University of Life Sciences in Lublin

Background Numerous studies indicate that multidrug-resistant Enterococcus bacteria are widely present on the carcasses of various food-producing animal species as well as in facilities used for their production. However, in the global literature, there is no information available regarding the prevalence, species composition or antibiotic resistance of enterococci contaminating rabbit carcasses. Therefore, the aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of Enterococcus bacteria on the surface of carcasses of rabbits slaughtered in an EU-approved abattoir with particular emphasis on two species, i.e., Enterococcus faecalis (E. faecalis) and Enterococcus faecium (E. faecium). In addition, the phenotypic and genotypic resistance to antibiotics of rabbit-origin E. faecalis isolates and the relatedness of multi-drug resistance strains has been evaluated. Results The study revealed that 425 out of 496 examined rabbit carcasses were contaminated with Enterococcus spp., with a prevalence of 85.69% (95% CI: 82.60–88.77%). E. faecalis was confirmed on the surface of 237 carcasses, which constituted 55.8% of the Enterococcus-positive swabs and 47.8% of all carcasses examined. E. faecium was not detected on the surface of any of the rabbit carcasses tested. Phenotypically, 97.5% of isolates were classified as resistant to tetracycline, 92.4% to erythromycin, 65% to kanamycin, 54% to streptomycin, 40.4% to ciprofloxacin, 30% to enrofloxacin, and 0.4% to penicillin and ampicillin. Moreover, 66.40% of E. faecalis isolates showed multidrug resistance to at least three classes of antibiotics. The presence of genes determining the resistance to tetracycline (tetM and tetL), erythromycin (ermB), aminoglycosides (aac(6’)-Ie-aph(2”)-Ia), and streptomycin (ant(6)-Ia), was consistent with the phenotypic resistance pattern observed in E. faecalis isolates. Using ADSRRS fingerprinting analysis, four main clusters were visualized, with almost every branch containing multi-drug resistant isolates from rabbits bred on farms in different locations. Conclusion The high prevalence of enterococci on rabbit carcass surfaces indicates poor hygiene during the production process at rabbit abattoirs. Compared to E. faecium, E. faecalis appears better adapted to persist on the surface of rabbit carcasses and/or meat cuts in the slaughterhouse environment. This may be attributed to its stronger biofilm-forming ability, as E. faecalis was the only species detected in all Enterococcus-positive samples tested. Rabbit carcasses are also an important vector of multidrug-resistant E. faecalis. The high genetic similarity of multidrug-resistant E. faecalis isolates from rabbit carcasses raised on different farms suggests a common source of these bacteria or cross-contamination at slaughter. Our results supported E. faecalis as an indicator bacterium for antibiotic resistance under Commission Implementing Decision (EU) 2020/1729 and highlighted the need to extend monitoring to rabbit meat production at the national level.

Sodium nitrite is an additive commonly used in meat processing to provide technological effects. However, the presence of nitrates in food can lead to the formation of carcinogenic N-nitrosamines; so, its use should be limited. This study concerns the possibility of reducing sodium nitrite (III) addition in the production of canned meat to 50 mg/kg by enriching the product with tomato peels and seeds powder (TPSP). The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of TPSP on the physicochemical, chemical and microbiological quality of canned pork. Four different products were tested in this study: a control sample and samples with the addition of 0.5%, 1.5%, and 2.5% tomato peels and seeds powder. The addition of TPSP decreased the pH values of meat products and increased yellowness (b*) and redness (a*) values. The influence of TPSP on the increase in antioxidant activity of canned meat was also observed. However, the plant-based additive did not affect the chemical composition or water activity of the tested product. The control samples were characterized by a lower TBARS compared to the other samples of meat products. Microbiological analysis results indicate that the canned pork samples meet the product requirements. The most commonly isolated species from the samples were Enterobacter cloacae, Serratia liquefaciens, and Enterococcus faecalis.

It is assumed that horses have a strong herd instinct that cannot be suppressed by any form of social support from humans. The aim of this study was to assess the behaviour and heart rate parameters of horses that received various forms of human support during short-term social isolation. The research material consisted of 12 clinically healthy recreational warmblood mares and geldings. The test was carried out four times. The research test consisted of two parts, which began in the presence of accompanying horses and under conditions of social isolation, with and without support provided by a human (types of contact: tactile, vocal, tactile and vocal). Behavioural observations were carried out on a five-point scale, and the heart rate parameters were measured using Polar ELECTRO OY Kempele (Finland) measuring devices (Polar H9 type) and Polar Ignite2 receivers. Data analysis was carried out using the Polar Flowsync application coupled with the Polar Flow service. It was concluded that social support provided by humans in tactile, vocal, or tactile and vocal forms during the isolation of horses from the herd does not have very significant effects, especially in mares. The geldings respond much more favourably than the mares. In addition, at this point in the research, it can be suggested that vocal support may have the best effects. The more emotionally balanced the horses are, the more pronounced these effects should be.

The removal of Cr(VI) from wastewater is a crucial task due to its high toxicity. In this study, slumgum-originated biochar materials were obtained by three different methods: high-temperature pyrolysis with H3PO4 or CO2 and the high-temperature treatment of CO2-activated slumgum-originated biochar in an Ar atmosphere. The obtained materials were subjected to physicochemical characterization (nitrogen adsorption/desorption isotherms, CHN elemental analysis, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy) and tested for their adsorption properties towards Cr(VI) ions. The solution pH, contact time, and effects of the Cr(VI) concentration on Cr(VI) adsorption onto biochar materials were studied. The kinetics and isotherm experimental data were best fitted to the Elovich (R² = 0.848) and Freundlich (R² = 0.965) theoretical models for H3PO4-modified biochar. The highest adsorption capacity (45.0 mg g⁻¹) for Cr(VI) was obtained for biochar modified with H3PO4. It was stated that the relatively fast rate of Cr(VI) adsorption onto this biochar (equilibrium reached within 120 min) is related to its mesoporous structure. The mechanism of Cr(VI) adsorption onto H3PO4-modified biochar was studied in detail. The obtained biochar was successfully applied for efficient Cr(VI) removal from wastewater originating from spent bricks with a low biochar dosage (4.0 g L⁻¹).

Soybean cultivation plays a crucial role in the global food system, providing raw materials for both the food and feed industries. To enhance cultivation efficiency, plant biostimulants are used to improve metabolism and stimulate growth. A key aspect of modern cultivation is the ability to rapidly and non-invasively assess crop status. One such method involves the use of drones equipped with multispectral cameras. This paper presents the results of an experimental study on soybean cultivation involving a natural biostimulant in the form of Epilobium angustifolium extract (commonly known as fireweed) and a commercial seaweed-based biostimulant, Kelpak. The research was conducted at an experimental farm in eastern Poland. The effectiveness of the preparations was evaluated using a drone-mounted multispectral camera. Changes in the values of selected spectral indices were analyzed: the Normalized Difference Red Edge Index (NDRE), the Leaf Chlorophyll Index (LCI), and the Optimized Soil-Adjusted Vegetation Index (OSAVI). The study included a control group treated with pure water. Mathematical and statistical analyses of the mean values and standard deviations of the indices were conducted. The results demonstrated that multispectral scanning allows for the detection of significant differences between the effects of the E. angustifolium extract, the seaweed-based biostimulant, and the water control. These findings confirm the utility of this method for assessing the effectiveness of biostimulant applications in soybean cultivation.

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of marinade type and marinating time on the physicochemical and sensory properties of pork tenderloin cooked using low-temperature, vacuum-sealed cooking. The study included marinades based on pineapple juice, red wine, kefir and a mixture of dried herbs. The assessment of the effect of marinades was based on the analysis of the color, texture, chemical composition and organoleptic properties of the meat after cooking using the sous vide method. In the experimental part, instrumental determinations of color and texture, analysis of the chemical composition and sensory assessment of the meat were carried out. Marinating for 12 h in red wine and dry marinating causes darkening of the meat. The hardness of meat marinated after 2 h increased compared to the control group; similar relationships were observed for gumminess and chewiness. However, after 12 h of marinating, the hardness of cycle 1 and hardness of cycle 2, as well as chewiness and gumminess, were significantly reduced below the level of the characteristics for the control group, except for the meat marinated in wine. Meat marinated in red wine and using the dry method received higher scores, while longer marinating resulted in more favorable scores.

A honeybee (Apis mellifera) colony is a superorganism of complex social dynamics. Within the colony, communication between individuals and castes is crucial for maintaining homeostasis. Such complex interactions are possible thanks to semiochemicals called pheromones. The spectrum of pheromonal communication in bee colonies is wide and differs between castes, especially the queen and the workers. Gland morphology and compounds of secretions result in alterations in both physiological and behavioral responses to certain pheromones in castes. The queen’s glands produce pheromones that maintain her reign and induce division of labor among workers. Workers’ pheromones are adapted to multiple tasks performed by this caste within the colony. This review outlines a neurophysiological pathway in the perception pheromone molecule, with a specific description of the individual anatomical structures essential for the path, such as the morphology of antennae, sensilla, antennal lobes and mushroom bodies. Later on, the study provides insight into specific aspects of the differences between the two castes (queen and workers) in terms of complex pheromonal communication in the hive, by describing the pheromones present in it (QMP, tergal gland pheromone, Dufour gland pheromone, Nasonov pheromone, sting alarm pheromone and tarsal gland pheromone).

In this study, wheat flour characterized by a high content of nonstarch polysaccharides was fortified with enzymes and then subjected to low temperature (up to 85°C) extrusion cooking treatment. Conventional enzymatic hydrolysis with cellulase and cellulase–xylanase blend, as well as extrusion and hybrid enzymatic–extrusion treatments, was tested under variable conditions. Extrusion of wheat flour was applied at 23%–27% initial moisture at the temperature range of 40°C–80°C. Proximate composition, polysaccharide content, and its fractions, as well as rheological and technofunctional properties, were tested. Extruded and hybrid‐modified wheat flour showed a significant decrease in fat, ash, insoluble fiber content, gelatinization beginning temperature, dough stability, starch gelatinization, amylase activity, starch retrogradation, and gluten performance index, whereas increased hydration capacity, max viscosity, setback, protein weakening, and solvent retention capacity were evidenced in the presence of all tested solvents. Soluble and insoluble fractions of nonstarch polysaccharides were, however, significantly different, especially if the hybrid cellulase–xylanase–extrusion method was applied to wheat flour. Moreover, the crystalline structure of wheat flour changed significantly after extrusion and hybrid treatments. In addition, the microstructure showed a significant agglomeration of the extruded flours due to starch gelatinization and formation of melted phase in all extruded and hybrid‐treated flours, with visible fibrous particles coming from the outer layers of wheat grains as polysaccharide fractions. Extruded wheat flour, characterized by increased viscosity, hydration, and solvent retention ability, can be used as a “clean label” improver in mixtures for various bakery products, especially bread.

This article examines the effect of digestate from biogas plants, as well as its combinations with biochar and zeolite, on soil properties, sorghum yield, and heavy metal accumulation. The experiment was carried out in an experimental field in Czeslawice (Poland). The results showed that the incorporation of digestate increased the organic matter content, improved the availability of nutrients (nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium), and improved the soil pH. The addition of biochar was demonstrated to support the stabilization of nutrients and limit the bioavailability of heavy metals. In contrast, zeolite has been observed to enhance the mineral content of the soil, although it has also been noted that this can result in an increase in sodium and heavy metal content. The highest sorghum biomass production was obtained in soils with digestate from biogas plants and biochar, while the addition of zeolite reduced the yield. Therefore, the study confirmed that natural additives have different effects on the soil. The utilization of waste material in agriculture requires monitoring of soil quality and the judicious selection of organic waste additives. The results indicate the potential of these additives to promote sustainable agriculture and the circular economy.

Background: The aim of the study was to determine the impact of social media on the food purchasing decisions and dietary attitudes of Polish consumers. Methods: The research was conducted using the diagnostic survey method, employing an online questionnaire technique CAWI (Computer Assisted Web Interview). A total of 1099 adults participated in the study, including 54.23% women and 45.77% men. The survey data were analysed using multidimensional discriminant analysis. Results: The study demonstrated that social media significantly affects the purchasing decisions of Polish consumers regarding food products. The study indicated that there is a gender difference in the impact of social media. Women more often use SM to gain knowledge about food products and shape their dietary attitudes, and they are more susceptible to marketing content. Conclusions: It seems necessary to regulate online advertising and eliminate excessive advertising, as this form of publication in the media is the most effective and has a significant impact on the purchase of food products by Polish consumers. Unrestricted access to content and lack of regulation lead to misinformation, which can result in erroneous purchasing choices.

Recently, the ecological awareness of society and the need to take care of the natural environment have increased significantly. There is also an urgent problem of searching for new, environmentally friendly, and safe for people plant protection techniques using biological preparations, which reduce the intensive and cause significant health problems chemical protection. The study was conducted in a foil tunnel on the ‘Red House’ cultivar roses grown using an adapted method with shoot bending. Maintaining their health under tunnel conditions is often problematic. The study determined the effect of biopreparations on plant health (disease index), photosynthesis parameters, and gas exchange, as well as the species composition of fungi inhabiting roses. The preparations used did not negatively affect the process of photosynthesis and gas exchange. Among the 25 species of fungi obtained from its organs, the polyphagous species Botrytis cinerea dominated; the organs were very often colonized by fungi from the genera Fusarium, Phoma, and Alternaria alternata. The highest concentration of the Biosept 33 SL biopreparation shows a protective effect similar to that of the preparations used in chemical protection, and the degree of leaf blade infection shows a similar level.

The microbiological and biochemical parameters of manure should be considered in order to develop comprehensive and effective strategies for the management of manure from farmed antibiotic-treated turkeys in accordance with environmentally sustainable practices, taking into account social and economic aspects. Hence, this study was conducted on manure samples from Hybrid Converter turkeys raised to 16 weeks of age. The birds were housed in four pens (with an area of 4 m ² each) on litter (straw pellets), at 16 turkeys per pen. Turkeys were divided into four groups: control (C) group; group M – administered monensin (M) with feed; group ME – administered M with feed and enrofloxacin (E) with drinking water; group MED – administered M and E as in group ME and doxycycline (D) with drinking water. Turkeys were raised for 112 days, and then the content of nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, calcium, and antibiotics was determined in manure samples. The responses of culturable and non-culturable microorganisms, and seven enzymes to the antibiotics contained in manure were tested. One kilogram of manure (fresh weight) contained 4.49-5.27 mg of M, 5.11-7.83 mg of E, and 3.39 mg of D. Antibiotics exerted a highly negative effect on culturable microorganisms. In group MED, the counts of organotrophic bacteria decreased by 40%, Actinobacteria counts decreased by 89%, and fungal counts decreased by 85%. Antibiotics also modified the structure of microbial communities in turkey manure. Bacteria of the phylum Firmicutes and fungi of the phylum Mucoromycota were most susceptible to the analyzed antimicrobials. Antibiotics modified the number of amplicon sequence variants (ASVs) of bacterial families and genera and the number of operational taxonomic units (OTUs) of fungi. The examined antimicrobials decreased the diversity of non-culturable bacteria, but did not induce major changes in fungal diversity. Antibiotics clearly inhibited the activity of enzymes, in particular dehydrogenases and urease. Dehydrogenases activity was reduced by 47%, and urease activity by 72%.

Grooming procedures are often stressful for dogs due to exposure to loud noises, unfamiliar individuals, and the absence of their owners. This study aimed to assess whether classical music could reduce stress-related behaviours in dogs during grooming. Fifteen companion dogs of various breeds, aged 2 to 8 years, were observed during three grooming sessions: a control session without music, and two experimental sessions featuring classical piano compositions—Beethoven’s Moonlight Sonata and Chopin’s Nocturne in E-flat major. Music was played at 75 dB to mask ambient salon noise. Stress-related behaviours were rated on a 5-point scale during bathing, drying, clipping, and nail trimming. Results showed that male dogs exhibited significantly calmer behaviour in the music conditions (p < 0.01). Female dogs showed similar trends, though differences were not statistically significant between stages. These findings suggest that classical music is a simple, effective, non-invasive enrichment method that can enhance dog welfare in grooming environments.

The paper presents the results of an in-depth spectroscopic, theoretical (quantum chemical), and microbiological study conducted on a promising, synergistic composition of a newly considered 1,3,4-thiadiazole derivative, 1,3,4-thiadiazole: 2,4-dihydroxy-N-(5-methyl-1,3,4-thiadiazol-2-yl)­benzothioamide (TBTA), and the “gold standard” polyene antibiotic, amphotericin B (AmB). The spectroscopic properties of the system were extensively analyzed with a range of spectroscopic measurement techniques, including electronic fluorescence and absorption spectra, resonance light scattering measurements, circular dichroism spectra, dynamic light scattering, and fluorescence anisotropy, which were further complemented with time-resolved measurements of fluorescence lifetimes performed with the single-photon counting method. The samples were prepared in DMSO solutions and/or PBS buffer to facilitate observation of the monomeric, dimeric, and aggregated forms of the antibiotic previously identified in the literature. Absorption and fluorescence emission spectra measured for AmB and the synergistic composition revealed differences that indicated changes in AmB aggregation molecules, particularly in the buffer medium. Together with the results of the other spectroscopic techniques and computations, the effects of AmB disaggregation are clearly observed, and it is seen that TBTA interacts with AmB at the sites where other AmB molecules prefer to interact with it. We also present the first biological analysis of this TBTA/AmB composition, and it confirms the synergistic effects of TBTA. The report provides a detailed description of the synergism observed between a newly synthesized derivative from the group of 1,3,4-thiadiazoles (TBTA) and the antibiotic AmB, an effect that may prove to be very significant in the context of the ongoing efforts to identify new substances with antifungal properties.

The need to import phosphorus raw materials for fertilization in Europe and the increasing amount of waste have driven the search for alternative phosphorus sources. One such waste material is sodium-potassium phosphate waste generated during polyol production. In addition, ensuring an adequate food supply remains a critical challenge, with fertilizers playing a key role. Due to the increase in meat consumption, the attractiveness of growing feed corn is increasing, given its high yield potential and rich composition. The article examines the effect of suspension fertilizers derived from polyol production waste on the micronutrient content of corn intended for green fodder. In a 3-year field study, the impact of the waste-derived phosphorus source was compared with a commercial granular phosphorus fertilizer, Fosdar 40. Additionally, the composition of suspension fertilizers was assessed, including those containing only basic nutrients (NPK) and those enriched with secondary nutrients (S, Mg) and micronutrients (Zn, Mn, B). The results confirmed the effectiveness of the tested suspension fertilizers. The micronutrient content in the dry matter of maize was comparable to that of the control treatment fertilized with Fosdar 40.two-step method.

The aim of the study was to assess the quality of sowing hemp seeds of the Finola variety using a precision seeder with a pneumatic sowing system from Gaspardo. During the study, the influence of selected operating parameters of the tested prototype (aggregate) for cultivation and sowing on the quality of its work (sowing uniformity) was assessed. The implementation of the assumed objective and scope of the study required field tests, which were carried out in Adamów near Zamość. Evaluation of the quality of sowing hemp seeds using a pneumatic precision seeder included in the sowing unit was carried out based on the methodology of testing precision seeders and guidelines included in the literature. During the seeder study, the influence of the arrangement of plants after emergence in a row on a section of 5 m was examined in five repetitions at the following unit speeds: 5, 6, 7 and 10 km·h-1. It was found that with the increase of the working speed of the seeder and the rotational speed of the sowing disc, the quality of seed sowing deteriorated. The conducted scientific research related to the improvement of precision sowing techniques, including their in-depth theoretical analysis and experimental studies, will allow for further extension of this research topic. Analysis of the variance of independent variables, i.e. the working speed of the seeder and the sowing disc, showed their influence on the shares of single, double and pass sowings at the given parameters. The interaction of these variables is also important. As a result of the research work carried out, guidelines for practice were developed regarding the appropriate operating settings of the bleaching unit of the tested precision seeder in relation to sowing the selected seed species.

Pediatric food allergies (FAs) are health conditions that adversely impact the quality of life of children and their caregivers. Aim: The primary objective of the present study was to assess the quality of the diets administered to allergic children based on the Healthy Diet Index (HID-10), to determine the influence of parental knowledge about FAs and the elimination diet, and to identify the factors that contribute to healthy food choices. Material and Methods: This study was conducted as part of the “Living with an Allergy” research and educational program for preschool children, which was implemented between June 2021 and June 2023 in the city of Lublin. Results: Food allergies were diagnosed and confirmed in 241 children, including 106 boys (44%). A higher number of unhealthy dietary factors (DQI-1) was significantly associated with gender, and lower DQI values were more often noted in boys (p < 0.05). In turn, a higher number of health-promoting dietary factors (DQI-3) was significantly associated with a younger age in children (OR 1.54; 95%CI 1.17–1.74, p < 0.01) and with an older age in parents (OR 1.43; 95%CI 1.2–1.67, p < 0.05). Conclusions: Children whose diets, including the necessary modifications, were recommended by a physician or a dietitian were characterized by significantly higher DQI values and a higher number of health-promoting dietary factors. The diets of children with FAs should consist mainly of unprocessed foods to control the intake of unhealthy products that suppress immunity.