2025

Selle valdkonna püsiv URIhttp://hdl.handle.net/10492/10054

Sirvi

Nüüd näidatakse 1 - 20 104

Preliminary study of microplastics in bottled and tap water in Estonia
(Estonian University of Life Sciences, 2024) Meitern, Annika Joy; Neilant, Keith; Raamets, Jane
Microplastics (MPs) are a growing environmental concern due to their widespread occurrence and potential harmful impacts on ecosystems and public health. This preliminary study -assesses the prevalence of MPs in bottled and tap water in Estonia and reviews related research in the field. The study aimed to evaluate the occurrence of MPs and understand the potential influence of the water source and packaging material on water properties. The study encompassed 12 different bottled water products from 9 Estonian brands and tap water samples from Tallinn and Tartu. All the tested water samples contained MPs, predominantly fibers, with blue and transparent being the most common colors. The packaging material, bottle caps, or the water source did not influence the number of MPs found in bottled water. Interestingly, water packaged in glass bottles contained a higher count of MPs than in plastic bottles and tap water. The study underscores the need for further research to determine the sources of contamination.
Peculiarities of soybean growth and development on gray forest soils
(Estonian University of Life Sciences, 2025) Didur, I.; Pantsyreva, H.
The scientific and experimental five-year study highlighted the detailed development of technological techniques for growing soybeans under different hydrothermal growing conditions on gray forest soils. The conducted experimental studies established that under the influence of climatic factors, the duration of the growing season of soybean plants changes, and these factors, as a result, affect the field germination, the conservation factor and, as a result, the yield of plants. It has also been proven that during the ontogenesis of the plant, there are natural changes in linear dimensions depending on varietal characteristics, weather conditions and factors that were investigated. On average, over the years of research, the length of the soybean vegetation period ranged from 110 to 118 days, while the longest vegetation period was recorded on the experimental variants, where seeds were inoculated with the BTU Bioinoculant preparation and two foliar feedings were carried out in phase 3 – the third leaf and budding Helprost soybean. Starting from the flowering phase, soybean plants reacted more intensively to the studied factors. On the options where foliar fertilizing was carried out with Helprost soy mineral fertilizer (2.5 L ha-1) against the background of inoculation with BTU Bioinoculant (2 L t-1), the flowering period lasted 28 ± 3.6 days, which is 3 days more compared to with areas where foliar fertilization was not carried out and for 6 days – compared to the control. This is explained by the influence of a number of factors, in particular, hydrothermal, biotic, soil and anthropogenic. During the period of full ripeness, in connection with the action caused by pests and diseases, certain technological techniques and factors that were put to study, the density of plants according to the experimental options was from 488 ± 28.3 to 552 ± 34.5 thousand ha-1.
Evaluation of grain morphometry and gliadin diversity among twenty accessions of the genus Aegilops from the National collection of Bulgaria
(Estonian University of Life Sciences, 2025) Desheva, G.; Petrović, G.; Valchinova, E.; Deshev, M.; Kyosev, B.; Pencheva, A.
The objective of the study was to evaluate the genetic diversity in twenty Aegilops accessions belonging to five plant species with respect to specific grain morphometric parameters and gliadin proteins, employing digital image analysis and A-PAGE electrophoresis. The considerable variation was observed among accessions for grain morphometric traits - area, perimeter, length, width and colour of grain. A total of 96 gliadin polymorphic bands were identified, with the number of bands varying between 13 and 22 per accession. The overall genetic diversity in the samples based on the patterns observed for each of the four gliadin regions showed that the ω, γ and β regions had high genetic variation index (H = 0.950), while α regions (H = 0.938), respectively. The mean genetic diversity estimate was high (H = 0.947). The average genetic similarity between all 20 genotypes ranges from 0.14 to 0.93 with a mean of 0.56, indicating that the studied accessions exhibited considerable genetic variability. The study found that the clustering of Aegilops genotypes was not linked to their geographic origin. Two-dimensional Principal Coordinates Analysis (PCoA) based on the gliadin and morphometric analyses revealed wide genetic dissimilarity between most of the genotypes, explaining 97.16% of the variations, with the model explaining 97.16% of the observed variation. Of this, PCo1 accounted for 93.65% and PCo2 for 3.51%. Genotypes with analogous genomes were grouped in close proximity within the phylogenetic tree, indicating that their evolutionary relationships may have originated from the same parental lineage.
Effect of using Pseudomonas fluorescens bacteria, Glomus mosseae fungus and liquid organic fertilizer on soil available nitrogen and phosphorus and some characteristics of fenugreek (Trigonella foenum graecum L.) and choline seed content
(Estonian University of Life Sciences, 2025) Al-Silmawy, N.A.; Abd, E.H.; Shahad, R.F.; Mohammed, R.J.
A factorial pot experiment was conducted during the fall season of 2023–2024 in the fields of the College of Agriculture/University of Wasit, according to a randomized complete block design (RCBD) with three factors and three replicates. The first factor is the bacterial inoculum Pseudomonas fluorescens at two levels (addition B1 and without addition B0), the second factor is the fungal fertilizer Glomus mosseae at two levels (addition M1 and without addition M0), and the third factor is the liquid organic fertilizer at two levels as well (addition O1 and without addition O0) added in two batches, thus we have eight treatments with three replicates so that the number of experimental units is 24 experimental units (pots). Available nitrogen and phosphorus in the soil, plant height, number of branches, number of pods, number of seeds per pod, seed content of active substance choline, and biological yield were measured. The triple interaction treatment of the three factors (B1M1O1) gave the best results for the mentioned traits, followed by the dual interaction treatment between bacteria and fungi (B1M1), then the dual interaction treatments between bacteria and liquid organic fertilizer B1O1 and between fungi and liquid organic fertilizer M1O1, then the single treatments B1, M1, and O1, and finally the control treatment without additives (B0M0O0), which gave the lowest results. The mycorrhizal reliability was calculated for each of the plant heights, number of pods, and biological yield and was 22.2, 68.25, and 33.00%, respectively.
Constructive solution of battery swapping unit in service station for unmanned agricultural robot
(Estonian University of Life Sciences, 2025) Jevtuševski, Andrei; Ihnatiev, Yevhen; Lillerand, Tormi; Virro, Indrek; Olt, Jüri; Estonian University of Life Sciences. Institute of Technology. Chair of Biosystems Engineering
The fully automated battery swapping unit is an essential part of unmanned agricultural robot service, ensuring the continuous operation of the robot by allowing the agricultural vehicle to replace its depleted battery with a fully charged one without human intervention, enabling it to continue its work cycle in the field. Thus, the battery swapping unit is part of service station systems, along with fertilizer filling, water supply, energy generation, and storage systems. This article describes a unique prototype of a battery swapping unit that safely replaces a depleted battery with a fully charged one in 223.5 seconds. The main role is played by the moving battery cart, which transports the battery between the charging and robot positions using a gripper equipped with an electric lock, attached to the actuator, and a V-belt transmission driven by an electric motor. The selection of the optimal rotation frequency of the motor is also discussed in this article.
Optimisation of dairy farming in Ukraine: Integrating modern information technologies for genetic improvement and sustainable herd management
(Estonian University of Life Sciences, 2025) Matvieiev, M.; Getya, A.; Nehrey, M.; Yakubets, T.; Ruban, S.; Nazarko, O.; Borshch, O.O.; Lastovska, I.; Baban, V.; Mashkin, Yu.
The dynamic nature of the Ukrainian dairy sector requires the integration of modern information technology solutions for the judicious selection of economically viable animals, with a focus on genetic improvement through a comprehensive breeding index. However, the absence of a centralized data repository makes it impossible to calculate the breeding value of animals, does not contribute to making appropriate management decisions and thus does not help to improve the economic well-being of the farm. Farm software plays a key role in filling such a database. In Ukraine, there is a large number of software programs of various producers, including Ukrainian ones, which allow farms to organize correct recording and ensure the filling of the database. However, this diversity is often accompanied by the incompatibility of programs and the inability to combine the data registered by different programs. The study underlines the need for comprehensive improvements in the system of cow breeding using data from dairy farm software, especially in response to the growing trend towards automation.
Qualitative assessment of beach wrack and the influence of pretreatment methods on fuel characterization for energy production
(Estonian University of Life Sciences, 2025) Mencarelli, A.; Greco, R.; Grigolato, S.
The accumulation of beach wracks poses significant challenges to coastal management, particularly in tourist areas, affecting environmental quality and aesthetics. This study explores the qualitative characteristics of beach wrack as a biofuel source for combustion appliances. Samples collected from beaches in Veneto, Italy, were analyzed according to EN ISO standards for solid biofuels. Proximate and ultimate analysis, heating value, and ash melting behaviour were determined. Raw samples (BW-R) exhibited high moisture content (77%), a substantial ash content (44%), and low heating value (10.7 MJ kg-1), making them unsuitable for direct energy applications. Pretreatments were performed to enhance the properties of the material. One portion was mechanically sieved (BW-S) to remove sand, while another was sieved and washed (BWSW) to remove the remaining salt and sand. Sieving reduced the ash content to 24% and increased the heating value to 15.3 MJ kg-1. The key improvements came from washing and sieving, which lowered ash content to 13% and increased heating value to 18.1 MJ kg-1. Washing also raised the ash deformation temperature to 1,290 °C, enhancing thermal stability. Pretreatments increased C and H content while reducing S and O, with no significant change in N. Due to high ash content, mixing with sawdust was necessary, resulting in mixtures showing better properties: 4.0% ash for Mix30 (30% beach wrack, 70% sawdust) and 6.9% for Mix50 (50% each) and increased heating values. However, challenges remain in converting beach wrack into viable fuel due to material losses during pretreatment, high costs, and environmental concerns from plastics.
Molecular Identification and Characterization of Botrytis spp. from Strawberry in Morocco
(Estonian University of Life Sciences, 2025) Hammoumi, S.; Bentata, F.; Khalifi, H.; Karim, S.; Maafa, I.; Elwahab, F.; Gaboun, F.; Brhadda, N.; Ziri, R.; Labhilili, M.
Botrytis cinerea is a highly destructive infection, responsible for gray mold in small fruit crops such as strawberries, it causes pre and post-harvest losses. Identification of this pathogen is the first step to control it. The purpose of the present study was to identify Botrytis species, characterize and assess genetic diversity of gray mold pathogen populations from strawberry in Morocco using molecular markers. Sixty-eight isolates were obtained from infected fruits of 14 different geographic origins in Morocco, DNA was extracted and the isolates were identified using Bc108+/Bc563− and NEP2 sequences variability. To differentiate between groups N and S genotypes of Botrytis spp., two primer pairs were used (BcinN-in-F/R and Mrr1_spez_F/R). Presence of transposable elements (TE) boty, flipper and 9 microsatellites (SSR) were used to examine genetic diversity of the isolates. In our population, forty-seven isolates were identified as B. cinerea. Data indicated that 26% of isolates were attributed to groups S and 31% to N. It also showed that 32% of the isolates possessed flipper genotype, followed by transposa (28%), boty (21%) and vacuma (19%). Analysis of 68 Botrytis spp. isolates by SSR showed a high level of genetic diversity indices among populations of which the isolates clustered into seven genetic groups. Data showed genetic diversity in Botrytis spp. populations from Morocco. Identification of the pathogen and knowledge of its genetic diversity enable optimal and effective disease management.
Deciphering the paradox: the role of organizational identification in workaholism versus burnout
(Estonian University of Life Sciences, 2025) Geidelina-Lugovska, M.; Cekuls, A.
This study explores the complex relationship between organizational identification, workaholism, and burnout. Organizational identification, denoting individuals' psychological connection to their workplace, significantly influences their work-related attitudes and behaviors. While it often correlates with workaholic tendencies characterized by excessive work engagement, it does not directly cause burnout - a state of emotional exhaustion due to chronic work-related stress. Utilizing a qualitative grounded theory approach, we conducted a comprehensive literature review using Scopus, analyzing 141 articles to identify the antecedents of workaholism, burnout, and organizational identification. Our findings reveal that organizationrelated factors, such as job demands, social support, job autonomy, and organizational culture, significantly impact both organizational identification and burnout. Conversely, workaholism is primarily driven by personal factors like perfectionism, low self-esteem, and family background. These insights suggest that fostering positive organizational factors can enhance organizational identification and mitigate burnout, while addressing personal factors is crucial in managing workaholism. This research contributes to the economic understanding by highlighting the role of organizational culture and job design in employee well-being, which can impact productivity and organizational performance. The study underscores the importance of developing interventions that balance organizational identification with healthy work habits to promote a resilient and productive workforce. Future research should focus on empirical tests to better understand the influence of organizational and personal factors on these constructs, paving the way for more effective strategies to foster employee well-being.
Sub-clinical respiratory infection identified on farms by monitoring weight changes of pigs with the Weight-Detect instrument
(Estonian University of Life Sciences, 2025) Banhazi, T.; Dunn, M.; Banhazi, A.; Reixach, J.; Ramon-Perez, A.; Llonch, P.; Maselyne, J.
The essential task of growth rate monitoring of pigs is usually undertaken on farms using electronic scales, but new technologies are now available to continuously monitor the weight of pigs. One of these systems (Weight-Detect, WD, PLF Agritech, Brisbane, Australia) has been introduced on a commercial pig farm in Spain as part of the EU funded aWISH project to (1) assess the applicability of the technology and (2) use this information to assess the general welfare status of pigs. The WD unit was installed in early 2024 and manual weight recordings were undertaken periodically using an electronic scale to validate the WD system. In terms of absolute values, the manual measurements indicated that the WD system was able to predict the average pen weight of the pigs with 1.7% (2.0 kg) precision. More importantly, this case study demonstrated that the WD unit was able to detect weight reduction in pigs six days before the clinical signs of a respiratory disease infection were noticed. According to the WD measurements the study pigs achieved an average daily gain (ADG) of 882 g d-1 between the 20/03/24 and 16/04/2024. However, between the 17/4/2024 and 30/04/2024 their ADG dropped dramatically to 286 g d-1. The animals were diagnosed with respiratory disease on the 22/04/24, six days after the dramatic reduction in ADG was recorded by the WD system. This period of ADG stagnation has caused an approximate 14-day delay in reaching the desired slaughter weight, (approx. 130 kg), potentially creating significant financial losses for the producer. After the 1/05/24 pigs recovered and achieved an ADG of 645 g d-1 until their last recorded weighing day on the 20/5/24. These results highlight the WD system’s ability to alert livestock managers about impending health problems before clinical signs appear, so appropriate mitigation measures can be implemented to reduce the negative impacts on welfare and production performance.
Evaluating the efficiency, environmental impact, and operator benefits of GPS guidance and autosteer technologies in agricultural field operations
(Estonian University of Life Sciences, 2025) Haapala, H.; Sarvela, K.; Kalmari, J.; Appelgrén, I.; Linna, P.
This study evaluated the benefits of GPS guidance and autosteer technologies in agricultural operations through a three-year field experiment conducted at the Smart Bioeconomy Testbed in Central Finland. Adjacent fields were sown either with or without the use of GPS guidance and autosteer, while all other variables were standardized to isolate the impact of the technologies. The movement of the tractor–seeder combination was precisely tracked using RTK GPS with centimetre-level accuracy, and operational parameters were recorded via ISOBUS, supplemented by external measurements of environmental and agronomic factors. Key findings demonstrated that GPS-guided autosteer operations reduced total work time by 9.7% (p < 0.01), primarily due to a 21% (p < 0.01) decrease in overlap and unnecessary movement. This operational efficiency translated into a 20% (p < 0.01) reduction in fuel consumption and a corresponding decrease in CO₂ emissions per hectare. Moreover, GPS-based automation produced more uniform traffic patterns, mitigating localized soil compaction. Operator well-being also improved, with a 10% (p < 0.01) reduction in average heart rate, suggesting reduced physical strain. These benefits were particularly significant in small, irregular fields typical of Finnish agriculture. In conclusion, GPS guidance and autosteer technologies significantly enhance operational efficiency by reducing fuel use, field time, and emissions. These benefits are particularly pronounced in smaller fields, such as those typical in Finland, where improved manoeuvrability yields greater returns. While the technologies contribute positively to operator well-being, individual responses may vary. Further research is needed to assess long-term impacts, explore integration with advanced technologies such as robotics and AI-driven decision support systems, and address the challenges associated with broader adoption.
Influence of pasture feed chemical composition on growth performance of Latvian darkhead lambs
(Estonian University of Life Sciences, 2025) Griķe, K.; Kairiša, D.; Bārzdiņa, D.
Lamb fattening on pasture feed is widely used in the world and in Latvia as most of Latvian darkhead (LT) breed lambs are grazed on pasture with some addition of hay and straw. Clarifying the variable pasture grass chemical composition during the grazing season and comparing with growth performance of lambs can enable farmers to predict the fattening pace. The experiment was conducted during grazing seasons of year 2020 and 2021 at the ram breeding station owned by the Latvian Sheep hearder association. Pasture of 60% grasses and up to 20% of legumes and other broadleaf low grasses is recultivated every 4 to 5 years, grass is cut once a year, grazing is organized in rotational system of fenced paddocks where animals are moved periodically to ensure better feed quality as well as letting the previous paddock regrow. Total of 24 male LT breed lambs were used in the experiment. Pasture feed chemical composition was analysed from 13 samples in year 2020 and 9 samples in year 2021. The authors analysed pasture feed samples for nutritional content (dry matter - 27.1%, within a kg of dry matter protein - 12.5%, fiber - 26.2%, metabolizable energy - 10.8, etc.) and measured lamb growth parameters (average daily gain - 256.4 g d-1, fattening duration - 78.6 days, end liveweight - 45.1 kg). The research demonstrates that pasture feed quality varies significantly between years and affects lamb growth performance, with lower feed quality prolonging fattening duration. Despite this variation, the authors conclude that pasture grass feed utilization for lamb growth performance was optimal, with lambs reaching target weights within acceptable timeframes. Practical conclusion of this research is that by using rotational grazing system lambs can be fattened to reach target liveweight, even with lower pasture grass feed quality due to weather conditions and fattening period takes longer, the target weight is sufficient. Utilitarian suggestion is to organize lamb weaning and begin the fattening period as early in the season as possible to avoid the decreased grass quality in autumn.
Metabolic hormone profiles pre- and post-fattening in sheep breeds in Latvia with varying feed efficiency
(Estonian University of Life Sciences, 2025) Trapina, I.; Plavina, S.; Krasņevska, N.; Paramonovs, J.; Kairisa, D.; Paramonova, N.
In sheep production, livestock fattening constitutes a major source of income, with overall economic efficiency largely determined by feed efficiency (Fe). Feed efficiency, in turn, is influenced by the hormone-regulated physiological state of the animal. Monitoring hormone levels as biomarkers can significantly optimise the lamb fattening process, improving outcomes. The study aims to analyse levels of hormone IGF-1, insulin, total T4, ACTH, haematocrit (HCT), haemoglobin (Hb), and glucose in sheep breeds raised in Latvia at different ages or fattening periods and corresponding Fe indicators. Blood samples and phenotypic data were collected from 76 and 92 intensively fattened lambs at ~81 and ~150 days of age, respectively, with ~60% representing the Latvian Dark-Head breed. Post-fattening levels of IGF-1, insulin, haematocrit, and haemoglobin were statistically higher, while glucose was elevated pre-fattening. IGF-1 and insulin varied significantly across five and three breeds; HCT and Hb levels differed significantly in one breed each. Pre-fattening IGF-1 and glucose levels correlated with feed efficiency traits. Regression analysis showed that pre-fattening hormone levels explained 24.7% of FCR, 22.8% of RGR, and 31.6% of KR variance. Results demonstrate breed-specific hormonal differences in Latvian sheep and indicate the potential of hormone levels as biomarkers for assessing and optimising feed efficiency, emphasizing the need to study hormone levels across breeds and at different fattening stages.
Application of microwave and infrared treatment to reduce antinutrients in lupine seeds
(Estonian University of Life Sciences, 2025) Sterna, V.; Jansons, I.; Jansone, Z.; Zhylina, M.
Lupins are group of legumes that produce seeds containing up to 40% protein, making them an excellent source of food or feed. However, the nutritional value of legumes can be adversely affected by the presence of various anti-nutrients, including phytic acid, alkaloids etc. The aim of this study was to evaluate the potential of microwave and infrared radiation to reduce the levels of anti-nutrients - alkaloids and urease activity - in lupine seeds. The seed treatment was carried out using two different applications - microwave with time regimes 2 minutes or 6 minutes and infrared toplight with time regimes: 10 minutes at 25 °C and 30 minutes at 35 °C. Content of protein, fat, amino acids, alkaloids and urease activity were determined. The results show that in the samples of lupins the alkaloid content decreased from 0.07% to 0.05% after 6 min of microwave treatment and from 0.07% to 0.03% after 10 min of infrared treatment. Concluded that both treatments reduced the content of alkaloids and urease activity in lupine seeds, without significantly changing either the protein content or the amino acid composition and can be used for antinutrient reduction without loss of nutrients.
Study of simultaneous collisions in agricultural machinery and technology
(Estonian University of Life Sciences, 2025) Sokolova, S.; Beresnevich, V.; Viba, J.; Irbe, M.; Cerpinska, M.
The paper discusses the process of solid body collisions involving simultaneous multipoint contact, which often occurs in agricultural machinery and related technologies. An analytical method is being developed to study such multiple-impact events, which can be applied to dynamic analyses of various high-speed production equipment and technological processes. The method is grounded in the fundamental laws of mechanics and limitations of object motion, utilizing an integral approach to determine impact parameters. Key examples illustrate the application of the proposed method to translational motion, and an analytical approach is presented for determining the rebound velocity of an object subjected to simultaneous impacts at multiple points. This approach requires prior knowledge of the pre-collision velocity, momentum restitution coefficients, and local linear elasticity coefficients at the points of contact. It also demonstrates how impact duration and average impact force can be estimated using local stiffness values and the object's mass. In cases involving rotational motion with straight thrust pulses at specified points, the rebound angular velocity is derived as a function of the initial angular velocity and the restitution coefficients. It is noted that the analysis remains applicable regardless of the number of collision points.
Evaluation of chest circumference in 3D lateral images of dairy cattle farming for body mass prediction
(Estonian University of Life Sciences, 2025) Oliveira, F.M.; Ferraz, P.F.P.; Ferraz, G.A.S.; Cecchin, D.; Stopatto, A.F.S.; Becciolini, V.; Barbari, M.
The advancement of precision livestock farming has underscored the importance of developing innovative and non-invasive methods for monitoring animal health and productivity. In this context, this study evaluated the application of computer vision to estimate the body mass (BM) of Holstein-Friesian dairy cows using 3D images captured laterally with the Intel RealSense D435i depth camera. The methodology involved correlating chest circumference (CC) measurements obtained in the field with those derived from lateral 3D images. A total of 250 animals were analyzed, with BM ranging from 420 to 855 kg, and the relationship between CC and BM was modeled using regression techniques. The results indicated a coefficient of determination (R² = 0.88) and a mean absolute percentage error (MAPE) of 3.94% for CC measured in the field. For CC derived from 3D images, R² was 0.847, with an MAPE of 5.29%. Although the 3D image-based method showed a slight reduction in accuracy, it demonstrated significant potential as a non-invasive and efficient alternative for estimating BM in dairy cows. Furthermore, the study highlights the role of 3D imaging technologies in acquiring detailed morphological data, enabling a more comprehensive understanding of body composition dynamics over time. These findings reinforce the potential of integrating digital technologies into dairy farming, promoting sustainable, precise, and labor-efficient management practices.
Enabling semantic interoperability for smart farming
(Estonian University of Life Sciences, 2025) Smaili, N.; Kabbaj, A.
The strain on food security, environmental health, ecosystems, and fertile land, driven by a growing global population, can be alleviated through sustainable agriculture. To navigate this critical situation, it is essential to leverage existing technologies. The advent of the Fourth Industrial Revolution and the evolution of the internet have opened up new possibilities such as precision agriculture, IoT-based farming, and data-driven analytics for the agriculture sector. One promising approach is the utilization of semantic web technologies in smart farming. This article presents an ontology-based method designed to enable semantic interoperability across various smart farming systems. By merging and integrating existing domain ontologies, a unified framework is proposed, that facilitates seamless data exchange, enhances decision-making, and addresses key challenges in sustainable agriculture.
Effect of the incorporation of ‘Marrubium Vulgare L.’ in Yogurt: Physicochemical, nutritional and sensory properties
(Estonian University of Life Sciences, 2025) Terki, L.; Aissaoui, O.; Khelouia, L.; Hadjout, L.; Boukhari, N.; Madani, K.
The research work on the incorporation of Marrubium vulgare extract in the yogurt formulations and its effects on physicochemical and sensory properties were conducted. The obtained results revealed that the incorporation of Marrubium vulgare extract did not negatively influenced physicochemical parameters, with pH values varied from 4.37 ± 0.01 in natural Yogurt to 4.31 ± 0.01 in the 4% Marrubium yogurt, and titratable acidity varied significantly from 99.3 ± 0.5°D to 105.3 ± 1.2°D (p < 0.05). The water holding capacity (WHC) improved slightly, but significantly from 20.40 ± 0.03% to 20.67 ± 0.07% (p < 0.05). The results suggest a slight increase in titratable acidity, WHC, and viscosity (especially, at higher extract concentrations); however, further research is needed to refine this trend. Nutritionally, total solids, protein and fat content remained largely unchanged (p > 0.05), but led to a significant increase in ash content, from 0.63 ± 0.03% to 0.93 ± 0.03% (p < 0.05). Additionally, the total phenolic content was significantly increased from 5.25 ± 0.31 mg per 100 g to 7.30 ± 0.27 mg per 100 g (p < 0.05) and the antioxidant activity from 2.71 ± 0.19 mg per 100 g to 4.42 ± 0.24 mg per 100g (p < 0.05). The sensory evaluation revealed that Marrubium-enriched Yogurt received significantly higher ratings in flavor and overall acceptability (p < 0.05) compared to plain Yogurt. Texture ratings remained similar (p > 0.05). This study highlights the potential of Marrubium vulgare as a functional ingredient for Yogurt fortification, enhancing antioxidant properties, mineral content, and consumer acceptability.
Process of heat treatment and changes in garlic properties
(Estonian University of Life Sciences, 2025) Kic, P.
This paper aims to present the results of research focused on the heat treatment of garlic (Allium sativum) into black garlic. The research compared three varieties of classic kitchen garlic (Dukat, Topaz and Sabagold), grown in the Czech Republic. The course of heat treatment in a hot air dryer was investigated at 60 °C. Changes in the weight and moisture of the samples were monitored gravimetrically for 78 days. The dry matter content was measured gravimetrically after drying at 105 °C. There were certain differences between the varieties studied. The intensive decrease in water content, dry basis u (g g-1) during the first 20 days was the fastest in the Topaz variety, when it dropped below 0.4 (g g-1) after only 9 days. In the Dukat and Sabagold variety water content, wet basis w (%), from the original values w = 62 to 66% dropped below 30% within 20 days, and in the Topaz variety below 20%. Changes in the colour of garlic cloves were measured by A CM-600d spectrophotometer. During the black garlic processing, its gradual darkening occurred. Lightness L* decreased in the Dukat variety from 80.39 to 27.47, Topaz from 78.29 to 29.09 and Sabagold from 83.64 to 28.72. In all varieties, colour changes occurred. Greenness (-a*) changed from the 9th day to a redness (a*) whose saturation gradually decreased. The yellowness (b*) of all varieties also decreased significantly.
An overview of the technical and economic opportunities for biogas-based hydrogen production in Latin America
(Estonian University of Life Sciences, 2025) Luna-del Risco, M.; Rocha-Meneses, Lisandra; Vanegas-Trujillo, E.; Arrieta-González, C.; Villegas Moncada, S.; Gonzalez-Palacio, M.; Patiño-Agudelo, A.; Sierra-del Rio, J.; Castillo-Meza, L.; Estonian University of Life Sciences. Institute of Forestry and Engineering. Chair of Biosystems Engineering
The growing need for sustainable energy solutions has intensified interest in alternative sources to reduce reliance on fossil fuels. Latin America, with its abundant biomass resources from agricultural and industrial activities, offers significant potential for renewable energy generation. Biogas, derived from the anaerobic digestion of organic waste, presents a viable energy carrier and a promising feedstock for hydrogen production, a key component in global decarbonization efforts. Despite these opportunities, the adoption of biogas-based hydrogen production in Latin America remains limited due to high capital costs, technological challenges, inadequate infrastructure, and weak policy frameworks. This study provides a comprehensive analysis of the region’s potential by assessing biomass availability, technological pathways, and economic feasibility through data from research institutions and scientific literature. Technologies such as steam methane reforming and emerging biological processes are evaluated, alongside country-specific regulatory frameworks. Findings highlight those countries with strong agricultural sectors, such as Brazil, Argentina, and Colombia, hold high potential. However, economic challenges endure, with substantial investment required for technology deployment. Policy analysis reveals that progressive frameworks and financial incentives in select countries, like Chile and Uruguay, are fostering early adoption. Unlocking the potential of biogas-based hydrogen production in Latin America requires strategic investments, supportive policies, and enhanced regional collaboration. Strengthening these efforts can drive energy security, lower greenhouse gas emissions, and promote economic growth. Supporting regional initiatives with global sustainability objectives will position Latin America as a key player in the transition to renewable energy.

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