative and qualitative bacteriological tests and quantitative mycological tests on the determination of the contents of duodenum, jejunum, ileum and large intestine were carried out. The comparable results of fattening and slaughter evaluation of pigs in the groups were obtained. After administration of probiotic, the number of acidifying bacteria was increased and that of Enterobacteriaceae family decreased. The application of biostimulator in fattening occurred to be favourable from the production point of view and seems to be an suitable alternative to feed antibiotics.

Natural estrogens especially 17β-estradiol has been implicated as etiologic factors in develop of disturbances of insulin releasing and glucose metabolism. Experiments were carried out on 6 Polish Lowland sheep, weighing between 40-42 kg, 1.5 years of age each. The animals were divided into two groups: I – control group; II – intramuscularly treatment with 17β-estradiol 5mg/kg b wt. At the sixth day from the beginning of estradiol treatment, in the both group of animals intravenous glucose tolerance test was carried out. After 5-days administration of estradiol, plasma concentration of this hormone was significantly (p£0.05) higher in comparison to the control and reached maximum value 125.88±2.96 pg/ml. In the control group, the infusion of hypertonic solution of glucose increased the plasma glucose concentration from 3.16±0.15 mM/l to maximum 25.59± 1.49 mM/l in 10 min and produced marked rise in the concentration of plasma insulin from 229.76 pM/l to 1173.68 pM/l. In comparison to the control, infusion of glucose in estrogen-treatment group of sheep caused substantial rise of glucose level to maximum 24.47±3.29 mM/l in 30 min. This considerable increase of glucose concentration was maintained during the next 90 minutes of experiments. The insulin response to i.v. glucose infusion in this group of animals, was reduced and did not exceed 641.62±6.44 pM/l.

A photoelastic method was proposed to examine quality of tempered float glass used in the building facade of the ten-store office building. It turned out that strong disturbances in distribution of residual stresses were present in examined glass, facade panels. It can be concluded that these disturbances were the cause of spontaneous breakages of glass panels, which took place in some circumstances. The proposed inspection procedure is cheap and very effective.

The study reported on in this paper has shown that the optimisation of the fed-batch baker’s yeast process by maximising the biomass yield needs a feeding profile differing from the one used in the optimisation of this process by maximising the specific growth rate. Both the profiles can be described by a logistic function of the formula F(t) = a/(1+b·exp(-c·t)), where F(t) denotes the moment of the glucose feed entering the bioreactor in time t, and a, b and c are parameters of the equation. The parameters take different values, depending on the objective of the optimisation process. It has also been demonstrated that the two objectives, maximisation of the biomass yield and maximisation of the specific growth rate, conflict with each other. A compromise feeding profile was proposed, thus enabling the maximisation of the criterion which was the product of the biomass yield and specific growth rate (Y·µ). The criterion reached its maximal value in the baker’s yeast process with a biomass yield and specific growth rate of 0.58 g·g^-1and 0.129 h^-1, respectively.

In a unheated plastic tunnel the experiments were carried out in 1998-2000. The aim of this study was to estimate the effects of seedling production method on the quality and quantity of the yield of eggplant fruits of three cultivars – ‘Black Beauty’ ‘Solara F₁’ and ‘Epic F₁’. Potted seedlings and non-potted seedlings were maintained in glasshouse culture, according to standard recommendation for that species. They were transplanted into a tunnel at the beginning of June. Spacing between plants was 50×50 cm. Eggplant plants were grown in plastic cylinders, each of 8 litres volume, in a peat substrate. Observations of eggplant’s growth and development were conducted during its vegetation period. Eggplant fruits were collected at a harvesting maturity stage, when they were 40 days old, in two weeks intervals, from the first decade of August to the first decade of October. Then marketable yields and number of marketable fruits per plant were evaluated and the weight, diameter and length of each fruit on plant were measured. Eggplant’s cultivation from a seedling prepared in pots positively affects the plant’s growth and development. In each study year, plants cultivated from potted seedling were significantly higher and produced significantly higher number of leaves as compared to those from non-potted seedling. It was found that preparation of seedlings in pots influenced on the increase of commercial yield of eggplant fruits. The yield elevation resulted from the fruit quality improvement. Plants grown from potted seedling produced fruits of higher weight and length as compared to those achieved from non-potted plants. The studied cultivars differed in the weight, size and shape of marketable fruits. ‘Black Beauty’ was distinguished by fruits of much greater weight in comparison with ‘Epic F₁’ an ‘Solara F₁’. Fruits of ‘Solara F₁’ and ‘Epic F₁’ were longer while ‘Black Beauty’ had a greater diameter. Tested cultivars significantly differed with plant’s morphology. ‘Solara F₁’ cv. and ‘Epic F₁’ cv. were higher and were characterized with another conformation than ‘Black Beauty’ cv. plants.

The paper presents various approaches towards the classification, valuation and definition of intangible assets. In the opinion of analysts, these are factors decisive in financial results and the assets of a corporation.

The purification of barley as well as malt extracts was performed, in order to evaluate free ferulic acid and water-soluble esterified ferulic acid contencentrations. In particular, the influence of elevated malting temperature (22°C according to “Activated Germination Malting” versus 14°C) and decreased pH level (5.2 versus 7.4) on bound ferulic acid concentrations was examined. In the case of both barley varietes studied, free ferulic acid comprised less than 0.6% of total concentration of this phenolic acid in barley grain. It was stated, that application of elevated malting temperature and decreased pH level of steeping water caused significant modifications of free and water soluble esterified ferulic acid concentrations in comparison to standard malting conditions (temperature 14°C, pH level 7.4). Water-soluble esterified ferulic acid concentrations in worts produced without exogenous enzymes and using commercial enzyme preparations were a couple of times higher than corresponding free ferulic acid concentrations. Ferulic acid present in wort in significant amounts in water-soluble esterified form of sugar esters could be a very attractive beer antioxidant.

The paper presents results of measurements of horizontal shearing of soil, made by the help of wheel bevameter on four types of forest sites, i.e. fresh mixed coniferous forest (fMCF), boggy mixed pine forest (bMPF), moist mixed broadleaved forest (mMBF) and moist broadleaved forest (mBF), with consideration of different moisture variants. On the basis of obtained data two relationships were determined: between soil horizontal deformation and the circumferential (driving) force as well as between slip and the coefficient of adhesion. Grouping of the investigated soil according to their shearing stresses was made by Ward’s method of agglomerative cluster analysis. For each of the obtained agglomeration new data of slip vs. coefficient of adhesion were calculated.

The examination was conducted on adult cocks and ganders. They were fed with concentrates of a diversified level of structural carbohydrates fractions. It was obtained by applying different cereal grain types as a diet base: maize, wheat, barley, oat and rye. The diets based on oat and barley included more dietary fibre and cellulose complex components. The authors compared the influence of various cereal grain types (maize, wheat, barley, oat and rye) on the content of dry matter and structural carbohydrates fraction (crude fibre, NDF [Neutral Detergent Fibre], ADF [Acid Detergent Fibre] and hemicelluloses) in ileum and colon content as well as their digestibility in chickens and geese. Besides, the influence of the mentioned grains on the concentration of short-chain fatty acids (SCFA) and pH value of these birds’ intestinal content as well as the composition of microflora in the analysed alimentary tract segments were examined. The general number of aerobic bacteria, gram-negative bacteria, lactic acid bacteria, Enterobacteriaceae as well as yeast and moulds were considered.

The digestibility of dry matter was not dependent on bird species or the type of diet. The fractions of structural carbohydrates were degraded by cocks to a higher degree than by ganders. On the other hand, the number of aerobic bacteria in ileum and colon was similar in both species of birds (8.7 and 9.2 log cfu×g^-1). No differences were found with regard to SCFA concentration in ileum content between the investigated species, and the cereal grain type did not affect their level. SCFA concentration in colon content was lower when the birds (independently of species) were fed with diets including wheat or maize when compared to the groups receiving other mixtures. It was found that pH reaction in the examined alimentary tract segment content was higher in cocks than in ganders.

The number of aerobic bacteria, Enterobacteriaceae and gram-negative bacteria was positively correlated with SCFA concentration. On the other hand, pH reaction of intestinal content was negatively correlated with the number of all examined types of bacteria. A positive dependence was found between the number of yeasts and moulds and pH value of the birds’ intestinal content.

The factors limiting the development of ostrich and emu farming include their relatively low hatchability but neither the stages of emu and ostrich embryogenesis nor developmental abnormalities that occur during the incubation have been adequately studied. We carried out a hatchability analysis 5 times between February and April in the emu (n=50) and between May and July in the ostrich (n=69) on two farms in Poland in 2004. The eggs were collected for 14 days, stored at 16°C and 70% relative humidity and then incubated at 36.4°C and 25% relative humidity. The dead embryos were examined and measured for basic dimensions of the body and organs, the state of embryonic membranes, malpositioning, morphological malformations, downiness, degree of yolk sack absorption as well as the appearance of the skin and internal organs. Lower hatchability from both set (49.3%±27.7) and fertilised (77.3%±27.7) eggs was found in the emu. In the ostrich, the indices were, respectively, 68.0%±23.3 and 82.9±11.3. During the incubation, 7 ostrich and 9 emu embryos died, which represented 17.1% and 20.4% fertilised eggs, respectively. Two malformed ostrich and two emu embryos have been described. The ostriches exhibited anophthalmia, cyclopia, and beak malformations, while a pair of twins shared one yolk sack. The emus suffered encephalocele, torticollis, and beak malformations, as well as conjoined twins were found. Other dead embryos had normal morphological structure, however, presented other conditions such as oedema of head and legs, unabsorbed yolk sacks and malpositioning. The study described in this paper showed that mortality of embryos and anomalies applied only to beak malformations occurring during their development were similar in both bird species.

The purpose of the paper was to show the effect of changing the volume of the chamber under the teat and the elasticity of the teat rubber on the intensity of the return flow in a short milk tube. The studies analyzed the return flow with the use of simultaneous and alternate pulsation. Three levels of working sub-pressure were applied (50, 46, 42 kPa), four sizes of teat penetration (100, 75, 62 and 50 mm) as well as four types of teat rubber. The measurements were made in a laboratory with the simulation of the flow stream of the milk-replacing liquid 2, 4, 6 and 8 kg·min^-1. A mathematical formula was worked out on the basis of the results of studies to describe the return flow for alternate and simultaneous pulsation at a satisfactory value of determination coefficient R² of over 0.6.

In the course of the performed experiments, attempts were made to evaluate the 24 h energy expenditure of a selected population of young kayakers. The obtained results allowed the authors to conclude that this expenditure was not balanced and the energy from the day’s diet exceeded it significantly.

A problem of the theory of elasticity is considered for an elastic layer in frictional contact with an elastic half-space bounded by a plane with an axially symmetric smooth dip. The method of the Hankel integral transforms is used to solve the problem. In this way we obtain a system of dual integral equations such that it can be reduced to a single Fredholm integral equation of the second kind. The numerical results are presented in the form of diagrams for particular cases of the dip. Besides we discuss the variation of the contact parameters depending on the layer thickness.

Study was carried out on local municipal dumping ground in Stożne near Kowale Oleckie in 2001 and 2002. The efficiency of grass mixtures in sodding was tested on a base of a two-factor field experiment: D – sewage sludge – three doses (20, 40 and 60 DM kg · 10 m^-2). Five different grass mixtures and Festulolium in pure sowing were applied. Plant samples were taken in 2001 and 2002. After digestion of plants in microwave digester, iron, manganese, zinc, copper, cadmium, lead, nickel and cobalt contents were determined by means of AAS technique. Then intake of these elements by particular mixtures from 10 m² area was calculated.

It was found that sewage sludge from municipal dumping ground could be utilized for cover fertilization to form a sod. Mixtures No 4, 5 and Festulolium in pure sowing efficiently protected the heavy metal migration into the environment.

The aim of this research was to analyze the factors which contribute to the economic and organizational conditions of milk production profitability. Specialized farms in the Central Macroregion are featured. In the years 1997 – 2001 the costs were to achieve profitability in direct milk production. Apart from the direct costs and the average purchase price in the particular years of research, on average twice as high as the prices, other variables imparted the level of direct profitability. The greatest number of additional defining variables occurred in 2000. They were: complexity of technology, milk productivity per cow per year, replacement cow factor, value of milk sold, value of cattle production (without milk), milk cooler ownership, and summer pasture availability. In 2001, it was important to have a computer with software to analyze farm milk production and costs.

The effect of green fertilizers in the form of forecrops was studied on the yielding and growth of sugar maize ‘Landmark F₁’. The maize was cultivated directly after organic fertilization. The plants intended for green fertilizer were sown in the first 10 days of April, and they were ploughed over in the first 10 days of June. The yielding of sugar maize was related to the course of the weather conditions in particular years of the experiment. Its highest yields were obtained in 2002. Application of organic fertilization caused an increase of maize yields as compared to the cultivation without organic fertilization. It yielded the best after field pea, a mixture of vetch with field pea and after manure. The weather conditions in particular years of the studies had a significant effect on the height of sugar maize plants, the number of cobs on 1 plant, the length, diameter and mass of the cobs. The highest plants grew after manure, the mixture of vetch with field pea and after field pea. The greatest number of cobs on 1 plant was found in the cultivation of maize after field pea. The cobs collected from the maize cultivated on the ploughed after-crop residues were significantly longer than those collected from the maize grown after ploughing in the green fertilizers as the whole. The longest cobs were observed in the cultivation of maize after ploughing in the field pea. The biggest diameter of cobs was characteristic of the maize grown after ploughing in the green fertilizer from field pea. The greatest mass was found for the cobs collected from the maize cultivated after vetch. The biggest mean mass of grains themselves was characteristic of the cobs from the plants grown on the plots with the ploughed in green fertilizer from field pea.

The study determined the influence of fish-mineral concentrate (KR-M) addition to fodder in the amount of 4 and 8% during the period of pig fattening up to approximately 100 kg of mass, on the profile of fatty acids in pig’s liver and backfat. The influence of KR-M was marked in liver fat by statistically significant (p<0.05) decrease of SFA and MUFA content with the increase of PUFA, including L-PUFA (EPA, DPA and DHA). Almost twofold increase of n-3 family acids occurred, while n-6/n-3 ratio was limited. The influence of KR-M in backfat was demonstrated by statistically significant (p<0.05) decrease of MUFA content, while PUFA increased, including L-PUFA (DPA and DHA). Over twofold increase of n-3 family acids occurred, while n-6/n-3 ratio was limited. The profile of backfat fatty acids was distinctly different than in liver; there were 9 acids more in this organ, and PUFA content was twofold higher. A more advantageous fatty acids’ profile in the experimental groups can be explained by the influence of fish oil and, possibly, the carriers applied (humins, aluminosilicates).

The paper gives a focus on the problem of acoustic waves reflection from a layer of varying density situated between two homogeneous materials. Presented results illustrate the dependence of reflection and transition coefficients on frequency and on the structure of the transition layer.

Organic matter from ectohumus horizons of soils under Norway spruce stands may be divided into two parts: (1) able to absorb such an amount of water that its weight by volume together with absorbed water is over 1 Mg·m^-3, and (2) unable to attain such absorption. In the litter horizon (Ol) and fermentation horizon (Of) the mean time of water absorption by organic matter, able to attain its assumed level, depended on the development phase of a Norway spruce stand. Organic matter taken from soils under stands of age classes I and II turned out to have the best water absorption properties. The assumed water absorption was attained by organic matter in the shortest time in the following cases: in the litter horizon (Ol) from under the 35-year-old stand, in the fermentation horizon (Of) from under the 14-year-old stand, and in the humification horizon (Oh) from under the 21-year-old stand. Ranges of the mean time of water absorption were: for the litter horizon (Ol) from 1.66 to 4.14 days, for the fermentation horizon (Of) from 0.79 to 3.12 days, and for the humification horizon (Oh) from 0.63 to 1.19 days. The relationship between the percentage of organic particles, unable to attain the assumed water absorption, and the stand age in the litter horizon (Ol) was similar to that of the fermentation horizon (Of). The matter taken from the youngest stands, i.e. 14-28 years of age, was characterized by the smallest amount of organic particles unable to attain the assumed water absorption. The amount of these particles expressed in per cent of sample’s total weight was: in the litter horizon (Ol) from 1.55 to 16.16%, in the fermentation horizon (Of) from 5.72 to 26.50%, and in the humification horizon (Oh) from 0.27 to 3.36%. Water properties of organic matter in the litter (Ol) and fermentation (Of) horizons were significantly correlated with the index of the degree of decomposition expressed by the ratio between nitrogen and carbon – (N/C) 1000. No such relationship was found in the humification horizon. This study is of a practical importance for forest hydrology.

In the present paper the influence of glycerol and water addition to potato starch during thermo-mechanical treatment was observed. The shearing-heating treatment was realised on the new designed equipment – Shear Cell – based on the cone and plate rheometer device. The measurement of rheological changes during processing showed that water and glycerol addition lowered the shear stress and the shear rate values. Also the influence on intrinsic viscosity was observed: higher level of water and glycerol added, the lower values of intrinsic viscosity was observed. Microstructure changes during processing confirming these results.

The paper presents characteristics of non-agricultural economic activities run by rural families in Poland in years of 1996–2000. The identification of particular forms of activities showed that they were often treated as additional activities and were not registered. Only 61% of respondents started running their enterprises after its registration in economic activity register. Moreover, selected factors deciding on setting up non-agricultural activity and possibilities of its further development were emphasized. Increase of the activity importance in creation of questioned farms general income was stressed as essential as well. Furthermore, impact of non-agricultural activity on the farms and their environment was defined, presenting rural areas development opportunities according to the activity.

Germination of sesame seeds was used to activate endogenous phytate-degrading enzymes that were expected to dephosphorylate phytate into lower myo-inositol phosphates. Effects of germination were related to the activity of endogenous phytase, chemical composition of seeds and in vitro digestibility of nutrients, as well as phosphorus and calcium metabolic balance and lipid composition in the plasma of rats. The activity of sesame phytase grew from 1.4 FTU/g in raw seeds to 5.0 FTU/g after 36 hours of germination at 30°C and pH 5.5, but only minor changes in the profile of myo-inositol phosphates in germinated seeds were observed. In spite of limited phytate hydrolysis, germination improved in vitro digestibility of phosphorus, calcium, magnesium and carbohydrates, but did not influence digestibility of protein. In rats, germination improved feed intake and feed efficiency (p<0.01), improved HDL/total cholesterol ratio (p<0.05) and lowered concentration of plasma triacyloglicerols p<0.05).

The aim of the present study was to characterise the ultrastructural changes present in canine spermatozoa after freezing-thawing with the use of extender with addition of surface active agent Equex STM. The experiment was carried out on 10 ejaculates collected from 5 dogs of various breeds. Semen was extended in Tris–based diluent with addition of Equex STM. Glycerolisation started at 5°C. Semen was frozen in 0.5 ml French straws. Results of microscopical examination of frozen-thawed spermatozoa seemed to be excellent. Microscopically assessed post-thaw percentage of progressively motile spermatozoa, percentage of spermatozoa with normal morphology, percentage of cells with intact acrosome and proportion of live spermatozoa after thawing were 60.5 ±4.4, 62.1 ±6.8, 67.7 ±4.8 and 62.6 ±7.7, respectively. Transmission electron microscopic examination of frozen–thawed semen revealed major changes in the morphology of spermatozoa localised predominantly within the acrosome and postacrosomal region of a head. In many cells the acrosome and equatorial segment of a spermatozoal head were damaged. The most common alterations seen in frozen–thawed dog spermatozoa were due to the process of false acrosome reaction. Several degrees of false acrosome reaction were observed: swelling of acrosomes, vesiculation of outer acrosomal membrane and plasma membrane, and complete detachment of the acrosome. The degree and character of deterioration of the acrosome structure of cryopreserved dog spermatozoa extended in Tris–based and Equex STM–supplemented diluent is similar to ultrastructural changes observed in spermatozoa cryopreserved in other Tris extenders without surface–active agent addition.

The paper has been aimed at assessing agroecological impact of precipitation observed in years anomalous with regard to its amount, in particular the impact of precipitation deficiency and excess. The analysis performed on the ecological and economic impact data reported by agricultural correspondents proved that months can be divided into month of deficient, adequate (optimal), and excessive precipitation. Regardless the differences between individual months and diversity of the territory it was shown that according to agricultural and ecological criteria the optimal precipitation varies within the limits 79-125% of the standard. The upper limit for optimal precipitation, i.e. 125% of the standard is the same as the upper limit for average precipitation by Kaczorowska [1]. The observed increase in air temperature of about 0.5 °C over the studied period resulted in optimal monthly precipitation increased of about 3 mm on average.

Rye hybrids were proved to be a very good raw-material for ethanol production, as good as a regular variety. The most profound difference found in chemical composition of hybrids and a regular variety was higher level of pentosanes, reaching from 7.6 to 9.2% of dry matter. Applying hemicellulase enzyme in the mashing process as the additional enzyme is particularly reasonable for rye hybrids. Taking into account higher productivity of hybrid varieties, the ethanol yield from hectare of land might be up to 40% higher in comparison with a regular rye grain.

Plates resting on a subsoil are often met in constructions of the civil engineering. The main aim of the paper is twofold. Firstly, to propose a new averaged model of medium thickness plates resting on a periodic Winkler’s 3D subsoil, based on the non-asymptotic tolerance averaging technique, cf. Wozniak and Wierzbicki [19]. The main feature of the model is that it describes the effect of period lengths on the overall behaviour of the plate. Secondly, to apply the non-asymptotic model to analyse free vibrations of a plate strip on a periodic subsoil and show that the aforementioned effect plays a crucial role in dynamic problems.

Food habits are created under the influence of many external and internal factors, which are friendly for habits or limit them. In the paper food habits refer to preparing and taking meals among Poznan inhabitants. It is showed that the most important factors, which influence meals preparation, are associated with food products attributes, including healthful and nutrition values, next consumer’s preferences and also easiness and fastness of preparing meals for eating. One paid attention to time value for consumer, alternative costs, and consumer’s social and economic profile, which significantly affect organization of household’s activities. Changing styles of consumers’ life involve the change and differentiation of their food habits. There are, among the other, tradition to common consuming of main meals among the considerable group of inhabitants of Poznan, and also the increasing popularity of consumption, mainly lunch or dinner away from home particularly among younger or working household members. Characterized habits of preparing and taking meals in households served to carry out the segmentation. As criteria of carried out a priori segmentation were accepted the following factors: factors taken into consideration when composing the dietary model and the time value for members of the household. There were obtained five segments considering criteria taken into consideration when preparing meals. The segment turned out to be most numerous Traditionally Organized (28%), the least numerous Rushed – People in the way (17%) and The Others (15%).

The dimensions of fan spray nozzle tips have been determined before and after a wear test of fifty-hour by a measuring microscope. The design, nominal capacity, and the material have influenced the dimensional change of the tips through wear. The percentage increase of the characteristic dimensions, the quotients of minor/major axis and the area of nozzle tip orifices were determined. The regression diagrams and equations of the dimensional changes vs. nominal capacity were worked out. It has been found that the percentage of dimensional changes of Standard Flat Spray Tip types is less than the dimensional changes of Extended Range Flat Spray Tip types.

In the paper there was presented functioning of hormesis phenomenon, which is understood as stimulating effect on living organisms of low doses of substances, which are growth inhibitors in higher doses. It was pointed out that the law of diminishing returns is a consequence of hormesis phenomenon.

This work covers the three years of observations on the species composition of thrips on the white cabbage, the periods of occurrence of the particulars species of thrips and their numerousness. Among the found species, the most numerous over all years of observations was Thrips tabaci Lindeman. Its percentage participation in the collected material was from 76.4% in 2003 to 95.9% in 2001 and because of this, it can be qualified to the group of eudominants. In 2002-2003, very numerous Anaphothrips obscurus Müller and Frankliniella intonsa (Trybom) were found. These species constituted 6.9% of collected thrips in 2002 and 16.5% in 2003. Other species were rarely observed: Aeolothrips intermedius Bagnall, Frankliniella pallida (Uzel), Thrips major Uzel, Thrips atratus Haliday, Thrips fuscipennis Haliday, Limothrips denticornis Haliday and Chirothrips manicatus Haliday.

20 cats of both gender, different age and breed were investigated. Animals which had clinical symptoms like: anorexia, rapid weight loss and jaundice were included in the clinical group. Additionally, hepatomegaly was confirmed in all cats by palpation. The following hematological and blood serum laboratory tests were conducted: WBC, differential white blood cells count, Ht, Hb, RBC, MCHC, MCV, serum concentrations of urea, creatinine, bilirubin, glucose and fructozamine, enzyme activities of Lipase, AlAT, AspAT, GGT, AP and electrolyte concentrations: Na⁺, K⁺, Cl^-. In animals designated blood clotting tests were performed: APTT, PT, TZ, thrombocytes and clotting time.

In the results distinct elevation of AlAT, GGT and AP activity and bilirubin concentration in serum were observed. Ultrasonographic (USG) evaluation revealed generalized hyperechocity of the liver. The above results together with clinical observations led to an initial diagnosis of primary liver disease in these animals. For specific diagnosis Fine Needle Aspiration (FNA) of the liver was performed. Histological evaluation of aspirated hepatic tissue revealed 10 cases of hepatic lipidosis, 2 cases of lymphoma and 2 cases of cholangiohepatitis. In 6 cases a definite and final diagnosis could not be reached, since either normal cytological structure of the liver or cellular atypia were found.

FNA was found to be an effective (70%), safe and easy to perform diagnostic method in liver diseases, particularly in cases of primary generalized liver disease in cats.

Substitution of meat with a protein preparation introduces to the product flavour intrinsic for the additive and results in a decreased amount of meat flavour precursors. The degree of observed changes in the quality of the finished product depends primarily on the amounts and type of added preparation. Although several substances may be used to improve the taste and aroma of protein preparations or products obtained with their use, herbs are found least objectionable from the consumer point of view. In the presented study a mixture of lovage roots, dried garlic and marjoram at the 1.5 : 1.0 : 4.0 ratio was used to mask the odour of dried blood plasma used to produce wiener type sausage. After aromatization and colouring of sausages with cured blood added (0.9%), sensory quality of this sausage improved on average by 0.7 points (in a 5-point scale). Sausage produced with no blood plasma added received the score of 4.5 points, whereas sausage with unmodified plasma added received 3.6 points. Aromatized and coloured sausage, which scored 4.3 points, was not different in terms of consumer traits from sausage produced with no additives.

Disemicarbazone and dihydrazone of dialdehyde starch were efficient ligands for metal ions. They immobilized heavy metal ions in contaminated soils as assessed based on bioaccumulation of Zn, Pb(II), Cu(II), Cd, and Ni(II) in maize grown in soil polluted with those metals. Heavy metal ions in soil drastically decreased the yield of tested crop. Dialdehyde starch dihydrazone and dialdehyde starch disemicarbazone applied to polluted soil, considerably protected maize from the effect of heavy metals by their immobilization. Concentration of heavy metals in green parts and roots of maize was significantly reduced. In aerial parts of the plant, particularly, uptake of Cd and Ni(II) ions was strongly inhibited whereas in roots, the derivatives offered better uptake control for Cu(II) and Pb(II) ions than for the other metal ions. Starch dialdehyde dihydrazone was more efficient immobilizer than corresponding disemicarbazone.

Out of agricultural and horticultural magazines edited on the Polish market, in which vegetable crops has been a dominating subject, Hasło Ogrodnicze (HO) and Owoce Warzywa Kwiaty (OWK) were selected. When selecting a magazine, the criteria of presence on the market, number of copies and topics, were taken under consideration. In the selected magazines, in the years 2001-2003, the monthly pattern of number and size of advertising spots and articles of seed companies was investigated. It was found out that both number and size of the advertising had a seasonal pattern and was related with the time of selling seeds and the time of the International Agro-horticultural Fair “POLAGRA”. The pattern was also affected by public relations activities undertaken by the biggest foreign companies and their representatives.

The problem of non-linear heat flow in solids at large temperature changes and variable material properties is considered in this paper. The equation of heat conduction has been formulated and then – the equations of the finite elements method in the two versions: non-incremental and incremental have been derived.

Airflow resistance of grains and oilseeds has been extensively studied. Traditionally the data has been presented assuming that airflow resistance is independent of grain depth. Grain undergoes compaction during storage that changes the porosity and airflow resistance. A study was conducted to estimate the degree of influence of filling method and grain moisture content on the airflow resistance of wheat column 0.95 m high and 0.196 m in diameter. Both the fill method and grain moisture content were found to influence the airflow resistance. Gravitational axial filling of the grain column resulted in an uneven distribution of airflow resistance along the height of the column.

Ergun’s equation was used to model experimental relationships between airflow resistance and air velocity. Results suggested that the equation with appropriate coefficients is capable to model the process adequately, and could be utilized for the design and analysis of grain aeration systems.

The research was conducted for the Heifer Project International (HPI) Foundation – a non-government organization that supports development of small family farms. From August till October 2004 participants of twelve HPI projects from seven provinces filled in the questionnaire, which aimed at getting to know women’s and men’s situation as far as family and professional duties are concerned, and also when it comes to their involvement in social activities.

In the last decade or two the phenomenon commonly known as the “glass transition” has become a topic of considerable interest in a wide range of scientific disciplines, ranging from biology to theoretical physics. In spite of this, there still appears to be a fairly widespread lack of understanding of the nature of the glass transition. This may be due in large part to the fact that the term “glass transition” is something of a misnomer, bringing to mind first order thermodynamic transitions such as the freezing of a liquid to form a crystal. In reality the glass transition is totally kinetic in nature and is due to the inability of the local structure of a liquid to equilibrate on an experimental timescale at low temperatures and high viscosities. The phenomenology and relaxational character of the glass transition will be described and discussed. Also discussed will be the interpretation of techniques, such as differential scanning calorimetry, commonly used to characterize the glass transition.

Microbial 3-phytase A at seven activity levels ranging from 0 to 5000 FTU/kg was tested as a breadmaking additive in baking of wholemeal wheat breads. No consistent relationships between levels of 3-phytase A and bread weights, bread volumes, baking yield or total baking loss were found. There were no effects of the enzyme addition on bread moisture. The enzyme significantly improved firmness (p<0.001) and chewiness (p<0.001) of fresh breads in a dose-depended manner. The improvements in texture over control breads were preserved during 3 days of storage. 3-Phytase A at 5000 FTU/kg increased bread volume by 11 % and in vitro digestibilities of phosphorus, calcium, carbohydrates, and protein by 45, 16, 11, and 56%, respectively. In control breads, phytate content of the wholemeal wheat flour was reduced by 51%. The extend of the subsequent loss of phytate in breads supplemented with 3-phytase A was reciprocally related to the enzyme activity applied (R²= 0.975; p<0.001) and reached 92% in breads supplemented with 5000 FTU/kg. Myo-inositol pentaphosphates (IP5) concentrations in control breads and in breads baked with 3-phytase A at 30-1000 FTU/kg were 5 fold higher than in flour whereas in breads baked with the enzyme at 5000 FTU/kg no IP5 were found.

We report results presenting average life-span of two dog breeds: long coated dachshunds (average life-span 13.11 years) and rough coated dachshunds (average life-span 12.11 years). Also we describe relationship between life-span and inbreed level. Dogs were divided into two groups: experimental (inbreeded) and control. Long coated dachshunds from experimental group (with average inbreed level = 5.62%) were living on average 13.06 years. Rough coated dachshunds from experimental group (average inbreed level = 5.62%) were living on average 11.24 years. Average inbreed level within all long coated dachshund carried out 3.54 % while within rough coated 1.82%. Both differences between life-span among breeds and groups inside breeds were statistically significant. Furthermore interaction between sex and inbreeding level also had crucial influence on life span of both breeds.

Microbial 3- and 6-phytases A at 5000 FTU/kg, and their combinations with phytase B at 30 AcPU/g, were tested as breadmaking improvers in baking of wholemeal rye breads. Both phytases A increased bread volumes and the subsequent addition of phytase B amplified the effect. 6-Phytase A alone, and, especially in combination with phytase B, significantly reduced crumb firmness and chewiness. The improvements in texture were preserved during 3 days of storage. 6-Phytase A, but not 3-phytase A, reduced fat content of breads by more than 50 %, and slightly decreased protein concentration. In breads supplemented with 0.2% of myo-inositol, similar, although less pronounced, changes in fat and protein content were observed.

The small (7 ha) and deep (23 m) Lake Starodworskie in Olsztyn, with restricted water dynamics, is an object that was already used a few times for restoration experiments.

In 1967–68, 1972–74 and 1986–87 the lake was artificially aerated with thermal destratification, in 1988–89 it was aerated without the thermal stratification destruction, in 1994 and 1995 phosphorus was inactivated in the lake, using aluminium sulfate. This paper investigates into the effects of restoration, especially of introduction of many tonnes of chemicals, on the bottom sediments and inhibition of P internal loading.

Sampling station 1, located in the shallowest part of the lake, was characteristic of good oxygen conditions, highest content of silica and lowest content of other measured parameters. The highest concentrations of organic matter, aluminium, iron, calcium and phosphorus were not found in the deepest spot but on sampling station 2. Assumingly, it was caused by the artificial aeration and the aerator’s placement over the deepest spot, and by the deposits replacement to the shallower bottom areas.

Significant correlations were determined between organic matter content and calcium (r = 0.813) and phosphorus (r = 0.997). Additionally determined were the correlations between Al-PO₄ and aluminium (r = 0.575), organic matter (r = 0.923) and total P (r = 0.696). There is also a significant correlation between the content of Al-PO₄ in the bottom sediments and phosphorus concentration in the interstitial waters (r = 0.798).

In the sediment cores, sampled from the area subjected to the inactivation experiment, the layer of aluminium hydroxide formed during the treatment was still observable. The sediments of approximately 4 cm, deposited on top, were created during the 7 years after the restoration. Since the layer of hydroxide makes up a physical barrier inhibiting phosphorus release, the process can occur only from fresh sediments.

The studies were conducted in the years 2001-2003 in four sites of the green area of Lublin. The following roses were chosen in each site: park rose ‘Grandhotel’ cv., border roses of various cultivars, rugosa rose and multiflorous rose. The purpose of the studies was to establish and compare the species composition and the aphids number colonizing roses which belong to different utility groups. Ten aphid species were found as a result of the studies. The presence of 9 species was observed on park rose ‘Grandhotel’, 7 species – on border rose of various cultivars, 5 species – on rugosa rose and 4 species – on multiflorous rose. The presence of Macrosiphum rosae and Metopolophium dirhodum was observed in each studied year on roses from each group. The highest number of aphids was observed on rugosa rose, and the lowest on multiflorous rose. Aphid Chaetosiphon tetrarhodus dominated on rugosa rose, while M. rosae – on the other roses. Park rose was most willingly colonized by aphid species, while multiflorous rose was the least attractive as the host plant.

The paper presents an analysis of the utilisation support by the organic farmers in the EU countries based on the data originating from the elaborations of the European Commission in years 1993-2001. Partial data concerning this kind of farming in Central-East countries were shown. The support related to quantitative changes, which occurred in organic countries of those countries.

Nutrient digestibility in rye breads baked with the addition of microbial 3- and 6-phytases A at 5000 FTU/kg, and their combinations with phytase B at 30 AcPU/g, were evaluated in vitro and in growing rats. In comparison to rye flour, phytate content in the control bread, bread baked with 3-phytase A, and bread baked with 6-phytase A, was reduced by 91, 91, and 98 %, respectively. 3-Phytase A enhanced phosphorus retention and metabolic balances in rats and exerted detrimental effects on metabolic parameters of calcium. The effect was stimulated by a subsequent addition of phytase B. The opposite was true for 6-phytase A that repressed phosphorus and preserved calcium metabolic balances in rats. As compared to rats fed control breads, improved HDL/TC ratios were found in plasma of animals that consumed breads prepared with 3- or 6- phytase A, or with 6-phytase A and phytase B. Rats fed breads supplemented with 6-phytase A and phytase B had lowered contents of total lipids, triacyloglicerols, and total cholesterol in sera. Microbial phytases, and particularly 6-phytase A and phytase B, open new perspectives in applications of biocatalysts in baking.

The paper presents different aspects of life quality perception. The quantitative and qualitative approaches have been presented. Main differences of life quality perception referring to the households in the city and in the rural areas have been shown. The author also described the Japanese “5 S” concept and the so-called “Quality circles”. The main aim of the paper was to show (using different approaches of qualitative, as well as quantitative character) how life quality may be perceived in comparison to the standard of living. Presenting life quality in a household the author stressed the role of the following factors: human factor, material factor and socio-economic activity factor. The sense of the Japanese 5 S concept was to underline the Far East philosophy of life, where the man involved in activity, improves all aspects of life according to the feedback rule, i.e. restlessly.

Mixing granular materials has a signficant importance in a lot of industrial branches such as food and agricultural ones. For that reason, it is of extreme importance to get to know the phenomena determining this prcoess. Mixing non-uniform, two-component grnaular structures is a complex phenomenon with a number of factors affecting its course. Obtaining a uniform mixture is dependent on the properties of the elements, type of the mixer as well as the conditions in which the process takes place.

The granular structure used in the studies was that of lead – mustard with the relation of diameters d₁/d₂ = 1.55 and the relation of density ρ₁/ρ₂ = 8.25. The proportion of volume was 1:9. The components were mixed using the funnel-flow method in a laboratory model of flow mixer. The focus of interest was distribution of tracer (lead) on the surface of particular cross-sections of the mixer obtained by means of successive flows.

The first step in estimating the randomness of the quality of the tracer was to use a computer image analysis. An analysing program PATAN was used to this aim, on the basis of which the coefficients of the location of the tracer’s grains were determined on the surface of the container’s segments. The coefficients were next used to analyze the spatial distribution given in program S-PLUS. The estimation of the randomness of distribution of a two-component granular mixture was performed on the basis of geostatic function G(y) and Monte Carlo method.

The paper attempts to adapt these methods in the estimation of the share of randomness of the tracer’s distribution. All photographed cross-sections were subjected to analysis. The method based on geostatic function G(y) used for the estimation of relations between the points is based on the distance to the closest neighbour. Monte Carlo method was used paralelly. After a simulation of the coefficients of the tracer’s location and with a definite number of simulations, two lines of reference were obtained: maximum and minimum ones, which were then compared with the line formed on the basis of empirical data. Basing on the suggested statistical method, the purpose of the studies was to determine whether the mixing process is dependent on the properties of the mixed materials or it is a purely random process where the movement of grains is only accidental.

It was found out that for the studied structure this process is mainly dependent on the properties of the components. This is testified to by the graphds obtained by means of function G(y) and Monte Carlo method. However, one should not neglect random events in the movement of grains, which is shown in the limits.

Food habits are the result of reaction, social relationship and individual preferences. When only Polish’s diet changes unceasingly, the processes of globalization proceed also and the growth of income per capital follows then the individual food habits are changing. In this article, food habits were considered in aspect of frequency and time the consumption of individual groups of food products, drinks and the degree of interest the cuisines of world. It was showed that social – economical attributes, such sex, age, domicile, size of household, level of educations, income and source of maintenance, which in essential prepare their food habits differentiate.

Effects of fat replacement by inulin on the release of carvone and limonene from a model mixture were studied in relation to the fat component concentration and the flavouring form used (natural caraway flavouring or crushed seeds of caraway, Carum carvi (L.)). The static headspace analysis applied to the model mixture showed the amounts of carvone and limonene, the major caraway seed volatile flavour compounds released from the model mixture, to be rapidly diminishing with increased oil content in the fat component, the effect being particularly noticeable within the 1 to 10%, concentration range, regardless of the flavouring form used. Replacement of the maximum of 30 and 50% of oil with inulin, i.e., 3 and 5% inulin concentration, respectively, in an oil – water mixture resulted in an almost unchanged amount of caraway flavour released to the model mixture headspace, compared to the inulin-free sample. It was only when 80% of oil were replaced by inulin that volatility of carvone and limonene was observed to increase, the increase averaging about 30% in those mixtures with 10% equivalent of fat component concentration, and showed a slight dependence on the flavouring form used. As shown by the sensory analysis, inulin replacing 80 and 100% of oil shifted the model mixture flavour, rendering the flavour of a substance inulin was derived from more perceptible, particularly in samples with 20 and 40% equivalent of fat component concentrations.

The paper contains the concept of strategic segmentation decisions on food market in Poland. Criteria of segmentation variable selection on food market and methods of research in this range were formulated. In addition, the hierarchy of segmentation criteria for selected product markets in dependences on degree of market saturation and product specific were established. These activities determine the base of the choice of market segments. Proposed diagnosis determines the base of decision undertaking in selection range and differentiating of marketing tools by food industry companies.

The paper presents results of studies on the changes of physical properties of yellow lupine seeds, Radames cv. under the effect of hydration. The dynamics of changes of the water content in lupine seeds depending on the time of their hydration varied; in the first phase of the process a very fast increase of the water content in the seeds was observed, in the second the rate of water absorption decreased, while in the third the seeds achieved full capacity of hydration. Peleg’s model was applied for the mathematical description of the phenomenon. Intensive absorption of the water by lupine seeds was manifested by their increased size. The studies found out a 72% increase of the seeds’ width, a 45% increase of the thickness and a 46.2% increase of the length. The effect of hydration was lowered resistance of lupine seeds to pressing, especially visible for the first 2 hours of the process. A further increase of the hydration time did not cause any significant changes of this volume.

The paper presents analysis of connections between effectiveness and financial situation of private farms and agricultural land area (AL). Farms of the largest area had the lowest land profitability than the smallest farms. However, these differences had significantly changed. In accordance to economic labour effectiveness, the largest farms dominated absolutely on smaller farms. Moreover, these farms had the largest current financial liquidity, which was the lowest in the smallest farms. According to own capital profitability there were no fundamental dependencies between area’s groups of farms. Possibilities of taking profits from own capital were not fundamentally dependent on AL area of a farm. According to dues management, there were no essential differences between farms, and period of the rotation did not exceed three weeks. Good financial situation of the farms was confirmed by low rate of general debts. Financial situation of the largest farms was significantly improved by the lowest amount of financial means frozen in stocks in relation to AL area.

The paper presents results of research into co-operative banks and of a survey on rural households. The aim of the survey carried out in 2002–2003 was to look into problems of financing rural society as well as into incomes and social situation of rural households in Lublin region. Authors focus on the role of co-operative banks as financial institutions servicing local societies in rural areas.

Oxidation is one of the most frequently applied methods of chemical modification of starch.The process of starch oxidation can take place in different ways depending on the applied oxidation agent such as: hypochlorite sodium, hypochlorite potassium, hydrogen peroxide, potassium permanganate, periodate. An attempt to oxidize starch was made using: air, oxygen, ozone and the transition metals from VIII series.

The aim of our work was to obtained potato starch oxidized by air over Zn (II) catalyst and to analyze the selected physico-chemical properties of the obtained oxidized starches.

The oxidation process leads to a decrease in the amount of phosphorus and linear fraction–amylose in the starch. The result of the oxidation process is an increase in the number of carboxylic and carbonyl groups with a clear preference of forming those latter. The oxidized starches over catalyst are characterized by lower max viscosity in comparison to the native starch, which results from starch depolymerization during the reaction of oxidation. It is evident by a big number of the carbonyl groups. Paste stability at the temperature of 96ºC prepared from oxidized starches, in comparison to paste made from native starch is many times bigger thanks to the presence of the carboxylic and carbonyl groups in these starches.

The impact of a motorway under construction on arable lands was assessed on an approximately 30 km long section of the planned ‘A-4’ motorway located between the two towns: Brzesko and Tarnów. The motorway section in question runs across 15 villages. In the villages investigated, the drop in the market value of lands resulting from the motorway project, and expressed per one kilometre of this motorway, varies from 300 to 3.000 crop units per 1 km; it depends mainly on the quality of arable lands and frequency of their occurrence. In cases where the motorway runs exclusively across arable lands, this drop equals a value of a strip of lost land the width of which ranges from 165 to 187 m, and this width exceeds the average motorway width by almost twice. The percentage rate (distribution) of individual problems on the total impact of motorway on arable lands, as studied herein, is as follows: repurchase and adoption of lands for the motorway route: 40 do 60%; quality reduction of lands in the vicinity of the motorway: 20 do 40%; spatial arrangement deterioration of fields and plots: 15 to 20%; and distance increase in access to arable lands: 1 to 5%.